CENTRAL PHILIPPINE UNIVERSITY

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CPU Dean appointed as member of DENR Regional Wildlife Management Committee

by | Apr 10, 2026 | The Centralian Link | 0 comments

By Mikee Natinga Norico


Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of the CPU College of Arts and Sciences, together with members of the Regional Wildlife Management Committee (RWMC), conducts an ocular inspection of an agarwood (Aquilaria malaccensis) plantation in Negros Island in support of wildlife conservation and sustainable resource management.

Dr. Stella G. Fernandez, Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences of Central Philippine University (CPU), has been serving as a member of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region VI (DENR-R06) Regional Wildlife Management Committee (RWMC) since School Year 2024, reinforcing the University’s commitment to environmental sustainability and biodiversity conservation.

The RWMC operates under Republic Act No. 9147, also known as the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, which mandates the protection, conservation, and sustainable management of wildlife resources and their habitats across the Philippines. The committee is chaired by DENR Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services Edgardo M. Rostata.

As a member of the RWMC, Dr. Fernandez collaborates with DENR officials, technical experts, and partner institutions across Region VI in advancing wildlife conservation programs and policies. The committee plays a crucial role in reviewing and recommending actions on wildlife permits, conservation strategies, and regulatory measures aimed at safeguarding biodiversity.


CPU College of Arts and Sciences Dean Dr. Stella G. Fernandez conducts an ocular inspection for the renewal of a wildlife farm permit in Iloilo City as part of her role in the DENR Region VI Regional Wildlife Management Committee.

Among its key functions, the RWMC evaluates and recommends approval of permits for the collection, transport, possession, and trade of wildlife; formulates conservation programs and management plans for threatened and endemic species; monitors wildlife utilization and regulates trade to curb illegal activities; and provides technical guidance to the DENR on wildlife protection and habitat conservation. It also promotes research collaboration among academic institutions and environmental organizations and supports the enforcement of wildlife laws and public awareness initiatives.

Dr. Fernandez’s appointment continues CPU’s long-standing representation in the RWMC. Previous university representatives include Engr. Aurora Lim, Prof. Ernesto Elefan, and Engr. Jeriel Militar, whose contributions have strengthened partnerships between the academe and government in advancing environmental protection efforts.

A Biology professor and academic leader, Dr. Fernandez has been actively involved in sustainability initiatives, research, and institutional programs that promote environmental stewardship.

Her continued service in the RWMC affirms CPU’s role as a key partner in regional development, particularly in advancing science-based conservation, environmental education, and community engagement.