ARCHBISHOP GAUDENCIO B. ROSALES says
Denudation of forests cause of Leyte landslide;
Offers prayers, assistance to victims

Pope, Nuncio send messages

Manila Archbishop Gaudencio B. Rosales decried the landslide in St. Bernard, Southern Leyte, where thousands were buried in mud from the mountain as an incident that could have been mitigated if not prevented had the government and other sectors concerned acted on the denudation of the forests in the area.

            "When I heard and saw the news about the tragedy last night (Feb. 17) I was very, very sad for what had happened in St. Bernard, Southern Leyte. I remembered our own history in Bukidnon(when we had our battle to save our forests). We have been put into that situation 20 years ago in Central Mindanao. We were laughed at with people making fun of us for showing our interest in the forest.  In 1991  we had a terrible landslide in Ormoc, when about 8000 died and now it is reported that more than 2600 may have died. It is regrettable that this incident has not been prevented."

            "Some blame the weather, the earthquake, but we have to really look at the denudation of the forests (as the reason). We don't think that experts are right to say it's only a coincidence. What should have been done 15 years ago, (after Ormoc) was to replant areas which had been denuded, to plant trees which would hold the soil together. If that had been done 15 years ago, the trees will have grown by now."

            "The real reason for this terrible tragedy is that forests have been badly denuded and no serious replanting has been done. It is time for the powers that be to address strongly these issues. Otherwise incidents such as what happened last Friday morning will be replayed again."

            "It hurts me to see this thing happening. I feel for our brothers and sisters who have become victims of this tragedy. I convey my condolences to the families and loved ones of those who perished and I assure them and all those who are suffering—the survivors---because of this incident. The Archdiocese of Manila will give assistance to them through Bishop Precioso Cantillas of the Diocese of Maasin, Leyte.

Please refer: Peachy E. Yamsuan (09178355363)