Sierra Madre's silent cry

Deforestation raises flood risks, sparks calls for accountability

- By MILLIE MANAHAN

When I embarked on the journey of Refill n Beyond, I envisioned it as a modest endeavor — encouraging the use of reusable water bottles and eco-friendly bags to refill staple household products. Little did I know that this small step would lead me to confront

a larger, more pressing issue: the erosion of Sierra Madre, the Philippines' natural shield against typhoons.

Stretching over 500 kilometers along the eastern coast of Luzon, Sierra Madre is the longest mountain range in the country. It serves as a critical buffer, absorbing the force of storms and protecting communities in Metro Manila and the surrounding provinces. Its forests filter water, stabilize soil, and provide habitats for countless species. In short, it is not only a natural wonder but also a lifesaving infrastructure.

However, recent aerial images of Rodriguez, Rizal, reveal a disturbing sight: vast stretches of the mountain range stripped bare due to extensive quarry operations. One poignant caption accompanying these images read, "Patawad, Sierra Madre" (Forgive us, Sierra Madre). The denudation is visible even from above, a stark reminder of what human activity can do to nature.