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Roy Cimatu
Roy Cimatu
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Roy Agullana Cimatu (Tagalog pronunciation: [sɪˈmatu], born July 4, 1946)[2] is a retired Philippine Army general who served as the Secretary of Environment and Natural Resources from 2017 to 2022 in the Cabinet of President Rodrigo Duterte.[3] He previously served as the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines from May to September 2002 under President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. After his retirement from the military, President Arroyo appointed him as the Special Envoy to the Middle East during the Iraq War.[4]

Key Information

Early life and education

[edit]

Roy Cimatu was born on July 4, 1946, in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, the third child of war veteran Fidel Magarro Cimatu Sr. and public school teacher Clara Agullana.His birth was timing to the Proclamation of Philippine Independence from the United States, which also marks the birth of the Republic of the Philippines.[2] His father joined the guerilla movement and the 15th Infantry of the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines at the Battle of Bessang Pass during World War II.[5][6] He completed his elementary education at Bangui Elementary School, and completed high school at Bangui National High School.[2]

Cimatu studied engineering for two years at the National University in Manila before taking and passing the entrance exam for the Philippine Military Academy.[2] He took the Infantry Officers Advanced Course with the Philippine Army Training Command and graduated from the Academy as a second lieutenant of the Magiting Class of 1970 and topped his batch and received the highest grade of 97.27%.[2][5] He then enrolled at the Aerostar Flying School to become a certified helicopter and fixed-wing aircraft pilot.[7] He also trained at the United States Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas, U.S.[5]

Cimatu has a master's degree in Business Administration from Ateneo de Manila University.[5]

Career

[edit]

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)

[edit]

Cimatu spent most of his military career in Mindanao. After graduating from the Philippine Military Academy in 1970, he was immediately assigned in Cotabato City as platoon leader and executive officer of the Alpha Company of the 11th Infantry Battalion under the 3rd Infantry Division.[5]

As Commander of the 4th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army based in Cagayan de Oro from 1999 to 2001, Cimatu led the 2000 Philippine campaign against the Moro Islamic Liberation Front which resulted in the successful capture of most of the 46 camps of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front in Lanao del Sur and Maguindanao.[4] He earned the moniker "General Pacman" for his efficiency during the "all-out war" launched by President Joseph Estrada versus the MILF rebels.[5]

In 2001, Cimatu was appointed as the Commanding General of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) based in Zamboanga City (now AFP Western Mindanao Command). During his short stint as Southcom chief, he took part in the Balikatan 02-1 military exercises between the Philippines and the United States which took place for the first time in Basilan amid the U.S.-led war on terror.[8]

Then-Chief of Staff Cimatu with then-President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in May 2002

In May 2002, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo appointed Cimatu as the 30th AFP Chief of Staff citing his accomplishments in his 36 years of military service.[8][4] As the AFP chief, Cimatu crafted and implemented a comprehensive anti-terrorist campaign plan to break the backbone of the Abu Sayyaf and to decimate other terror groups in the country. He spearheaded Operation Endgame in Sulu under Operation Enduring Freedom that eventually led to the killing of Abu Sayyaf leader Abu Sabaya in June 2002.[5] Cimatu retired on September 10, 2002, and was replaced by Benjamin Defensor Jr. as AFP chief.[5]

As a former chief of staff, Cimatu was accused by former AFP budget officer Col. George Rabusa of receiving send-off money or pabaon when he retired in September 2002.[4] During the Senate hearing on the 2011 Armed Forces of the Philippines corruption scandal, Rabusa said the retiring AFP chiefs, which also included Diomedio Villanueva and Angelo Reyes, received at least ₱50 million from the pabaon system. The Department of Justice filed plunder charges against Cimatu and other high-ranking AFP officials in June 2011 for allegedly accumulating ill-gotten wealth sourced from the conversion of military funds.[4] Rodrigo Duterte, then the mayor of Davao City, defended Cimatu from the allegations. In his weekend television program Gikan Sa Masa, Para Sa Masa, Duterte said "I do not believe that General Roy Cimatu has millions."[9]

An April 2013 decision by the Office of the Ombudsman recommended the dismissal of the plunder charges for lack of evidence.[4]

His awards in the military are:

Special envoy

[edit]

