IN THE PROVINCE of Iloilo where nature’s beauty beckons hikers and adventurers alike, there lies an urgent call for vigilance against a peril that threatens not only lush forests and diverse ecosystems but also the communities that reside within and around these natural treasures. Recent advisories from the Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office (PGENRO) underscore a growing concern: the increasing incidents of wildfires, particularly in the mountains that serve as popular tourist destinations.
The call to action is clear and unequivocal — avoid campfires and limit any burning activities, especially now, as the hot weather conditions and strong winds heighten the risk of fires spreading rapidly through dry leaves and grass. Recent forest and grass fires in the towns of Igbaras, Tubungan, Miag-ao, and San Joaquin are stark reminders of the fragility of our natural environments and the devastating impact human activities can have.
Minimizing burning activities is critically important, and so is the need for constant vigilance to ensure fires are completely extinguished if they cannot be avoided. The difficulty faced by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in accessing remote, dry areas further complicates the situation underscoring the necessity of preventive measures.
The responsibility for safeguarding our forests and mountains from wildfires is a collective one, shared by local government units (LGUs), communities, and individuals alike. Existing laws against burning leaves and waste, such as the provisions outlined in the Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act, are in place to mitigate the risks, with penalties for violators. Yet, enforcement and compliance are paramount to their effectiveness.
Proactive steps, including the deployment of personnel or barangay watchmen to monitor areas popular with tourists and hikers, are commendable initiatives that highlight a proactive approach to wildfire prevention. Such measures not only deter potential violators but also instill a sense of stewardship and respect for the natural world among visitors and locals alike.
The recent fire on Mt. Napulak, believed to have been sparked by a cigarette butt or charcoal, is a harrowing example of how a small act of negligence can lead to significant environmental damage.
As PGENRO and municipal ENROs convene to discuss the occurrences of grass and forest fires, as well as strategies for reforestation and prevention, it is imperative that these discussions translate into actionable plans that involve the community at every level. Reforestation efforts, prioritizing native, fast-growing trees, are crucial for healing the scars left by fires and preventing future outbreaks.
The message is clear: prevention is a responsibility we all share, and through collective action and vigilance, we can protect our natural heritage for generations to come.
