By Helen Castaño | 09:20 AM May 13, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — In an effort to prevent the possible closure of hundreds of furniture shops, the provincial government of Bohol opened a two-day One Stop Shop for Wood Furniture Compliance to help furniture makers secure permits required by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The program was organized after concerns emerged over the impact of DENR notices issued to furniture establishments allegedly operating without Environmental Compliance Certificates (ECCs) and Wood Processing Plant Permits.
Provincial officials said the initiative seeks to simplify the processing of documents and provide direct assistance to woodcraft furniture makers so they can continue their operations and protect workers’ livelihoods.
Board Member Jamie Aumentado Villamor said the activity was the result of months of consultations and coordination among government agencies and stakeholders in the wood furniture industry.
She described the One Stop Shop as an example of collaborative governance, noting that solutions can be achieved through dialogue and cooperation.
“Dako natong kalipay to have witnessed the government working genuinely for the people… What once started as discussions, consultations, inspections, and difficult conversations is now turning into real action. It reminds me that meaningful change does not happen overnight. It takes patience, persistence, and genuine collaboration between government and the people we serve,” said Villamor.
“Just so happy today seeing meaningful results on what we have consistently fought for. My heart is full. Let’s continue to do the work even when it is difficult, and to never lose sight of the reason behind it all: ang katawhan, ” she added.
More than 200 furniture makers are expected to avail themselves of the service during the two-day activity.
Villamor also thanked the DENR under Regional Director Laudemir Salac, the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office, and the Department of Trade and Industry for supporting the initiative.
She also recognized volunteer lawyers, members of the Provincial Legal Office, and the National Movement of Young Legislators for helping provide free legal assistance to affected furniture makers.
Meanwhile, Gov. Erico Aristotle Aumentado said the program would help sustain jobs and support small business owners who rely on the furniture-making industry for income.
The governor also commended the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Environment for spearheading efforts to assist the sector amid growing concerns over compliance issues.
“Salamat sa pag-aksyon sa atong mando sa SP Committee on Environment uban sa suporta sa DENR, DTI ug sa mga lawyers nga mitabang aron mahatagan og permit ang atong mga wood furniture makers ug makapadayon sila sa ilang panginabuhian ug negosyo,” he said.
He added,” Dako kaayo ni nga tabang alang sa atong mga lokal nga trabahante ug negosyante.”
