Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Mangrove is one of the world’s richest ecosystems that lives in salt and

brackish water. It provides goods and service to living organism (UNU-INWEH,

2016). Also, it serves as habitat for all the terrestrial animals, marine animals and

humans (Carter et,al. 2015) and provides protection to nearby populated areas

by absorbing storm surge impacts during extreme weather events such as

tsunamis and hurricanes (Daupan, 2016). But despite the benefits derived from

mangrove, thousands of hectares have been lost due to short-term goals such as

conversion into aquaculture, overharvesting of timber, charcoal and lumber

production, building different forms of coastal infrastructures and pollution due to

fertilizers, pesticides, toxic chemicals that can enter the water supply which can

affects the habitat of different species. The community living in the area with this

kind of issue is at highest risk of vulnerability.

In the year 2020, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the

United Nations announced the result of their Global Forest Resources

Assessment. This kind of report is published and compiles the data from 236

countries and territories for every five years. They have stated the fact that
mangroves decreased for about 1.04 million hectares from 1990 to 2020. From

46,700 hectares per year in 1990 to 2000, to 36, 300 hectares per year in the

year of 2000 to 2010 and 21, 200 hectares per year in the year 2010 to 2020. As

added by the International Union for Conservation for Nature together with the

University of Cambridge who released their Global Assessment of Mangrove

Losses and Degradation in the year 2018, they affirmed that the most causes of

mangrove degradation are the intensive harvesting of mangrove resources such

as timber and fuelwood which affects the riverine inputs. Other causes of

widespread degradation include pollution such as oil spill, changing sea level

which leads to flooding of mangroves.

In line with this issue, the region of Southeast Asia has lost the highest

number of mangrove due to anthropogenic activities such as land conversion,

overharvesting of lumber and timber production, pollution, etc. Southeast Asia

has 51 of the world's 73 species of mangrove. But 30% of mangroves were lost

from the year 2000 to 2012. The major cause is land conversion to rice

agriculture in Myanmar while in Indonesia and Malaysia, mangroves have been

converted into palm oil plantations. These places are said to be subjected to

tsunamis and other natural disasters such as hurricanes and cyclones. (as cited

by Gandhi and Jones, 2019). According to the University of Bergen and GRID-
Arendal (2021), a non-profit environmental organization, Southeast Asia is also

affected by plastic pollution. The river-borne plastic pollution enters the oceans

and as stated by the previous study, they estimated that there are 86 percent of

plastic that affects the mangrove in Southeast Asia. The coral reefs of this region

is affected by marine plastic than in other regions.

Likewise, the Philippines has more than 7500 islands and has 35 000

kilometers of coastline. This country has a 105 million populations and 60% of

the population is living near the coastline. The country is dependent on the ocean

and plastic pollution is considered one of the major problems in the said country.

One of the most polluted rivers in the world is here in the Philippines, the Pasig

River. It is estimated 32 to 64 tons of plastic waste in the aforementioned river

(Braaten and Karlsson, 2021). In line with this, the Philippine Network of

Environmental Journalists and the Earth Journalism Network conducted a

workshop to celebrate the World’s Environmental Day. The Freedom Island or

the Las Pinas-Paranaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism area is considered as

the last remaining mangrove site in Metro Manila and is considered under threat

of plastic litter and impending reclamation project in the Philippines (Earth

Journalism Network, 2018)

 Otherwise, as shared by Mrs. Lucy Duman in a personal interview, the

Chairperson of Calatagan Forest Mangrove Conservation Park or Ang Pulo, one

of the primary problems experienced in Ang Pulo is the plastic waste. The plastic

pollution was carried into the sea due to typhoons. Furthermore, Mrs. Duman

also stated that the mangrove rehabilitation experience lack of facilities, office,

stock room, electricity, water supply, training and signages. Subsequently, the

people’s organization known as the Pro-Mangrove Alliance Implementing Team

as Armed Kilitisan Advocate of Nature or the PALITAKAN affirm that there are

free-riders who are cutting mangroves without permission. The mangroves trees

which are on the inner part of Ang Pulo are the usual target for commercial and

for household uses. This is happening because Ang Pulo does not have enough

funds and has insufficient manpower in monitoring the 7.5 hectares. (Buncag

et.al, 2019). 

On the other hand, the Ang Pulo or the most popularly known as Mangrove

Conservation park shows bayanihan in a way that locals do really engage and

performed each tasked willingly. The bayanihan still continues because of also

the help of volunteers such as students, by means of making researches to help

in maintaining and resulting current problem. Additionally, the private group

organization named PALITAKAN and also with the help of Far Eastern University
private group, continue the undying love and care for nature especially mangrove

which leads to what is visible in the place. The place itself speak to much for the

bayanihan, the connection of locals, private group, students and other people

helps to give importance, continue the conservation and bring improvement that

leads to a healthy environment for the people living near the area and near

Municipality as well.

The Ang Pulo Mangrove Conservation Park is a park full of different

families and species of mangroves. There are six family located in the place, first

is the Rhizophoracea with six different species; Ceriops decandra, Ceriops

Tagal, Rhizophora Stylosa and etc., Myrsinacea with two different species;

Aegiceras Carniculatum and Aegiceras Floridum. Third family is the

Euphorbiaceae with present specie Excoecaria Agalloda. The fourth family is the

Meliaceae with present specie Xylocarpus Granatum. The fifth family present in

the area is the Sonneratiaceae with present specie Sonneratia Alba. Last family

is the Avicceniaceae with the present specie Avicennia Marina. This family and

species were located at Ang Pulo, it is geographically 7.5 hectares. This

mangrove helps to produce a lot of shell fishes and fishes that help locals to shift

their means of food and income as well. With all this emerging and continuing

great factors and benefits that this mangrove gives to everyone, yet with the
huge factor of human activities mangroves are in its danger level. Human

activities such as conversion of mangrove to charcoal and lumber with huge

amounts causes of over harvesting, pollution along the coastal area reaches

near mangroves that leads as well to suffocation of the mangrove. Moreover, due

to improvement in infrastructures that boost and make the number of tourists up,

it causes the number of mangroves to decrease and if this continues, it will be

extinct.

In Barangay Calatagan, there is this specific barangay which is the

barangay of Quilitisan. This barangay is where Ang Pulo is located. It offers nipa

hut where guests can comfortably rest and watch tower that gives one a

commanding view of the park and the ocean. It also offers the famous boardwalk

that allows you to walk inside for a better and closer look of mangrove. Ang Pulo

also offers kayaking with its very calm sea and very welcoming view of the

mangrove trees. With the help of LGU, PALITAKAN and local bangkeros the

surrounding remains welcoming and most importantly it improves the place way

better than people expected it to be. Hence, this place needs help in regards to

plastic pollution and also calls for improvement in having near office for lounge of

guest and tourist, trainings and most importantly signage, the lack of signage in

the area is one of the problem that this place have because without the help of
this signages then getting to the Mangrove Park for the discovery of mangroves

is difficult. Additionally, equipment and materials such as a source of water and a

good source of electricity is also indeed in need. Ang Pulo is truly a hidden

paradise that needs to be seen and explored yet due to its present problems the

paradise remains hidden.

Locals push to conserve, preserve and continue planting and caring for

mangroves because they are afraid that the generation nowadays will just look

and see aquatic creatures, shell fishes and fishes only on books and around the

internet. As locals who harvest good seafood that give good nutrients, they

wanted to share what they experienced and what they eat. That's why they push

and encourage everyone to continue caring for mangroves because this

mangrove is their source of food, income and most importantly best shield in any

natural calamities. Hence with these benefits, sustaining is not easy for them

specially with the presence of pollution and other issues. Due to these factors,

locals are afraid that problems in sustaining will become more and the mangrove

itself might be lost.

Mangroves are a protected species and it is illegal to destroy this unique

forest that supports human wellbeing. These restoration initiatives included

seedling plantations and the construction of coastal structures with extensive

public awareness and education. UNESCO proclaimed July 26 as International

Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem. The proclamation of this

international day, which was adopted on 6 November 2015 by the General

Conference of UNESCO, underlined the importance of mangrove ecosystems, to

explain how the natural resources such as ecosystem and mangroves benefits to

the human being and services for fisheries and food industry. Furthermore,

UNESCO is engaged deeply in supporting the conservation of mangroves, while

advancing the sustainable development of their local communities. While the

UNESCO Global Geoparks contributes to improving the knowledge,

management and conservation of mangrove ecosystems throughout the world.

