‘’SIERRA MADRE MOUNTAIN, PHILIPPINES”

The Sierra Madre is the longest mountain range in the Philippines. Spanning over 540

kilometers (340 mi), it runs from the province of Cagayan down to the province of Quezon, forming a
north–south direction on the eastern portion of Luzon, the largest island of the archipelago. The
Sierra Madre Mountain Range derived its name from the Spanish words "sierra" meaning "mountain
range," and "madre" meaning "mother." The name Sierra Madre, therefore, means "Mother
Mountain Range." The mountain range was named as such by the Spanish colonizers who first set
foot on the Philippine islands. The name is a testament to the awe-inspiring beauty and majesty of
the mountains.

In addition to, Sierra Madre is home to Indigenous Dumagat-Remontado communities who

have ancestral domain claims covering parts of the mountain range. Several provinces, mountains,
and rivers are located within the Sierra Madre Mountain Range's area. These include the provinces
of Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, and Quezon. The mountain range is also home
to many notable peaks, including Mount Iraya, Mount Cagua, and Mount Pulag. The Cagayan River,
the longest river in the Philippines, also originates from the Sierra Madre Mountain Range. The
Sierra Madre Mountain Range plays a significant role in the country's ecology, geology, and cultural
heritage. It is considered a natural barrier against typhoons and other extreme weather events that
frequently hit the Philippines. During typhoons, the range serves as a shield, protecting nearby
communities from the full force of the storm. The Sierra Madre mountain range is rich in genetic,
species, and habitat diversity, supplying food, water, and shelter to millions of people. The mountain
range hosts multiple watersheds and some of the Philippines' oldest forests. These forests are some
of the country's largest remaining forest blocks, including an old-growth dipterocarp forest, montane
forests, and extensive lowland forests. Sierra Madre's forests and watersheds are home to some of
the country's richest wildlife communities. More than 291 species of birds and 25 endemic mammals
may be found within the Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park alone.

To protect the biodiversity of the Sierra Madre, various conservation efforts and programs are
in place. The Philippine government has established protected areas within the range, including the
Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park and the Sierra Madre Mountain Range Protected Landscape.
These conservation areas aim to protect the region's forests, wildlife, and watersheds, as well as
preserve its cultural heritage. On June 19, 2012, in light of the onslaught of Tropical Storm Ondoy on
September 26, 2009, Philippine president Benigno Aquino III signed Proclamation No. 413, declaring
every September 26 as "Save Sierra Madre Day" in an effort to raise awareness on the benefits that
the Sierra Madre brings and the risks and dangers of neglecting it. The proclamation also calls "all
sectors of society and the government" to join hands in pursuing activities geared toward the
conservation of the Sierra Madre, and to plan, prepare, and conduct activities in observance of Save
Sierra Madre Day.

In conclusion, the Sierra Madre Mountain Range is an essential part of the Philippines' natural
and cultural heritage. Its vast land area, unique biodiversity, and cultural significance make it an
integral part of the country's identity. The government's conservation efforts and programs, as well
as recognition of indigenous groups' rights, highlight the importance of preserving and protecting
this natural wonder for future generations.