ELIJAH JONATHAN C.

MATEO SEPTEMBER 18, 2023

BSCE 2A
STS 11 QUIZ 2

a. Describe the forest change in Davao Oriental (Please indicate your

sources)

The province of Davao Oriental, located in the southeastern Philippines, has garnered
significant attention due to its biodiverse forests, which are vital for ecological,
economic, and cultural reasons. It's important to note that the information provided is
accurate up to September 2021, and there may have been developments since then.
Here is an overview of the prevailing trends related to forest change in Davao
Oriental as of that time:

1. Deforestation:

Davao Oriental, akin to many other Philippine regions, has witnessed deforestation
driven by factors such as illegal logging, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure
development. This deforestation has resulted in the loss of critical forest cover,
disrupting natural ecosystems and contributing to problems like soil erosion, degraded
water quality, and heightened vulnerability to natural disasters like landslides and
floods.

2. Reforestation and Conservation Initiatives:

In response to the deforestation challenge, various stakeholders, including

government bodies, local communities, and environmental organizations, have
launched reforestation and conservation projects in Davao Oriental. These endeavors
aim to rehabilitate degraded forest areas, safeguard remaining primary forests, and
promote sustainable land use practices. Typically, these reforestation initiatives
involve planting native tree species to restore the region's ecological equilibrium.

3. Protected Areas and Biodiversity Preservation:

Davao Oriental is home to numerous protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries,

notably the Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, acknowledged as a
UNESCO World Heritage Site. These areas assume a critical role in conserving the
province's diverse biodiversity, including numerous endemic species. Conservation
actions within these protected zones focus on preserving habitats and thwarting
further encroachment.
4. Community Engagement:

Involving local communities in forest management and conservation has emerged

as a central strategy in Davao Oriental. Community-based forest management
programs empower residents to partake in sustainable resource management,
ultimately enhancing forest protection and resource preservation.

5. Persistent Challenges and Pressures:

Despite robust conservation efforts, Davao Oriental confronts ongoing challenges

arising from illegal logging, land conversion for agriculture, and infrastructural
development. Tackling these challenges necessitates the continued enforcement of
environmental regulations and the pursuit of sustainable land use planning.

6. Climate Change Resilience:

Davao Oriental, like other regions, grapples with the ramifications of climate
change. Forests play a pivotal role in mitigating and adapting to climate change by
sequestering carbon and regulating water resources. Prioritizing sustainable forest
management contributes to the province's resilience against climate-related
challenges.

The transformation of forests in Davao Oriental remains a dynamic issue influenced

by multifaceted ecological, economic, and social factors. Addressing deforestation,
advocating conservation, and promoting sustainable land practices are indispensable
for preserving the health of the province's forests and ensuring the welfare of its
inhabitants. To navigate ongoing challenges and adapt to evolving environmental
conditions, a sustained commitment to these efforts is imperative.

b. Give 3 examples of invasive species found in the country and describe

how they affect endemic species.

In the Philippines, a number of invasive species have been intentionally or

accidentally introduced to the region. These intruders pose a substantial menace to the
native and often unique species that have evolved in this environment over millennia.
Here, we spotlight three examples of invasive species and delve into the consequences
they exact upon the native flora and fauna:

1. Water Hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes):

Impact on Endemic Species*: Water hyacinth is an aggressive aquatic invader that
rapidly blankets water bodies. This proliferation deprives native aquatic plants of
sunlight and hampers their access to oxygen, thus imperiling the existence of
indigenous fish, amphibians, and aquatic plants. Furthermore, the dense mats formed
by this invader obstruct waterways, curbing boat movement and diminishing human
access for various purposes.

2. Golden Apple Snail (Pomacea canaliculata):

Impact on Endemic Species*: The voracious appetite of golden apple snails makes
them a perilous threat to aquatic ecosystems. These invasive snails devour native
aquatic vegetation, disrupting the intricate balance of such ecosystems. As indigenous
plants decline due to this predation, it initiates a chain reaction affecting native
aquatic animals that rely on these plants for sustenance and shelter. Disturbingly,
these snails are carriers of parasites that can infect both fish and humans, posing
serious health hazards.

3. African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus):

Impact on Endemic Species*: African catfish were introduced for aquaculture but
have since established feral populations in Philippine waters. These invasive
predators are known for their aggressive nature and compete fiercely with native fish
for sustenance and territory. This competitive pressure can lead to dwindling numbers
of native fish populations, particularly endemic species that have not evolved
mechanisms to coexist with such formidable rivals. Additionally, there is a looming
risk of hybridization between African catfish and native catfish, which further
endangers the genetic integrity of indigenous fish populations.

