tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60064441453258686262024-03-09T04:19:57.156+08:00Nature CallsMy work as Seacology's Field Representative for the Philippines takes me around the country. This is a blog of my travels.Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-87130959914503320502023-08-14T13:23:00.009+08:002023-08-17T03:08:28.779+08:00Suyac is proud of its mangroves<p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTk9Bf0TggMw_hSWToqU9E4V0lOuncPcUHmt0f3kWprV5tWB_iaEsPpWuhO0VfUc4qKC-tax9Gp79UcF0XPe8LYiS05-NxAYu5fUoEhS-h2-vxTvyO6uzOS0h0mRg_tHBAy_MOSAz7i8nLWKhv274k-mf2_pf7ngV68DCY7BnLYZMGuc8FxeFUkiRUZVqv" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4080" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgTk9Bf0TggMw_hSWToqU9E4V0lOuncPcUHmt0f3kWprV5tWB_iaEsPpWuhO0VfUc4qKC-tax9Gp79UcF0XPe8LYiS05-NxAYu5fUoEhS-h2-vxTvyO6uzOS0h0mRg_tHBAy_MOSAz7i8nLWKhv274k-mf2_pf7ngV68DCY7BnLYZMGuc8FxeFUkiRUZVqv=w320-h240" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Picturesque mangroves at the edge<br /> of Suyac Island reaching out to the sea.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">The community in Suyac Island is living off its mangroves, and its mangroves are thriving. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">It is not very often that these phrases can be said in one breath without contradicting each other, but Suyac is making it work through their version of eco-tourism.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">The 15.7-hectare Suyac Mangrove Reserve is part of the much larger 32,000-hectare Sagay Marine Reserve, which has no-take zones in some areas while prescribing allowable activities, like aquaculture, in others.<br /></span></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhrNM3SrLPzJMnhpMFHXDsdB4R1p1zpBfIAyfspLUwDp-aCZ7xhgR9KUN8DEukXn8BkHLWMuZvYXYV1nKqqdOsxUl3sl1i6e0Y3fZ-naJ6i810fwY8t0P8Z8aN6OphHaf-o8pv_MOLfdAe3rk5cE1a6T08fbJdT88ZcuGfEZR1AE4jfn6s9tpkCO3TzN65" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhhrNM3SrLPzJMnhpMFHXDsdB4R1p1zpBfIAyfspLUwDp-aCZ7xhgR9KUN8DEukXn8BkHLWMuZvYXYV1nKqqdOsxUl3sl1i6e0Y3fZ-naJ6i810fwY8t0P8Z8aN6OphHaf-o8pv_MOLfdAe3rk5cE1a6T08fbJdT88ZcuGfEZR1AE4jfn6s9tpkCO3TzN65" width="181" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Old-growth mangroves<br />are plentiful in Suyac.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">Flying foxes, old-growth mangroves, and birds are some of the island's attractions. Tours are conducted by members of the SIETAAS or Suyac Island Eco-park Tourist Attendant Association in Ilonggo, Tagalog, or English. </span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">What makes the Suyac tours even more unique are the dishes served for lunch, which features delectably fresh locally-prepared seafood one would be hard-pressed to find elsewhere. This includes the Suyac <i>kilawin</i> or ceviche, which won an award in a regional competition.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times;">Every tour begins with a briefing, which invariably mentions how their mangroves saved them from the wrath of super-typhoon Yolanda when it passed just a little north of Negros Island. That happened some years back, but during the briefing SIETAAS President </span><span style="font-family: times;">Melanie Mermida</span><span style="font-family: times;"> gave, it was apparent that their emotional scars were still somewhat raw.</span></span></p><p></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgQtAZU_A8pYadQpOf4juYbDH6nfeAD9n97rhDbiXnRE9SEBK9dhzQ0rIR_VnLyX8Tpt6F5dmvM95y94JTOPzRex0p20XfD9KLXt4K0GYr7UtArarTirOjC_0oP5ybUqO8Jg0iWEj6ELXMvru1c5kHz0r0J8QKgUalVvWHbCEtrJUfsFuP_JzWbLsu4THiv" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4080" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgQtAZU_A8pYadQpOf4juYbDH6nfeAD9n97rhDbiXnRE9SEBK9dhzQ0rIR_VnLyX8Tpt6F5dmvM95y94JTOPzRex0p20XfD9KLXt4K0GYr7UtArarTirOjC_0oP5ybUqO8Jg0iWEj6ELXMvru1c5kHz0r0J8QKgUalVvWHbCEtrJUfsFuP_JzWbLsu4THiv" width="319" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Melanie Mermida giving a pre-tour briefing.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: times;">Mangrove forests have time and again proven to be protective buffers against storm surges, and for the community in Suyac, their Yolanda experience gave a solid confirmation. While houses in another island were decimated, they got through relatively, even if fearfully, unscathed.</span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">The boardwalk and other structures were constructed in a way such that there would be </span><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">minimal impact on the mangroves. Any visitor would feel it as they go through some sections of the boardwalk. Every mangrove branch was prioritized over design and pedestrian flow.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJhPjA0HeRcRRKQ_bzzpuCRHIeYf6XtCjHL-992nAjU2n6lN55sJg5wI2KJqkV8HilcfbL8hyxL22mVVBj0OE79H5ky28MaAihpdQ8HM0dpr4_X-ab5hirIcXkEB0qetD-TT2SobJITqeQM9tqazHNTl84ZPo5DlHEx7eAfnYtfnAPFXcChFEcYGeRxHKL" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgJhPjA0HeRcRRKQ_bzzpuCRHIeYf6XtCjHL-992nAjU2n6lN55sJg5wI2KJqkV8HilcfbL8hyxL22mVVBj0OE79H5ky28MaAihpdQ8HM0dpr4_X-ab5hirIcXkEB0qetD-TT2SobJITqeQM9tqazHNTl84ZPo5DlHEx7eAfnYtfnAPFXcChFEcYGeRxHKL" width="181" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Thick mangrove branches <br />welcome tree huggers.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">As for facilities, cottages are available as venues for lunch and toilets are located strategically. The 3-level watchtower offers a scenic view of the surrounding mangroves and the sea, while massages can be arranged at the open spa.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">The gross annual income of the eco-tourism enterprise when it started in 2013 was P249,076 and as of 2018 it was already at P1,442,391. As agreed, sixty percent of gross income goes directly to the community, while the rest goes to upkeep and other expenses.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">The carrying capacity of Suyac Island has been set at 50 tourists per day, and the community strictly adheres to this number. Trips must be arranged in advance through the <a href="mailto:sagaycityinfo@yahoo.com" target="_blank">Sagay City Tourism Office</a>.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Covid-19</b></span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiNZLrfsMM00FS04VvJ4kezgbIoN79xAE4zIjRsW6eeS4bLmj9w2OaiJjPgBG9t-j9ZSiJnItPvGo92l6m1vFuVRIKv7dd_kMOcfpkhzQULnH4HTjR19Fi8cpnMaGQVO9okhkljigIBwdn-qUijpFTn9u2MFIkKXiKG_W_ovTdNwyrMYlkODLxc4O2aCpyM" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4080" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEiNZLrfsMM00FS04VvJ4kezgbIoN79xAE4zIjRsW6eeS4bLmj9w2OaiJjPgBG9t-j9ZSiJnItPvGo92l6m1vFuVRIKv7dd_kMOcfpkhzQULnH4HTjR19Fi8cpnMaGQVO9okhkljigIBwdn-qUijpFTn9u2MFIkKXiKG_W_ovTdNwyrMYlkODLxc4O2aCpyM" width="319" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The watchtower's second level.</i><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">When Covid-19 happened, the community was as unprepared for it as everyone else was. The whole country was placed under quarantine, with only one authorized person per household allowed to go out for provisions. Tourists stopped coming, and operations came to an immediate halt. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">The watchtower, cottages, and spa gradually atrophied. Over two years of general disuse and occasional typhoons took its toll on the structures, leaving them decrepit and unsafe.</span></p><p></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj9-Eklt0cPTONVRrhYTcyxYW50Jhn_9-YKlFGxMtVbebESO9aHrh8hMDFgmdw_v5klknZYUUy8k0_NEVcLLR6EXAHDhEiva5aGjFIDB7G8Gkw_DA-WiFolRur0ZnFH6kRBLXbSWbADQAqAKwRuLiFGMCMdbecBPT_EkKKQagvXscUArfcwRtcWhme3ZvTj" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="3072" data-original-width="4080" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj9-Eklt0cPTONVRrhYTcyxYW50Jhn_9-YKlFGxMtVbebESO9aHrh8hMDFgmdw_v5klknZYUUy8k0_NEVcLLR6EXAHDhEiva5aGjFIDB7G8Gkw_DA-WiFolRur0ZnFH6kRBLXbSWbADQAqAKwRuLiFGMCMdbecBPT_EkKKQagvXscUArfcwRtcWhme3ZvTj" width="319" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The spa house where massages may be had.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: medium;">When Covid restrictions were finally lifted, the community needed help to return to their pre-pandemic eco-tourism operations. The local government of Sagay City stepped in, but funds were not enough to cover all the rehabilitation needed. Only the boardwalk was repaired.</span><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Sagay City Municipal Tourism Officer Helen Arguelles Cutillar approached <a href="https://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> on behalf of the Suyac community to ask Seacology for assistance in the repair of the watchtower and spa. In return the community of Suyac Island offered to protect their mangroves in perpetuity. Seacology agreed, and a grant was approved for the rehabilitation of the spa house and watchtower. As of this writing, every facility is back in operation.</span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><b>The flying foxes</b></span></p><p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;">The islanders themselves count the flying foxes monthly, regularly reporting the data to the Regional Office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). In 2012 the population was over 1,000. Just before the pandemic it was already up to 12,000.</span></p><span style="font-family: times; font-size: medium;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgj88C_rlAHMknlYoS47sq3eUizmkbcfHQlrwO2clKdrPBo9gLQcZV5XKpU2w7D3Xov8sRRXM6JCmClgmVeMEicsZA-MEXvZFwOf_LY_F3honQ_gAgHk4MlslX2rV8i7iuLzoqDUhROkdFFWSoegjpa7ivgLuEylVbbETaEeFWEn6SihfHudoPygiSrmERC" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4080" data-original-width="3072" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgj88C_rlAHMknlYoS47sq3eUizmkbcfHQlrwO2clKdrPBo9gLQcZV5XKpU2w7D3Xov8sRRXM6JCmClgmVeMEicsZA-MEXvZFwOf_LY_F3honQ_gAgHk4MlslX2rV8i7iuLzoqDUhROkdFFWSoegjpa7ivgLuEylVbbETaEeFWEn6SihfHudoPygiSrmERC" width="181" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The watchtower in full view.</i></td></tr></tbody></table></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">While post-covid work on the boardwalk was in progress, flying fox counting began again as well, and the community found the number to have decreased to just over 8,000.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Also, while repair on the other structures was ongoing, the flying fox count went further down to just over 2,000. The locals posited that the construction noise disturbed them and drove some of them away. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Fortunately, signs point to the depopulation as temporary. On August 3, about two weeks after all construction work was done, the flying fox count was back up to over 8,000.</span></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_FZNIh8GHT73OEPvEyBjL8xPr2awxy_nVJgBQawvvF-3TWuz1b4Fni-ZKRwkm21mqO21U-aIlHT84LklWn0Sb0_2CrwKuYVx7hKHCRVTmL4npISVEQTnIx475DSUSlju13qAT4veyLXzyem6Kcok49NjyHtPg3C09zVaRs9j2bM8N3mP9FkK4zMgD16Ks" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj_FZNIh8GHT73OEPvEyBjL8xPr2awxy_nVJgBQawvvF-3TWuz1b4Fni-ZKRwkm21mqO21U-aIlHT84LklWn0Sb0_2CrwKuYVx7hKHCRVTmL4npISVEQTnIx475DSUSlju13qAT4veyLXzyem6Kcok49NjyHtPg3C09zVaRs9j2bM8N3mP9FkK4zMgD16Ks" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>A pre-pandemic photo of a colony of flying foxes.<br />(Photo courtesy of Helen Cutillar)</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>The bigger community's commitment</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Suyac Island is within Barangay Taba-ao, which is in turn within Sagay City. It is notable that conservation is ingrained in many activities here. </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">In my visit to the Museo Sang Bata sa Negros, children at a local public school, grades two to six, took turns in presenting the interactive exhibits. They covered nearly everything about the sea, from mangroves to intertidal-zones to various marine animals. The power failure that happened was not enough to dampen their enthusiasm.