Video

Removing Data Silos a Top Priority for DENR, Philippines

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources, DENR, serves as an executive arm of the Philippine government, tasked with the oversight and management of the nation's natural resources encompassing their exploration, development, utilization and preservation.

Despite the department's overarching vision to establish a nation that both relishes and safeguards its natural endowments while fostering a well-balanced environment, this objective has been hindered by fragmented technological approaches and data silos. To overcome this, the department has implemented a three-year information systems strategic plan, ISSP, poised to serve as the framework for its digital transformation.

"We aim to formulate a digital transformation road map that encompasses the ISSP alongside precise action strategies catering to customers, employees and essential stakeholders," said Arlene Romasanta, IT director, DENR. This blueprint stands upon five fundamental pillars: system integration, cultivating a digitally adept and flexible workforce, fostering collaboration, instituting digital protocols, and fortifying resilient ICT operations."

In this video interview with ISMG, Romasanta also discussed:

• The importance of removing data silos and establishing open data culture for collaboration;
• DENR’s data strategy with storytelling and data visualization approach;
• The importance of a resilient cybersecurity posture.

Romasanta is an experienced technology leader skilled in IT governance, digital transformation, strategy, program/project management, service management, and systems and applications. She previously worked as chief of the Data Warehouse and Analytics Division at the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) and Head of the Information Technology Management Unit at the Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (PCIEERD) - Department of Science and Technology (DOST).