Lawmaker seeks P1B for rice terraces rehab

MANILA, Philippines - Ifugao Rep. Teodoro Baguilat Jr. wants Congress to allot at least P1 billion or P200 million a year for five years for the rehabilitation of the rice terraces in Banaue and other parts of the Cordillera region.

He said he would re-file a bill that seeks to save the rice terraces, which are classified as a World Heritage Site, from further deteriorating.

“There is a need for a collective effort to save the Ifugao Rice Terraces, now in a critical state, through legislation that provides for long-term rehabilitation and preservation plan,” he said.

He said his bill would ensure that “this national treasure would always be protected.”

“The Ifugao Rice Terraces is one of the priceless legacies that the country is showcasing to the world. It is a reflection of the Filipino ingenuity as it highlights one of man’s best engineering achievements without forced labor, a feat that gave its recognition as one of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites,” he added.

However, Baguilat said the rice terraces are fast deteriorating due to calamities and exploitation by farmers, tour operators and tourists.

His bill calls for the appropriation of P200 million a year for five years for the repair and restoration of the World Heritage Site in Ifugao, plus P30 million for a council that would oversee the rehabilitation.

Besides Banaue, there are rice terraces in Hungduan, Kiangan, Batad, and Mayoyao, also in Ifugao, as well as in Bontoc and Mt. Province.