ON ATIENZA AS NEW ENVIRONMENT SECRETARY

"Appointing people to important posts in government is the sole prerogative of the Chief Executive. Only time will tell if President Arroyo had acted judiciously with her choice of Lito Atienza as environment secretary. Consistent and long-term policymaking in the DENR is crucial, but this has not happened under this administration with the constant changing of the department's leadership."

"Mr. Atienza's appointment comes at a critical period when the DENR is faced with several pressing issues, like the rampant destruction of our watersheds, intrusion of foreign poachers, and the threat of toxic waste dumping under JPEPA. I do hope the new secretary will be up to the task and will adhere to strict environment policies."