Upon his retirement from military service, President Arroyo appointed Cimatu as Special Envoy to the Middle East and head of the Middle East Preparedness Team (MEPT) in 2002 that was tasked to look after the safety and welfare of overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East amid the tensions brought by the Iraq War.[4] He was the chief negotiator for the release of kidnapped Filipinos in Iraq including the truck driver Angelo de la Cruz who was abducted by Iraqi insurgents near the city of Fallujah in 2004.[10]

As Arroyo's envoy, Cimatu also negotiated for the surrender of 326 AFP officers who joined the Magdalo Group in the Oakwood mutiny in July 2003.[11] Cimatu served as Special Envoy to the Middle East for President Arroyo until 2010 and for President Benigno Aquino III from 2010 to June 30, 2011.[4][12]

On October 11, 2016, Cimatu was reappointed to the same position as Special Envoy to the Middle East by President Rodrigo Duterte.[13] As Duterte's special envoy, he was part of the President's delegation during the state visits to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Qatar from April 10–16, 2017.[14]

On April 23, 2017, during the opening ceremony of Palarong Pambansa 2017 in San Jose de Buenavista, Antique, President Duterte introduced Cimatu as a new Cabinet member and announced his appointment as Special Envoy for Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Refugees who is tasked to assist distressed Filipino workers in the Middle East.[14]

Department of Environment and Natural Resources

[edit]

Cimatu assumed the leadership of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on May 8, 2017, when he was appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte to replace Gina Lopez; his appointment was confirmed on October 4, 2017, by the Commission on Appointments.[15][16] He is the second retired general to head the department after former AFP chief and Defense Secretary Angelo Reyes who was President Arroyo's DENR Secretary from 2006 to 2007.[9] As Environment Secretary, Cimatu said he will be reviewing the mine closures ordered by his predecessor. He said "balancing environmental care and responsible mining can be done".[15]

The Nickelodeon Theme Park in Coron, which Lopez blocked, was given the green light by Department of Tourism Wanda Teo after a month of Lopez' rejection by the Commission on Appointments.[17][18] Cimatu however, vowed for a thorough inquiry regarding the theme park to ensure the conservation and protection of the area stating 'that we continue to conserve and protect this last bastion of coastal biodiversity in Palawan'. In a statement, Cimatu said he has ordered his department's Biodiversity Management Bureau, Environmental Management Bureau, and MiMaRoPa office "to undertake an inquiry into this proposed plan, so that at the outset we can ensure that we continue to conserve and protect this last bastion of coastal biodiversity in Palawan."[19]

Duterte, satisfied with the Boracay rehabilitation, gave Cimatu a more challenging task of rehabilitating the long-neglected Manila bay and vowed a serious cleanup on Manila Bay coastline which stretches 190 kilo meters across three regions from Cavite in Calabarzon, National Capital Region (NCR) or the Metro Manila area, and Bulacan and Pampanga in Central Luzon. Furthermore, Cimatu stated in a 2019 speech: "In Manila Bay, we have to break down in class SB status the fatal coliform of 330 million spm per 100 ml. of Manila Bay and the required effort to clean and rehabilitate Manila Bay would take around 330 times as that of Boracay," it indicates that the fatal coliform in Manila bay is far more than what was present in Boracay, despite the overwhelming potential hurdles, the challenge was wholeheartedly accepted by Cimatu stating: "We are in the limelight now of what we want to do with Manila Bay. The President has shown confidence in our competence after what we have done in Boracay."[20]

In 2019, Cimatu spearheaded the task of rehabilitating Manila bay, which has been very polluted due to the years of neglect by authorities. Under his leadership, the DENR has begun to inspect establishments near the bay and has given orders for them to put up their own sewage treatment plants. Part of their initiative includes taking water samples of the establishments' wastewater discharges.[21] The rehabilitation was dubbed "The Battle for Manila Bay" by Cimatu. It began on January 27, 2018, wherein around 5,000 people have taken part carrying shovels, broomsticks, and sacks to assist in cleaning up their long-neglected bay.[22]

COVID-19 Pandemic

[edit]

On June 22, 2020, President Duterte assigned Cimatu to oversee the COVID-19 response in Cebu City due to city having the highest number of confirmed coronavirus cases in the country.[23][24][25]

Cebu City Environment Consultant

[edit]

On August 30, 2022, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama appointed Cimatu as environment consultant to help realize his vision for the city to be Singapore-like. Cimatu’s task is to help and coordinate with the city on the restoration of waterways, address flooding, and find possible potable water sources to address scarcity.[26]

Personal life

[edit]