Invasive species of this nature are profoundly disruptive to the fragile equilibrium of
Philippine ecosystems. They excel in outcompeting native species for resources,
reshaping natural habitats, and potentially introducing diseases or parasites that native
species are ill-equipped to combat. Consequently, the incursion of invasive species
can usher in a decline in the richness of native biodiversity, unsettle vital ecological
processes, and, in the long run, imperil the survival of indigenous species within these
ecosystems. It is imperative to implement effective management and control
strategies to mitigate the impact of these invaders and safeguard the exceptional flora
and fauna that grace the Philippines.

c. Discuss the importance of natural fire.

The Importance of Natural Fires in Ecosystems

Natural fires, often referred to as wildfires, are a powerful and complex force of
nature that have played a significant role in shaping our planet's ecosystems for
millions of years. While these fires can appear destructive on the surface, their
importance in maintaining ecosystem health and vitality cannot be overstated. In the
following composition, I will discuss the multifaceted significance of natural fires and
why they are crucial components of our natural world.
 First and foremost, natural fires are essential for ecosystem resilience. Over time,
many ecosystems have evolved in the presence of periodic fires, adapting their plant
and animal species to withstand and even depend on these events. Fires clear out
older vegetation, allowing for the regeneration of new growth. This process initiates
ecological succession, ensuring that ecosystems remain dynamic and able to rebound
from disturbances.

One of the most profound contributions of natural fires is their role in promoting
biodiversity. By creating a patchwork of habitats, fires encourage a diverse range of
plant and animal species to thrive. The clearing of underbrush and dead vegetation
allows sunlight to reach the forest floor, enabling the growth of a variety of plant
species. This, in turn, provides food and shelter for numerous wildlife species.
Without natural fires, ecosystems can become stagnant, leading to reduced
biodiversity and increased vulnerability to pests and diseases.

Furthermore, natural fires are vital for nutrient cycling. When fires consume
vegetation, they release nutrients stored in plants and organic matter back into the
soil. This nutrient-rich soil becomes a fertile bed for new plant growth, ensuring the
continuous health of the ecosystem. Without this process, nutrient imbalances could
occur, affecting the overall vitality of the ecosystem.

Natural fires also serve as effective tools for controlling invasive species. Invasive
plants that are not adapted to fire-prone ecosystems can be outcompeted and
controlled by periodic fires. This helps protect native flora and fauna, preserving the
integrity of ecosystems and preventing the displacement of indigenous species.

Certain species have evolved specific adaptations to thrive in fire-prone

environments. For example, some pine trees have cones that rely on the heat of fire to
release seeds, ensuring their regeneration. Natural fires are essential for the survival
of these fire-adapted species.

Moreover, the occurrence of frequent, low-intensity natural fires can reduce the
accumulation of dead vegetation and fuel loads on the forest floor. This reduces the
risk of catastrophic wildfires, which can have devastating consequences for both
ecosystems and human communities. Natural fires, when allowed to burn naturally,
can act as a preventive measure against larger, more destructive fires.

Culturally and historically, natural fires hold significant importance in many

indigenous traditions. Indigenous peoples have practiced controlled burns for
centuries as a means of land management. These practices not only help maintain
ecosystems but also foster a harmonious relationship between humans and nature.

Finally, it is worth noting that while natural fires release carbon into the atmosphere,
they are also part of the carbon cycle. In some ecosystems, they help maintain a
balance by cycling carbon back into the soil and vegetation, contributing to overall
carbon management.
In conclusion, natural fires are not simply destructive events but integral components
of healthy ecosystems. They promote resilience, biodiversity, and sustainability.
Recognizing their importance is crucial for responsible land management and
conservation efforts. Embracing a holistic understanding of natural fires and finding
ways to coexist with them is essential for the well-being of our planet and all its
inhabitants.

d. Describe the forest ecosystem change of the Philippines

The Changing Forest Ecosystem of the Philippines

The Philippines, an archipelago of over 7,000 islands in Southeast Asia, boasts an

incredibly rich and diverse array of ecosystems. Among its most iconic and critical
ecosystems are its tropical forests. However, these forests have experienced profound
changes over the years, driven by a complex interplay of natural and human factors.
In this essay, I will explore the transformation of the forest ecosystem in the
Philippines and its implications.