That helps to improve the ecosystem and development of mangroves. 

The Senate Bill No. 1185 of the Philippines was an act introduced by Hon.

Manny Villar. This act provides for the preservation, reforestation, afforestation

and sustainable development of mangrove forests in the Philippines providing

penalties therefore and for other purposes. Mangrove forests are considered one

of the most productive and fertile ecosystems in the world. It gives more benefits

for humans and other species, to support the needs of everyone. But it also

serves as a factor for population growth, because populations were based at the
mangroves as their common resources and sometimes they abused it for their

common needs. This is exacerbated by the lack of technical understanding of

management, especially among local government executives and community

residents living along the coasts. This measure proposes to establish reservation

areas in all coastal areas in each municipality of the country solely for the

preservation, protection, reforestation, afforestation and sustainable development

of mangrove forests. In setting aside portions of land for mangroves, we can

ensure that our people will continue to enjoy the benefits accorded by this

important ecosystem. This senate bill will also be passed to penalize the

destruction and abuse of mangrove trees, as well as the dumping of waste

products within the reservation areas that results in pollution. Furthermore, the

measure makes the offender pay for the expenses that will be incurred for the

restoration or rehabilitation of the mangrove areas that will be damaged or

destroyed.

As cited in the study of Garling (2014), Stern (2000) stated that

environmental psychology is dealing with the psychological processes existing in

the relationship of human and nature. It is concerned how the environment

affects human and how human affects the environment. This include the human

behavior and the mental life such as perception, stress, emotions, cognitions,
decision making, social interactions etc. This shows that there is a relationship

between the people in Ang Pulo and the nature. This relationship builds

bayanihan which results of continuance of conserving the mangrove forest. In

line with this, the social exchange theory stated that people decides consciously

and unconsciously based on the cost and rewards that they will get. According to

this theory, when people gave so much effort than how much it rewards them,

they choose to end it. But when they receive enough rewards, they decided to

continue. This theory stated that there are various factors which can affect their

decisions. It is based on an individual’s expectations or comparison to other

potential interactions. This theory supports our study, bayanihan may existed due

to the rewards that Ang Pulo received. The people in the community benefited to

mangrove conservation drive which is one of the possible reasons why they have

the motivation in sustaining the environment.

This study is also necessary to conduct because this is concerned with

contributing to Sikolohiyang Pilipino by knowing how these individuals see

themselves in bayanihan in different aspects such as physically, emotionally, and

mentally. This is also study aiming to know the factors of bayanihan in Ang Pulo.

Aside from this, through this research other local communities with mangroves

area can adapt the bayanihan happening in the community of Ang Pulo in
regards to mangrove conservation.  This study is also necessary to conduct

because there are lots of mangroves under threat and not receiving attention

from people which results in neglecting the importance of their existence.

Due to the fact that the problems cited in the study are the different threats

facing by mangroves conservation due to land conversion, overharvesting of

timber, charcoal and lumber production, building different forms of coastal

infrastructures and specifically pollution in the particular setting of this study, the

statement of the problem will question the bayanihan happened in Ang Pulo and

the effects of bayanihan to environmental sustainability.

Statement of the Problem

This research study generally aims to know the factors of bayanihan in Ang Pulo

Calatagan Batangas towards managing mangrove conservation drives and

specifically seeks to find answers to the following questions.

1. How Ang Pulo, Calatagan Batangas showed bayanihan towards

mangrove conservation?

2. What are the effects of bayanihan towards environmental

sustainability?

Significance of the Study

This section includes who are to be benefitted and how they are going to be

benefitted from the study.

       Batangas State University. The world is undergoing noticeable

environmental changes and challenges as we head into the future. The need for

studies that will increase awareness and information to help the community and

environment adapt to these changes. The research study will provide a basis for

future research by the University to further attain knowledge, understanding, and

application to attain environmental sustainability in the community involved in the

study. This will also assist in studies involving Filipino values in other research

areas.

       College of Arts and Sciences. This research study was significant to the

College of Arts and Sciences because this study will give essential information to

both fields of Fisheries and Psychology. This research study will promote the

college with the initiative in understanding how Filipino values help environmental

management.

       Faculty Members of Bachelor of Science in Psychology,  Agriculture

and Fisheries. This can be used in the curriculum of psychology or agriculture

and fisheries at the University. The multidimensional aspect of the study will help
cover a wide area of courses taught at the University. The study on the

mangrove areas and their impact on the marine life and livelihood of the

community may also be used to inform students of other courses related to

agriculture and fisheries. The understanding of how psychology affects the

livelihood of the community involved will help in advancing the curriculum in the

future.

       Students of Bachelor of Science in Psychology. This study may give

knowledge to the students about mangroves which make significant contributions

that benefit the coastal ecology and human life. The way of Filipino bayanihan

toward mangrove conservation drives gives students knowledge in managing

mangrove conservation. This also helps to familiarize them and learn how to

maintain environmental sustainability by supporting and doing mangrove

conservation. Creating awareness among youth like students to sustain the

development of mangroves may help society and future generations to achieve a

better environment. 

       Stakeholders. The results of this study aim to provide benefits to the

following stakeholders such as the Community Organization or the People's

Organization (PO) who protects and manages the mangroves and helps the
researcher to gain data that will help them to have a precise result of the study.

This study will help them to promote the beauty of the mangrove forest and how

this helps the community.  This will also give benefits to the mangrove

researcher’s expert due to the additional information that will be gathered through

this study will help in advancing the research to be conducted by experts in the

field. This may also be applied to other research on mangrove drives that may be

present in the country. The Local Government Unit (LGU) officials will also

benefit from obtaining the necessary information and tools needed to not only

sustain but also improve the economic and environmental growth that will be

obtained from the mangrove site. And the local citizens of Calatagan guide them

in establishing awareness about mangroves and how this ecosystem affects their

daily lives. More importantly, is for them to be aware of the social responsibility in

the environment as "stewards of nature". This in turn will be considered a stable

source of livelihood for the community that will help boost the income and morale

of the constituents.

       Researchers. This study may help the researchers to gain information

about the factors of Filipino bayanihan towards mangrove conservation drives

and how Filipino bayanihan enforce in the coastal areas of Ang Pulo Calatagan,

Batangas. This will also test the patience, creativity, and being resourceful of the
researchers due to the unwanted situation. The researchers may also gain

knowledge on the conservation of the mangrove forests which are supported by

locals and other stakeholders.

       Future researchers. With this emerging problem about conservation and

rehabilitation in our marine and ecological environment, specifically mangroves,

this study will help future researchers as they may get lessons and strategies in

conserving and rehabilitation of the marine environment. This study will give

future researchers a view and idea of the concept of bayanihan as well.

Moreover, this study will surely give them a knowledgeable, adequate, and

precise explanation of mangrove and bayanihan concepts.  Lastly, this research

will give them a lot of update information about Ang Pulo, and an abundance of

lessons and will inherit them from nothing but pure knowledge.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The scope of this study is concerned with contributing to Sikolohiyang

Pilipino by knowing how these individuals see themselves in bayanihan in

different aspects such as physically, emotionally, and mentally. This is also study

aiming to know the bayanihan happened in Ang Pulo and the effects of this

bayanihan in environmental sustainability.

 On the other hand, the researchers did not consider the presence of flora

and fauna as well as the mangroves outside of the aforementioned place. Lastly,

this study is limited because the researchers did not include the presence of the

partnership community of Ang Pulo which is the Far Eastern University (FEU)

and other volunteers who gave their time and effort to contribute in Ang Pulo due

to the conflict of their time and availability.

