sibalom ch 1

Sibalom Natural Park, Antique

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2004 © Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this Sibalom Natural Park technical report by the copyright hereon may be reproduced and/or used in any form or by any means—graphic, electronic or mechanical—without the written permission of Haribon Foundation. ISBN 971-93188-3-X Published by Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources, Inc. 4th Floor Fil-Garcia Tower 140 Kalayaan Avenue, Quezon City Philippines 1101 Tels. (02) 433-3474/434-8237/436-4363 Fax. (02) 924-8978 URL: http//www.haribon.org.ph Email: [email protected]

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technical report

Sibalom Natural Park, Antique I N T E G R AT I N G F O R E S T C O N S E R V AT I O N

Haribon Foundation

BirdLife International

WITH

LOCAL GOVERNANCE

European Commission

Royal Netherlands Embassy 3


Nature of Organization The Haribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources, Inc. or Haribon is an organization dedicated to environmental protection, conservation of critical habitats, sustainable use of natural resources and the preservation of Filipino indigenous peoples’ culture. History Haribon started in 1972 as a bird-watching society. Eventually, it evolved into a fullfledged conservation foundation under the energetic leadership of Dr. Celso R. Roque and Dr. Colin P. Rees. It was issued a certificate of incorporation as a non-stock, nonprofit foundation on November 20, 1984 by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Haribon, as it stands today, is the biggest Filipino non-government organization (NGO) dedicated to conservation and environmental issues. It is supported and endorsed by both the local and international conservation community. Haribon is a partner of BirdLife International and a member of the World Conservation Union. Name, Logo and Slogan The name “Haribon” was coined from two Filipino words, “Hari” and “Ibon” or “Haring Ibon”, which loosely translates to “King of the Birds” or the Philippine Eagle. The name “Haribon” dramatizes the need to conserve the vanishing Philippine wildlife and their habitat. The stylized logo represents a balanced ecosystem and manifests the interrelatedness of the various ecosystems. Together with the name “Haribon”, they represent the goals of Haribon Foundation. Haribon’s slogan is “Protecting Nature, Preserving Life.” Vision and Mission Haribon takes the lead in caring for nature with the people—for the people. It is a membership organization committed to nature conservation through community empowerment and scientific excellence. Strategies • Strengthen community-based resource management through community organizing, sustainable livelihood development and community empowerment. • Build a constituency for biodiversity conservation through membership development, communication and public awareness raising, alliance building and networking, and advocacy. • Conduct scientific and developmental and participatory research studies using globally-and locally-accepted standards for biodiversity conservation. • Establish an education and training institution on natural resource management with world-class standards. • Strengthen the institution through staff development, upgrading of facilities, establishment of “Pugad” Haribon or Haribon house, and continuous review of policies and procedures. • Develop proactive and responsive policy advocacy mechanisms. • Develop financial sustainability mechanisms. 4


table of contents Preface Acknowledgment

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Executive Summary

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Acronyms

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Chapter 1 Introduction 1.1 Importance of the Area 1.2 Site Selection Process 1.3 Technical Report Preparation 1.3.1 Objectives of the Report 1.3.2 Approach, Scope and Limitations 1.3.3 Methods of Data Collection 1.3.4 Analysis Framework Chapter 2 Project Site Profiles: Sibalom Natural Park 2.1 Biophysical profile 2.1.1 Site Description 2.1.2 Vegetative Cover 2.1.3 Land Cover and Land Use 2.1.4 Soils 2.1.5 Hydrology/Watersheds 2.1.6 Climate 2.1.7 Mineral Resources 2.1.8 Natural Hazards 2.2 Socio-economic profile 2.2.1 Historical context of Sibalom Natural Park 2.2.2 Population and Settlements 2.2.3 Social Services 2.2.4 Livelihood Activities 2.2.5 Natural Attractions Chapter 3 Status and Distribution of Forest Habitats and Species 3.1 Major Ecosystems, Status and Distribution 3.1.1 Mid Montane Forest

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11 11 12 12 13 15 17 17 18 18 18 20 21 25 28

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3.1.2 Lowland Forest 3.1.3 Old-Growth Rainforest 3.1.4 Brushlands 3.1.5 Rivers, Creeks and Lake 3.2 Flora and Fauna Conservation Status and Distribution 3.2.1 Flora 3.2.2 Fauna Chapter 4 Human Use of Forest and Wetland Ecosystems and Resources 4.1 Local Perception on Status of Ecosystem 4.1.1 Changes in Land Use 4.1.2 Changes in Resources 4.2 Community’s Use of Forests and Wetlands 4.2.1 Commonly-used Forest and Non-timber Forest Products 4.3 Community’s Tenurial Rights