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWcEg7DwAh6vzPtXKK2B-iW9w_EjtyUw_v41xSrRdTa9P6P6_lB0X6kPNdu6TLkIhuDGzQJqdtqEe2At5OK1A2QmqbIU7niCLqsWvoSSyEJ4uCFRcL3X9OotgqJUc8di2e_ZBlOam89S1vXevmTr0MD6LUEuIJ2_v5N638rq-4fHsK2EC9o8FN9k1PQuib" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="1920" data-original-width="2560" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhWcEg7DwAh6vzPtXKK2B-iW9w_EjtyUw_v41xSrRdTa9P6P6_lB0X6kPNdu6TLkIhuDGzQJqdtqEe2At5OK1A2QmqbIU7niCLqsWvoSSyEJ4uCFRcL3X9OotgqJUc8di2e_ZBlOam89S1vXevmTr0MD6LUEuIJ2_v5N638rq-4fHsK2EC9o8FN9k1PQuib" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>An elementary school pupil educates visitors of the <br />Museo San Bata on the virtues of conservation.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">At Purok Bougainvillia (their spelling) leading up to Margaha Beach, Sikad (pedicab)<br /> drivers gave a tour of the mangroves surrounding their village. My tour guide described the specifics of each species, why the mangroves are important, and what they are doing to conserve them.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Renowned artist and native<br /> son of Sagay Nunelucio Alvarado worked with the community such that his style of contemporary and progressive artwork adorned every other house in Purok Bougainvillia, giving the tour a quaint attractiveness.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgO_2va8BX1jMeHEyCP_M2Bn-f4ugFjbCz79vB3-jSF9zPqvtAX1iphwXcCtmbulUXcifkk0FyDtV9G3BnRhKmuLKT6TKEASkWaHxl6XJ2wpBDAlIBFo1gkXjVbpYPQtTNweHkiZ3y3Fca4Yr08azUvK0NYOqljoxsKANEU_JjRgqAtmAz115p-YDAIZ8SJ" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="2560" data-original-width="1920" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgO_2va8BX1jMeHEyCP_M2Bn-f4ugFjbCz79vB3-jSF9zPqvtAX1iphwXcCtmbulUXcifkk0FyDtV9G3BnRhKmuLKT6TKEASkWaHxl6XJ2wpBDAlIBFo1gkXjVbpYPQtTNweHkiZ3y3Fca4Yr08azUvK0NYOqljoxsKANEU_JjRgqAtmAz115p-YDAIZ8SJ" width="180" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>My Sikad tourguide<br /> describing their mangrove trees.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><b>Takeaways</b></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Old growth mangroves and its denizens like flying foxes, wild ducks, and other birds, are certainly worth seeing. But the add-on attractions complete the experience. For the gastronomically adventurous, the Suyac <i>kilawin </i>or ceviche, together with sea hare eggs are a must try. I was told that these are standard fare on lunches served, along with crabs and various other shellfish.<br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">With the involvement of schoolchildren in conservation advocacy, the community's deep understanding and appreciation of the natural treasures they have seems to be ensured for generations to come.</span></p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRCvpwBo3gHg58DcjqBvE4yvpVxNCLjursF3dwOmz2FVyNiFDMcI7IT2le1ITTppKRboR58s1sk8gLg0FT2mBa0ySzeWeANrffKUELtndTa0iu_SU9xYWWJL-rVaCm-zremJ8atBdYXnp7CIb8TOJgsmAubt6X6FjcfyYw3-oqvsM5nrlC6hnotOlG1Uco" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEjRCvpwBo3gHg58DcjqBvE4yvpVxNCLjursF3dwOmz2FVyNiFDMcI7IT2le1ITTppKRboR58s1sk8gLg0FT2mBa0ySzeWeANrffKUELtndTa0iu_SU9xYWWJL-rVaCm-zremJ8atBdYXnp7CIb8TOJgsmAubt6X6FjcfyYw3-oqvsM5nrlC6hnotOlG1Uco" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Capturing the moment with <br />Suyac's community leaders.</i></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">It helps too, in no small measure, that the officials in Sagay City share a common vision for their natural resources. With this, a wholistic approach to conservation became possible.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;">Other coastal communities should come and see which lessons can apply to them.</span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"> </span></p><p><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></p><p><br /></p>Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-85983748491783951522018-05-17T19:42:00.000+08:002018-05-18T05:13:27.398+08:00Agdangan: The little town that will<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo-op with the good mayor.</td></tr>
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As Philippine municipalities go, Agdangan in Quezon Province is relatively small with an area of just a little over 30 square kilometers and a population of only 12,851 (2015 census). For comparison, nearby Atimonan has an area of nearly 240 square kilometers with a population of 63,432. This is one of the reasons cited by Agdangan Mayor Adam Aguilar why his town has been underdeveloped – skipped over by the province’s political leaders for its feeble voting power – for so many years.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the boardwalk entrance.</td></tr>
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Pockets of road and bridge repairs compounded the fatiguing five-and-a-half-hour road trip from Quezon City to Agdangan. Mayor Aguilar and Tambuyog Executive Director Dinna Umengan, along with their staff, were already patiently waiting for us by the time we arrived at about 10:30 am. Looking back, maybe we should have planned to leave earlier than 5 am.<br />
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A 5th class municipality, the Agdangan townsfolk subsist on <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Signage before the second part of the boardwalk</td></tr>
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coconut farming and mostly fishing – typical sources of livelihood for coastal communities, especially in the southeastern provinces of Luzon.<br />
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For most of the town’s fisherfolk, the volume of their catch today is a far cry from before. The current average fishing yield is only about three kilos per trip, which barely covers fuel and other operating expenses. They know that the breeding grounds must recover, and they have established two fish sanctuaries for this purpose. Also, the LGU is planning to close the municipality’s waters against fishing to give marine organisms a chance to reach maturity and multiply.<br />
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Two challenges have been confronting the town’s efforts at conservation. First, and until recently, both the mangrove and the reef ecosystems were threatened by human activities. Poachers, mostly from neighboring municipalities, have not only been fishing where they were not supposed to, but they have also been using illegal methods such as Danish seine (buli-buli, banned since 2014), dynamite fishing, and cyanide. Moreover, people were dumping trash in the mangroves and cutting trees indiscriminately for household construction. Ms. Umengan tells of a former mayor <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The back of the information center.</td></tr>
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whom Tambuyog took to court some years ago for clearing 15 hectares of mangrove, which he subsequently used for aquaculture. The case is yet to be resolved.<br />
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Fortunately, strict enforcement instituted in the last several years has increasingly become a major deterrent in these activities. According to Sonny Hermoso, Agdangan Tourism Officer, the Bantay Dagat (Fish Wardens) together with the Philippine National Police have been very effective in getting errant people in line.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fines for littering are clear.</td></tr>
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The second issue is livelihood. With the planned seasonal closure of municipal waters to fishing, the community must look for other ways for their fisherfolk to put food on the table. Tourism is being eyed.<br />
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Last year, the community had a proposal for Seacology. They will strengthen the protection of the 24-hectare Bahurang Silag and the 98-hectare Lawis sanctuaries, both existing no-take zones in the municipality’s waters, and they will also set aside for conservation 50 hectares of mangroves in Barangay Kanlurang Calutan, in return <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Path leading to the covered dock.</td></tr>
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for funds to build a 400-meter mangrove boardwalk and information center. This is to boost their fledgling tourism industry, and Seacology agreed.<br />
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After the initial briefing from Mayor Aguilar and Ms. Umengan, we headed to what is now known as Camp Multohan Mangrove Walk and Information Center, about 15 minutes by car from the municipal hall.<br />
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For Tagalog speakers, which the Agdanganons are, multohan means haunted. As in ghost-haunted. But despite whatever Halloween-inspired images it may conjure, the name does not refer to the presence of disembodied spirits. It is simply the name of the sitio where the boardwalk is, the origin of which no one seems to know anymore. At any rate, this didn’t seem to bother the laughing coterie of locals we passed by at the middle of the boardwalk.<br />
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The first part of the boardwalk ends at a small island where officers and members of the Samahan ng Mangingisda sa Silangang Calutan, Samahan ng Mangingisda sa Kanlurang Calutan, and Bisig Mangingisda sa Kanlurang Calutan were on hand to greet us at the newly constructed Information Center.<br />
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Their excitement to show us how and where they did what was evident. This was where they mixed cement. This is one of the rafts they used to haul the materials, and they used many like that. This <br />
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was where the materials were piled. This is how the foundations were constructed. And so on. What was evident too was their pride in what they were able to do together.<br />
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The second, shorter part of the boardwalk starts at the western end of the small island. The boardwalk splits into two towards the end. One leads to a covered dock where one of the rafts used for hauling construction materials is tied, and the other looks like it can be used as a jump-off point for other marine activities. Both offer a view of the sea, and the buoys marking the fish sanctuaries can just barely be seen as tiny white dots from afar.<br />
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Part of the itinerary was for us to go to the fish sanctuaries by boat, but an unseasonal prolonged rain put a dampener on that. Instead we huddled in the covered part of the dock with everyone engaging in light banter.<br />
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Perhaps because it is a small town, Agdangan seems very progressive. They have no landfill and other municipalities will not accept their trash, so recycling is strictly enforced. Plastic bags, even in the wet market, are prohibited. Signs warning of fines for litterbugs are there not just for show unlike in many other places. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo-op with the community leaders.</td></tr>
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Violators are really apprehended and fined. Community members themselves report the violators. It was only when they told me this that I realized I didn’t see a single piece of trash as we went through the boardwalk. And I got the chance to validate this on the way back.<br />
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Mr. Hermoso says they plan to conduct educational tours for schoolchildren on the boardwalk and involve them in mangrove planting. With the next generation getting involved, there certainly seems to be reason to hope in Agdangan’s future.<br />