Chapter 2

THE REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

Conceptual Literature

Filipino Bayanihan

The Filipino word Bayanihan pronounced as “buy-uh-nee-han” comes from

the word bayan meaning town, nation or community. It literally means to be a

bayan which is to have cooperation and unity in a town. During the old days,

bayanihan was shown when helping to lift up the bahay kubo- the traditional

house of the family who is moving into a new location. They do this by placing

the bamboo poles lengthwise and crosswise. The volunteers are often twenty

(20) people who are working and helping together. After the relocation, the family
prepared to have a small gathering as an expression of gratitude to their

neighborhoods.  This Filipino concept believes that extended help to the

kababayans in times of need is the beautiful mentality of Filipinos. (Imelda, 2013)

In related to this, the article of Jef Menguin (2020) Filipinos who are

practicing the bayanihan are the act of helping those who are in need. This act is

also seen in other countries, especially to those countries who are often

experiencing typhoons, floods and earthquakes. They considered it as a lifestyle.

This value starts with one person. It can be a celebrity, politician or an ordinary

person. But this act pushes other people to follow. It started from one person but

it would not end up with one. This one person would inspire others to do the

same. This would develop cooperation to reach the common purpose of the

action. Those people who gain from this teamwork or cooperation will pay

forward, directly or indirectly because their debt of gratitude inspires them to do

that.

On the other hand, the importance of bayanihan is to look back on the old

days of relocation. People have no permanent living in the ancient times so that

the house is lifted together with coordination and unity. While men are lifting the

house, women are cheering them to be motivated in carrying the bahay kubo.
The significance of this value builds the relationship of the community. It creates

bonds as people listen and become aware of the life of others and the situations

happening in the society. Aside from these, the importance of this value is to

reaffirm their help to others. They show their sincerity in helping their

kababayans and through this it can help the people who experience the situation

by strengthening their emotional feeling. And lastly, the Filipinos must value

bayanihan to preserve their tradition and pass it to the next generation since it is

a trademark seen to the Filipinos. (Benchcarr, 2019)

According to Paroccha (2020) due to the pandemic, the President signed a

law entitled Bayanihan to Act as One or the Republic Act No. 11469. This act

gave the President the power to relocate, realign and reprogram the budget in

response to Covid-19 national crisis. This act was enacted in March 2020 but

ends in June 2020. But since the pandemic continually occurs, this act has been

extended and called as Bayanihan to Recover as One Act or the Republic Act

No. 11494. The livelihood disruptions plus the rise of Covid-19 cases arise but

the government worked to help those who are severely affected by the impact of

this pandemic. This law expired last June 30, 2021. (Official Gazette of the

Republic of the Philippines, 2020)

 There are a lot of samples of the spirit of bayanihan that arose in the midst

of the pandemic. The Maginhawa Community Pantry started the spirit of

bayanihan in displaying free foods in the street. This act started with them and

inspires others to do the same. The Binangonan Rizal donated their caught

fishes in the community pantry while in Pangasinan, the Go Bike Project

delivered the pantry to those places who are in need using their bike. The co-

founder of the Go Bike Project shared that the act of Maginhawa Community

Pantry made them move to do the same. Another real life example is the story of

a rider who was delivering parcels when suddenly someone took his phone. The

bayanihan happened when someone posted his picture crying, then a rider gave

him a brand new cellphone and a lot of people responded by giving money via

Gcash. Lastly, the traditional spirit of bayanihan in Zamboanga happened. There

were seventy (70) people who volunteered to lift the house of their neighbor and

started moving when the leader shouted a go signal to move. (Kapuso Mo,

Jessica Soho, 2021)

Mangrove Conservation

In the late 1950's exactly 66 years ago, when scientists found out that

mangroves travel and reach East Africa and West ward part of America away
from its originated place of discovery in IndoMalayan. Through the help of the

ocean current and its unique features of the seed, it also reached and spread

through the old Caribbean Sea, which is located at Panama in present time. Still

in today's world, sea current continues to move on its own resulting for seeds to

spread in different locations in the world. (Mangrove Action Project, 2022).

Mangrove is a type of tree that can live in harsh salt water environments

without causing them to die, while the abundance of mangrove in a certain place

or area is widely known as Mangrove Forest. Due to its likelihood in humid areas,

mangroves are likely to be located and seen in places or countries with hot

temperatures but due to climate change, it is stated that this can range and

expand northward as well. As mentioned due to its unique features, this

mangrove can live in salty places because it has high salinity and low oxygen.

Other mangroves have tall roots and others have the pneumatophores that allow

them to breathe. Mangroves also provide strong roots that support fishes and

allow fishes and shell fishes to lay eggs without the doubt of eating the eggs

because the formation of roots of mangroves can help to protect eggs from the

predators. Additionally, these strong roots help as well in the soil erosion and

breakage of storm surges. To sum it up, this mangrove does not only help the

seawater but also the ecosystem because it supports fisheries in a great way, it
provides strong blocking powers in storm surges and most importantly it

contributes to local economies (Ocean Conservancy, 2018)

Mangrove trees have three categories, the Red, Black and White. Red

Mangrove are classified as prop roots whose physical form is seen as reddish

and tangled which originates from the aerial roots it's leaf are described as to be

1-5 inches long compared to other leaves. Its shiny and deep green color makes

it differ from the rest. Black Mangrove, are classified as having shiny green on

top having short dense hair at the back, this are commonly found in the upland

area of Red mangrove, additionally this is also called as pneumatophores. Unlike

the red and black mangroves, white mangroves have no aerial roots that are

commonly classified based on its leaves, the white mangrove leaves can grow up

to 3 inches long and have a yellowish color. (Florida Department of

Environmental Protection, 2022).

Mangrove serves as shelter of all species of fish, crabs, shrimp and other

invertebrates that lay eggs, sea water animals choose to lay eggs in mangrove

areas due to its unique structure of roots that prevent predators from eating their

eggs. This serves as a nursery of the ocean because it continues to protect and

give productive marine life. Commercial marine species spend more time in
mangroves before they transfer to coral reefs or mostly in the deep part of the

ocean. Due to its structure that prevents predators from entering the place, it is

also a great contributor to the food chain from small fishes to birds and any other

animals. During storm and storm surges mangrove also acts as physical barriers

that help to lessen the dense and impact of water to the near land when it hits.

Additionally, scientists also found out that 70-90 percent of wind generated

waves are absorbed by the mangroves, depending on its structure if the trees are

strong and healthy. Due to its structural formation, the roots also serve and do its

job by filtering metals, toxic substances, and other minerals. When mangroves

die its wood is classified as strong and mostly used for nipa, housing and most

importantly is charcoal. (Bohol Philippines Travel Guide, 2020).

Mangroves are considered as one of the one the most threatened to be

extinct in the ecosystem due it's many reasons. Countries like Vietnam,

Philippines and India are said to get 50% of the rate in the sense of mangroves

disappearing, due to human activities such as clearing of mangrove to transform

as ecotourism, infrastructure and aquaculture. Next is the overharvesting or the

unusual amount of mangroves harvested in one harvest period. Moreover, the

low quantity of water level released by the dam is a threat as well due to the fact

that it will cause a change in salinity, and an abundance of freshwater might lead
mangroves to die. In line with this are overfishing, destruction of coral reefs,

pollution and climate change are also a big factor of mangrove extinction and

mangrove loss. (Mendoza 2017).

Due to degradation and destruction of mangrove, mangrove governance

aimed to start a mangrove conservation which highlights the fact that it is not only

the destruction in mangrove but also the degradation. This aimed to discuss

prevent and rescue mangroves away from pollution, and soonly extinction, this is

a serious matter that needs not only attention but solution. One of the reasons for

mangrove loss is the population growth, due to increase of population it also

increases the needs of materials that came from mangrove such as charcoal and

food. It is not only due to the increase of population but also the proper waste

management. Since it is very alarming and nature threatening many countries

nowaday are beginning to recognize the threats of extinction of mangroves.

(IUCN, 2022).

Additionally, with its rich and consumable resources, as consumers

conserving the mangrove tree is a must. In conserving the mangrove there are a

lot of things that humans should do to conserve the mangroves, such us to

transform deforestation to reforestation in which it will promote the planting and

continuous conservation/rehabilitation of the mangroves, Additionally, in

protecting the coastal areas where mangroves are located, living near,

surrounded and above should not be allowed to lessen the pollution that may

cause by the population and will soonly results for the mangroves to be extinct.

The government has been pouring money into fixing up problems in many

coastal areas and mangroves. Private and local authorities also joined forces to

establish Laws regarding the conservation, rehabilitation, promotion, scope,etc.

with the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources). Written

below are some of the Laws amended by the Constitution of the Philippines and

enforced throughout the Exclusive Economic Zone of the Philippines. 

