NUEVA Vizcaya Lone District Representative Atty. Timothy Joseph “Tim” Cayton expressed full support for the initiative of House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III to strengthen the protection and sustainable development of the Sierra Madre mountain range through House Bill No. 3538.
Cayton emphasized the critical role of Sierra Madre not only as the country’s natural shield against typhoons and calamities, but also as a vital ecological and environmental lifeline for millions of Filipinos.
“Time and again, the Sierra Madre has proven to protect communities, safeguard biodiversity, and secure the future of generations of Filipinos,” Cayton said.
He also welcomed the recent aerial inspection led by Speaker Dy and House members in Northern Sierra Madre, describing it as a strong demonstration of Congress’ commitment to environmental protection, disaster resilience, and long-term sustainability.
House Bill No. 3538 seeks to create the Sierra Madre Conservation and Development Authority, which will lead the formulation and implementation of a comprehensive long-term plan for the protection, conservation, rehabilitation, and sustainable development of the Sierra Madre region.
Cayton noted that Nueva Vizcaya, being one of the provinces connected to the Sierra Madre range, directly benefits from stronger environmental protection policies and watershed preservation measures.
He likewise highlighted the importance of his proposed House Bill No. 4502, or the “Nueva Vizcaya as Watershed Haven Enhanced Protection Act,” which seeks to strengthen the protection and conservation of critical watershed areas in the province and ensure the long-term sustainability of Nueva Vizcaya’s natural resources.
“As lawmakers, we have the responsibility to balance development with environmental protection. Protecting Sierra Madre means protecting lives, livelihoods, agriculture, water resources, and the future of our communities,” he added.
He further stressed that stronger forest protection and coordinated environmental governance are crucial amid the growing threats of climate change, illegal logging, environmental degradation, and natural disasters.
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