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Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-33444337868612499212016-11-20T19:59:00.003+08:002016-11-24T07:04:16.330+08:00Tales from 3 Protected Areas in the Cuyo Group of Islands<p> <p>Human pressure on marine systems is intensifying, and the establishment of marine sanctuaries is one of the most effective tools for the protection and management of coastal, marine and fishery resources. For most fishing villages that have set aside for protection and conservation a portion of their marine resource, the hope that there will still be plenty of fish for years to come is all the reason they need. <p>Cuyo Island is home to two municipalities: Cuyo and Magsaysay. In return for commitments to <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tGcuwkaPqgU/WDGCPy22LXI/AAAAAAAAKeE/6lEjFz6w9ig/s1600-h/20161115_115758-01-01.jpg"><img title="20161115_115758-01-01" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20161115_115758-01-01" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qyXEKCJT90c/WDGCSjo8MBI/AAAAAAAAKeI/5-HD-ROORtE/20161115_115758-01-01_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="174"></a>protect their resources, <a href="http://www.seacology.org/" target="_blank">Seacology</a> funded projects through the <a href="http://www.asorianofdn.org/" target="_blank">Andres Soriano Foundation</a> (ASF) in three barangays: Barangay San Carlos in the Municipality of Cuyo, and Barangays Rizal and Canipo, both in the Municipality of Magsaysay. No-take zones had been designated and the fisherfolk limit themselves to catching the spillover fish at the periphery. <p>We visited these sites last week. With me were Lemia Simbulan and Ramil Tabangay, Executive Director and Program Manager respectively of the ASF. <p> <p>Barangay San Carlos <p>Barangay San Carlos is situated along the southwestern coast of Cuyo Island. Mostly the villagers make a living from the sea’s bounty. During times when the water is too rough for their boats to navigate, they turn to their farms. The village sought Seacology’s help in the construction of a <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0mm806Cwtx0/WDGCUJo4xMI/AAAAAAAAKeM/8sOa-eVH23A/s1600-h/DSC_0059%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC_0059" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0059" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-weoHK-TzB98/WDGCVNkJu-I/AAAAAAAAKeQ/3l7AjfOs4ak/DSC_0059_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="164"></a>multipurpose building, in return for which it renewed its commitment to protect, conserve, and manage the 116-hectare no-take-zone of the Imalaguan Fish Sanctuary for at least 25 more years. <p>The Imalaguan Fish Sanctuary is huge—122,711 hectares. Realistically, Barangay San Carlos can only protect the portion they can see from their shore, and that is what they committed to. I spoke with Fisherfolk Association President Daniel Balcueba before the turnover ceremonies began, and two points stood out from our conversation. <p>One, the fish caught since the sanctuary was established and enforced has noticeably risen. They saw, too, that it is not just the volume of reef fishes caught at the outskirts that has increased. Pelagic fishes such as Spanish mackerel and sailfish are also coming back. <p>Two, the fish wardens are becoming busier because intrusions to the sanctuary are becoming more frequent. Fishers from other islands, most notoriously from the island of Antique according to Mr. Balcueba, have been coming in faster boats than what they have. They would give chase but the poaching boatmen would just taunt them before speeding away. Nevertheless the fish wardens still manage to catch the slower ones, which they promptly deliver to the police. Other cases involve ships that drop anchor on the no-take zone. Cellular signal is weak and fleeting so more often than not they are left with no choice but to manage the situation themselves. <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-e92KU_mr6Kg/WDGCWPaIAZI/AAAAAAAAKeU/uLMlcJph2VA/s1600-h/DSC_0043%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC_0043" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0043" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-12hiyXQ_Fxs/WDGCXDdSPXI/AAAAAAAAKeY/qGsbFacWPBA/DSC_0043_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="164"></a> <p>In the previous year, there had also been problems with the Badjao folk, nomadic fishers from the Sulu and Celebes seas who live in boat houses on shallow reefs. The fish wardens caught them fishing within the no-take zone and confiscated their boats. Left with nothing, the Badjaos took to begging on the streets. After a few days, the village decided to return their boats to them, with stern warnings not to fish in the protected area again. So far, the Badjaos have not returned. <p>The turnover ceremony involved a ribbon cutting, speeches, and the signing of turnover documents. Representing the municipal government was Vice Mayor Jake Tan. Essentially, all that ritual is to emphasize to the community that it is up to them to maintain the multipurpose building and live up to the covenant they have made with Seacology. <p>Since the building was finished in July this year, it has already been used for community meetings and assemblies. We were told that it will be used again the following day as a venue to distribute pensions due to the community’s senior citizens. <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sxCbT5-rOyw/WDGCYQ6_eRI/AAAAAAAAKec/mNCT7eT9lBc/s1600-h/DSC_0075%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC_0075" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0075" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NhbD1ceuUG4/WDGCZ4Zz2PI/AAAAAAAAKeg/1IrnZpRuu7I/DSC_0075_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="164"></a>After indulging in the food shared by the village, we set off for the beach to view the Imalaguan Fish Sanctuary. Barangay Captain Concepcion Juan mused that much as they would like to protect the whole sanctuary, knowing full well that doing so would only mean a much more bountiful catch for their fisherfolk, they simply do not have the resources to do that. For now they will just have to satisfy themselves with the gifts obtainable from what they can enforce. <p> <p>Barangay Rizal <p>We arrived at the multipurpose building in Barangay Rizal about 4:30pm that same day. Barangay <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Cqsqg2zSWM4/WDGCa52EkyI/AAAAAAAAKek/VU0wX0DvxFQ/s1600-h/DSC_0084%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC_0084" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0084" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-uA0bXDeSgP0/WDGCbmgtkRI/AAAAAAAAKeo/G_iLc2e8A1w/DSC_0084_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="164"></a>Rizal is the largest village within the Municipality of Magsaysay and is situated at the northeastern part of Cuyo Island. <p>In 2007, the village entered into a covenant with Seacology to preserve 100 hectares of its mangrove area, 75 hectares of which is declared a no-take zone for 20 years in exchange for the construction of the multipurpose building. The whole of Adunbrat Island, which is within the committed area, is all mangrove and comprises the core or protected zone. <p>Over noodles and rice cakes we got an informal report on the status of the mangrove as well as the multipurpose building. Barangay Councilman Michael Abela reported that for several years now the mangroves have been left alone even by those in adjacent barangays. Mangrove planting has been <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-nKP-lW62yg0/WDGCel-UEaI/AAAAAAAAKes/4Ei3j6nVEtI/s1600-h/Adunbrat3%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="Adunbrat3" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="Adunbrat3" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-hc-E8jIf3Dk/WDGCh2gMT8I/AAAAAAAAKew/2iegbi9Okpw/Adunbrat3_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="184"></a>incorporated in the school curriculum and periodic tree planting activities are being conducted. <p>The multipurpose building itself is being maintained very well. The Alternative Learning System sessions conducted by the Department of Education are often held there, as well as the village general assemblies. During times when the roads and walkways are muddy, we were told that the villagers prefer to have their assemblies and meetings outside the building because they do not want to track mud inside. <p>We left for our lodging for the night, which is near the Port of Cuyo, just before dark. <p> <p>Barangay Canipo <p>Despite being a separate island, Barangay Canipo is still within the political jurisdiction of the <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-reHBuS9oU3Y/WDGCi9fun7I/AAAAAAAAKe0/SziWqR5QpQg/s1600-h/20161116_082346%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20161116_082346" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20161116_082346" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-mM4MI8v4V-M/WDGCj42e8lI/AAAAAAAAKe4/RdTuXfQvf4o/20161116_082346_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="139"></a>Municipality of Magsaysay. This is a poor barangay that is rarely visited by government workers, even from its own municipality, because of logistics and transportation issues. In 2011, Seacology funded the construction of a multipurpose building in support of their commitment to protect a 15-hectare Marine Protected Area (MPA). In return, they pledged to keep protecting the MPA for at least 20 years. <p>We arrived at about 7:30am the following day and were met by a group of about 20 villagers led by Barangay Captain Sanito Palao, Barangay Councilor Mario Abrina, and Fisherfolk Association President Orlando Lamboloto. <p><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-tve8j2_loCY/WDGCl-I2cgI/AAAAAAAAKe8/Wx18JMeMfzY/s1600-h/20161116_073335%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20161116_073335" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20161116_073335" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-17L8KHAWdwI/WDGCmqLqE1I/AAAAAAAAKfA/z86KMCgtIus/20161116_073335_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="139" align="left" height="244"></a>Inside the multipurpose building were two rooms partitioned by movable wooden frames and curtains. It is presently being prepared as a birthing center for a couple of women who are infanticipating. There was solar power for a few lights thanks to the <a href="http://solar-energy-foundation.org/" target="_blank">Solar Energy Foundation, Inc.