 Executive Order No. 192 of 1987. This Law is amended to change the

Department of Environment, Energy and Natural Resources to its present

name as Department of Environment and Natural Resources widely known

in the country as DENR (Department of Natural Resources). This law

structurally removed energy in the title. This law serves to protect and 

enhance the country's natural resources. This law contains 33 sections

and was approved in the City of Manila last June 10, 1987. This law was

originally created by former President Ferdinand E. Marcos and was

rearranged  under former President  Corazon C. Aquino.

 Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines (Presidential Decree No. 705).

This is a revised PD under number 389. This law provides protection,

utilization, rehabilitation and development to ensure the continuity of safe

and lawful use of forest lands and resources in the state. This law has 83

Sections and was signed in Malacañang Philippines by former President

Ferdinand E. Marcos. 

 National Integrated Protected Areas System Act 1992 (Republic Act No.

7586 of 1992). This law provides entitlement and recognition on the Land 

and Protected areas in the country to avoid abuse and unlawful activities

that may lead to threat in our natural biological protected areas here in the

state, together with these are the strict rules do's and don'ts in places

where natural resources are abundant. This law has 24 sections and was

released under former Corazon C. Aquino time. 

 Republic Act No. 7160. This law is to honor and give Local Government to

enact and establish laws in the Municipality to ensure that safety and basic

services are provided throughout the country, this law also give authority to

all local government unit inside the state to established law that will surely

help in progress, protection, rehabilitation and security that will make every

Filipino people, lands, tourist attractions, private and public establishments,

 education and morality is safe at all cost. This Law has 853 sections and

was released under former Corazon C. Aquino. 

 Philippine Fisheries Code of 1998 (Republic Act No. 8550). This law

focuses on food security, utilization and conservation in marine fishery

resources management, this limits the amount of marine natural resources

harvested to avoid the threat of losing it due to emerging trends in fishes

and other aquatic resources in the state. This law does not prevent illegal

and unauthorized fishing, gathering and collecting Marine Natural

resources. Created last July, 28 1998 and became a law last February

2015.

Ang Pulo, Calatagan Batangas

There are a lot of Municipalities in the Province of Batangas, and one of its

Municipality is the Municipality of Calatagan, where it is geographically located at

the south western most part of the Province of Batangas. It is approximately 125

kilometers away from the Capital of the Philippines; Manila, and exactly 93

kilometers in west of the Batangas, the place itself is also near on many

municipalities and other places in the Province such as Balayan, Balayan Bay,
Verde Island, Lian and in western side is the South China Sea. Besides its

unique geographical state, the name "Calatagan'' also is a derived word of the

"Kapatagan" which reflects that Calatagan is a wide expanse of plain lands. In

the latest published Brief history of Calatagan by the LGU, it revealed that during

the late 1800's Calatagan was once owned by Don Domingo Roxas and named it

Hacienda de Calatagan,  unfortunately when he died the heirs of the Don Pedro

Roxas take over to rule the place and continues the development resulting for the

place to become Municipality itself through the help of the Virtue of the Executive

Order no.78 by the late Governor General William Cameron Forbes, and so the

Municipality of Calatagan became a Municipality and an independent from its

Original municipality, Balayan.  After the American War in year 1957, the Land

Calatagan was then decided to be bought P5.00 per hectares by the Land

Tenure Administration due to the petition of the people from Calatagan and the

said value was payable within 25 years from Zobel's which until now holds the

biggest part of the Calatagan lands. Additionally, this barangay was determined

to hold 2,314 people living in the barangay, based on the Latest Census of the

Philippines, this interprets that the 3.94% of the total population in the

Municipality of Calatagan is occupied by the people living in Brgy. Quilitisan. 

(Calatagan.gov.ph., 2016).
 As stated in the Calatagan.gov.ph (2016) it has 13° 50´ latitude and 120°

38´ longitude. The west part of the municipality is bounded by coral reefs and

shallow water and Cape Santiago is the southern part of the peninsula.

Meanwhile, Calatagan Batangas has a land area of 10,527.8890 hectares and

has four (4) urban barangays within Poblacion and twenty-one (21) rural

barangays. In the Municipality of Calatagan, there are these two (2) famous

mountains who have the highest elevation among the Poblacion area with an

elevation of seven (7) meters high above the sea level. These two (2) famous

mountains are Mt. San Pedrino which is located along the eastern tip part of San

Pedrino while Mt. Santiago is located at the tip of Cape Santiago. With its unique

location which is near on the South China Sea, Calatagan itself caters to great

and beautiful shorelines and its breathtaking coral reefs under the sea. The

Municipality is also known for its agricultural crops which are mostly surrounded

by sugar cane. Additionally, the road this municipality is named after Forbes and

the owner of many real estates the Zobel Highway, this concrete road is the

official provincial road of Calatagan that started from the round of Balibago Lian-

Balibago Calatagan up to the end of the Municipality. Moreover, along the

highway, there is the Hacienda Bigaa which is known to be the biggest estate in

the Calatagan owned by the Zobels.

 One of the barangay in Calatagan is the Brgy. Quilitisan. The name

Barangay Quilitisan was taken from a tree called "quilitin. The first tenants of the

barrio in Quilitisan were Narciso Gonzales, Isaac and Leoncio Dino. During

WWII, the people of Quilitisan could not buy their own food and clothes because

the Japanese robbed them of their livelihood. The soldiers from Nasugbu were

killed by the Japanese in Quilitisan. (Buhay Batangas, 2018). 

Meanwhile, in the said Barangay there is the famous Calatagan Mangrove

Forest Park. This Ecotourism Park was managed and developed through the

help of private organizations, and one of its leading is the Palitakan which

comprises the youth and advocates of Quilitisan Mangrove alliances. This

Ecotourism park of the barangay is now locally called Ang Pulo. As the tourism

rises, the Sangguniang Barangay decided to build, develop and promote the

Park by means of building large Nipa huts to give tourist a comfortable place

where they can stay for a while and most importantly is the famous long rattan

boardwalk wherein it allows everyone to look and roam in the Mangrove Park in

the very safe, and best view that the Ecotourism Ang Pulo Park can offer. (Coral

Triangle Initiative, 2013.) 

 In line with this, the Pro-Mangrove Alliance and Implementing Team in Arm

as Kilitisan’s Advocates of Nature or the PALITAKAN is the people’s organization

located in Quilitisan, Calatagan Batangas. They are composed of community

members and volunteers. The PALITAKAN is an organization who manages the

mangrove conservation park- a marine protected area also known as a camping

destination in Calatagan. It is headed by Ms. Lucena Duman and assists by Mr.

Danilo Quidem - the Barangay Captain. The Calatagan Mangrove Forest

Conservation Park is the home of mangrove, birds, seagrasses and other marine

life.  (Coral Triangle Initiative, 2017). 

The mission of the association is to protect the marine resources to

enhance the socioeconomic condition of their members and create unity for the

future of the generation with fear and faith in the Lord. Their vision is not to be

self-interested but to put the welfare of others first. Aside from that, their mission

is to take care of the environment and promote ecotourism which will make their

association more unified. (Simply Giving, 2022). 

Environmental Sustainability

To sustain the environment is also to conserve and protect the natural

resources. Some choices we made have an effect on the environment though we

cannot feel it immediately. But through environmental sustainability, it helps to

maintain the health and well-being of the future generation. (Sphera’s Editorial

Team, 2020)

In line with this, environmental sustainability is important because humans

use food, energy and other human-made resources every day. As the number of

population increases, humans are more involved in farming and manufacturing

which cause more greenhouse gas release, as well as unsustainable energy and

deforestation. Businessmen should be responsible and do their part to minimize

these effects, just by reducing waste, controlling energy consumption and paying

fair wages. (Inspire Clean Energy, 2021)

The issues concerned by environmental sustainability are the following: 1)

Long term health of the ecosystem in order to maintain our needs just by

protecting food supplies, fish stock, etc. 2) Intergenerational decision making. We

must give attention to the future and not only to the present moment. An example

is burning coal causes cheaper energy but it can also cause pollution in the

future generation. 3) Renewable resources. Expanding the use of renewable

sources and not only focusing on non-renewable sources just like solar and wind

which are sample of natural resources. 4) Prevent the consequences of man-

made global warning. There should be policies which assure that the

environment is not degenerate to the point that the future generation experience

shortages in water, excess temperature and weather. 5) Protection of species

diversity and ecological structure. In making medicines, sometimes plants are the

elements needed. But when this species goes extinct, it can limit innovation in

the future. 6) Treating environmental resources as if they have intrinsic rights and

value. We should protect the environment because it deserves to be protected

whether we obtain benefits in protecting the environment. 7) Targeting social

welfare and happiness. Sustaining the environment measures progress in Gross

Domestic Products specifically in crude oil. (Pettinger, 2018)

In order to minimize the negative impacts in the environment, here are

some tips to increase sustainability. First is alternative transportation. When we

are commuting we used fuels and alternative transportation include walking,

riding a bike etc. Schedule a meeting via video call rather than traveling in order

to save money and gas. Second is Pollution Prevention and Waste Reduction.