31 32 32 33 33 33 34

41 41 42 43 43 49

Chapter 5 Present Forest Management Levels and Institutional Arrangements 5.1 Municipal Local Government of Sibalom 51 5.2 Department of Environment and Natural Resources 53 5.3 Protected Area Management Board 54 5.4 Community Groups/Organizations 57 5.5 Other Agencies and Sectors 57 Chapter 6 Forest Management Challenges and Possible Interventions 6.1 Ranking of threats 6.2 Discussion of Threats 6.2.1 Unregulated Cutting of Timber in the PA and Adjacent Forest Areas 6.2.2 Unregulated Gathering of Non-timber Forest Products in the PA 6.2.3 Unregulated Hunting of Wildlife in the PA 6.2.4 Unregulated Conversion of Forest Lands into Agricultural Lands in the PA 6.2.5 Unregulated Gemstone Collection and Quarrying 6.2.6 Invasion of Exotic Species within the PA 6.2.7 Extensive Use of Synthetic Fertilizers and Pesticides 6.2.8 Alienable and Disposable Lands and Limited Forests Within the PA 6.2.9 Unregulated Tourist Influx 6.2.10 Other Issues and Concerns iv 6

59 60 60 61 61 62 62 63 63 64 64 65


Chapter 7 Recommendations 7.1 Formulation of General Management Plan for the SNP 7.2 Creation of a Multi-sectoral Protection Team for Forest Conservation 7.3 Forest Protection and Rehabilitation Strategies 7.4 Conduct Purposive and Strategic Information and Education Campaigns 7.5 Capacity-building for LGU and Local Stakeholders 7.6 Develop Framework for Ecotourism

67 67 68 68 69 69

References

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Annexes

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List of Tables 1 Land-Cover Types within the Sibalom Natural Park, Antique 2 Soil Types of Sibalom, Antique 3 Soil-Erosion Potential of Sibalom, Antique 4 Number of Communities and Settlements Adjacent to the Forests of SNP, Antique 5 Threat Ranking Matrix for Sibalom Natural Park, Antique List of Figures 1 Map of Endemic Bird Areas in the Philippines 2 Project’s Sequential Flow of Data Collection, Analysis and Report Packaging 3 Land Cover Types Within the Sibalom Natural Park, Antique 4 Watersheds and River Systems in SNP, Antique 5 Location and Boundaries of the Barangays and Municipalities with Jurisdiction Over SNP, Antique 6 Forest Types Map in the Sibalom Natural Park, Antique 7 Distribution of the Rafflesia speciosa Within the SNP 8 Photo of Rafflesia speciosa in SNP, Antique 9 Community Resource Map of Barangay Imparayan, Sibalom, Antique 10 Community Resource Map of Barangay Cabladan, Sibalom, Antique 11 Community Resource Map of Barangay Tordesillas, Sibalom, Antique

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3 5 14 16 23 30 35 39 44 45 46

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Annexes 1 Directory of Important Bird Areas in the Philippines 2 Livelihood Matrices in Sibalom Natural Park, Antique 3 List of Floral Species in Sibalom, Antique 4 List of Avian Species in Mt. Poras and Banagon, Sibalom Natural Park, Antique 5 List of Mammalian Species in SNP, Antique 6 List of Herpetofaunal Species in SNP, Antique 7 List of appointed PAMB members, SNP, Antique

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75 78 87 92 96 98 100


preface

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aribon Foundation for the Conservation of Natural Resources has chosen Sibalom Natural Park (SNP) as one of its priority forest and biodiversity conservation sites. Haribon believes that to conserve the SNP, local stakeholders such as the local government units, people’s organizations, other government agencies, and local communities must believe that their forests sustain lives. They must be given a chance to reflect and participate in forest resource assessment, planning and management. Sibalom Natural Park harbors biological wealth that desperately needs protection from destructive activities such as unregulated agricultural expansion and overharvesting of forest resources. While its remaining forests continue to provide benefits to the local people, the rate of forest destruction remains indirectly proportional to the conservation efforts by concerned agencies in the area. Haribon therefore facilitated the assessment of SNP’s biophysical, socioeconomic and institutional features. The results of such assessment are contained in this Technical Report. Seven chapters comprise this report. It starts with an introductory chapter that relates how Sibalom has been selected as a Haribon project site. Chapters 2 and 3 describe its biophysical and socio-economic features. How the communities use their forest resources is the focus of chapter 4. Chapter 5 describes the management capacities and institutional arrangements in managing the forest areas in Sibalom. The last chapter discusses the threats and provide recommendations how these can be hurdled. Haribon appreciates the efforts of all the men and women from Sibalom who made the production of this report possible. All readers are enjoined to critically read this document and share their views on how to advance the protection and conservation of one of the last refuge of biodiversity in the Philippines.

