Manila, Feb. 4 -- Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Raphael Lotilla called on officials and employees of the agency to stay focused on the core mission of protecting the environment while supporting responsible development, as he downplayed issues surrounding his appointment.

In a news release Wednesday, the DENR said Lotilla underscores the importance of continuity of operations, including reforms, as directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.

"The directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remains clear: government operations must continue, and priority reforms under the administration's agenda must proceed without disruption," he said.

"We will continue to focus on our mission," he added, stre...