Using the core principle of wise resource use which is the reduce, reuse and

recycle also known as the 3R’s help to protect and preserve the natural

environment. And lastly, reduce energy use by turning off the appliances when
not in use. By reducing energy consumption helps to sustain the environment by

using low standby power and energy efficient products (Rockhamplon, 2020) 

Conversely, preserving the green spaces have positive effects on the

environment such as improving air quality, water quality, climate change,

biodiversity and habitat protection and lowering the level of greenhouse gases.

First is the air quality, if preservation receives full attention, the air quality will

improve by protecting the plants, trees and any vegetation. These open spaces

can give benefits like filtering air pollutants such as dust, gases etc. Second is

the water quality. Whenever imperviousness in a community watershed happens,

this can cause drainage, flood, pollutants load which can also affect the aquatic

habitat. But by preserving open spaces, developing green spaces and parks can

limit this imperviousness. This program is a program that is seen as the most

effective way to protect the water quality and manage the storm water runoff.

This also helps in preserving the natural infiltration process and can drive in land

preservation. Third is climate change. The increase of usage of energy can

cause climate change. But planting trees, parks, forest and grasslands can help

to cool their environment. The trees and parks can reduce the heat-impact

directly and indirectly. This results in reducing atmospheric CO2 because of

photosynthesis. It is also stated that having 1 acre of trees can help to reduce ten
percent (10%) of heat and can give five to ten percent (5-10%) of cooling energy.

Aside from that. It can give atmospheric temperature and wind-shield effect in

winter. If this preservation receives no attention, these parks and lands could

lose their benefits. Fourth is biodiversity and habitat protection. If people

preserve the lands, the environmental benefit is the habitat protection and the

biodiversity. But without efforts to preserve land, it can cause a huge loss of

different species. So, it is very important to preserve the lands in order to protect

the species. (Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning, 2013) 

The Green Jobs Act of the Philippines or the Republic Act of 10771 passed

by April 2016 promotes resilient sustainable growth, creates decent jobs and

builds resilience against climate change through incentives to businesses

generating green jobs to sustain the transition for the green economy. This also

helps every person to have work to help and support their family needs.

Employment contributes to preserving or restoring the quality of the environment

and to give security of the natural resources. Their overall objective was to help

the Philippine constituents for the sustainable enterprises and better

opportunities for every one. (World Resources Institute, 2021)

Research Literature
 This study determined the level of knowledge and awareness (KA) on

mangrove resources, services and conservation practices. Data was collected

through the use of questionnaires. The participants are the local government unit

(LGU) of Calatagan, Batangas, the people’s organization (PO) called

PALITAKAN which was initially composed of 10 women, and the local coastal

community of Bgry. Quilitisan. The results showed that LGU, PO, and the local

community had high to very high level of KA toward mangrove resources,

services, and conservation practices but the PO had consistently very high levels

of KA. Their active role in mangrove conservation enabled them to have a higher

level of KA. The mangrove tree was perceived to have the highest selling price

(value) while lowest for seed and seedlings. The perceived selling price of the

mangrove resources reflected how the stakeholders value these resources

based on their prior knowledge and experiences. They also have a very high

level of KA on mangrove resources, services and conservation practices.

(Creencia and Querijero, 2018)

This study aimed to describe the progress of mangrove rehabilitation; to

assess the major issues and concerns in Mangrove Rehabilitation, to identify the

best practices and strategies in Mangrove Rehabilitation and to identify the key

considerations in Mangrove Rehabilitation in terms of: Policy and Institution,

Scientific and Ecological Preferences, Participatory Approaches. This study

utilized qualitative ideas which included key projects objectives, location and site

area, duration of rehabilitation, People’s Organization, participation and

management, techniques, survival rate, activities, issues and concerns, success

factors, impacts and benefits, resiliency, and key policies. In gathering data, the

researchers used the Key Informants Interview (KII) through guide questions to

the officers and members of PO and Secondary Data Analysis. This study was

conducted in Barangay Quilitisan, Calatagan where Calatagan Mangrove Forest

Conservation Park is located. Results stated that through the cooperation of

government agencies, non-government organization and the local community

through people’s organization (PO), PALITAKAN (Pro-Mangrove Alliance

Implementing Team as Arm Quilitisan Advocate of Nature), the mangroves

planted rehabilitate the area and survived after seven years with 80% survival

rate. The community is currently getting natural resources for both household

and commercial uses and uses the area for ecotourism activities. However, the

PO faces issues and concerns with regard to management. In addition, there are

some best practices in planting, monitoring, management and livelihood activities

and some key considerations in rehabilitation in terms of policy and institutin,

scientific and ecological preferences and participatory approaches. (Buncag et.,al

2019).

This research aimed to determine the species abundance and diversity of

a community-managed mangrove forest in Calatagan Marine Protected Area

through its community structure. A survey of the vegetation structure of

mangrove was conducted to determine the GBH (girth at breast height), height

and the tree’s crown in the four (4) standard 10 m x 10 m transect plots, DBH

(diameter at breast height), basal area, canopy cover, relative frequency, relative

dominance and relative density were also assessed, lastly, the species diversity

and abundance were computed using the Shannon-Weiner diversity index. The

study utilized descriptive research design to assess the community structure of

the community managed mangrove forest in Brgy. Kilitisan, Calatagan, Batangas

and it was assisted by science-student researchers from Calatagan National

High School and Research Department, local people near the coastal area and

the Sangguniang Barangay (SB). The results of the community structure in

average revealed that the GBH is 13.57 cm, height of 3.50 m, crown 1.28 m,

DBH of 4.32 cm, basal area of 0.0164 m2 and canopy cover of 5.30 m2. The

study shows a very low species diversity value (H’) ranging from 0.4692 to

1.2178. Seven species belonging to six families of mangroves were identified.

Avicennia marina was determined to be the most dominant among the identified

species in the sampling plots. With these results, conservation of mangrove

forest by the local community stakeholders can be strengthened to improve the

community structure towards the resiliency of the mangrove forest. It is endorsed

that community-based conservation of mangroves can be considered in

mangrove management, monitoring and evaluation. (Cudiamat and Rodriguez,

2017)

  This research aimed to assess the vegetation and carbon stock of

mangroves on the five specific coastal areas in Calatagan; Bagong Silang,

Balibago, Caretunan, Quilitisan and Stay.Ana. This study is made up of

Descriptive Comparative method of research since it will compare and analyze

the vegetation, transect plot technique to determine the cover areas,

reconnaissance survey to measure the entire field of the study, allometric

equation of determining total biomass and carbon stock, and ANOVA for the

mangrove awareness. The population of the study are the students, teachers and

the people around the field itself. The study revealed that Avicennia marina

occupied the greatest number of species in Bagong Silang, Carretunan,

Quilitisan, and Balibago with Importance Value Index of 84.49%, 51.70%,

97.53%, and 112.81% respectively. The MPA of Sta. Ana has the highest
aboveground biomass with 113357.21 kg, belowground biomass with 43485.56

kg, and total biomass of 156842.76 kg. In terms of organic carbon storage, the

MPA of Bagong Silang has the highest carbon stock of 12557.60 t/ha. Bagong

Silang also has the highest COâ‚'' equivalent of 46086.41 t/ha. Diversity indexes

of Bagong Silang (1.6864) Balibago (2.1891), Carretunan (2.2062), Quilitisan

(1.2404) and Sta. An, (1.2408). Carretunan has the highest diversity index. The

study found out that the students compared to parents and teachers had the

lowest awareness in terms of ecological, economic, and social aspects of

mangroves. Using ANOVA, a p-value of 2.015 x 10-16 means that there is a

significant difference in the awareness of the respondents. This result rejected

the hypothesis. Overall, it revealed that all the sites have shallow species. The

researcher concluded that there was a significant difference in the mangrove

vegetation and carbon stock in the five sampling sites. Species diversity shows

that there is a significant difference in the sampling sites. The researcher

proposes that ecological conservation for sustainable development should be

developed. 