</a> and a Doppler fetal monitor courtesy of the <a href="http://www.zuelligfoundation.org/" target="_blank">Zuellig Family Foundation</a>. Certainly there is every indication that it is well-used and well-maintained. <p>A free-wheeling exchange ensued over a heavy breakfast. I asked about the challenges they have had in enforcing their MPA, and they had plenty of stories to tell. <p>Like Barangay San Carlos, the Statue of Liberty Maneuver—where one holds a phone high with one hand in the hope of catching that fleeting signal to send or receive a text message—comes instinctively to mobile phone users here. In terms of MPA enforcement, it means there is no such thing as quick support response from the police or coast guard. <p>The worst incident happened just after the multipurpose building was built. Automatic gun fire tore <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-m8m5HleoDZA/WDGCn7ELIII/AAAAAAAAKfE/nD5b7wv2ZrU/s1600-h/20161116_073251%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20161116_073251" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20161116_073251" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_7US_IqxyI8/WDGCpCjq5NI/AAAAAAAAKfI/FjbyH2x6CFI/20161116_073251_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="139"></a>the night at 1 am and jolted the villagers out of bed. Barangay Captain Sanito Palao's house was strafed, more likely in frustration than design, by 3 or 4 men who tried to retrieve a confiscated fishing boat used for poaching in the MPA the previous day. Only it was no longer where they thought it would be. The fish wardens carried it inland before day's end, and there were not enough of the gunmen to carry it back into the water. They quickly left after firing their guns, and luckily no one got hurt. <p>As recent as last November 12 they apprehended a spearfisher. He was <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9n_lyay2CoM/WDGCsPs4u3I/AAAAAAAAKfM/DXfPBeXSLx4/s1600-h/20161116_073039%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20161116_073039" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20161116_073039" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-sqx__Am7jc8/WDGCs0bFNXI/AAAAAAAAKfQ/OCM-1jMwLB4/20161116_073039_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="139"></a>from the nearby island of Alcoba, where they said most of the illegal fishers come from. Other methods of the Alcoba illegal fishers include the use of sodium cyanide and dynamite, though no longer within the Canipo MPA after several confrontations at the start of enforcement. <p>Interestingly Barangay Canipo, too, was known for harboring illegal fishers in the not too distant past. The ASF’s information and education campaign on the benefits of establishing an MPA and a sensible program of coastal resource management paid off in the form of the fisherfolk’s conversion. Increased yields just beyond the no-take zone have also helped.<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Wo8w31Mfqm0/WDGCu9ezu6I/AAAAAAAAKfU/m4Yqn9oEsds/s1600-h/20161116_072657%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20161116_072657" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20161116_072657" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-kcuVvG2WLa0/WDGCvQI_yyI/AAAAAAAAKfY/OnCcDzElKbA/20161116_072657_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="139"></a> <p>Not everyone’s epiphany comes the same way. The local carpenter was once a dynamite fisher. One time the homemade bomb he threw got caught on the mast and landed on his deck. He managed to jump overboard before it exploded. He survived unscathed, but the boat split in two after the blast. His neighbors say that it was this that greatly influenced his change in career. Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-67113330890924240172015-11-21T18:02:00.001+08:002023-08-17T03:03:19.586+08:00Support for Taal’s fisherfolk is support for the lake<p><br /> </p> <p>Have flies and other insects feasted on that dried fish you like so much for breakfast during the drying process? Not if it was done by the good fisherfolk of the Kilusan ng Maliliit na Mangingisda sa Lawa ng Taal (KMMLT).</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3pW-yfKS3ktobLV4O1e8XuXep6hOZceadhn7-LeSIfQwQfN-m5gamKLE8Yv-ry1QKfRj5iuFpCakl62CmO4L_CJZaB67qdndpyTn_yuQ3iV1zIcLEZiip_m41bwP8FOPPhrCYeX7AtnEAw25A0zBViHUzbbTtyhXGavsEBm34J_BqBqRkk-v8eTdoKGvM" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" data-original-height="4000" data-original-width="6000" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEg3pW-yfKS3ktobLV4O1e8XuXep6hOZceadhn7-LeSIfQwQfN-m5gamKLE8Yv-ry1QKfRj5iuFpCakl62CmO4L_CJZaB67qdndpyTn_yuQ3iV1zIcLEZiip_m41bwP8FOPPhrCYeX7AtnEAw25A0zBViHUzbbTtyhXGavsEBm34J_BqBqRkk-v8eTdoKGvM" width="320" /></a></div><p></p> <p>The <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a>-funded solar fish dryer took center stage last November 20, 1015 when it was unveiled during the 52nd Anniversary celebration of Department of Science and Technology - Region IV at the Taal Lake Convention Center in Barangay Kinalaglagan, Mataasnakahoy, Batangas. </p> <p>The stainless steel, food-grade solar fish dryer measures about 5.5’ x 3’ x 3’. It was designed and built by Electrical and Communications Engineering students of the Batangas State University as part of their thesis. The 2000-watt energy requirement is supplied by eight solar panels connected to 8 heavy-duty absorbent glass mat batteries and an inverter.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-SNxPMh109fc/VlBBCdT8M8I/AAAAAAAAHAc/PEDiqv9I9wY/s1600-h/DSC_0070%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="DSC_0070" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wvRpXSsqs_Q/VlBBDa8iqCI/AAAAAAAAHAg/OEUNrAp2MbE/DSC_0070_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-width: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_0070" width="244" /></a>Racks of fresh fish were stacked inside and the 3-4 hour drying process started while the day’s program continued. Who knew the scent of drying fish would smell so clean?</p> <p>Built with the assistance of the Municipality of Mataasnakahoy, the Taal Lake Convention Center or TLCC became the base of operations for <a href="http://pusod.org/" target="_blank">Pusod</a> and KMMLT in developing alternative sustainable livelihood programs for Taal’s fisherfolk. It was badly damaged in July 2014 by Typhoon Glenda, and Seacology also provided funds to repair the roofing and to refurbish the kitchen. A rainwater catchment system and water tank was also furnished.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-PR2i38ay-Io/VlBBEKJwnKI/AAAAAAAAHAo/v9Sc8ZeEydQ/s1600-h/DSC_0029%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="DSC_0029" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-A9M7CDduODw/VlBBEhZyjuI/AAAAAAAAHAs/_1oc9EW3QrM/DSC_0029_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-width: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_0029" width="244" /></a></p> <p>There are three minimum components in a successful community project: government support, partnership with NGOs and the private sector, and strong community involvement, so said Dr. Rowena Guevara, DOST Undersecretary for Scientific and Technological Services during her keynote speech. Closely collaborating with state universities helps too, Pusod Executive Director Ann Hazel Javier quickly added when a chance to speak came.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-OEPmWeIKn8g/VlBBFpjK6qI/AAAAAAAAHA4/_U7IpFxRcjo/s1600-h/DSC_0013%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="DSC_0013" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-wqV4nYJFT2o/VlBBGPVzLRI/AAAAAAAAHA8/7TMFU_uDSuA/DSC_0013_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-width: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_0013" width="244" /></a>As sitting members of the Taal Volcano Protected Landscape – Protected Area Management Board, both Pusod and the KMMLT were able to give their inputs to the lake’s medium-term management plan, giving voice to an otherwise marginalized stakeholder of the lake.</p> <p>KMMLT members know the lake and its volcano by heart. Maribel Orense, KMMLT secretary, can rattle off facts and figures faster than anyone can ask her. Thirteen municipalities and two cities of Batangas Province plus one city of Cavite Province embrace the lake. Most of the fish cages and pens are in the municipalities of Agoncillo, Laurel, San Nicholas, and Talisay. Ask and she will gladly tell, even as she nimbly darts to and from the TLCC kitchen.<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-20xPMKks_jo/VlBBHT1t8rI/AAAAAAAAHBI/P_z3fN_cKAE/s1600-h/DSC_0042%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="DSC_0042" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-ITGXNxlW7C4/VlBBIGnf8cI/AAAAAAAAHBM/ruNYbSYch0c/DSC_0042_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-width: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_0042" width="244" /></a></p> <p>It is home to the tawilis (<em>Sardinella tawilis</em>), a freshwater sardine species found only in Taal Lake that greatly contributes to the economy and food supply of the area, as well as other endemic fishes such as the biya (<em>Glossogobius giurus</em>), ayungin (<em>Leiopotherapon plumbeus</em>), igat (<em>Anguilla marmorata</em>), and milkfish (<em>Chanos chanos</em>). There are migratory fishes as well that swim upstream from Balayan Bay, such as the maliputo (<em>Caranx ignobilis</em>) and muslo (<em>Caranx sexfasciatus</em>).</p> <p>Overfishing and the introduction of invasive omnivorous species threaten the endemic and <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-0t5ebi9hO3A/VlBBJP5n4oI/AAAAAAAAHBQ/hkZSOwh5QAo/s1600-h/DSC_0054%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="DSC_0054" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-qMRYAt1S6OM/VlBBKPG7GlI/AAAAAAAAHBU/vgVFPNolhVE/DSC_0054_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-width: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_0054" width="244" /></a>migratory species. Particularly deleterious are the tilapia (<em>oreochromis niloticus</em> or nile tilapia), which escaped the fish cages and pens that proliferated during the 1980s. The Chinese soft-shelled turtle (<em>Pelodiscus sinensis</em>) and the jaguar guapote (<em>Parachromis managuensis</em>), which are likely an unintended consequence of the aquarium trade, not just prey on the juveniles of endemic fishes but also compete for food.</p> <p>The KMMLT has been spearheading efforts to sustainably manage Taal's resources since the 1990s. In 2009, a 1,000-hectare fish sanctuary was established. <a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-Ao6fTzlDXgo/VlBBKzbuHSI/AAAAAAAAHBY/e8dtX1me7SI/s1600-h/DSC_0058%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="DSC_0058" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-eNOb1gFegHs/VlBBLvSeyEI/AAAAAAAAHBc/ja1-4ZNy7ts/DSC_0058_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-width: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_0058" width="164" /></a>Their commitment to Seacology is to keep protecting it for at least 10 years, and generally speaking, enforcement has been smooth as most fishers of Taal are members of KMMLT. They are also on the lookout for those engaging in illegal fishing methods.</p> <p>Four violators in the previous months were particularly difficult. They were accosted for using fine mesh nets, called <em>suro</em>. Suro boats roam the lake at night and are outlawed because they catch even the tawilis fingerlings. The catch of a suro boat in one night is equivalent to that caught by a small fisherman in a year, reason enough for some to try. One violator is the father of a town mayor, and the other three are his relatives as well. When confronted by the mayor, the father reportedly said “<em>Pinakain at pinalaki kita sa pangingisda, at ngayon ay patitigilin mo ako?</em>” (I fed and raised you through fishing, and now you want me to stop?).</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IC4ubZsFZgY/VlBBMfpnQWI/AAAAAAAAHBg/-WQCA632QwI/s1600-h/DSC_0060%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="left" alt="DSC_0060" border="0" height="244" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-56mHH6C4kH8/VlBBM2rltGI/AAAAAAAAHBk/-2zSluHqAWI/DSC_0060_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-width: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_0060" width="164" /></a>Another threat that Pusod and KMMLT are trying to address is the fishkill that occurs every other year on the average. Through the DOST, a Sensing Environmental Parameters through Telemetry (SENTRY) unit was also deployed at the Lipute Bridge. Water quality indicators, such as Biological Oxygen Demand, are monitored hourly and the data is accessible <a href="http://112.199.120.7/" target="_blank">online</a>. Piggery operators upstream have been warned against the dumping of effluents into the river, and an alert sent by the SENTRY through SMS should lead to the apprehension of any violator.</p> <p>Taal lake has much to offer too in terms of tourism. Protected Area Superintendent Vic Mercado couldn’t contain his enthusiasm during the program when he blurted, “You are missing half of your life if you haven’t been to the volcano.”