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acknowledgment Haribon Foundation acknowledges the efforts and contributions of the following people in finalizing the Sibalom Technical Report: Writers:

Technical Editors:

Jose Don De Alban, Ruth Condeno, Mithi Laya Gonzales, Noel Resurreccion; (Executive Summary) Joan Katrice Jalbuena Myrissa Lepiten-Tabao, Blas Troy Tabaranza Jr., Errol Gatumbato, Cristi Marie Nozawa, Anabelle Plantilla

Publications Coordinator: Mary Ann B. Leones Maps Layout: Jose Don De Alban, Ma. Regina Jimenez, Francisco Tavora Jr. Photos: Haribon Foundation Field Researchers: Biophysical Survey: Jose Don De Alban, Ronald Allan Altamirano, Nick Berry, Ruth Condeno, Ma. Victoria Hilario, Boying Fernandez, Ferdinand Gaerlan, Annabel Resueño, Francisco Tavora Jr. Socio-economic Survey: Alexis Lasmarias, Salve Narvadez, Noel Resurreccion PAMB Management Assessment: Errol Gatumbato, Mithi Laya Gonzales Key Respondents/Interviewees: Ester S. Arellano, Vivian T. Barillo, Porfirio Cabigunda, Agaton Grasparil, Jonathan De Gracia, Donna Esperida, Virgilio Fillone, Edgardo J. Himatay, Felipe Lacsama, Erick J. Lotilla, Alma Marfil, Norman Ovivir, Mary N. Paduganao, Charlie Tacda, Noel Zamora, Lourdes Odonzo, Rudy Sandoy, Tito Paduganao, Rene Train Project Management: Annabelle Plantilla, Blas Troy Tabaranza Jr., Je-el Ong, Cristi Marie Nozawa, Al Manaloto The production of this Report was made possible through the support of Birdlife International, the European Commission and the Royal Netherlands Embassy.

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executive summary

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he Philippine’s immense biological wealth and beauty is fast disappearing. There are many sad tales of unique plants and animals, which have become threatened of extinct. Alarmed over the trend, Haribon Foundation and Birdlife International have moved to identify the last remaining forest frontiers in the country. They call these fragments the Important Biodiversity Areas (IBA) in the Philippines – the key conservation sites for birds, habitats and people. The Central Panay Mountain Range is one of the 117 key conservation sites in the Philippines – recognized as an IBA, renowned center of endemism and one of the world’s most critical biodiversity areas. Many important areas for conservation are found along the Central Panay Mountain Range and one of these is the Sibalom Natural Park, The Sibalom Natural Park (SNP) in Antique covers a total area of 5,511.47 hectares. It is situated in the southern part of Panay. The Mau-it-Tipuluan Watershed is located in the park. This watershed is part of the greater Sibalom watershed, which supports the agricultural activities of the municipalities of Sibalom, San Jose, Hamtic, Belison and San Remigo. Aside from being a watershed, the park is home to a number of flora and fauna endemic to the Panay Islands and the Philippines. The recently discovered Rafflesia speciosa is endemic to the area. Many threatened birds, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and trees are found in the park such as the Visayan Warty Pig (Sus cebifrons), Visayan Spotted Deer (Cervus alfredi), Panay Bushy-Tailed Cloud Rat (Crateromys heaneyi), Tarictic Hornbill (Penelopides panini) and Walden’s Hornbill (Aceros waldeni). Although the area is declared a natural park, studies on the biological and physical profiles of the area. The remaining old-growth forest in the park is only about 8.7% of its total area; serious conservation efforts are needed to conserve its biodiversity. Haribon on its Conservation Mission Sibalom Natural Park was identified by Haribon Foundation as a priority site for Integrating Forest Conservation with Local Governance. A multi-disciplinary team from Haribon foundation conducted a Rapid Site Assessment on April 2003. The study included socio-economic, biophysical and institutional studies. The socio-economic portion of the study focused on three representative forest-edge barangays surrounding the protected area: Imparayan, Tordesillas and Cabladan in the municipality of Sibalon, province of Antique. 11 ix


The biophysical survey was conducted in two separate study sites: Mt. Banagon in Brgy. Cabladan and Mt. Poras in Brgy. Imparayan. Although Mt. Banagon is inside the boundary of the SNP, the territorial jurisdiction over the area is being disputed by the Sibalom and San Remigio municipal governments. Newly validated data from the DENR-Protected Areas and Wildlife Service reinforces the position that Mt. Banagon lies inside the technical description of the SNP. As of this writing, the boundary dispute is still being resolved. Another team from Haribon focused on the protected area management capacity assessment. The settlers and indigenous population of Sibalom Natural Park As of 2000, the National Census and Statistics Office recorded that Sibalom had a population of 49,971. The present average population density of the municipality is 203 persons per sq. km. The barangays covered by the SNP have a total population of 4,142 as of 2000. These barangays derive their living from farming and as hired labor. A majority of the crops are rice and corn. Most farmers still use the traditional farming methods and implements, however there is a high dependency on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Extraction of timber and non-timber forest products is a minor source of livelihood. Raising livestock and poultry augments the family income. Managing the Sibalom Natural Park Before SNP was proclaimed a protected area on April 23, 2000 by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 282, it was already established as a watershed reserve. Presidential Proclamation 605 on June 28, 1990 established the Tipuluan Mau-it River Watershed Forest Reserve. With an area of more than 5,000 hectares, SNP is surrounded by 8 forest-edge banragays. About 10,000 individuals benefit directly or indirectly from the parks resources. Reforestation efforts by the DENR have been in place since 50 years ago. Unfortunately, these effort used exotic species such as Mahogany and Gmelina. Approximately 500 hectares on the lower portion of Mt. Poras has been planted with these exotic species. The area is marked by very low biodiversity. The introduction of these exotics has also resulted in mixed secondary forests where the exotics have mingled with native trees. The mixed secondary forest areas still host a number of wildlife but if left unchecked, the proliferation of the exotics can lead to further displacement of wildlife dependant on native trees. The SNP has many tourist attractions and destinations. Tourists, students and adventure seekers come to the park to enjoy the beauty presented by it’s lakes and forests. There are also panoramic rice terraces, vast mountainous grass12 x


