Raffy Tulfo urges stronger protection for Sierra Madre

Senator Raffy Tulfo has called for stricter enforcement of environmental laws and greater protection of the country’s protected areas, citing the ongoing controversy surrounding the Kaliwa Dam project in Sierra Madre.

In his manifestation to his brother’s speech during the plenary session on Tuesday, Tulfo raised concerns over the potential environmental and social impact of the project, which he has opposed for several years.

“Three years ago, I expressed my opposition to the Kaliwa Dam project because of the irreversible harm it would cause to the ecosystem of Sierra Madre and the affected indigenous communities,” Tulfo said.

He cited that environmentalists have also warned of risks to more than 100,000 residents, noting that the dam’s construction falls within the Philippine Fault Zone and Valley Fault System.

Previous scrutiny by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) led to the suspension of the project after the agency admitted it was not yet compliant with zoning requirements.

Despite earlier setbacks, Tulfo said the project now appears to have received a green light once again.

He questioned whether the concerns of indigenous communities have been adequately addressed, noting conflicting reports.

He said that while the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) claimed only half of the village would be affected, local groups argue that up to 90% of the area could be submerged, sparing only houses located 70 meters or higher.

Tulfo criticized the DENR for being reactive rather than proactive in protecting the environment.

“The problem with our environment, Mr. President, is that damages are often irreversible. Prevention should be our priority, not rehabilitation.”

He also highlighted issues with the issuance of Environmental Compliance Certificates (ECCs), alleging that they can be obtained in ways comparable to purchasing official documents illegally.

The senator emphasized the importance of the Expanded National Integrated Protected Areas System (E-NIPAS) Act, which safeguards ecologically sensitive areas, and called for a review of the law to strengthen regulatory systems and community participation.

“It is the community that has a genuine concern for the environment,” Tulfo said.

He also proposed holding government officials accountable for violations of environmental laws.

Tulfo cited examples of irregularities in projects at Chocolate Hills, Mount Apo, and Masungi Windfarm, highlighting the need for stricter enforcement to prevent exploitation of protected areas.

He then expressed full support for environmental advocacy efforts and urged the government to revisit existing laws to prevent further degradation of the country’s natural resources.