21 November 2014 – A 12-member inter-agency delegation, led by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and composed of representatives from the Department of Agriculture (DA), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), Climate Change Commission (CCC), and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), visited Wellington for a Study Tour of New Zealand from November 04 to 08. The DENR exposure trip in New Zealand aims to enable Philippine Multilateral Environmental Agreements Focal Point Agencies (MEA FPAs) and Local Government Units (LGUs) to improve existing systems on MEA coordination and implementation by learning from New Zealand’s systems and best practices.
The Philippine Embassy in Wellington, in collaboration with the relevant Ministries of New Zealand, prepared a comprehensive, informative and interactive program that covered courtesy calls, briefings, exchange of views and discussions with officials of the Ministry for Environment, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Ministry for Primary Industries, Environmental Protection Agency on a wide range of matters and issues on climate change, biodiversity, environmental management and land degradation. The delegation also visited the Parliament and Zealandia, a 225-hectare sanctuary that is home to some of New Zealand's rarest and most extraordinary wildlife. Zealandia is a ground-breaking, community-driven eco-restoration project and education facility which exhibits 80 million years of New Zealand’s natural history right up to the conservation movement of the present day.
Philippine Ambassador to New Zealand Virginia H. Benavidez warmly welcomed and hosted a formal dinner at “Ang Bahay” (Philippine Ambassador’s residence) for the delegation and the officials of the Ministry for the Environment and Ministry for Primary Industries on November 05. The dinner provided another excellent opportunity for interaction and networking among the guests. In her remarks, Ambassador Benavidez highlighted the importance and timeliness of the Philippine delegation’s visit to New Zealand as this would be a valuable opportunity to learn about New Zealand’s experiences in environmental protection and management and in addressing the challenges of climate change.
“These are crucial areas that require strategic responses, collaborative partnerships and innovative solutions,” the Ambassador stressed. Ambassador Benavidez also conveyed deep appreciation to the relevant New Zealand agencies and institutions for their cooperation and sharing of information and programs.
The visiting delegation was headed by DENR Assistant Secretary Rommel R. Abesamis. The delegation reiterated their deep appreciation to Ambassador Benavidez, Minister and Philippine Consul General Arlene Gonzales-Macaisa, New Zealand officials and all those who contributed to their highly successful, enlightening and enjoyable visit to New Zealand. END