lands and towering rock formations. Semi-precious gemstones have been found along the Mau-it and Tipuluhan rivers. There is also the Rafflesia flower. The degradation of the SNP affects the lives of the local people in the area. They are now experiencing unfavorable changes in their climate and forest resources. The hot and dry seasons are prolonged, causing waterways, crops and grasslands to dry up. During wet season, rainfall is heavy, and flooding downstream is extreme. Landslides and soil erosion damages agricultural crops and siltation affects the water supply. The sustainability and future of the forest ecosystems of the SNP is threatened by a variety of human activities (1) Unregulated cutting of timber in the PA and adjacent forest areas, (2) Unregulated gathering of non-timber forest products in the PA, (3) Unregulated hunting of wildlife in the PA, (4) Unregulated conversion of forest lands into agricultural lands, (5) Unregulated gemstone gathering and quarrying, (6) Invasion of exotic species, (7) Extensive use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, (8) Alienable and disposable lands and limited forests within the PA and (9) Unregulated tourist influx. The results of the threat analysis and ranking activity conducted by Haribon Foundation on the SNP suggest the need for urgent action from different stakeholders to save the park and its biodiversity from total destruction, the following are Haribon’s recommended strategic actions that can be taken to lessen and eventually prevent the expected destruction of this rich haven of biodiversity: (1) Formulation of a genral management plan for the SNP; (2) Creation of a multi-sectorial protection team for forest conservation; (3) Forest protection and rehabilitation strategies. Including Rainforestation, support for forest protection legislations and resolutions, strengthening of the Bantay Gubat and providing economic support to local partners; (4) Conduct purposive and strategic information and education campaigns; (5) Capacity-building for LGU and local stakeholders; and (6) Develop framework for ecotourism. There is hope for the forests of Sibalom Natural Park and the people who live around it. But key sectors must be able to seize on opportunities to work together rather than at cross-purposes in achieving the common goal of sustainable development and equitable use of resources.

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acronyms ADP A&D AHDP ANIAD AKKIM BDP BGV BHS BHW BILI BSWM CENRO CLOA(s) CLUP DAR DAO DENR DepEd DILG DOST DOT EBA ECC FGD GIS GMP HH HYV IBA IEC IFCLGP ISF LGC LGU MAO MADP MCLUP MPDO MT 14 xii

Annual Development Plan Alienable and Disposable (Land) Antique Human Development Program, Inc. Antique Integrated Area Development Asosasyon sa Kauswagan kang Kataw-an sa Imparayan Barangay Development Plan Bantay Gubat Volunteers Barangay Health Stations Barangay Health Workers Bontol, Imparayan, Luna and Ignanulong Bureau of Soils and Water Management Community Environment and Natural Resources Office Certificate of Land Ownership Agreement(s) Comprehensive Land Use Plan Department of Agrarian Reform Department Administrative Order Department of Environment and Natural Resources Department of Education Department of the Interior and Local Government Department of Science and Technology Department of Tourism Endemic Bird Areas Environmental Compliance Certificate Focus Group Discussion Mapping and Geographic Information Systems General Management Plan or Planning Household High-Yielding Varieties Important Bird Areas/Important Biodiversity Areas Information, Education and Communication Integrating Forest Conservation with Local Governance Project Integrated Social Forestry Local Government Code Local Government Unit Municipal Agricultural Office Municipal Annual Development Plan Municipal Comprehensive Land Use Plan Municipal Planning and Development Office Metric Tons


NGO NIA NIPAS NRDC NSO PA(s) PAMB PASu PENRO PO PPDP PRA PSCA RHU RSA SALT SB SEC STPM SWD

Non-government Organization National Irrigation Authority National Integrated Protected Areas System Natural Resources Development Corporation National Statistics Office Protected Area(s) Protected Area Management Board Protected Area Superintendent Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office People’s Organization Provincial Planning and Development Office Participatory Rural Appraisal Polytechnic State College of Antique Rural Health Unit Rapid Site Assessment Sloping Agricultural Land Technology Sangguniang Bayan Securities and Exchange Commission Sibalom Tree Planting Movement Sibalom Water District

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H A P T E R

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i n t r o d u c t i o n This chapter describes how Sibalom Natural Park has been selected by Haribon Foundation as an important forest conservation area. The objectives of this report, methods of data collection, approaches, and scope and limitation of the study are also discussed in this chapter.

