Of stormy weather, Sierra Madre and other shenanigans

Anxiety, sleepless nights, destruction, death and trauma — these are some of the stark realities left in the wake of super typhoon “Uwan’s” power and wrath. The stormy weather systems that once merely passed through the Philippine Area of Responsibility have now evolved into cyclones and super typhoons that leave behind devastation and memories not easily forgotten.

However, when the winds finally dissipate, the skies clear, and the sun burns bright again, those who have suffered most begin to pick up the pieces and move forward. The rest of us return to our daily grind, barely thinking about the next weather update.

Still, I cannot help but wonder — we already know that La Niña and El Niño are natural phenomena that adversely affect us all, and yet, when they strike, we simply accept the catastrophe as part of life in this country.

To-do list

I cannot speak for those in the provinces on how best to lessen the impact of flooding, but here in the metro, there are clear steps that local government units can take.

During the dry season, Local Government Units (LGUs) near bodies of water, esteros and canals must regularly dredge accumulated dirt, debris, garbage and rubble. This should not be a one-time effort after a storm, but a continuous and top-priority task until these waterways are restored to their cleanest state.

In areas with dense informal settlements near creeks and rivers, barangays must take the lead in educating residents: these waterways are not dumping grounds or toilets. Provide proper waste containers, promote recycling and consistently remind communities to care for their surroundings. When these educational efforts go hand in hand with regular dredging, the results are tangible — cleaner waterways and reduced flooding.

Tree planting should also be a priority, particularly around bodies of water and in mountainous regions near Mega Manila. But planting is only the beginning; monitoring and maintaining these trees ensures their growth and longevity.

Manila Bay, too, needs constant dredging. As LGUs and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) collaborate on cleanup efforts, experts in forestry and marine ecology must identify areas suitable for mangrove replanting — a far more effective environmental solution than dolomite beaches and questionable reclamation projects. Mangroves, after all, serve as the first line of defense against storm surges and provide a thriving ecosystem for marine life.

Sierra Madre

Forget the declaration of a vlogger and self-proclaimed storm chaser who downplays the Sierra Madre’s importance. What must be done is clear: petition the Office of the President to declare this mountain range a national treasure and protected forest area.

With such a declaration, the DENR would serve as the implementing agency — ensuring that no trees are felled, no mining permits are granted, and no infrastructure projects desecrate its natural beauty.

The Sierra Madre must be protected at all costs. Provinces along its range must take part in its defense. Reports of rampant illegal logging must be investigated, for these may explain why certain provinces were submerged during typhoon “Uwan’s” onslaught. Now is the time to reforest the Sierra Madre and ensure that it remains vibrant and alive.

We lack crucial knowledge — how much of it remains virgin forest, what endemic wildlife still thrives there, what tree species dominate, and whether indigenous communities still live within and protect it. Protecting the Sierra Madre demands political will, especially now that its role in shielding the nation from storms is finally part of public consciousness.

Shenanigans

And then there’s politics — our ever-present storm.

The impending International Criminal Court arrest order against Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa promises to be the next political spectacle, one that could eclipse even “Uwan’s” fury. Allegations of a supposed conspiracy to oust President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., complete with financiers and masterminds, read like a political thriller waiting to unfold.

If proven true — and that’s a monumental if — this drama will dominate headlines and public discourse, washing away the physical and emotional wreckage left by the recent typhoon.