Cagayan Rep. Jack Enrile on Friday called for collective action to restore the Banaue rice terraces, saying the cultural heritage has been suffering from neglect for so long.
Enrile, a candidate for senator of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), said in a statement that he recalls organizing a youth camp in Ifugao in 2012 to raise awareness on the damage done to years of neglect on the rice terraces.
“I appeal especially to the younger generation. This is a product of your ancestors’ ingenuity 2,000 years ago,” said Enrile.
“Do not let it just fade into oblivion. The rice terraces are suffering from neglect because the younger generations are migrating to the cities in search of a better life,” he said.
“The rice terraces used to be a source of abundant food supply of the ancient Ifugaos,” Enrile said.
“Now most farmers cannot afford to maintain the terraces and their produce is not enough for their subsistence,” he said.
“Once restored to its former glory, it will contribute a lot to the development of food self-sufficiency in the country,” said Enrile, whose campaign focuses on the theme “Food for Filipinos.”