T

he Philippines is endowed with rich tropical forests that harbor a great diversity of plants and animals not found anywhere else on earth. Worldwide, the Philippines is recognized as an important forest conservation area because its highly endemic biodiversity is also threatened by the rapid rate of forest loss.

Despite the efforts of the Philippine government to strengthen the protection and conservation of protected areas, there are still over a hundred forest areas that are vulnerable to destruction. Many of these forest areas include those identified by Haribon Foundation and BirdLife International as vital for conservation of critical and endangered biodiversity species. Many of these forest areas are relatively small or fragmented, concerned local governments may be in a better position to protect them. Innovating on approaches to forest management, Haribon Foundation trailblazed the Integration of Forest Conservation with Local Governance in the Philippines (IFCLG) in these priority sites: Mt. Siburan in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro; Mts. Kambinliw & Redondo, Dinagat Island, Surigao del Norte; and Sibalom Natural Park, Antique. The IFCLG had been conceptualized to address key issues affecting forest management in selected priority areas in the country such as centralized forest management strategies, limitations of national-level protected area initiatives, and limited capacity on forest conservation and governance. 1.1 Importance of the Area Panay Island holds two Important Bird Areas (IBA) identified in the NegrosPanay Endemic Bird Area (EBA): the Pandan Peninsula in northwest Panay and the Central Panay Mountains (Figure 1). These two sites lie in the mountainous spine of Panay Island, extending 100 km. from north to south along the provincial borders of Antique, Aklan, Capiz and Iloilo. This stretch holds most of the remaining eight percent (8%) forest cover of Panay Island.

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Northwest Panay (Pandan Peninsula) in the northwest corner of Panay Island holds the largest remaining lowland forests in the Negros-Panay EBA. It also represents the last relatively intact watershed system in Western Visayas. The Central Panay Mountains have several high peaks, including Mt. Madja-as and Mt. Nangtud in the northern section, Mt. Baloy in the central section and Mt. Inaman at the southern end. The Central Panay Mountains covers the municipalities of Culasi, Tibiao, Barbaza, Laua-an, Valderrama and San Remigio in Antique. It includes large areas of montane and mossy forests that are vital to the survival of highly-threatened endemic birds of the Negros and Panay EBA. Notably, the Central Panay Mountains support the entire global population of the Panay Striped Babbler (Stachyris latistriata). In the Philippine Biodiversity Conservation Priority-setting Program (PBCPP) headed by the DENR and non-government conservation groups, Panay Island was identified as an extremely high critical terrestrial conservation priority. However, the rich biodiversity of Panay and the ecological stability of its forests is still subjected to pressures and being weakened further by mining, kaingin, and illegal commercial logging. Sibalom Natural Park (SNP) is situated in the southern part of Panay and represents one of the last remaining lowland forests in the area. It extends to the forest of San Remigio, which is part of the Central Panay Mountains. It is the only forest in southern Panay that could be connected to the Central Panay Mountains going up to northwest Panay. This makes the area an important site for conservation. It could serve as a corridor for most of the species found in the two IBAs. 1.2 Project Site Selection Process A total of 117 IBAs has been identified throughout the Philippines, using a set of internationally-agreed upon categories and criteria designed to identify areas of global significance for biodiversity conservation (Mallari et al 2001). From these 117 IBAs (Annex 1), 15 sites were included in the project’s long list of priority sites, which was further reduced to 9 (with 3 constituting the first priority sites, and 6 the secondary priority sites). During the site selection stage, two workshops of experts were held to shortlist the project sites and thereafter, Rapid Site Assessments (RSA) were conducted in the 9 sites. The conduct of the RSA saw the formulation and application of standardized methods using the following criteria for site selection: socio-economic, cultural and political importance (30%), biophysical importance (30%), management capacity (10%) and probability of success (30%). A multidisciplinary team from Haribon lent its expertise and experiences during the RSA for the final selection of the priority sites.

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Figure 1. Map of the Endemic Bird Areas in the Philippines.