(Busilig D., 2019).

The aim of this study is to know if participation in mangrove restoration

projects can not only provide financial rewards but also yield intangible benefits
for communities, i.e., social capital. The researchers used face-to-face interviews

as the main method for data collection. Regression analyses were undertaken to

assess the impact of local community participation in mangrove restoration

projects on social capital and its potential benefits to people in terms of access to

information and services, which are key components of livelihood. The study was

conducted in the province of Quezon, Philippines. The results of this study

confirmed that people’s participation in mangrove restoration projects increases

social capital, consequently improving their access to information and services.

In general, increased social capital reflects higher density and more diverse

social ties, having more access to resources, and stronger trust. This study found

out that the PO members are more active in participating in the organization’s

activities than other civic organizations, such as labor and community groups.

Moreover, PO members value their membership to their group because of the

rewards they can get and the respect from the nonmembers and external

organizations (Valenzuela et.,al. 2020)

This collaborative research project was aimed at distilling the best

mangrove rehabilitation practices in the Philippines, Myanmar, India, China and

Japan to respond to the concerns of the need to counter mangrove deforestation

and provide a science-based approach in coastal forest rehabilitation. The

researcher used case studies and also they employed rigorous review of

secondary information and conducted policy consultations with relevant

government and non-government organizations. The researchers conduct the

study in the Philippines and Myanmar which have suffered serious damages

caused by typhoons and cyclones in recent years. Key findings showed that local

communities have a pivotal role in ensuring correct and sustainable mangrove

rehabilitation. The proposed guidelines also served as an evaluation tool for

gauging the sufficiency and suitability of current practices in meeting the goals of

mangrove rehabilitation. The best practices and strategies for mangrove

rehabilitation are integrated coastal management, community-based mangrove

management, ecological mangrove restoration, applying mangrove-based

agroforestry practices and aqua-civil culture. Most of all, successful mangrove

rehabilitation experiences rest very well on good governance, commitment and

collaboration among key government and non-government stakeholders.

(Camacho et.,al.,2019)

This thesis aims to explore the link between mangrove ecosystem services

(MES) and community livelihoods, changes in MES and associated drivers of

change, adaptation options and their management in Tanzania. A mixed

framework of methods including focus group discussions, key informant

interviews, household surveys, direct observations, and literature reviews was

used to gather data. The respondents are MES and community livelihoods or

coastal communities in Tanzania. This thesis argues that the linkage between

MES and human well-being is site-specific, and drivers impacting on mangroves

and their associated services vary spatially and are greatly accelerated by

anthropogenic disturbances. Raising more awareness about the multifunctionality

of mangroves and committing to participatory forest management that involves

local people, as well as reforming the current forest policy by incorporating clear

legal mechanisms for engaging communities around mangrove management and

diversifying livelihood options are re-emphasized as appropriate ways to improve

mangrove conservation. Furthermore, investment by providing adequate funding

for conservation in the long run rather than relying on short-term international

donor-funded projects are recommended to government institutions as a basis

for sustainable management of mangrove forests in Tanzania. (Nyangoko, B.,

2022). 

In the study of Yingst A. (2016) his research aimed to examine the coral

reefs near coastlines under three categories: (1) with intact mangroves, (2) with

mangroves interspersed with development, and (3) without mangroves. This

study uses transects to determine species richness, species diversity, and

biomass of reef fish. The locale area uses are transect 50 meters wide located at

Bocas del Toro, Panama on coral reefs near coastlines that fall on the Three

categories First, is with intact mangroves places, Second is with mangroves

interspersed with development, it also added lastly are those places without

mangroves, this study also uses one way ANOVA.  Intact sites (STRI Point,

Almirante, and Coral Cay) had similar species richness to degraded mangroves

(Punta Caracol, Casa Blanca, and Juan Point) (Figures 5 and 8). And both had

higher richness than sites with no mangroves (Popa, Salt Creek, and Hospital

Point) (one-way ANOVA, p = 0.017). Intact mangroves had less average species

diversity than degraded mangroves and both had higher species diversity than

sites without mangroves (Figures 6 and 9, one-way ANOVA p = 0.010). Sites

with intact mangroves have a significantly higher average total biomass than

sites with developed mangroves or no mangroves. The sites without mangroves

had the lowest total biomass overall (Figures 7 and 10, one-way ANOVA p =

0.048). Counter to my hypothesis, degraded and intact sites had similar species

richness, likely because degraded sites retained mangroves and always had

docks interspersed throughout them. These docks could have provided another

means of shade and protection for juvenile fish (personal observation 2015).
Synthesis

The review of conceptual literature has provided the present study with

some constructs that helped build up the conceptual framework of the study.

These constructs were drawn from the theories, concepts, and ideas of

researchers, scholars and critics. From these insights, the researchers drew out

four general concepts which, in themselves, were constructs such as Bayanihan,

Mangrove Conservation, Ang Pulo, Calatagan Batangas and Environmental

Sustainability.

With reference to the first construct, the insights of Bencharr, Jef Menguin,

Imelda, Paroccha, Official Gazette of the Republic of the Philippines and KapusO

Mo, Jessica Soho provided the necessary content on bayanihan. The insights

and discussion on bayanihan provided structural bases for the first construct.

These authors from different websites discussed the history, importance, how it

happens, the laws signed by the President related to bayanihan during the

pandemic and the samples of how the spirit of bayanihan arose in the Philippines

in times of pandemic.  

With reference to the second construct, the insights of Mangrove Action

Project, American Museum of Natural History, Florida Department of

Environmental Protection, Bohol Philippines Travel Guide, Mendoza V. and

Department of  Environment and Natural Resources. The insights and discussion

on Mangrove Conservation provided structural bases for the second construct.

These authors from different websites discussed the origin of mangrove, what

mangrove is, different species of mangrove,importance, threats, conservation

and Laws.

With reference to the third construct, the insights of Calatagan.gov.ph,

Calatagan.gov.ph, Buhay Batangas, Coral Triangle Initiative and Simply Giving

provided the necessary content on Ang Pulo Calatagan Batangas. The insights

and discussion on Ang Pulo, Calatagan Batangas provided structural bases for

the third construct. These authors explained the history, socio economic profile,

Calatagan Forest Mangrove Conservation Park, PALITAKAN, and its vision and

mission.

With reference to the fourth construct, the insights of Sphera's Editorial

Team, Environmental Sustainability Importance, Pettinger, Rockhamplon,

Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning and Dela Cruz provided the necessary

content on Environmental Sustainability. The insights and discussion on

Environmental Sustainability provided structural bases for the fourth construct.

These authors explained the description, importance, issues concerned by

environmental sustainability, strategies, benefits and the environmental

sustainability act or the Green Jobs Act of the Philippines.

Creencia & Querijero (2018) study concords with the present study on the

account that both dealt with mangrove specifically at Ang Pulo Calatagan

Batangas. However, they differ in the sense that the previous study underscored

the level of knowledge and awareness (KA) on mangrove resources, services

and conservation practices of the People’s Organization, LGU and local

communities while the present study highlighted the concept of bayanihan

towards managing mangrove conservation.

Buncag et.,al. (2019) study is in accord with the present study due to the

fact that both dealt with the place it was conducted which is in Quilitisan

Calatagan Batangas Mangrove site. However, they differ because the previous

study centered on the the progress of mangrove rehabilitation, major issues and

concerns in Mangrove Rehabilitation,best practices and strategies in Mangrove

Rehabilitation and the key considerations in Mangrove Rehabilitation in terms of:

Policy and Institution, Scientific and Ecological Preferences, Participatory

approaches while the present study focused on the concept of psychology

towards managing and conserving mangrove to achieve sustainable

development.
 Cudiamat M. & Rodriguez R. (2017) study is in consonance with the

present study because both dealt with mangroves in Calatagan Marine Protected

Area. However, they differ in the sense that the previous study emphasized the

species abundance and diversity of a community-managed mangrove forest in

Calatagan Marine Protected Area through its community structure while the

present study concentrated on highlighting the bayanihan towards managing and

conserving mangrove to achieve sustainable development.

