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| Image from tamang trip |
This mindset was once the key to sustaining the terraces. The Ifugao ethnic group we know today created this marvelous site with their bear hands two thousand years ago and generations sought out to preserve it because, well, this was and is their land that gives them life and values. The creation of the Banaue Rice Terraces was not a simple plan to grow crops, but a masterpiece, an interpretation of the human genius and man's ability to balance nature with his values. Truly a sight to appreciate, the Banaue Rice Terrarces is also a sight to protect.
This wonder is still alive, however with increasing human activity, increasing population and increasing human consumption, the terraces are losing ground -- literally. Modernization is creeping into the area and the youth who are supposed to take care of this heritage site are losing interest in taking care of it. The elders still acknowledge their duty to the Rice Terraces but they can only do so much. At the same time the present water crisis and much stronger typhoons might further endanger the life of the terraces. While the local government knows these threats and rally the people to protect their life and land, I believe we should also do our part in helping them. Private citizens and the national government must work hand-in-hand to protect the Banaue Rice Terraces, as well as other heritage sites, not because of how much money we can make, but because of how many generations will thank us if we do.
One day, I believe, a Filipino will travel to Banaue and sit down on a high peak, marveling at the sight before him. That young traveler will not exist if we do not recognize the value nature as the key for maintaining our way of life and inspiring the human genius.