<a href="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-6SDJimkGBOY/VlBBN-_uogI/AAAAAAAAHBs/ieULQAg4-QE/s1600-h/DSC_0017%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img align="right" alt="DSC_0017" border="0" height="164" src="http://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-a8SVMO1a6Bg/VlBBOr_alAI/AAAAAAAAHBw/8E34piHiyi0/DSC_0017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-width: 0px; display: inline; float: right; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="DSC_0017" width="244" /></a></p> <p>Tours, which directly benefit the KMMLT members, can be arranged with Pusod. Some KMMLT members have been trained to guide tourists to the volcano, providing interesting tidbits of information every step of the way. It’s not so much what one would miss, it seems, than what one would gain. </p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-51929338219979382442014-11-18T19:27:00.001+08:002014-11-19T05:44:56.405+08:00Hidden Taal<p> </p> <p>For many tourists the once saltwater Taal Lake can be most conveniently seen from far Tagaytay ridge. But there is also its less seen, less traveled side. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gq_r7YPvaQ4/VGss3LbxjKI/AAAAAAAAGc4/-FJcqWsP16I/s1600-h/DSC_0009%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC_0009" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0009" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-JnkdJL1B960/VGss4GiMXrI/AAAAAAAAGdA/wkirr0LzGa0/DSC_0009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="164"></a></p> <p>Most famous for its volcano, reportedly one of the “smallest” in the world, the caldera has about 42 known craters, including a huge submerged one and the main crater containing the “lake within a lake”. Until the 1700s, the Pansipit River, which connects the lake to Balayan Bay, was deep enough to enable Chinese trading ships to navigate from one to the other. A series of volcanic eruptions culminating in 1764 severely constricted the breadth and depth of Pansipit River causing the lake to become freshwater.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Q8Xef39y2kU/VGss4xWgmdI/AAAAAAAAGdI/Z4ZryMKS7L0/s1600-h/1404616_10152820792519153_2438168274057253132_o%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="1404616_10152820792519153_2438168274057253132_o" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 5px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="1404616_10152820792519153_2438168274057253132_o" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-8FY2NiIthiA/VGss5S0YlyI/AAAAAAAAGdQ/yApzfvCOalA/1404616_10152820792519153_2438168274057253132_o_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" align="left" height="244"></a>My wife, daughter and I didn’t consider spending the night at the treehouse near the Taal Lake Conservation Center (TLCC), Barangay Kinalaglagan (literally: where something fell), Municipality of Mataasnakahoy (literally: high branch) as a warning of impending harm until after some thought. But a loose coincidence of names is all they are, thankfully. Despite the ominous descriptions, we found the treehouse private and cozy, and comfortingly safe. Best of all, it offered a tranquil Taal experience like no other. It is also a perfect jump-off point to the main crater.</p> <p>In evolutionary terms 300 years is a short time. Even so, over 80 extant endemic and migratory finfish species were able to adapt to the freshwater environment. Possibly the most known of the endemic species because of its high commercial value is the <em>tawilis (sardinella tawilis)</em>, a freshwater sardine found only in Taal Lake that greatly contributes to the economy and food supply of the area. Next in importance are the two migratory species of jacks, the muslo <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BZZn5oHh_ys/VGss6AqnE5I/AAAAAAAAGdY/5Kt8Ya19M38/s1600-h/DSC_0014%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC_0014" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0014" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-knaRESR4EEI/VGss66BVdII/AAAAAAAAGdg/tOvafz55dIc/DSC_0014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="164"></a><em>(caranx sexfasciatus)</em> and maliputo <em>(caranx ignobilis)</em>, not because they are less preferred but because they are rarer and more difficult to harvest in commercial quantities. These migratory variants of their ocean-going cousins swim to the lake as juveniles to mature into adults and go back to the sea to spawn, traversing the Pansipit River in both instances. The river is the lake’s only connection to the sea.</p> <p>But there are niggling problems that threaten the fragile ecosystem.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JjkBWYcDvSs/VGss7-FkSeI/AAAAAAAAGdo/rTZfN6O-sww/s1600-h/DSC_0034%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="DSC_0034" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 5px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="DSC_0034" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZBhHNdWf-vE/VGss8oNUrwI/AAAAAAAAGdw/dY7bOtST0kU/DSC_0034_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="164"></a>On our boat ride en route to Pansipit River, <a href="http://www.pusod.org/" target="_blank">Pusod</a> Executive Director Ann Hazel Javier pointed out some fishpens near Talisay town. Tilapia <em>(oreochromis niloticus or nile tilapia)</em> fishpens were introduced into the lake in 1971, and in Pansipit River in 1988. Some escaped and the omnivore is now found everywhere in the lake. Efforts to contain the proliferation of fishpens came a little late, but have scored some notable successes. From a high of 14,000 fishpens in 2009, the total was brought down to the current 5,000. Also, as of 2011, all the fishpens in the Pansipit River have been removed. </p> <p>Leading the efforts to sustainably manage Taal Lake is Pusod, an NGO working with Taal Lake <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-k85vMNzkWd0/VGss9qDXyHI/AAAAAAAAGd4/BdTa6BuxXtk/s1600-h/2014-11-08%25252012.49.10%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="2014-11-08 12.49.10" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="2014-11-08 12.49.10" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-W_uO45pMyh0/VGss-foaUqI/AAAAAAAAGeA/amSyNgZyFMo/2014-11-08%25252012.49.10_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" align="right" height="244"></a>communities, and the KMMLT <em>(Kilusan ng Maliliit na Mangingisda sa Lawa ng Taal)</em>, an association of small-scale fisherfolk coming from the 13 lakeshore municipalities and 3 cities. Both are prominent members of Taal Volcano Protected Landscape Protected Area Management Board (TVPL-PAMB), which is spearheading efforts on the lake’s sustainable use.</p> <p>Maan, one of the KMMLT members trained to be a tour guide, answered our initial questions about Taal with authority upon our arrival while serving us <em>sumang haba</em> (rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in coconut milk) and <em>kapeng barako</em> (Batangas brewed coffee). Bits of data seemed always at her fingertips, ready to be dished out when appropriate. We were later joined by Ipat Luna, Pusod board member, who took us to the TLCC’s diorama of the lake for a visual presentation of its geography and issues.</p> <p>There are other invasive species in the lake apart from the Nile tilapia that either compete with endemic species for food or prey on them, or both. There is the Chinese soft-shelled turtle <em>(pelodiscus sinensis)</em>, also an omnivore. The presence of “jaguar guapote” <em>(Parachromis <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pzl51_pzfSQ/VGss-4zQ5fI/AAAAAAAAGeI/o3wkD9NhBBI/s1600-h/2014-11-18%25252019.14.33%25255B10%25255D.jpg"><img title="2014-11-18 19.14.33" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 5px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="2014-11-18 19.14.33" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nCP5TrFBFc8/VGss_kqMyWI/AAAAAAAAGeQ/w67rBtGH4MA/2014-11-18%25252019.14.33_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="186" align="left" height="244"></a>managuensis )</em>, a piscivorous cichlid from Central America found in the aquarium trade, has also been reported. </p> <p>As luck would have it, our visit coincided with that of the group from the University of Santo Tomas led by Dr. Rey Donne Papa who has just embarked on a two-year study of the lake. While there have been a slew of studies on Taal since 1904, there remains a dearth of materials with respect to the specific aspects of the life cycle of lake’s many species, save perhaps for the tawilis. Hopefully his study will help policy makers formulate strategies particularly in controlling the proliferation of invasive species.</p> <p>As we trekked towards the main crater, Ann pointed to one of two incongruous elementary schools in the island serving the communities in the area that has been declared a permanent danger zone. If nothing else, it shows the policies some politicians fecklessly advocate only to undermine them through their action or inaction in the name of political accommodation. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Hj85vRLvWJw/VGstAIhOWmI/AAAAAAAAGeY/hpdjx9GqDaY/s1600-h/10443345_907714062578374_7672660477020099875_n%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="10443345_907714062578374_7672660477020099875_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="10443345_907714062578374_7672660477020099875_n" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-gLIPvre7KeE/VGstCJiFUsI/AAAAAAAAGeg/tBv-6zfxV5o/10443345_907714062578374_7672660477020099875_n_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="139"></a></p> <p>The view of the highly sulfurous crater lake was imposing. And threatening. Smoke was rising out of several vents, a sign that the volcano is restive. With the activity of some volcanoes in the pacific rim of late, most notably that of Mayon Volcano a month ago, we were worried for the settlers in the island. Evacuation to a safe distance in case of a sudden eruption may take several days.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-bYOtP8YJZ-M/VGstC_siMQI/AAAAAAAAGeo/-vQBXDAN3BM/s1600-h/10502090_907713389245108_5766710908909684072_n%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="10502090_907713389245108_5766710908909684072_n" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 5px 0px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="10502090_907713389245108_5766710908909684072_n" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-IuVRkD4Dq6o/VGstDe4VaOI/AAAAAAAAGew/IItUiRxEG9Y/10502090_907713389245108_5766710908909684072_n_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="184"></a>Perhaps no other group is more aware of the precarious state of Taal’s fishing industry than the KMMLT. It actively supports the lake’s 1,300 hectare fish sanctuary through regular patrols, in the hope of increasing the tawilis population. With the help of Pusod, the KMMLT has been encouraging its members to explore other sources of livelihood, recognizing that the lake’s fishing industry may have already reached its limit. Tour guiding, beekeeping, and food service are some of the trades the KMMLT members are being trained in, with most of it happening at the TLCC. We’ve been told that the honey they make is being sold almost as fast as the bees can produce it thanks to the patronage of <a href="http://www.thefarmatsanbenito.com/" target="_blank">The Farm at San Benito</a>, an upscale resort operating in nearby Lipa City that engages the KMMLT’s services regularly for tours. We wanted to sample some of the honey vinaigrette but <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ikN0pnzQC6A/VGstEZya_SI/AAAAAAAAGe4/lm73A47qnyw/s1600-h/20141109_001310122_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20141109_001310122_iOS" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 0px 0px 0px 5px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20141109_001310122_iOS" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fdmAvgUreZE/VGstFBIfeyI/AAAAAAAAGfA/BGErz0wmGlc/20141109_001310122_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="184"></a>that too was sold out.