Busilig D. (2019) study is analogous with the present study because both

dealt with vegetation and carbon stock of mangroves. However, they differ in the

sense that the previous study highlighted on vegetation and carbon stock of

mangroves on the five specific coastal areas in Calatagan; Bagong Silang,

Balibago, Caretunan, Quilitisan and Stay.Ana. that revealed Avicennia marina

occupied the greatest number of species in Bagong Silang, Carretunan,

Quilitisan, and Balibago, while the present study stressed on bayanihan towards

managing and conserving mangrove to achieve sustainable development. 

Valenzuela et.,al. (2020) study runs parallel with the present study owing

to the fact that both dealt with the participation of the local communities to

improve natural resource management. However, they differ because the

previous study emphasized  if participation in mangrove restoration projects can

not only provide financial rewards but also yield intangible benefits for

communities, i.e., social capital while the present study underscored the Filipino

bayanihan towards managing and conserving mangrove to achieve sustainable

development.

Camacho et.,al. (2019) study bears semblance with the present study due

to the fact that both dealt with mangrove rehabilitation and conserving mangrove

for the sustainable rehabilitation and for the environmental sustainability.

However, they differ because the previous study emphasized the best mangrove

rehabilitation practices in the Philippines, Myanmar, India, China and Japan to

respond to the concerns of the need to counter mangrove deforestation and

provide a science-based approach in coastal forest rehabilitation. While the

present study put emphasis on Filipino bayanihan towards managing and

conserving mangrove to achieve sustainable development.

Nyangoko B. (2022) study is in congruence with the present study in the

sense that both dealt with engaging local communities or livelihood services

which also called Bayanihan, around mangrove management for sustainable

management of mangrove forests. However, they differ in the sense that the

previous study focused on exploring the link between mangrove ecosystem

services (MES) and community livelihoods, changes in MES and associated

drivers of change, adaptation options and their management in Tanzania. While

the present study centered on highlighting the concept of bayanihan towards

managing and conserving mangrove to achieve sustainable development.

Yingst. A (2016) study is in harmony with the present study on the account

that both dealt with the richness, species diversity and overall biomass However,

they differ because the previous study concentrated on the Mangrove

development on coral reef, fish and species diversity it also added the factor

about using anthropogenic impact while the present study focused on the

bayanihan towards managing and conserving mangrove to achieve sustainable

development.

The researches reviewed tend to point out that all of them are related in as

many ways with the present study’s viewpoint. In the light of differences among

the theses/dissertations reviewed, it can be manifested safely that this study

does not in any way duplicate earlier research.

Conceptual Framework
Below is the paradigm of the conceptual framework of the study. This made use

of the Systems Approach, which includes the Inputs, Thru Put and Output as

framework of the study.

Input Thru-Put Output

 Factors of
Bayanihan in  Data Gathering
Ang Pulo - Interview
Calatagan - Focus Group
Batangas in Discussion Implications to
mangrove  Presentation of Environmental
conservation Data Sustainability
 The effects of  Analysis of
bayanihan Data
towards  Interpretation of
environmental Data
sustainability

Figure 1. Paradigm of the Conceptual Framework

Frame One reflects the input of the study. This refers to the factors of bayanihan in
Ang Pulo Calatagan Batangas in mangrove conservation and the effects of bayanihan
towards environmental sustainability.

Frame Two shows the thru-put of the study. These include the gathering of data,
presentation of data, analysis of data and interpretation of data.

Finally, Frame Three presents the output of the study which is the implications to
environmental sustainability.
Definition of Terms

3R’s.This term refers to reduce, reuse and recycle which aims to protect

and preserve the natural environment. (Rockhamplon, 2020) 

Bayanihan. The term denotes being a bayan which is to have cooperation

and unity in a town. (Imelda, 2013)

Black mangrove. This term pertains to shiny green on top having short

dense hair at the back. (Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2022).

 Environmental Sustainability. The term is used to mean sustainaing the

environment and is also to conserve and protect the natural resources. (Sphera's

Editorial Team, 2020). 

Green spaces. The term means to the positive effects in the environment

which improve air quality, water quality, climate change, biodiversity and habitat

protection and lowering the level of greenhouse gases. (Chicago Metropolitan

Agency for Planning, 2013). 

Mangroves. The term refers the family of shrubs or mostly known as trees

that grow in salty water or even in brackish water. (Smithsonian 2020).

Mangrove Conservation. The term denotes to the efforts that are largely

aimed at preventing destruction of mangrove ecosystems, and increasing

coverage. (IUCN, 2022). 

PALITAKAN. This term pertains to the organization also known as the

Pro-Mangrove Alliance and Implementing Team in Arm as Kilitisan’s Advocates

of Nature who manages the mangrove conservation park- a marine protected

area in Calatagan. (Coral Triangle Initiative, 2017). 

Red Mangroves. This term used to mean to have prop roots whose

physical form is seen as reddish and tangled which originates from the aerial
roots its leaf are described as being 1-5 inches long compared to other leaves.

Its shiny and deep green color makes it different from the rest. (Florida

Department of Environmental Protection, 2022).

White Mangroves. This term means to have no aerial roots that are

commonly classified based on its leaves, the white mangrove leaves can grow up

to 3 inches long and have a yellowish color. (Florida Department of

Environmental Protection, 2022).

Chapter 3

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research design

One of the important aspects of the research process is the selection of

the approach to be used. There are different approaches that can be used in

qualitative research, some of which are grounded theory, phenomenology and

ethnography. According to Sandelowsk, cited by Doyle (2019), providing

straightforward descriptions of experiences and perceptions is the most used

rationale involved in descriptive research; this is most appropriate if there is little

information about the topic under study. A qualitative descriptive design may be

considered to be used as it identifies the nature of the problem, the different

experiences and perspective participants have and will present the findings in

order to answer the research problem tackled. This design may also be used in

mixed method studies in which qualitative data can be used to explain

quantitative findings in studies.

Sampling method and Respondents

This research uses the purposive sampling technique due to the factor that

this sampling method identifies and selects information that is limited to make the

best out of it. Creswell and Plano Clark (2011) stated that this allows researchers

to select individuals that are affected and focused on the study, this is chosen to

make the research more efficient and valid (as cited by Palinkas et,.al, 2015).

Additionally, the members of the PALITAKAN which is the group who are

concerned with mangrove conservation are the targeted respondent of this study.

It mainly consisted of more than forty (40) members but due to saturation, the

researchers came up with only 10 respondents. According to Given (2016)

saturation is when there is no need for additional data that will lead to developing

new themes. It means that when the researcher gained the same response from

the respondents there is no need to conduct another interview.

Data Gathering Instruments

The research study used interviews and focus group discussions as the

instrument for data collection.

Interviews are the process of directed conversation and asking different

questions to individuals or groups. It was led by the researcher that creates

questions regarding the research topic. To easily get the information needed that

can help the research study. It was a popular data gathering instrument because

of its flexibility in getting information from respondents. It can be used as part of a

pilot study to gather information before conducting the proposed research.

According to Simply Saul Mcleod, MRes, Ph.D. (2014) an educator, researcher,

and also an expert in psychology said that interviews are different from

questionnaires as they involve social interaction. Unlike other methods which

cost money, like doing a training on gathering interviews. On the other hand, as

stated by Magaldi and Berler (2020) both psychologists, and researchers can

also use structured and unstructured interviews to gather data, but before

proceeding with an interview the researchers need to know the strengths and

limitations to avoid misunderstandings. Furthermore, the interview allows the

researcher and the respondents to build a conversation where they can express
their thoughts since this is the most often used in the branch of the social

sciences because it allows discovery through conversation through Interviews.

And it targets the main topic freely.

