Davao City, Davao del Sur — The Forest Management Bureau (FMB) successfully wrapped up the third and final Cluster Workshop for the Inventory of Structures within Forest Lands, held from June 3 to 6, 2025 at the Grand Regal Hotel, Davao City. This event, following the recent approval of the Department Administrative Order 2025-16, signifies the culmination of a nationwide capacity-building effort to institutionalize inter-regional collaboration and the strategic use of geospatial technologies for informed and enhanced forest monitoring, protection, and management.

The workshop convened GIS practitioners and technical representatives from the Mindanao regions (DENR Regional Offices IX to XIII). Participants underwent a comprehensive series of lectures and practical exercises in processing remotely-sensed satellite imagery and its diverse applications in forestry, specifically on spectral index analysis, land cover change detection to track shifts in vegetation and urban expansion, and identifying and mapping structures using ArcGIS and Google Earth Engine. All of which are essential in understanding the patterns and drivers of land use changes within forest lands of the country.

The Regional Executive Director of DENR Region 11, Atty. Ma. Mercedes V. Dumagan, in her message, highlighted the significance of the nationwide initiative in reinforcing environmental protection and conservation efforts. She emphasized that it serves as a crucial measure to prevent illegal occupation and encroachment on forest lands, while also upholding compliance with environmental laws and regulations.

The Inventory of Structures covers all permanent and temporary structures—both vertical and horizontal—within forest lands. This forms a vital part of the country’s broader strategy to protect and sustainably manage forest ecosystems. While the scope of this initiative may appear daunting at first, the integration of modern, science-based, and increasingly accessible remote sensing and spatial analysis tools makes its successful implementation well within reach. The FMB will continue to deliver technical assistance through capacity building sessions to the Regional and Field Offices in preparation for the field implementation starting 2026.