P6 MILLION FOR RICE TERRACES REHAB
Manila, Oct. 28, 1998 - Tourism Secretary Mina Gabor has ordered the immediate release of P6 million for the rehabilitation and construction of irrigation systems in the Banaue Rice Terraces.
Gabor is also the chairman of the Ifugao Terraces Commission, composed of officials from the Departments of Agriculture, Public Works, Environment, Local Government, Trade and Industry, Agrarian Reform and Education and Culture. Mayors of nine municipalities covered by the rice terraces are also active ITC members.
The ITC was created by President Ramos under Executive Order 158 to oversee the formulation of long term and short term plans for the restoration and preservation of the rice terraces.
One of the first acts of the group was a Comprehensive Land Use Plan which will serve as the basis for zoning ordinances to stop the construction of ugly buildings around the terraces.
Reports said segments of the terraces have been eroded while some fields are now perennially brown patches as families abandon farm work for more profitable occupations.
Meanwhile help for the terraces is coming in from friendly governments. The Japanese government has approved assistance grants amounting to P675,000 for the rehabilitation of the Nalondan-Amabag Communal Irrigation system and P775,000 for the water system of Poblacion Lagawe.
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