Cimatu was married to businesswoman Fe Aguillon of Antique with whom he has one son, Dennis, who studied architecture at the University of Santo Tomas.[5] Aguillon-Cimatu died on February 20, 2021.[27] His brother, Fidel Cimatu Jr., is the incumbent municipal mayor of their hometown Bangui, Ilocos Norte who also graduated from the Philippine Military Academy in 1977.[28][29]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Roy Agullana Cimatu (born July 4, 1946) is a retired general of the who graduated from the 'Matatag' Class of 1970 and rose through the ranks to become the 29th Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the , serving from May to September 2002 under President . A career officer with expertise in counter-insurgency operations, Cimatu commanded the Armed Forces' Southern Command in 2001, leading campaigns that dismantled multiple camps in and earning him the nickname "General Pacman" for his tactical successes. Appointed by President as of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources in May 2017 following the rejection of Gina Lopez's confirmation by the , Cimatu shifted from military to , focusing on and rehabilitation efforts. Under his leadership, the DENR achieved the closure of all open dumpsites nationwide and initiated post-closure rehabilitation, alongside cleanups of polluted waterways such as the Balandog River and Laguna Lake. He resigned in February 2022 citing health reasons, with the Palace affirming no corruption allegations against him during his tenure. Cimatu's career exemplifies a transition from frontline command—marked by decorations including the Distinguished Conduct Star—to administrative roles addressing national challenges in and , reflecting disciplined, results-oriented .

Early life and education

Early years and family background

Roy Cimatu was born on July 4, 1946, in , . He was the third child of Fidel Magarro Cimatu Sr., a veteran, and Clara Agullana, a public school teacher. As a native of , Cimatu grew up in a modest family environment shaped by his father's military service and his mother's role in education, reflecting the post-war resilience common in rural communities.

Formal education and training

Cimatu completed his elementary and through the Philippine public school system. He subsequently enrolled in pre-engineering courses at the in , studying for two years before passing the entrance examination for the (PMA). Cimatu entered the PMA and graduated in 1970 as a member of the "Magiting" Class, receiving a commission as a in the branch of the . The PMA curriculum, spanning four years, emphasizes leadership, military tactics, ethics, and academic disciplines including , sciences, and , preparing cadets for commissioned service. After commissioning, Cimatu completed the Infantry Officers Advanced Course at the Training Command, topping the class with a score of 97.27%. This specialized training focused on advanced , in combat operations, and operational planning, building on foundational PMA instruction to qualify officers for company-level command roles.

Military career

Entry into the Armed Forces and early assignments

Roy Cimatu entered the Armed Forces of the Philippines by enrolling in the after briefly studying engineering at the in , ultimately graduating in 1970 with a degree and being commissioned as a in the . Following his commissioning, Cimatu received his initial assignment in , , where he served as and of Alpha , 35th Battalion, engaging in counter-insurgency operations amid regional unrest. Soon thereafter, still holding the rank of , he was deployed to Patikul, , as a company commander during Armed Forces operations against the in the early 1970s, leveraging familiarity with the terrain in subsequent high-profile missions decades later. These early postings in and the immersed Cimatu in combat against Moro separatist groups, forming the foundation of his extensive experience in southern Philippine counter-insurgency efforts that spanned much of his 32-year military tenure until retirement in 2002.

Key command roles and operations

Cimatu served as commander of the 4th Infantry Division from 1999 to 2001, directing major offensives against (MILF) strongholds in central amid President Joseph Estrada's "all-out war" policy. His forces captured 46 MILF camps across and provinces, significantly disrupting rebel logistics and command structures, which earned him the moniker "General " for systematically dismantling enemy positions. Key actions included redeploying the 1st Marine Brigade and 1st Scout Ranger Battalion on March 16, 2000, to , , liberating approximately 300 civilian hostages held by MILF fighters; an assault on an MILF camp in Inudaran on March 18, 2000, despite casualties including Lieutenant Dhon Alfonso Javier and five soldiers; and the seizure of Camps John Mack (Delabayan) and Belal (Munai, ) via Task Force Diamond 3 after intense combat. These efforts cleared the Narciso Ramos Highway in , enabling linkage with the 6th Infantry Division, and culminated in the joint capture of the MILF's primary base, Camp Abubakar, between July 2 and 9, 2000. For these operations, Cimatu received the Distinguished Conduct Star— the Philippine military's second-highest combat award— and promotion to . Earlier, as a brigade in regions including Davao, , and during the late 1990s, Cimatu oversaw counterinsurgency efforts that included the rescue of four hostages from Group militants in , contributing to his elevation to one-star general rank. In the , he commanded a in northern , province, effectively neutralizing New People's Army (NPA) threats and facilitating regional stabilization that supported economic development, such as in . His initial combat assignment as a involved serving as company in Patikul, , during Armed Forces of the Philippines assaults on Moro National Liberation Front positions in the 1970s. In 2001, Cimatu assumed command of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Southern Command (Southcom), headquartered in , overseeing unified operations across western against Islamist insurgents and facilitating joint exercises like Balikatan 02-1 with U.S. forces on amid the global war on terror. This role positioned him to coordinate interagency efforts in the and , building on prior successes to weaken groups like the .