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1.3 Technical Report Preparation 1.3.1 Objectives of the Report This Technical Report was put together as a result of extensive research in the SNP. The Report contains research-based information on forest conservation status, management challenges and recommendations intended for local planners and decision-makers, local environmental organizations and concerned national agencies. Specifically, this report aims to: ! Help the local government in setting its priorities in forest management; ! Serve as reference for local government (barangay, municipal, provincial) development planning, particularly in integrating site and situation-specific forest conservation measures at the local level; and ! Build awareness among national and local stakeholders of forest conservation issues and possible interventions in managing the forests of the SNP. 1.3.2 Approach, Scope and Limitations This report was prepared by undertaking the following activities (see also Figure 2): ! Collecting and analyzing published and unpublished information on forest, biodiversity, resource use, and local development plans; ! Conducting RSA with focus on socio-economic, biophysical and institutional profiles of the sites, and establishing coordinative mechanisms with local stakeholders; ! Conducting full-blown situational analysis using a combination of various scientific and action research tools; ! Conducting participatory workshops to analyze and integrate the findings of the study as well as to rank the threats to each forest area, and identify doable recommendations for forest management planning; ! Guiding the report-writing process and peer review of outputs.

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Figure 2. Project’s Sequential Flow of Data Collection, Analysis and Report Packaging.

1 The report borrowed to some extent from secondary sources, particularly the data on local development initiatives and provincial and municipal development profiles. A multidisciplinary team from Haribon conducted the study for almost one month (April 2003) to complete the site analysis. They coordinated and consulted with local communities and concerned local authorities. The biophysical study centered on vegetation, habitat and forest types, and flora and fauna species assessment. It also identified the major river systems and assessed to some extent, the watershed status in relation to forest cover. 1.3.3 Methods of Data Collection Socio-Economic Assessment The survey aimed to determine the internal and external situation of the community in terms of social, economic, political, cultural, environmental and institutional dynamics and in the context of forest conservation and local governance. In Sibalom, the study focused on three representative forest-edge barangays surrounding the protected area, namely: Imparayan, Tordesillas and Cabladan in the municipality of Sibalom, province of Antique. The Haribon socio-economic team composed of experienced social workers and community organizers facilitated the gathering of baseline information. They used standardized popular methods of RSA and Participatory Rural Ap5


praisal (PRA), substantiated with secondary information from various stakeholders and line agencies working within and around SNP. The various participatory tools used in the study are the following: seasonal calendar, timeline, community resource mapping, livelihood matrix for agriculture, fishery and forestry, Venn diagram, focus group discussions (FGD) and key informant interviews (KI). These tools were used to produce specific information on the following: ! Perceived changes in the present land use of the area and resource utilization of the local people; ! Relationships between natural climatic conditions and socio-economic activities in the area; ! Major economic activities of the people, and extent of local use of lowland forests and freshwater resources; ! Internal (community-based) and external (municipal, provincial, regional, national-based agencies or outside of the community) groups, organizations or projects that operate and influence the decisions of the local people in the area; and ! Issues and problems on natural resource use and management, and sociocultural practices of the people. Biological Survey The biophysical assessment was conducted in two separate study sites: Mt. Banagon in Brgy. Cabladan and Mt. Poras in Brgy. Imparayan. Although Mt. Banagon is inside the boundary of the SNP, the territorial jurisdiction over this area is being disputed by the Sibalom and San Remigio municipal governments. Newly-validated data from the DENR-Protected Areas and Wildlife Service (PAWS) reinforce the position that Mt. Banagon lies inside the technical description of the SNP. As of this writing, the boundary dispute between the two municipalities is still being resolved. ! Vegetational analysis In analyzing the vegetation of the area on gradually sloping terrains with lower elevation, the biological team used the Quadrat Method. This refers to the use of a semi-permanent 10 x 100 sq. m. plot divided into ten 10 x 10 sq. m. plots established to cover areas at lower elevation. All trees > 10 cm dbh (diameter at breast height) were measured and mapped, their local name and field identification noted and recorded. Inner plots were established to record woody perennials, smaller trees, herbs and epiphytes. Other species outside the plot were also recorded to complete the floristic composition of the study area. In areas with higher elevations and on steeper slopes, the Point Center Quarter Method was used. Canopy species with dbh > 10 cm and nearest to the station point were measured and recorded for each quadrant. Under-canopy species were also identified and recorded.

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The vegetational analysis was supplemented with on-site observation to assess habitat types and the presence of disturbance. Local people and field guides were interviewed to determine the type and extent of resource utilization.

