President Abelardo De La Espriella announced a recovery program for Colombia's Tolima department on Sunday, stating that more than 50,000 hectares had been affected by wildfires. ^[1] A massive forest fire occurred in the neighboring Tolima department, consuming more than 50,000 hectares. ^[2] Official figures indicate that the fires have burned more than 50,000 hectares, including approximately 28,000 hectares of agricultural land. ^[3] President De La Espriella formally announced the beginning of Colombia's reconstruction phase following the August 10 earthquake, which affected 452,782 people and killed 331. ^[4] The President ordered military and police commanders to recover territory controlled by illegal armed groups and confirmed new search units to combat extortion, ending dialogue processes with three armed groups. ^[5] Colombians responded to the earthquake with nationwide unity, sending food, volunteers, and prayers to affected areas. ^[6] The destruction caused by the fires includes the loss of crops, animal deaths, and the destruction of ecosystems that took decades to form. ^[7]