Tenure as Chief of Staff

Roy Cimatu was appointed as the of the Armed Forces of the (AFP) on May 18, 2002, by President , succeeding . His selection was based on 36 years of military service, including prior command roles in operations. The appointment occurred amid heightened counter-terrorism efforts following the U.S.-backed , with the AFP focusing on the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in southern . Cimatu's tenure lasted 115 days, ending on September 10, 2002, when he was replaced by Benjamin Defensor Jr. Originally set to retire mandatorily on July 4, 2002, upon reaching age 56, his term was extended by approximately two months, a practice employed by Philippine presidents to ensure continuity in leadership. During this period, the AFP continued aggressive operations against the ASG, including elements of Operation Endgame in , which contributed to the killing of ASG leader on June 10, 2002. Cimatu emphasized breaking the ASG's operational backbone through coordinated anti-terrorist campaigns, aligning with joint Philippine-U.S. efforts post-9/11. In 2011, Cimatu faced allegations from former AFP budget officer George Rabusa of receiving unauthorized "pabaon" or send-off money upon his retirement as , part of a broader involving AFP comptrollership funds from 1994 to 2004. Cimatu denied the claims, demanding documentary evidence and considering charges against Rabusa, while no convictions resulted from the accusations against him. Separately, Senator questioned Cimatu in 2011 about real estate properties in potentially linked to his , though no formal charges ensued.

Diplomatic service

Appointments as special envoy

Following his retirement from the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 2002, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo appointed Roy Cimatu as Special Envoy to the , tasking him with heading the Middle East Preparedness Team to protect and evacuate overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) amid threats such as the impending . In this capacity, Cimatu coordinated with Philippine embassies and host governments to assess risks and facilitate the welfare of approximately 800,000 OFWs in the region, leveraging his expertise for contingency planning. The role persisted across administrations, with Cimatu reappointed by President in October 2016 to continue as Special Envoy to the , focusing on ongoing OFW protection during geopolitical tensions. This reappointment occurred shortly after Duterte's inauguration, emphasizing Cimatu's prior experience in crisis response for Filipino expatriates in volatile areas like and . On April 23, 2017, Duterte further appointed Cimatu as special for OFW-refugees, specifically to oversee evacuations and efforts for displaced by conflicts in the , including the Yemen civil war where thousands of OFWs required urgent extraction. This dual envoy designation built on Cimatu's earlier mandate, enabling coordinated diplomatic interventions that reportedly assisted in repatriating over 1,000 OFWs from high-risk zones by mid-2017.

Middle East postings and negotiations

Following his retirement from the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 2002, Cimatu was appointed Special Presidential Envoy to the with the rank of ambassador by President , a role focused on safeguarding the welfare of approximately one million overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) in the region amid escalating tensions from the . He chaired the Presidential Middle East Preparedness Committee (PMEPC), conducting assessments and contingency planning for potential evacuations, including surveys in and visits to areas near the border to evaluate risks to OFWs. This posting emphasized military-style coordination for crisis response rather than traditional diplomacy, leveraging Cimatu's background to address threats like conflict spillover and labor vulnerabilities. Cimatu's tenure involved direct negotiations for the release of Filipino hostages captured by militants, most notably in the case of Angelo , abducted in on July 7 and threatened with execution unless Philippine troops withdrew from the U.S.-led coalition. As lead negotiator, he traveled to to engage captors through intermediaries, confirming de la Cruz's survival and coordinating with Philippine officials while Arroyo ordered the early pullout of 51 troops and engineers on July 14 to meet the deadline, resulting in de la Cruz's release on July 15 without ransom payment. He also advised OFWs to avoid high-risk areas like , imposing deployment bans on contract workers there to prevent further abductions. His envoy role extended under President until June 30, 2011, maintaining focus on OFW protection amid ongoing regional instability, including labor disputes and security threats in Gulf states. In 2017, President reappointed him as special envoy to the and for OFW refugees, incorporating him into state visit delegations to , , and from April 10 to 16 to strengthen bilateral ties on issues. Cimatu coordinated with Gulf governments on protocols and , drawing on his prior experience. In January 2020, amid U.S.- tensions following the killing of , Duterte directed Cimatu to the to liaise with governments in , , , and other states for OFW evacuation plans, initiating mandatory repatriations starting January 11 for up to 4 million workers potentially at risk from retaliatory strikes on U.S. bases. He urged OFWs in to avoid U.S. facilities and oversaw rapid response teams, though de-escalation reduced the scale of evacuations. These efforts prioritized logistical readiness over formal diplomatic accords, reflecting Cimatu's operational approach to minimizing casualties among vulnerable migrant populations.