</p> <p>Maribel Orense, President of the KMMLT Chapter in Mataasnakahoy, can be seen darting from table to kitchen at the TLCC, which despite the damage wrought by typhoon Glenda on July 15 of this year still managed to host two dining tables, one for us and another for Dr. Papa’s group. And if there is one thing that is really worth going back for, it’s the food — so deliciously unique to Taal that my belly keeps reminding me of it.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vQf0K50adu4/VGstGQqcPhI/AAAAAAAAGfI/DoAS8WvJUOA/s1600-h/20141109_022936160_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="20141109_022936160_iOS" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; margin: 5px 5px 5px 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="20141109_022936160_iOS" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3DDvSJ6elsg/VGstG5f2HsI/AAAAAAAAGfQ/9uV7u4h6qlc/20141109_022936160_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="left" height="184"></a>Typhoon Glenda badly damaged the TLCC. Walls were torn away, roofing flew, and nothing but the base of other structures were left. Originally built with the help of the Municipal Government of Mataasnakahoy, the KMMLT and Pusod are still struggling to rebuild it several months after.</p> <p>We saw fireflies, said to be <a href="https://student.societyforscience.org/blog/eureka-lab/free-app-tracks-fireflies" target="_blank">bioindicators</a> of a healthy ecosystem, inside the treehouse as we were preparing to sleep. There is hope for Taal yet.</p> <p> </p> <p><em>[Some photos courtesy of Pusod, Inc.}</em></p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-1444445842496549632014-10-21T00:44:00.000+08:002014-10-24T10:52:03.253+08:00Seacology in the Philippines and how it works<p> </p> <p>While meeting a potential partner together with Karen Peterson and Mary Randolph, who flew all the way from Seacology’s Berkeley office to look at some of our project sites, it occurred to me that the way we select our projects may not be all that clear to many people.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-xKVJQhAA3jU/VEXkiP9k8pI/AAAAAAAAGRA/5e82kG-MOzU/s1600-h/IMGP7069%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMGP7069" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMGP7069" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-C0rCuQOX71w/VEXkjfHjTrI/AAAAAAAAGRI/b8IhQYLm0JE/IMGP7069_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="184"></a></p> <p>The short version is the community’s commitment to protect their natural resource forms the basis of all <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> projects in the Philippines. Everything else stems from that. To go to the details, we have to begin with how Seacology came to be, and that <a href="http://www.seacology.org/about/history/" target="_blank">starts in Samoa</a>.</p> <p>Education in Samoa conforms to an arrangement where villages provide land and school buildings while the government in turn provides the teachers and curriculum. But when the government told the villagers of Falealupo to either build a better school or it will pull out the teachers, the villagers decided to sell logging rights to 120 square kilometers of rainforest surrounding their community so they can finance the school building and secure the continued education of their children. When Dr. Paul Cox, an American ethnobiologist doing research in the forests heard of the ultimatum, he approached the Falealupo leaders with a proposal. If he can raise the money for the school, would they agree to conserve their forest in perpetuity? After overcoming apprehensions about foreigners with offers that seem too good to be true, they agreed. Dr. Cox approached friends and colleagues, and managed to raise the needed funds. Seacology was born, along with the <em>quid pro quo</em> formula spelling out Seacology’s deal with island communities: a village’s commitment to protect its natural resource in exchange for Seacology’s provision of a tangible need.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-93p-hKnH9YM/VEXkkTpwwFI/AAAAAAAAGRQ/7CyT38G2j70/s1600-h/IMGP7056%25255B8%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMGP7056" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMGP7056" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-D2cusuSWZY4/VEXklCDbn8I/AAAAAAAAGRY/SqLxjrkU8J8/IMGP7056_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="401" align="left" height="158"></a>Not all Seacology projects present themselves in this fashion. In the Philippines, working towards a covenant with a community is often a case of having to face at least three hurdles. First, because the community often relies on the natural resource for subsistence, the question of food and livelihood has to be addressed. Second, the community must view the tangible as a fulfillment of a real and clear need, otherwise it will be no different from other structures derisively called white elephants some politicians foist on communities to get kickbacks. And third, the community must substantiate their commitment by presenting a viable and sustainable conservation mechanism that they will adhere to.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-aMHWDyfWyUM/VEXkm6a3GDI/AAAAAAAAGRg/9kFXal4jQMg/s1600-h/IMGP7067%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMGP7067" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMGP7067" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Mo62Cmjxgqc/VEXknmQUVJI/AAAAAAAAGRo/clFDcI2NywI/IMGP7067_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="264" align="right" height="199"></a></p> <p>In some of our projects, the community’s commitment ties up well with the tangible in that the benefit they get is dependent on how they fulfill their end of the bargain. Barangay Bagong Bayan in Roxas, Palawan <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2009/06/village-lights-up-with-clean-energy.html" target="_blank">committed to protect</a> 825 hectares of their watershed in exchange for Seacology’s help in rehabilitating their micro-hydro power generator. Similarly, the Manobos of Sitio Malumpine in Malasila, North Cotabato <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2009/08/there-is-power-at-top.html" target="_blank">committed protection</a> of their 300.998 hectares of watershed forest in exchange for a micro-hydro power station and tree nursery. And then again, Barangays Calandog, Sta. Cruz and Buenavista in Murcia, Negros Occidental <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2009/10/water-can-flow-higher-than-its-source.html" target="_blank">committed</a> 2,000 hectares of watershed in exchange for ram pumps that will supply water to their houses. In these three cases, as well as a few others, conservation commitments are inseparable from the effectiveness of the tangibles. Simply, if the communities want to continue to have water on their taps and cheap electricity for their rice cookers and lights, they have to make sure their watersheds continue to produce water. The role of Seacology’s partner NGOs (Non-Government Organizations) and POs (People’s Organizations) is to get everyone in the community onboard the idea that deriving a virtually endless benefit from the natural resource is far better than getting short-term marginal profits from, say, charcoal-making that will eventually deplete the watershed and/or the mangroves.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EWyv-nAIS1g/VEXkouivcpI/AAAAAAAAGRw/tpXVhO9L6Vc/s1600-h/IMGP7166%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMGP7166" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMGP7166" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rbj0fV4ZBtU/VEXkpkxxZ1I/AAAAAAAAGR4/c8W7siUp-Kw/IMGP7166_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="425" align="left" height="123"></a>In other projects, the link between the natural resource, the community’s need, and the tangible is not so clear. We are often asked for tangibles that will support or augment local tourism, such as a <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2014/02/walking-walk-on-san-vicente-boardwalk.html" target="_blank">mangrove boardwalk</a> or a <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2010/03/it-takes-community-to-protect-cabilao.html" target="_blank">tourist information center</a>. At times however, there is a perception that only those who have direct contact with tourists, tour operators and lodging houses for example, are benefitting from the industry. Unaccounted are those who are not on the frontlines such as food producers and craft makers who will also benefit from the increased demand. The increase in employment incidental to tourism will also be subtle. In making sure that the community fully understands what they are committing to, we rely heavily on our partner NGOs and POs to build a strong consensus among the villagers so that both need and benefits are clear and the collective decision to enter into a covenant with Seacology is freely given.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oaf0KZ16k40/VEXkqlDvQCI/AAAAAAAAGSA/1rxK1KtC9z8/s1600-h/IMGP7170%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMGP7170" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMGP7170" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-8DqUQjSkvho/VEXkrm9cBiI/AAAAAAAAGSI/j8WdBCzP6FI/IMGP7170_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="252" align="right" height="190"></a></p> <p>Last week, we met with the leaders of Barangay Sibaltan in El Nido, Palawan led by Barangay Captain Arvin Gabayan, and representatives of the local PO, KAMIYAN (Kalikasan Alagaan Mahalin Ingatan Yaman Ay Napapakinabangan) led by immediate past Barangay Captain and KAMIYAN Chair Carmelita Acosta and Vice Chair Rowel Bacaltos. In 2011, along with Barangays New Ibajay, Villa Paz and Mabini, they <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2011/06/protecting-mangroves-and-reefs-of.html" target="_blank">committed to protect</a> 190 hectares of coral reef fronting the barangays as well as 974.63 hectares of mangrove forest in exchange for guardhouses, patrol bancas, marker buoys and signages, communication equipment, and cashew processing implements. The impetus to conserve their reef and mangrove comes from the community’s intention to develop tourism. Several budding resorts are already in operation, offering a quieter and more tranquil alternative to the establishments around Bacuit Bay. Their Bantay Dagat (Reef Wardens) have been vigilant in protecting the reefs and mangroves. A number of poachers, mostly coming from the neighboring municipalities, have been apprehended and the word is out that the area is heavily patrolled.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kX2o_tDJUy4/VEXkssoEVcI/AAAAAAAAGSQ/gNUmOBaa9qQ/s1600-h/IMGP7333%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img title="IMGP7333" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: left; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="IMGP7333" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Cv_jJr5VBcQ/VEXktiPjkgI/AAAAAAAAGSY/xwDfNpEKvxc/IMGP7333_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" align="left" height="244"></a>Many of the environment protection policies in the Philippines emanate from the top, in the form of laws. An example is the <a href="http://www.gov.ph/1992/06/01/republic-act-no-7586/" target="_blank">NIPAS Act</a>, which designates certain geographic notables in the archipelago as Protected Areas. This and similar laws are important, as these lay down the legal basis for enforcement. Unfortunately this will often remain unobserved on the ground unless the communities situated therein find it relevant to their lives. National policies need to be complemented by grassroots initiatives before any conservation can begin. In most cases, the communities Seacology works with issue their own barangay resolutions and lobby for municipal ordinances in support of and specific to their commitment. In short, in Seacology’s model, conservation emanates from the grassroots upwards.