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! Bird surveys For the inventory of birds, a combination of the two-kilometer transect line method and systematic mist netting was employed, supplemented by the encounter rate method as well as ethno-biology interviews with the local guides. Fecal droppings and birdcalls were also noted; birdcalls were recorded whenever possible. Identification of the species level was based on Kennedy et al. (2000). ! Mammals Inventory of mammals was conducted using mist nets and cage traps to capture bats and small mammals. Direct and indirect observations were used to identify the presence of larger mammals and those not easily trapped. Identifications followed Ingle and Heaney (1992) and Heaney et al. (1998). Classification of conservation status, endemicity and habitat followed those stated in Heaney et al. (1998) and IUCN (2000). ! Amphibians and Reptiles Inventory Herpetofaunal inventory techniques used in the survey included time-constrained searches, line transect and forest climbing searches, quadrat sampling, opportunistic method of collecting specimens, and bio-acoustics. Biometrics was recorded for each species captured. Species identification was based on Alcala and Brown (1980). All captured and collected species were identified, measured, photographed, recorded and released. Interviews with locals were conducted to gather indigenous information (i.e., local name, local use, and local importance) on faunal diversity in the area. Land use assessment This was aimed at analyzing the different geographic information, relevant national policies and other ancillary data, provide inputs for the situational analysis of the area, and identify issues pertaining to land use. ! Secondary Data Gathering Secondary data on the physical aspect was gathered to make a preliminary assessment on the existing land use of the area. These include data on topography, climate, soils, geology, land cover, land classification, tenurial instruments, and administrative boundaries. Hard copies and even soft copies of maps were procured to support field activities and build on the Geographic Information System (GIS). Relevant national policies were analyzed to determine their provisions on land use. Available local land use plans were requested from the local 7


government units for the purpose of review and integration in the land use assessment. ! Community Resource Mapping Resource mapping was conducted primarily to obtain information on the current resource use, land cover status and patterns of the area through local knowledge. Key participants from the community were selected and invited to join the activity. The final resource map drawn by the community was digitized and presented again to the community for further revisions, if necessary. ! Surveys and Field Validation Global Positioning System (GPS) surveys were conducted to validate secondary data (i.e., existing land cover maps), and the results of the resource mapping made by the community. The location and elevation of biological sampling methods, habitat types and the transition between types, and disturbed areas within the forest were taken and recorded. GPS readings were obtained using GARMIN GPS 12XL receivers. The receiver was set to the Geographic Coordinate System using the WGS84 datum. Readings were averaged at least twice in order to increase accuracy. Positions and elevations that could not be established (because of lack of satellite signals due to dense forest canopy) were interpolated from available 1:50,000 scale topographic maps. Collected data from field activities was documented daily in a field notebook. All thematic data were processed using two different map projections. Computations were done using the Universal Transverse Mercator projection Zone 51 North on the WGS84 datum. Field data and map layouts used the Geographic Coordinate System using the WGS84 datum. ArcView‚ GIS extension tools such as XTools were used extensively for geoprocessing. Conversion between projections was done using the ArcView Projection Utility extension. Technical descriptions were plotted using the Distance and Azimuth Tools extension, when applicable. All spatial data inputs and analyses were done using ArcView‚ GIS software developed by the Environmental Systems Research Institute (ESRI). Protected Area Design Assessment The Protected Area Design Assessment aimed to evaluate the processes undertaken in the establishment of SNP, its adequacy, appropriateness and effectiveness as a Protected Area (PA). The standards espoused by the NIPAS and IUCN were the primary parameters used in evaluating the design of the protected area. In the assessment of the protected area design, the following key elements were considered: ! Establishment of the Sibalom Natural Park. The evaluation of the SNP involved detailed review of the documentation made to support its establishment 8


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in relation to the 13 steps set forth in the NIPAS Act and its implementing guidelines.

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! Adequacy and Appropriateness of the PA. The term “adequacy” essentially refers to the coverage of the protected area as adopted from the International Union for the Conservation of Nature-World Commission on Protected Areas’ (IUCN-WCPA) Evaluating Effectiveness: A Framework for Assessing the Management of Protected Areas (Hockings, et al 2000). The evaluation considered the criteria used in determining and in finally deciding the boundary of the PA, especially its adequacy to cover necessary elements such as habitat requirements, watershed values and biodiversity significance in general. The process of determining the adequacy and appropriateness of the PA also involved a detailed review of its biophysical, social, economic and cultural profile using applicable and available reference materials. Findings generated from the Haribon researches and other references were evaluated based on the ecological significance of the area. Appropriateness, on the other hand, looked into the ecological representation and details of the site vis-à-vis Philippine standards of the PA. ! Protected Area Effectiveness. This level of evaluation made use of the IUCNWCPA framework on PA Management assessment. As a system of evaluation, the framework uses readily available data to assess the situational context of the individual site, including its: (a) significance in terms of conservation values; (b) vulnerability of the site’s resources; (c) extent and severity of known threats to and impact on site values; and (d) national significance of its contribution to national wealth. (Hockings, et al 2002) ! The Protected Area Management Capacity Assessment focused on the evaluation of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) composition and representation, profile of the PAMB members and their participation, and PAMB organizational development. It also included an assessment of the PAMB capability-building programs and the DENR support system, particularly the role of the Regional Executive Director (RED) as the PAMB chairperson, and the Office of the Protected Area Superintendent (PASu). Reviewing secondary data, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were carried out among target audiences, particularly among the PAMB members. 1.3.4 Analysis Framework The results of the socio-economic, biophysical, and institutional studies served as the main reference in completing the situational analysis. Using the Threat Ranking Analysis tool, the core and secondary problems affecting local management of forest and wetland habitats and resources in the study site were drawn out. The assessment focused on the impact of human activities on the forest in general, and more specifically, on the conservation status of biodiversity, and availability of resources for various uses. Problems, issues and constraints 9


on local forest management were filtered, prioritized and provided with corresponding recommendations. The recommendations were results of group discussions among Haribon staff and management, and consultations with local stakeholders and concerned individuals.