Service as DENR Secretary

Appointment under Duterte administration

President appointed Roy Cimatu as of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on May 8, 2017, signing the ad interim appointment papers to fill the vacancy left by Regina "Gina" Lopez. Lopez's nomination had been rejected by the (CA) on May 3, 2017, primarily due to opposition from pro-mining lawmakers who criticized her aggressive closure of mining operations without due process. Cimatu, a retired four-star general and former of the Armed Forces of the , was selected for his reputation in and administrative discipline, qualities Duterte highlighted as essential for rehabilitating amid ongoing issues like and mining. The appointment came shortly after Cimatu's recent roles under Duterte, including his designation as special presidential envoy to the in October 2016 and special ambassador for refugees in April 2017, demonstrating the president's trust in his diplomatic and operational expertise. Environmental groups like expressed concerns over Cimatu's military background, arguing it might prioritize over sustainable , though supporters viewed his command as advantageous for tackling entrenched environmental crimes. The CA confirmed Cimatu's appointment on October 4, 2017, allowing him to serve without interim status and continue Duterte's push for balanced that included both conservation and economic development.

Major environmental rehabilitation efforts

One of Cimatu's flagship initiatives was the rehabilitation of Island, which faced severe from over-tourism, illegal structures, and wastewater pollution. In April 2018, the island was closed to tourists for six months under his leadership as head of the Boracay Inter-Agency Task Force, enabling comprehensive cleanup operations that included demolishing over 800 illegal structures encroaching on forestlands and easements, constructing septage treatment plants, and restoring wetlands. By 2021, had improved significantly, with coliform levels reduced from hazardous thresholds to compliant standards along key beaches, allowing phased reopening and sustained monitoring. Cimatu described this as the DENR's "single biggest accomplishment" in 2018, emphasizing strict enforcement of environmental laws to prevent recurrence. Parallel to Boracay, Cimatu spearheaded the "Battle for Manila Bay" rehabilitation program, launched on January 27, 2019, targeting pollution from urban runoff, industrial discharges, and solid waste in the heavily contaminated bay. Efforts involved deploying over 1,000 "estero rangers" to clean 700 barangays' waterways and esteros, installing solar-powered sewage treatment plants, and conducting beach nourishment with sand sourced from sustainable dredging. The inter-agency Manila Bay Task Force, which he supported, coordinated cleanup drives that engaged thousands of volunteers and addressed fecal coliform reduction through stricter Clean Water Act enforcement. By 2020, initial phases had recovered coastal areas and improved water quality metrics, though full restoration was projected over multiple years. These projects exemplified Cimatu's militarized approach to enforcement, drawing on his military background to mobilize resources and inter-agency collaboration for measurable outcomes like reduced pollution loads and recovered public lands. While environmental advocates noted persistent challenges such as upstream sources, official reports highlighted tangible progress in compliance with mandates for bay restoration.