</p> <p>The heavy lifting in preparing the El Nido communities (the four eastern villages of El Nido, as well as those on the western side with respect to two of our other projects, specifically the installation of <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2014/05/mooring-buoys-for-el-nidos-reefs.html" target="_blank">mooring buoys</a> in dive and snorkeling sites and the <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2009/06/so-many-species-in-fragile-environment.html" target="_blank">Tres Marias reef restoration</a>) was done and continues to be done by our partner, the <a href="http://www.elnidofoundation.org/" target="_blank">El Nido Foundation</a>. Their work with the communities goes <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KyiQkZzFXDA/VEXkuhg5q0I/AAAAAAAAGSg/H_Qp9_t9I3E/s1600-h/ecoreef%252520install2%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img title="ecoreef install2" style="border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; background-image: none; border-bottom-width: 0px; float: right; padding-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; display: inline; padding-right: 0px; border-top-width: 0px" border="0" alt="ecoreef install2" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--A04zH48CRA/VEXkvQRlBiI/AAAAAAAAGSo/FijyWZWRUk8/ecoreef%252520install2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" align="right" height="184"></a>beyond the scope of our projects, addressing issues like sustainable ecotourism management, reproductive health and other community health issues, and livelihood enhancement. Our other partners are similarly active with the communities in their areas. The point is that the success of Seacology’s projects is largely dependent on the level of commitment of our partner NGOs and POs.</p> <p>We continue to look for ways to improve project selection and implementation in the Philippines. Island by island and village by village, with a lot of help from our project partners, we think we are making a difference.</p> <p> </p> <p><em>[All photos courtesy of the El Nido Foundation]</em></p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-41302342862326504732014-05-19T18:01:00.001+08:002014-05-20T09:12:42.655+08:00Mooring buoys for El Nido’s Reefs<p> </p> <p>El Nido’s Bacuit Bay coral reefs used to be pristine, massive, and teeming with life. </p> <p>In the 1970s, live-aboard dive boats would travel all the way from Manila to El Nido. It was the only<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4wg--MAB2AQ/U3nV7EQnshI/AAAAAAAAChE/LcUKPLm7sc8/s1600-h/ENF-2%252528A.Germino%252529%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="ENF-2(A.Germino)" border="0" alt="ENF-2(A.Germino)" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-FgTPsjsD1XY/U3nV9GSSVpI/AAAAAAAAChM/_CN1RAiN1qM/ENF-2%252528A.Germino%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> way scuba divers could explore the area in relative comfort, as traveling to and from El Nido then was, to put it mildly, arduous. There was no airport, and the wooden commercial ships that serviced it listed and rocked, and treated passengers braving the 18-hour journey to a variety of smells that either induced or enhanced seasickness in all but the saltiest of seafarers. But it was also a time when the sea was so rich that one could easily catch a good-size Spanish mackerel just 50 feet off El Nido town, if the older folks here are to be believed.</p> <p>It isn’t so much like that anymore. There is still plenty to see, but <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2009/06/so-many-species-in-fragile-environment.html" target="_blank">protecting what remains</a> has reached a point of urgency. Certainly, the total 447 reef-building coral species plus 44 unconfirmed species identified in a 2009 study are worth saving. </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-f1ldsGSwiSM/U3nV-UhZzeI/AAAAAAAAChU/bioluh38LeE/s1600-h/Picture6%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Picture6" border="0" alt="Picture6" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HDsfX6QYE2Y/U3nV_utv0ZI/AAAAAAAAChc/2zXXj86bmH4/Picture6_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Coral reefs have been <a href="http://www.bios.edu/research/projects/coral-reproduction-and-recruitment/" target="_blank">likened to the canary in the coalmine</a> by some marine biologists from the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences. Left alone, they should tell us the environmental effects of changes in the ocean acidification, temperature, light, and nutrients. If we are willing to listen, they should tell us if the air in the mine we are in, as it were, is getting toxic.</p> <p>Critical havens in a Darwinian ecosystem, coral reefs also provide refuge and prey for exotic marine life that follow a reward system as old as the earth itself: survivors will get to spawn the next, slightly better generation of their kind. Yet for all the benefits we have collectively derived from coral reefs, human activity remains one of the most <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZaZysG2Etzc/U3nWBb-BiVI/AAAAAAAAChk/sm3HhcvyC2c/s1600-h/Graph1%25255B2%25255D.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Graph1" border="0" alt="Graph1" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-juQPcst0WV8/U3nWCuKh9fI/AAAAAAAAChs/k3OXr-zTTSA/Graph1_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="244" height="142" /></a>significant contributors to coral reef degradation.</p> <p>In the mid-1980s, the first resort was built in the island of Minilog (now re-christened Miniloc), and snorkeling as well as other marine sport activities were offered aside from scuba diving. Soon, the inexorable uptrend in tourism began. More island resorts have been built, along with over 300 hotels and inns in El Nido town. The number of tourists increased fivefold since 1994, when data collection began, to 62,960 as of last year. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yOiSAr20V4o/U3nWDy2H75I/AAAAAAAACh0/FlFFymroPik/s1600-h/Picture3%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Picture3" border="0" alt="Picture3" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kH2jRE5lSmI/U3nWE3wN1bI/AAAAAAAACh8/Q1usKRQzJSU/Picture3_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>The Municipality of El Nido has some of the most <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2011_06_01_archive.html" target="_blank">vigilant protectors</a> of its natural resource. But balancing tourism’s benefits to the local economy against the consequential pressure it bears on the community’s resources is tough. One unintended impact is the degradation of the coral reefs.</p> <p>To be sure, most tourists are appreciative of El Nido’s coral reefs. It is the less careful few who inadvertently step on or kick corals that do damage. Combine that with the indiscriminate dropping of anchors on dive sites and snorkeling areas and you can imagine how years if not decades worth of coral growth can turn to rubble in one season.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mz2mubnOafs/U3nWGeXydPI/AAAAAAAACiE/WEX5NNy6Oz0/s1600-h/Picture2%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Picture2" border="0" alt="Picture2" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-9NL7g_VMdsE/U3nWHjflZvI/AAAAAAAACiM/8Y8eZasE-iM/Picture2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Most establishments, notably the island resorts operated by the <a href="http://www.elnidoresorts.com/elnido/" target="_blank">Ten Knots Development Corporation</a>, have been continuously engaging their guests in the campaign for responsible tourism. Environment-friendly operations have always been the goal. In fact, as far back as the late 1980s, efforts were made to deploy mooring buoys for the dive boats being used by the resort in Miniloc Island. But the buoys were stolen weeks or months later. With the establishment of its sister resorts in Pangulasian and Langen (now Lagen) Islands in the early 1990s, the company embarked on a renewed and more vigorous effort to set up mooring buoys once more. But one by one, in the course of several months, the buoys were again stolen.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-54CI-DDMBDo/U3nWJuMrR4I/AAAAAAAACiU/X18JndBBssI/s1600-h/IMG_0389%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="IMG_0389" border="0" alt="IMG_0389" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-lTpF2DioSTE/U3nWLwGgR8I/AAAAAAAACic/Nnskr7m1hw4/IMG_0389_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>At the forefront of this latest effort to protect El Nido’s corals is the <a href="http://www.elnidofoundation.org" target="_blank">El Nido Foundation</a>, which began a campaign in 2012 to adopt the <a href="http://www.greenfins.net/" target="_blank">Green Fins</a> best practices guidelines. Signs pushing admonitions like “Don’t step on the coral” or “Don’t feed the fish” sprouted around shops offering tours. Establishments worked to be accredited with the Green Fins program so tourists will know that they are environmentally responsible.</p> <p>The El Nido Foundation’s coastal resource management program dovetails with <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a>’s core belief that the community should take responsibility in the management of its resources. With this as backdrop, hands were met for the El Nido Mooring Buoy Project. In setting up the mooring buoys <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-UbZB0_bLN6U/U3nWSyxj95I/AAAAAAAACik/VyQoE3GJxf8/s1600-h/20140511_014752600_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140511_014752600_iOS" border="0" alt="20140511_014752600_iOS" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cGR_PvXca0k/U3nWT5wCF4I/AAAAAAAACis/yzXrgdrun-w/20140511_014752600_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>this time around, the townsfolk of El Nido are active participants. Local divers, the coast guard, and even some tourists have been helping to screw in place the helix-type anchors for the mooring buoys. The dive shops are filling scuba tanks for free. Other establishments offer food, fuel, and free use of their boats.</p> <p>Community members who gave their time and resources to the Mooring Buoy Project were awarded certificates of recognition during modest ceremonies at the municipal hall’s covered basketball court last May 10, 2014. The following day, the ceremonial installation of the first buoy was conducted at Pinagbuyutan Island.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XQkNk8fV7ME/U3nWV_GurtI/AAAAAAAACi0/C1HB1cNELC8/s1600-h/20140511_015009300_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140511_015009300_iOS" border="0" alt="20140511_015009300_iOS" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-OR3xcku5aHw/U3nWXCOlx3I/AAAAAAAACi8/C5QMj3lJ17c/20140511_015009300_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>With everyone invested in the project, there are a lot more eyes watching the buoys with a little pride, and hopefully this will allow the buoys to serve their purpose for a long, long time.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-51760604659917582762014-02-24T21:09:00.001+08:002014-02-25T07:51:11.050+08:00Walking the Walk on the San Vicente Boardwalk<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1aKLowO7IYk/UwtD21nloJI/AAAAAAAAB_4/YocZ1wR72WQ/s1600-h/20140221_060142847_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_060142847_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_060142847_iOS" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-gF563lNsHHs/UwtD3yzx22I/AAAAAAAAB_8/wqizWS845WE/20140221_060142847_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> <p> </p> <p>Brutally struck by a 7.2 magnitude earthquake on October 15, 2013 and drenched by incessant torrential rain from super-typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) just three weeks later, the island of Bohol was all but devastated.