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H A P T E R

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site profile: Sibalom Natural Park, A n t i q u e Both the biophysical and socioeconomic and political profiles are discussed in this chapter. The biophysical profiles provide hard facts about the vegetative cover, land classification, soil types and hydrology in Sibalom Natural Park. Population, settlements, livelihood and socio-political structures and dynamics are among the relevant information featured under the socioeconomic and political section. 2.1 Biophysical Profile 2.1.1 Site description ibalom, Antique is bounded on the north by the municipalities of San Remigio and Benison; on the east by the province of Iloilo; on the south by the municipality of Hamtic; and on the west by the municipality of San Jose de Buenavista.

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The forest of the SNP in the municipality of Sibalom is a relatively important lowland rainforest in the southern part of Antique because of its proximity to the forest of San Remigio, which is an extension of the Central Panay Mountains. Previously called the Mau-it-Tipuluan Watershed, the SNP covers a total land area of 5,511.47 hectares. It was proclaimed a protected area in April 2000 and is now popularly known as the Sibalom Natural Park. Aside from being a watershed, the park is home to a number of flora and fauna endemic to the Panay Island and the Philippines. One of these is the recently-discovered Rafflesia speciosa, a very important plant species symbolizing conservation. The Rafflesia is one of the world’s biggest and rarest flowers. The species found in Sibalom is endemic in that area and newly discovered yet already on the verge of extinction due to the unregulated influx of migrants in the park. As shown in the biological study, many threatened birds, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and tree species were recorded in the site. The endangered Visayan Warty Pig (Sus cebifrons), Visayan Spotted Deer (Cervus alfredi), Panay Bushy-Tailed Cloud Rat (Crateromys heaneyi), Tarictic Hornbill (Penelopides panini) and Walden’s Hornbill (Aceros waldeni) are also recorded in the site. Many threatened commercial tree species from the family Dipterocarpaceae were also present in the area. 11


Fast-flowing streams and springs abound within and around the protected area and flow into the Mau-it and Tipuluan River. They support irrigation as well as the domestic and industrial water needs of the municipality and other nearby towns. Abandoned kaingin and patches of cogonal areas are present in and around the PA, especially near the barangays. Unsustainable activities inside the park and its surrounding areas such as illegal logging, hunting, conversion of forestland to agricultural area, and the increasing population of the communities inside the park put a lot of pressure on the remaining forest. Although declared a natural park through a Presidential Decree, intensive study on the biological and physical profiles of the area remains insufficient. Considering that the only remaining old-growth forest in the park is about 8.7% of its total area, serious conservation efforts based on thorough study should be carried out to conserve its biodiversity. Intensive habitat analysis, flora and faunal survey are needed to provide its local managers adequate information in creating a sustainable forest management plan for the area. 2.1.2 Vegetative Cover With an elevation of less than 1,000 meters above sea level (masl), the forests of SNP (Mt. Poras and Mt. Banagon) are mainly classified as lowland rainforests. According to the Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) of Antique, the vegetation of the old-growth forest is composed of 672 mixed species. Of the 5,511.47 hectares of the SNP, 8.7%, or 672 hectares, is old growth; 186.66 hectares brush land or non-commercial forest; and 88.9% is open cogonal or grassland. Note that brush land is in hectares while grassland is in percent. (Chapter 3 contains a more detailed discussion on vegetation and habitat types in SNP.) 2.1.3 Land Cover and Land Use Sibalom is dominantly an agricultural area. About 90% of the total land area is dedicated to agriculture - mostly rice cultivation. Forest cover is limited to areas within SNP and its immediate vicinity. It comprises less than 7% of the total area of the municipality. Areas classified as forestlands should occupy slopes greater than 18% as required by Presidential Decree 705 or the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines of 1975. In Sibalom, about 98% of total forest cover is situated on slopes 18% and greater. However, only 13% of forestlands is actually forested. Comparing land cover figures, the estimates made by the CENRO (1997) in Sibalom may have been misguided since the measurements were based on the area of the old Tipuluan-Mau-it Watershed Forest Reserve, which was absolutely erroneous (Haribon Land-Use Assessment, 2003). Similar reports such 12


CHAPTER

as the draft Integrated Protected Area Plan (IPAP) of SNP for 2002-2006 used almost the same data outlined by the CENRO with the exception of reforestation projects and other improvements within the park. The 1988 land cover types within SNP are shown in Table 1 and Figure 3.

Land-Cover Types Arable land, crops mainly cereals and sugar Cultivated areas mixed with brush land/grassland Grassland Open canopy forest, mature trees covering