In a powerful appeal for environmental stewardship, Cebu Archbishop Alberto Uy has called upon the Filipino people to radically reconsider their treatment of the nation's mountains, highlighting their critical role in shielding communities from the fury of Super Typhoon Uwan.
A Call for Conservation Amidst the Storm
During a radio interview on Monday, November 10, 2025, Archbishop Uy delivered a poignant message, urging an immediate halt to the destruction of mountains, particularly those subjected to mining and logging operations. He emphasized that these natural formations act as vital barriers against severe weather.
"Our mountains protect us from fierce storms, yet we continue to destroy them," stated the Archbishop. He further elaborated that the reckless carving of mountains, uncontrolled mining, and deforestation severely weaken these natural defenses, thereby endangering the very communities they are meant to safeguard.
The Protective Role of Mountain Terrain
The timing of the Archbishop's message was significant, as the Philippines had just begun experiencing the effects of Super Typhoon Uwan the previous Sunday. The storm's intensity prompted the hoisting of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 5 in several areas, indicating extreme threat.
However, data from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) showed a crucial development. As Uwan made landfall and traversed the rugged, mountainous terrains of Luzon—including the famed Sierra Madre mountain range—its force was disrupted, causing it to weaken into a typhoon. This event served as a real-time demonstration of the natural protection that mountains provide.
A Faith-Based Mandate for Environmental Action
Moving beyond observation, Archbishop Uy framed environmental care as a profound moral and spiritual duty. He called for a unified advocacy effort to protect the environment instead of exploiting it.
He challenged parishes and local communities to take direct responsibility for caring for Mother Nature. "Let us return to the heart of our faith—a heart that respects life, protects the poor, and honors the Creator by caring for His creation," he said.
The Cebu prelate outlined a clear path forward for collective action, stating, "Let us plant trees, protect our mountains, guard our rivers, and hold leaders accountable. Let every parish, every family, every youth, and every leader become a guardian of our common home." This powerful statement reinforces the idea that safeguarding the environment is a shared responsibility that requires active participation from all sectors of society.