Policies on mining and resource extraction

During his tenure as Secretary of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) from June 2017 to June 2022, Roy Cimatu prioritized regulatory audits and compliance enforcement in the mining sector to address environmental violations while facilitating resumption of operations for compliant firms. Upon assuming office, he inherited closure and suspension orders against 23 mining companies issued by his predecessor, Gina Lopez, in April 2017; Cimatu ordered third-party audits and reviews, resulting in the suspension of three firms (Ipil, Marcopper, and Hinatuan) for failing compliance in November 2018, while nine others faced potential suspensions pending further evaluation. By 2020, several previously suspended operations, including those of Philex Mining and Carmen Copper, were permitted to resume after demonstrating remedial measures, with Cimatu emphasizing that non-compliant mines would face fines, suspensions, or closures. Cimatu lifted key restrictions to revitalize the industry, including the one-year moratorium on new mining exploration permits via DENR Administrative Order (DAO) 2018-13 signed on July 13, 2018, which allowed processing of applications subject to environmental safeguards. In December 2021, he issued DAO 2021-40 on December 23, overturning the 2017 ban on open-pit mining for copper, gold, silver, and complex ores, arguing it would boost economic contributions while imposing stricter progressive rehabilitation and monitoring requirements. As co-chair of the Mining Industry Coordinating Council (MICC), Cimatu supported biennial reviews of mine operations starting in 2018 to ensure ongoing compliance with environmental standards. To promote transparency and sustainability, Cimatu mandated compliance with the Philippines Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (PH-EITI) for all mining firms, including small-scale operators, tying it to issuance of ore transport permits and emphasizing disclosure of revenues and environmental impacts. He issued DAO 2018-19 in September 2018, heightening progressive rehabilitation protocols for operating surface metallic mines, requiring phased restoration of disturbed areas during active extraction. Additionally, in 2019, Cimatu endorsed a PH-Japan cooperation agreement to enhance mining efficiency through technology transfer for environmental monitoring and waste management. These measures aimed to reconcile resource extraction with ecological protection, though implementation relied on firm enforcement against violations.

Performance metrics and departmental achievements

Under Cimatu's leadership from June 2017 to June 2022, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reported exceeding performance targets in multiple core programs, with year-end accomplishments ranging from 100 to 138 percent in 2017 across initiatives such as solid waste management, protected areas management, and ecotourism development. The protected areas program specifically achieved 135 percent of its goals that year, reflecting accelerated and restoration efforts. In solid waste management, the DENR, under Cimatu's oversight as chair of the National Solid Waste Management Commission, approved solid waste management plans for 22 units by May 2021, advancing compliance with Republic Act No. 9003. The National Greening Program, a reforestation effort, registered a cumulative 109 percent planting accomplishment from 2011 to 2018, with Cimatu projecting completion of the 1.5 billion tree target by 2028 through sustained annual plantings exceeding 200 million seedlings. Major rehabilitation projects yielded quantifiable environmental gains. The Island cleanup, initiated after a six-month closure in 2018, resulted in a fully operational system covering 100 percent of required , alongside reductions in coastal coliform levels from over 1 million most probable number (MPN) per 100 milliliters to compliant standards, enabling tourist reopening on , 2018. For , the rehabilitation program launched on January 27, 2019, achieved a garbage-free coastline along key stretches during its initial cleanup phase by late 2018, supported by estero and compliance orders to over 800 establishments. These outcomes, drawn from DENR operational reports, underscore a focus on rapid and enforcement interventions, though long-term metrics, such as reductions to recreational standards, remained ongoing targets.

Criticisms from environmental advocates

Environmental advocates and groups, including those affiliated with anti-mining coalitions, criticized Roy Cimatu's tenure as DENR Secretary for policies perceived as prioritizing mining industry interests over ecological protection. In particular, his administration's reversal of the 2017 ban—issued via Department of Order No. 2021-30 on December 23, 2021—drew sharp condemnation as a "cruel Christmas gift" and a regressive step that endangered watersheds, , and communities vulnerable to mining-related disasters. Groups such as Alyansa Tigil Mina argued that the move repudiated prior safeguards against destructive practices, accusing Cimatu of "subservience to mining oligarchs" and enabling in sensitive areas. Critics also opposed Cimatu's proposals to expand activities, including plans announced in June 2020 to dredge and mine riverbeds as an economic stimulus measure amid the , which they labeled as treating as an "essential" rather than inherently destructive industry. Environmental organizations like for Environmental Concerns-Philippines warned that decentralizing environmental compliance certificate (ECC) approvals to regional offices, as directed by Cimatu in July 2017, would expedite permits for extractive projects while weakening oversight and increasing risks of "ruinous" developments. Broader discontent stemmed from Cimatu's appointment following the rejection of Regina Lopez, a staunch mining critic, with environmentalists viewing his military background and subsequent policy shifts—such as reopening suspended operations and issuing ECCs for large-scale infrastructure like the New Manila International Airport—as evidence of a pro-industry pivot that undermined anti-mining reforms. These groups, often comprising NGOs with a history of opposing extractive industries, contended that such decisions exacerbated , loss, and disaster vulnerability, despite Cimatu's assurances of regulatory enforcement.

