WHEREAS, Article II, Section 16 of the Constitution declares it a policy of the State to protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and harmony of nature;

WHEREAS, the Philippine Development Plan 2017-2022 seeks to advance the development and implementation of sustainable consumption and production policies and initiatives, particularly, practices and teachings that will facilitate the attainment of both economic goals and environmental standards; and

WHEREAS, the Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, Inc. (PCEPSDI), the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Climate Change Commission jointly organized the Kalikasan Green Productivity, Green Purchasing towards Green Philippines (KGP3) Conference 2019 to be held on 5-6 November 2019 at Novotel Manila, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City, with the purpose of providing essential platform for information dissemination, identification and presentation of best practices, and sharing of knowledge and experience on strategies towards achieving a green economy;

NOW, THEREFORE, all heads of departments, agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and local government units, are authorized to participate in the KGP3.

The attendance of an official or employee per agency in charge of the formulation or implementation of development plans, programs and projects on environment and natural resources, engineering, and supply and procurement services, to the extent that will not impair the delivery of services in their respective offices, is hereby allowed on official time, with entitlement to registration fee of not more than P 2,500.00, chargeable against the concerned agency's budget, subject to the availability of funds and applicable budgetary, accounting and auditing laws, rules and regulations.

This Circular shall take effect immediately.

DONE, in the City of Manila, Philippines, this 28th day of October in the Year of our Lord Two Thousand and Nineteen.

By authority of the President:       (SGD.) SALVADOR C. MEDIALDEA   Executive Secretary