Construction of huge dam threatens Philippine tribe
Dumagat people say proposed project funded by China will destroy their environment and whole way of life.
Tribal people were all ears as a Catholic priest talked about the love of God and the challenge to defend his creation during last month’s Holy Week observance in the Philippines.
The celebration was held in the hinterlands of Quezon province, home to the Dumagat tribe whose community has been threatened by the proposed building of a huge dam.
"God loves us, and we hope that all of our needs will be provided according to his plan," preached Franciscan priest Pete Montallana, who heads the Save Sierra Madre Network Alliance.
The priest, who has been living with the tribal people for 30 years, said caring for the environment is an ongoing challenge for everyone. He said the building of a dam is not only a threat to the tribe but also to God's creation.
The tribal leaders agreed with the priest. They fear a dam will result in the plunder of their land, their river and their forests.
Read the full story on Union of Catholic Asian News.
© 2019, Pau Villanueva. All rights reserved.