Resignation and transition

Cimatu submitted his resignation as of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on February 17, 2022, citing health reasons as the basis for his decision. Malacañang Palace confirmed the resignation the following day, February 18, emphasizing that it stemmed from personal health considerations after nearly five years in the role. In the immediate aftermath, for Mines Jim O. Sampulna was designated as Officer-in-Charge of the DENR to ensure continuity in departmental operations. This transition occurred amid unverified allegations of leveled against Cimatu, which officials, including Communications Secretary , explicitly rejected, reiterating that health alone prompted the exit and affirming no evidence of misconduct. Environmental groups such as Greenpeace Philippines acknowledged the without endorsing the claims, expressing hopes for Cimatu's recovery while underscoring the need for robust in environmental stewardship. The handover facilitated a brief interim period under Sampulna until President Duterte's term concluded on June 30, 2022, after which the incoming administration under Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed as the permanent successor.

COVID-19 pandemic response

Assignment to oversee Cebu City

On June 22, 2020, President designated Department of Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Roy Cimatu to oversee the national government's response efforts in , which was experiencing a sharp rise in infections and strained healthcare infrastructure. The decision addressed immediate challenges, including shortages of medical personnel and staff in major hospitals, escalating case numbers, and coordination failures among local officials who were reportedly shifting blame for the crisis. Cimatu, leveraging his background as a retired general, was instructed to assess on-ground conditions and recommend policies to curb virus transmission, marking him as the latest military-affiliated figure deployed to manage pandemic hotspots. The Against endorsed the appointment on June 24, 2020, stating it aligned with centralized national strategies to support local containment measures, particularly as remained under the strictest enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) with no immediate easing planned. Upon acceptance, Cimatu expressed readiness to engage directly with officials in high-case areas to streamline interventions and prioritize life-saving actions. This role temporarily expanded beyond his environmental portfolio, reflecting Duterte's pattern of assigning experienced military leaders to enforce discipline in crisis management.

Implemented strategies and militarized approach

Upon arrival in on June 24, 2020, Cimatu, leveraging his background as a retired , initiated a command-style oversight emphasizing strict and coordination with units (LGUs). He prioritized consultations with captains in high-infection areas, such as those reporting over 100 cases, to identify gaps in compliance and resource distribution. This approach mirrored military , with Cimatu directing rapid assessments via flyovers of affected neighborhoods to evaluate adherence and needs. Cimatu's strategies included imposing granular on barangays with elevated cases, such as a "hard " in select areas that suspended non-essential movements and invalidated existing passes to curb mobility. He coordinated the deployment of over 90 military checkpoints citywide, manned by and police personnel, to enforce border controls, temperature checks, and documentation verification, effectively treating the response as a security operation. Authorized by President Duterte to freely utilize military assets, Cimatu integrated Armed Forces personnel into logistics for distributing aid and medical supplies, while establishing unified command centers for real-time case tracking. A key tactical element was enhancing contact tracing through adoption of Baguio City's model, which involved training community health workers and volunteers in systematic household mapping and digital logging of exposures, aiming to trace 80-90% of contacts within 48 hours. Cimatu also mandated expanded testing in isolation facilities and hospitals, prioritizing symptomatic individuals and high-risk clusters, while streamlining LGU reporting to the national Inter-Agency Task Force for unified decision-making. This militarized framework, criticized by some advocacy groups for prioritizing enforcement over medical expansion, emphasized discipline and hierarchy to achieve compliance amid Cebu City's status as a surge hotspot with over 8,000 cases by late June 2020.

