Open Letter to Pres. Duterte! My President and Dear Friend, Please Save Our Mount Apo!

On Jan. 31, 2022, I led immediate members of my family, including your wedding Godaughter, Dr. Maria Krista and your Godson, Bernhart Immanuel, in climbing Mt. Apo.

I made the decision to make my 16th climb through the difficult Kapatagan Trail of Digos City because I wanted to confirm reports that farm workers financed by rich families have encroached into the deep forests of Mt. Apo, cleared patches and poisoned trees to plant vegetables.

Mr. President, I was able to confirm the destruction of the forest of Mt. Apo in the Kapatagan, Digos City side and I am posting this documentary to prove it.

There is a seeming paralysis at the local level in addressing this very serious environmental and ecological problem which had already started manifesting through the floods which hit Digos City and other lowlying areas at the foot of Mt. Apo.

Walang ibang makakapigil dito Mahal na Pangulo, kundi kayo at ang inyong pagmamahal sa kalikasan.

Ang hiling ko lang po, gawin ninyo sa Mt. Apo ang ginawa ninyo sa Boracay Island where by sheer political will and determination to change a rotten system, you will be able to protect and preserve the beauty of this mountain which we are all proud of.

I know that you are aware of deep commitment to protect the environment, especially this mountain which is dear to us and a symbol of the beauty of Mindanao.

Please support me.

Marami pong salamat.

Your Loyal Friend,

Manny Piñol

Former DA & MinDA Secretary