Local government units (LGUs) may now start availing of fast and reliable technical assistance for their environment-related concerns through the Environmental Compliance Assistance (ECA) Center for Local Government Units of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje said the establishment of the ECA Center for LGUs is the agency’s response to a need to continually educate local officials and employees on environmental management, including environmental laws.

“Local government units are partners of the national government in enforcing environmental laws and regulations. We need to work closely with them to achieve significant and meaningful results in environmental protection and management,” Paje said.

Paje noted, however, many LGUs are still not aware of their responsibilities as enforcers of environmental laws, and as operators of regulated establishments like hospitals, schools, slaughterhouses, public markets, ports, terminals, cemeteries, sports and convention facilities.

He also said that many of the country’s environmental regulations can be quite confusing to local officials, adding that through the ECA Center, the DENR can respond immediately to their needs and queries.

Located at the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) main building in Visayas Avenue, Quezon City, the ECA Center will be manned by a technical personnel who will assist LGUs in their concerns.

The LGU-dedicated ECA Center website ( www.emb.gov.ph/ecacenter) is likewise set to be launched on November 18, 2011 at the DENR Social Hall. Among other things, the website shall contain information on environmental laws, regulations, and resolutions.

Details of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) System such as the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) and Certificate of Non-Coverage (CNC) will also be made available online. Downloadable forms for permits and required reports as well as fines and penalties for non-compliance will also be posted in the website, including frequently asked questions and best available technologies to satisfy the information needs of the LGU.

The ECA Center can be reached through telephone number 920-22-60 or through email address, eca.center@emb.gov.ph.