Historically, the Philippines was once densely covered in lush tropical rainforests,
considered some of the most biologically diverse on the planet. These forests were
home to a staggering variety of plant and animal species, many of which were
endemic, meaning they could only be found in the Philippines. The forest ecosystem
played a vital role in maintaining the country's ecological balance, regulating climate,
and providing numerous resources and services to both nature and society.

However, the forest ecosystem of the Philippines has undergone significant changes
over time. One of the most pressing issues has been deforestation. Rapid population
growth, agricultural expansion, logging, and infrastructure development have led to
extensive forest clearing. This deforestation has not only reduced the overall forest
cover but has also fragmented and degraded the remaining forested areas.

The consequences of deforestation in the Philippines are profound. First and foremost
is the loss of biodiversity. Many endemic species are now endangered or critically
endangered due to habitat loss. The Philippines ranks among the top biodiversity
hotspots globally, making the loss of its unique flora and fauna a matter of global
concern.

Deforestation also impacts the climate. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and
storing significant amounts of carbon dioxide. When these forests are cleared, carbon
is released into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. Additionally, the loss
of forest cover disrupts local climate patterns, leading to issues such as altered rainfall
patterns and increased temperatures.

Moreover, deforestation affects local communities and indigenous peoples who

depend on forests for their livelihoods. Traditional practices of sustainable forest
management have been eroded, and many have been displaced from their ancestral
lands.
Efforts to address the changes in the Philippine forest ecosystem have included the
establishment of protected areas and conservation initiatives. Legislation and policies
aimed at curbing illegal logging and promoting reforestation have also been put in
place. However, the challenges are immense, and enforcement remains a struggle in
many areas.

Climate change poses an additional threat to the forest ecosystem. Rising

temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and increased frequency of extreme weather
events can stress already vulnerable forest ecosystems. This further underscores the
urgency of conservation efforts and sustainable forest management practices.

In conclusion, the forest ecosystem of the Philippines has undergone significant

changes, primarily driven by deforestation and habitat degradation. These changes
have far-reaching consequences for biodiversity, climate, and the well-being of local
communities. Conservation and sustainable forest management practices are vital to
mitigate these impacts and protect this unique and irreplaceable natural heritage. The
preservation and restoration of the Philippine forest ecosystem are not only essential
for the country but also for global biodiversity and climate stability.

e. Describe the concrete actions of the Philippine government to protect our

remaining forest.

The protection of the Philippines' remaining forests is a critical environmental and

ecological concern, given the country's rich biodiversity and the numerous benefits
that forests provide, such as carbon sequestration, water regulation, and habitat
preservation. The Philippine government has taken several concrete actions to address
this issue, although it's important to note that my knowledge is current as of
September 2021, and there may have been further developments since then.

One of the primary initiatives undertaken by the Philippine government is the

establishment and management of protected areas and national parks. These areas
serve as sanctuaries for various plant and animal species and help conserve the natural
beauty of the country. Agencies like the Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) and the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB) have played
pivotal roles in identifying, designating, and safeguarding these protected areas.

Additionally, the Philippine government has implemented laws and regulations aimed
at curbing illegal logging and deforestation. The Philippine Forestry Code, which was
updated in 1975, governs the sustainable use of forest resources. This code outlines
rules for timber harvesting, reforestation, and forest management practices. The
government has also instituted logging bans in certain critical areas to prevent further
deforestation.

Community-based forestry management programs have been initiated to engage local

communities in forest conservation efforts. These programs promote sustainable
forest management practices and provide communities with economic incentives to
protect their forests. By involving local residents in forest management, the
government seeks to reduce illegal activities and enhance the long-term preservation
of these vital ecosystems.
Moreover, the Philippines has been active in international agreements related to forest
protection and climate change. The country is a signatory to the United Nations
Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement,
committing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which are closely tied to forest
preservation. By participating in these agreements, the Philippine government
acknowledges the critical role forests play in mitigating climate change and commits
to taking action accordingly.

Despite these efforts, challenges persist. Illegal logging remains a problem, and
enforcement of environmental laws can be inconsistent due to resource limitations
and corruption. Moreover, the encroachment of agriculture and infrastructure
development into forested areas continues to threaten these ecosystems.

In conclusion, the Philippine government has indeed taken concrete actions to protect
its remaining forests, recognizing their ecological, economic, and cultural
significance. These actions include establishing protected areas, implementing laws
against deforestation, promoting community-based forest management, and engaging
in international agreements on climate change and forest preservation. However,
ongoing efforts to address illegal logging and land-use conflicts are necessary to
ensure the long-term survival of these invaluable natural resources.