A lawmaker on Monday is pushing for the rapid passage of legislation establishing a government entity responsible for conserving and maintaining the 540-kilometer Sierra Madre mountain range.

Rizal Fourth District Representative Fidel Nograles reiterated his plea in the wake of super typhoon "Karding" — the strongest storm to hit the country this year.

"Amid the threat of 'Karding,' Sierra Madre has once again shown just how crucial it is in protecting us against extreme weather events. The Sierra Madre Development Authority will help us preserve this shield in the face of a worsening climate crisis," Nograles said.