Developmental Communication
The Sierra Madre, known as the “Backbone of Luzon,” is the longest mountain range in the Philippines, stretching over 540 kilometers across 10 provinces. It serves as a natural defense barrier against typhoons and acts as an important carbon sink. Despite being protected by environmental laws, the mountain range continues to face destruction due to industrial mining operations.
Empty Laws
One of the ongoing mining operations in the Sierra Madre is conducted by the Dinapigue Mining Corporation (DMC), a subsidiary of Nickel Asia Corporation located in Dinapigue, Isabela. The operation gained public attention after a viral satellite image circulated on social media, showing a large brown patch cutting through the surrounding lush forests. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) later confirmed that DMC was responsible for the mining activity.
Another long-running operation is the quarrying of portions of the Sierra Madre mountain range in Angono, Rizal, which has reportedly continued for more than a decade. The operation drew criticism from local residents, who believe that it contributes to flooding and dust-related illnesses in nearby communities.
According to Haribon Conservation Officer Nova Peñaverde Regalario, numerous development projects in the provinces of Rizal and Quezon are contributing to deforestation. Among these is the Kaliwa Dam Project, which was designed to supply 600 million liters of water daily to Metro Manila. However, the project has faced severe backlash due to environmental concerns and the possible displacement of Indigenous communities. Despite the protests, the project had reportedly reached approximately 26 percent completion by the end of 2025.
Regalario also stated that kaingin, a traditional slash-and-burn farming practice, remains present in some areas despite being prohibited under the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines of 1975 (Presidential Decree No. 705). The practice involves clearing portions of forests by cutting and burning vegetation to create land for agricultural use.
These operations and practices highlight possible environmental violations and raise concerns regarding the implementation of the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992, also known as Republic Act No. 7586, which aims to protect ecologically important areas, including parts of the Sierra Madre.
Result of the Ongoing Destruction
Due to the ongoing destruction of forests in the Sierra Madre, approximately 9,000 hectares of forest are reportedly lost annually. According to a report by GMA News, an estimated 130,000 hectares of forest cover were lost between 2003 and 2020.
Among the major development projects in the region is the Kaliwa Dam Project, which is expected to submerge around 93 hectares of forest land, threatening 126 plant species and affecting critical ecosystems within the Kaliwa Watershed Forest Reserve.
The continuous destruction of forests may also result in a significant loss of carbon sinks, weakening the region’s ability to regulate climate. For instance, the ultramafic forests of Aurora reportedly contain an estimated carbon stock of approximately 306.48 tons per hectare. Continued deforestation may lead to the release of stored carbon into the atmosphere, contributing further to climate change.
In addition, the Sierra Madre contributes to reducing typhoon wind speeds, with studies estimating a marginal mean wind reduction of around 4.34 percent. However, ongoing deforestation threatens this natural protective function. Dense forest canopies and tall trees help weaken strong winds by creating resistance and friction. Without them, the mountain range gradually loses part of its natural shielding capacity, allowing stronger winds to pass through nearby communities.
Furthermore, tree roots play an important role in absorbing rainfall and stabilizing soil on mountain slopes. Without sufficient forest cover, the land becomes more vulnerable to landslides, soil erosion, and catastrophic flooding during heavy rains and typhoons.
Beyond Declaration
“If not for the Sierra Madre, the floods we experience today would likely be twice as severe,” Regalario said.
According to the Climate Change Commission, protecting the remaining forests serves as a form of natural security. The Commission emphasized that a barren Sierra Madre would become a “fragile fortress” that could offer significantly less protection due to ongoing deforestation.
Beyond the declaration of environmental laws, protecting the Sierra Madre means protecting the lives that depend on its ecosystem. It means safeguarding communities, biodiversity, and future generations that rely on its forests for protection and survival. Without proper implementation and enforcement of environmental protection policies, the natural shield that once protected Luzon may no longer be able to protect the people who depend on it.
Written by Mark Jerence Domingo, Insight PH
Mark Jerence Domingo, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