Results, challenges, and evaluations

Cimatu's intervention in , beginning on June 23, 2020, correlated with a rapid decline in transmission metrics. Prior to his oversight, the city reported 4,449 cases as of June 24, representing 14.5% of the national total amid hospital overcrowding and a second epidemic wave. Within approximately one month, strict enhanced community (ECQ) measures under his direction flattened the , enabling a downgrade to the lowest quarantine level by , 2020. By , active cases had fallen to 196, reflecting improved recovery rates that exceeded new infections. Challenges included initial public non-compliance with quarantine protocols, with Cimatu noting only partial adherence in the first week of the third ECQ implementation on June 30, 2020, which delayed containment efforts. The city endured over 100 days of army-backed lockdowns, exacerbating economic strain on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), many of which faced closures and revenue losses during the peak surge exceeding 4,500 cases. Logistical hurdles, such as limited testing capacity early in the outbreak and resistance to militarized enforcement, further complicated response coordination between national and local authorities. Evaluations of Cimatu's tenure were largely positive, with Cebu City conferring the Order of Rajah Humabon award on him in June 2021 for his role in stabilizing the outbreak. Local officials, including Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes, credited his presence with enhancing inter-agency coordination and case management, leading to recoveries outpacing active cases by late 2020. By year-end, Cebu City had recorded 10,820 total cases with 10,022 recoveries, supporting assessments of effective curve suppression despite central government limitations addressed through localized adaptations like barangay isolation clinics.

Post-government roles

Cebu City environmental consultancy

On August 30, 2022, Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama appointed Roy Cimatu as environmental consultant to oversee the city's environmental programs and address persistent issues such as flooding and waterway encroachment. As chairman of Task Force Gubat sa Baha—established via Executive Order No. 2 on August 19, 2022—Cimatu leads efforts to implement a mandatory three-meter along waterways, reclaim encroached public spaces, and coordinate restoration activities across relevant city offices including the City Environment and Natural Resources Office and Department of Public Services. Cimatu's role extends to rehabilitating seven major rivers through declogging, debris removal, and structural clearances, with a target of dismantling around 14,000 illegal structures by 2025 while providing relocation and financial aid to affected residents and businesses. Initial actions included issuing 2,000 demolition notices starting in June 2022 and searching for alternative potable water sources to mitigate 's chronic scarcity, which has persisted since the mid-2000s. The incorporates representatives from national entities such as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 7, Department of Public Works and Highways Region 7, and the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to ensure inter-agency collaboration. In early September 2022, Cimatu initiated a city-wide cleanup drive commencing September 17, deploying equipment like amphibious excavators, backhoes, and dump trucks from the DPWH and local engineering offices to target garbage accumulation in rivers. He urged participation from the , , , , , and non-governmental organizations, envisioning a "Singapore-like" through sustained, multi-stakeholder efforts to eliminate waste buildup and enhance . These initiatives build on pre-existing declogging operations and aim to integrate environmental oversight into a public-private governance model akin to Cimatu's prior national experience.

Recent involvements and advisory positions

In November 2023, Cimatu recommended the demolition of fish pens and nets in Sitio Tubigan, Barangay Banilad, City, , to address chronic flooding by clearing obstructions that impeded water flow and desilting the area functioning as a rainwater catch basin. City Mayor Jonas Cortes disclosed that the suggestion arose during consultations with Cimatu, who emphasized these actions to reduce flood risks in the locality adjacent to . This involvement extended his prior environmental advisory work in the metropolitan area, focusing on practical interventions for waterway rehabilitation. No additional formal advisory positions or public engagements by Cimatu have been documented beyond regional environmental consultations as of late 2023.

Personal life

Family and relationships

Roy Cimatu was married to Fe Aguillon Cimatu, a businesswoman from Antique province, until her death. The couple had one son, Dennis Cimatu, who studied architecture at the University of Santo Tomas. Fe Aguillon Cimatu, described in contemporaneous reports as a supportive spouse who occasionally engaged in public activities alongside her husband, passed away on February 20, 2021, after a lingering illness. Cimatu's parents were Fidel Magarro Cimatu Sr. and Clara Agullana, and he was born in Bangui, Ilocos Norte. No public details are available on additional siblings or extended family relationships.

Health and retirement

Cimatu tendered his resignation as of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources on February 14, 2022, which was accepted and announced by Malacañang on February 18, citing unspecified reasons in his letter to President . The confirmed the move was health-related, with Executive Salvador Medialdea signing the acceptance, marking the end of Cimatu's tenure that began in May 2017. No further details on the nature of his condition were disclosed publicly by official sources, though some commentary speculated on alternative factors like prior allegations from , which had been filed but not resulted in . Following his resignation, Cimatu, already a retired Philippine Army general since prior to his 2017 appointment, transitioned out of active government service, with no subsequent cabinet or elected roles reported as of 2025. He has maintained a low public profile, occasionally referenced in advisory contexts, such as leading a Philippine team to contingency plans for regional stability in late 2025, suggesting selective post- engagements rather than full from professional activities. This aligns with his military status, achieved after a career culminating in high command positions before entering civilian administration.

References

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