Focus group discussion (FGD) 

This study used focus group discussions which are useful in gathering

information using the qualitative method. In the study of Albanesi (2014), he cited

Morgan (1996) who stated the fact that in a focus group discussion (FGD) that

through group discussion the researcher can collect data from the respondents.

He also cited Krueger (1994) who expressed that the researchers gathered data

from the respondents in a friendly non-threatening environment.

Data Gathering Procedure

Before

After the approval of our professor with regards to the topic, the

researchers proceed in accomplishing the two chapters. In line with chapter 3,

the researchers created guided questions that are needed in an interview. Before

conducting the pilot testing, the researchers sent an informed consent to Sitio

Kay Reyna, Barangay Lumaniag Lian, Batangas. This is also a marine protected

area managed by the local people of Lumaniag. The guided questions were

answered by three local individuals who are concerned with managing the
mangrove conservation in the aforementioned location. The member assigned to

be the interviewer already practiced the skills and techniques to gather a large

amount of raw data before the day of the pilot testing. When the respondents

were ready on the scheduled time and day of the interview, the researchers

together with the respondents, were in a quiet room to avoid any distractions.

The interviewer introduced all the members of the study and shared the purpose

of this study, the confidentiality of the information, and the anonymity of the

respondents. While the interviewer started the interview, the other members of

the study prepared devices to record the audio of the respondents. The

interviewer asked follow-up questions to the respondents. The interviewer was

listening attentively and used body language in interviewing. When the pilot

testing was done, the researchers gave a simple token of appreciation to the

respondents to thank them for their time and participation. After that, the

researchers made some changes to the guided questions. After revising the

questionnaire, the researchers made an approval letter for the chosen validators

outside the University.

During
 To achieve the real purpose of this study, the researchers went to Brgy.

Quilitisan Calatagan Batangas to conduct the real interview with the targeted

respondents. After that, the researchers divided the respondents into four (3)

groups with three (3) members for each group. Likewise, when the respondents

were ready on the scheduled time and day of the interview, the researchers and

the respondents were in a room to avoid any distractions. The researchers used

the lessons they learned from pilot testing such as the skills and techniques.

Subsequently, the researchers prepared the needed materials for the focus

group discussion such as recording devices, paper, a ballpen, a camera for

documentation, etc. The proper gathering of data started by introducing the

names of each member of the study, sharing the purpose of this study, the

confidentiality of the information, and the anonymity of the respondents.

Moreover, the assigned researcher to be the interviewer acted naturally so that

the respondents were relaxed. The interviewer started to ask questions to the

respondents and prevented the discussion of a respondent dominated by other

respondents. The interviewer gave a chance for every respondent to hear each

view and then added follow-up questions for clarification. The researchers took

down notes of each response, observed their answers to know if Bayanihan

occurred, and wrote down the ideas that they wanted to ask by giving them to the
interviewer. After the first group, the researchers proceed to the next group to

conduct the same procedure. The researchers were not satisfied with the

responses of the first two groups so the researchers continued the interview with

the third group with the same method.

After

Before the interview formally ended, the interviewer asked the respondents

for some additional information that they think is important but had not been

asked by the interviewer. After the completion of data gathering, the researchers

gave a simple token of appreciation to all of the respondents of the study to thank

them for their time and effort. Lastly, the researchers analyzed the data collected

from the respondents. All the collected responses were transcribed verbatim.

Data Analysis

In the Qualitative Data Analysis, the researchers examined the meaningful

and symbolic content of the qualitative data. Qualitative Data Analysis is the

range of processes and procedures whereby one moves from the qualitative data

that have been collected into some form of explanation, understanding or

interpretation of the people and situations one is investigating. The said analysis
is usually based on an interpretative philosophy. The process of Qualitative Data

Analysis usually involves two things, writing and the identification of the themes

(Online QDA Website, 2015). Qualitative analysis involves labeling and coding all

of the data in order that similarities and differences can be recognized.

Responses from even an unstructured qualitative interview can be entered into a

computer in order for it to be coded, counted and analyzed. The qualitative

researcher, however, has no system for pre-coding, therefore a method of

identifying and labeling or coding data needs to be developed that is bespoke for

each research - which is called content analysis (Libweb.surrey.ac.uk Website,

2017).

As added by Lyons and Coyle (2016) who were both in the field of

psychology stated that qualitative data analysis has clear steps to serve as a

guide for every researcher. The certain qualitative approach that the researchers

used in analyzing the data are thematic analysis. It is a method that identifies and

analyzes the pattern in qualitative data, it also stated that these approaches are

more analytical compared to methodological approaches. They also viewed that

thematic analysis is flexible theoretically due to its way of gathering data; this

means that this has its way while also respecting the means of other practices.

Additionally, it also means that with its flexibility it can be applied within a
theoretical framework, with its independence it can also be said that this can be

learned easily. (Braun and Clarke, 2013)

In applying inductive thematic analysis, the researchers familiarized

themselves with the data they collected by transcribing the audio, taking down

notes, and reading the texts. After that, the researchers highlighted or decoded

the important section of the text. Each code represents the feelings that have

been said by the respondents and collates all the data. These serve as the main

points acquired from the data. After looking at the codes that the researchers

created and identifying the patterns, the researchers proceed to make themes.

The codes that are similar to each other were put into a single theme. Lastly, the

researchers define each theme to have the exact meaning and avoid

misunderstanding.

Validation

In line with the quality principles under the qualitative research, the study

also adhered to Frambach et. al.’s Quality Criteria in Qualitative and Quantitative

Research (2021), which underscored the truth value of evidence, applicability of

evidence, consistency of evidence and neutrality of evidence. However, there are

differences as regards the quality criteria involved. With regard to the truth value

of evidence, the quality criteria in qualitative research as regards credibility was

considered. This underscored the extent to which the study’s findings are

trustworthy and believable to others. Specifically, the study utilized these

techniques to enhance quality in this study: 1) used multiple data sources or data

triangulation, methods or methodical triangulation and theories or theory

triangulation; 2) collected data for an extended period of time or prolonged

engagement; and asked feedback from the participants on the data or

interpretation of the data or member checking.

Relative to the applicability of evidence, the quality criteria in qualitative

research as regards transferability was considered. This highlighted the extent to

which the findings can be transferred or applied in different settings. Specifically,

the study utilized these techniques to enhance quality in this study: 1) made the

findings meaningful to others by describing them and their content in detail or

thick description; 2) explain the sampling strategy such as typical case sampling

or maximum-variation sampling; and 3) discussed the findings’ resonance with

existing literature from different settings.

 As regards the consistency of evidence, the quality criteria in qualitative

research as regards dependability was considered. This emphasized the extent

to which the findings are consistent in relation to the context in which they were

generated. Specifically, the study utilized these techniques to enhance quality in

this study: 1) collected data until no new themes emerge or saturation; 2)

continuously analyzed the data to inform further data collection or iterative data

collection; 3) continuously re-examine the data using insights that emerge during

analysis or iterative data analysis; and 4) have been flexible and open towards

the process and topic or flexible/emergent research design. Finally, with

reference to the neutrality of evidence, the quality criteria in qualitative research

as regards confirmability was considered. This stressed the extent to which the

findings are based on the study’s participants and settings instead of

researchers’ biases. Specifically, the study utilized these techniques to enhance

quality in this study: 1) searched the data and/or literature for evidence that

disconfirms the findings; 2) discussed the research process and/or findings with

peers/experts or peer debriefing; 3) kept a diary to reflect on the process and the

researcher’s role and influence or reflexibility; and 4) documented the steps and

decisions taken in the research, and their motives or audit trail.

Administration

Prior to distribution, a permission from the author to utilize the said

questionnaire was availed of (See Appendix ___). The administration of

questionnaires involved certain elements, which were considered upon. This

include the place of survey, sample targeted and authority from whom

permissions need to be sought. Likewise, scientific and ethical considerations

were adhered to. These entails: the introduction of the researchers and the

research institution’s name, the subjects on which views are to be taken; the

information about the anticipated time required for the survey and directions to be

followed; the presentation of the questionnaire to the respondent; the clarification

of the questions along with the instructions in cases wherein the respondents

face any difficulty in understanding items; noting on the back of the sheets any

questions the respondents had about the items, or any comments or remarks

concerning the questionnaire; and the expression of gratitude to the respondents

when they have answered the questionnaire.

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