Manila, Aug. 5 -- The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is opening more than 1.18 million hectares of forest land to sustainable investments under a new policy that seeks to expand economic opportunities in rural areas while ensuring that environmental safeguards are implemented and in place.

In a news release on Wednesday, Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna said that DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2026-34 sets out the process for identifying and evaluating forest areas that may be offered for investment in agroforestry, tree plantations, ecotourism, renewable energy, grazing, and other approved forest uses.

"For too long, many of our rural communities have struggled with limited livelihood options, even as va...