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-I27pJsj5_QI/UwtD5LWwkHI/AAAAAAAACAI/4-Wl-AncRms/s1600-h/20140221_060616816_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_060616816_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_060616816_iOS" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2Wx4E9e3DoA/UwtD6FlPZXI/AAAAAAAACAQ/JWFfgfV70MI/20140221_060616816_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>It must have seemed cataclysmic in the biblical sense, enough for anyone to question his faith. Concrete houses and buildings, including the centuries-old parish church of the Municipality of Maribojoc, where Barangay San Vicente belongs, crumbled to the ground in a matter of minutes. Yet the first thing the villagers did after extracting a relatively unscathed 400-year-old wooden icon of the Virgin Mary from the church rubble was to hold an impromptu religious procession. </p> <p>Faith runs deep within many Boholanos. The province has produced <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qYzLm_GZl9o/UwtD7X9-XvI/AAAAAAAACAY/vsfw3bOWoUE/s1600-h/20140221_053953074_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_053953074_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_053953074_iOS" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5lEDCdD9a14/UwtD8L0BJ3I/AAAAAAAACAg/btRaYLDU6oc/20140221_053953074_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>more Catholic priests than any other province in the country. Even the current mayor of Maribojoc is a former man of the cloth who went underground during the years of the Marcos dictatorship. This enduring religiosity is perhaps the quality that gives them the means to overcome the most trying of situations.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NGzAkwbAndU/UwtD9GsYYWI/AAAAAAAACAo/h7GPgp-lPeY/s1600-h/20140221_014600513_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_014600513_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_014600513_iOS" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-HlEcn6eLhKM/UwtD9_YtBwI/AAAAAAAACAs/iG0i24S60bE/20140221_014600513_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>Over a year before, Barangay San Vicente asked for <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a>’s help in reconstructing their dilapidated 500-meter mangrove boardwalk and extending it to 800 meters. Maribojoc’s mangroves, covering 922.683 hectares, are some of the province’s thickest, and the barangay itself has a diverse mangrove forest with 25 different species of mangrove trees as identified in a 1997 Silliman University study. Some of the dominant families are <i>Palmae, Acanthaceae, Aegicerataceae, Rhizoporaceae, Avecenniaceae, </i>and <i>Sonneratiaceae.</i> The 1997 research, which was spurred by increasing complaints from local fisherfolk of declining catches, was conducted to assess the effectiveness of their mangrove's natural function as a fish nursery.</p> <p>Upon learning that the increasing number of fish traps and indiscriminate cutting within the mangrove were adversely affecting <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-rjgAu-4FcqI/UwtD_fDZ1VI/AAAAAAAACA4/QGkj03HblXk/s1600-h/20140221_032854126_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_032854126_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_032854126_iOS" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-YTcpAjctc_I/UwtEBEyaWDI/AAAAAAAACA8/xbbeG8FdrVs/20140221_032854126_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>the fish stock of nearby traditional fishing grounds, the community decided to take steps to preserve the resource. Using the mangroves as source for firewood, charcoal, building and fencing materials was banned, and fish traps were allowed only within well-defined areas beyond the mangrove forest’s core. The village then formed the San Vicente Mangrove Forest Association (SAVIMA), and applied for and acquired in 1999 from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources a 25-year Community-based Forest Management Agreement covering 56.25 hectares of mangrove forest. Through the assistance of a U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer and modest funds from the Department of Labor and Employment, the village was able to <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6AaXJgL938s/UwtEFIt4RII/AAAAAAAACBI/E04acrx864U/s1600-h/DSC00955%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00955" border="0" alt="DSC00955" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ddj30xdivOA/UwtEF51lkvI/AAAAAAAACBM/V5HxW27cATQ/DSC00955_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>construct a 500-meter bamboo boardwalk and eco-tourism information center, which has since become their alternative source of income and an impetus for the mangrove's protection and conservation. Their “Mangrove Adventure Tour” achieved some success, initially attracting tourists near and far. However, the number of visitors began to decrease since its peak around 2006 mainly because the boardwalk was becoming dilapidated and less attractive.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SyMXuIN3uIQ/UwtEKAX3s-I/AAAAAAAACBY/kyUdVr1ohAQ/s1600-h/DSC01009%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC01009" border="0" alt="DSC01009" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6xTwmK9pIMc/UwtEK_GrgnI/AAAAAAAACBg/HENHcviFlQk/DSC01009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Seacology’s partner, <a href="http://processbohol.org/" target="_blank">PROCESS Bohol</a> supervised the boardwalk construction. Technical personnel, as well as cement mixers and other machines, were lent by the Municipality of Maribojoc. By extending the boardwalk a further 300 meters, they were able to connect to nearby Tintinan Island, increasing the boardwalk’s potential many times over. But just when the boardwalk was nearly done, the earthquake struck.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-MqIpl2XZYRw/UwtEMO_5i1I/AAAAAAAACBk/FX0f2iUzI3M/s1600-h/20140221_031906085_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_031906085_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_031906085_iOS" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2LRdF_NnugQ/UwtEM_Iz46I/AAAAAAAACBs/kfAkEni1Hcs/20140221_031906085_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>About two weeks ago, Emmie Roslinda of PROCESS Bohol informed me that the SAVIMA Boardwalk was to be inaugurated on February 21, to coincide with Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto’s birthday. I must confess that my mind was still running on images fueled by post earthquake and typhoon news reports and photos so the thrill I normally feel on learning of a Seacology project’s completion had a mix of apprehension. Totally unjustified, it turned out. At the Tagbilaran Airport, the porters, guards, transportation people, and even the vendors outside were… <i>cheerful</i>! The phrase ‘business as usual’ does not quite capture it.</p> <p>The following day, en route to San Vicente from the capital, Tagbilaran City, Emmie occasionally pointed out some landslides <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yZmUbLg9giA/UwtEPR6LFqI/AAAAAAAACB4/mC9c2IYue3Y/s1600-h/20140221_033107780_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_033107780_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_033107780_iOS" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pvFNjtUixKc/UwtEQauVG3I/AAAAAAAACB8/Kma9FNIEntI/20140221_033107780_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>caused by the earthquake. Our ride was fairly smooth considering that there was a lot of roadwork still going on. It is hard to believe that four months ago huge cracks on the island’s road network and collapsed bridges rendered Maribojoc and many other parts of Bohol inaccessible.</p> <p>Maribojoc’s affable Vice Mayor, Jun Redulla, met us at the site. His house, like most whose houses were made of concrete or brick, was destroyed by the earthquake, but no trace of his misfortune can be found in his demeanor. Apparently, houses made of indigenous housing materials like lumber, bamboo, sawali, amakan and nipa better withstood the tremblor. There goes our cherished childhood lesson from <i>The Three Little Pigs</i>. </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cylFowYVloc/UwtET6UonOI/AAAAAAAACCI/UfN5d7ddMa4/s1600-h/20140221_015331505_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_015331505_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_015331505_iOS" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-YgzZ3jihzbQ/UwtEUxLSgYI/AAAAAAAACCQ/gJShDY5gJnk/20140221_015331505_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>The vice mayor showed us a fissure on the road leading to the boardwalk, and pointed to a distant landslide on the side of a mountain. And in praise of his province-mates, he mentioned a word I have lately been hearing often to describe the earthquake and typhoon survivors: resilient.</p> <p>There were speeches and a ribbon cutting ceremony, standard fare <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-6fnSXJJvOI0/UwtEYQ5cbtI/AAAAAAAACCY/2MRAASL3xOU/s1600-h/DSC01014%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC01014" border="0" alt="DSC01014" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-J-ax3_ai_x4/UwtEZU2IRoI/AAAAAAAACCg/bSl_PR8bQMI/DSC01014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>of any inauguration, and there was also the proud singing of the Provincial Hymn after that of the National Anthem. SAVIMA president, Septima Pugio, introduced their association’s officers as well as that of Barangay San Vicente. SAVIMA member and Barangay Captain Pedro Jaminal gave a few words too. But the highlight is going through the length of the boardwalk itself.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--KEHJFHZ-q4/UwtEaxJ4GQI/AAAAAAAACCo/U8DLKy9B4e0/s1600-h/DSC01003%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC01003" border="0" alt="DSC01003" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-cRT-YbQbltE/UwtEcDvMQNI/AAAAAAAACCw/kcfnYz7DFUU/DSC01003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Walking the first few meters felt good and solid, but then we felt a brief shaking that strangely disappeared as we progressed. I looked back to find that a number of villagers have decided to join us, so I attributed the tremor to the unsynchronized steps trudging over the walkway. I found out from the news later that another aftershock ran through the island at about that time.</p> <p>A leisurely pace on the wending boardwalk, purposely fashioned to <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Jx7lJGAxHo8/UwtEe0VXDaI/AAAAAAAACC4/HVn0a2mNXcA/s1600-h/20140221_012951609_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_012951609_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_012951609_iOS" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-P8Rv4uF-6uI/UwtEgFSdfUI/AAAAAAAACDA/7goigWyn96w/20140221_012951609_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>avoid cutting any mangrove tree, can take some time, and one can appreciate the wisdom of having two rest and observation decks along the way. Juvenile fishes, crabs, birds and a few monkeys may be observed up close. Emmie tells me that they will soon be putting signs on some of the mangrove trees to indicate their species.</p> <p>At the end of the boardwalk is the 1.2-hectare uninhabited island of Tintinan. After the sheltering confines of the mangrove forest, seeing the vast expanse of the sea was refreshing. When Governor Chatto asked of my impression, I remarked that the area has a huge tourism potential. To his credit, he said that the challenge is to ensure that waste management mechanisms are in place before embarking on any further development.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1bhKye-5VqU/UwtFercUdVI/AAAAAAAACDc/rEOt550OckM/s1600-h/20140221_014023911_iOS%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="20140221_014023911_iOS" border="0" alt="20140221_014023911_iOS" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ym-Va94jDBQ/UwtFfTATvqI/AAAAAAAACDg/jCayZcJpY3Y/20140221_014023911_iOS_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>As it is, the SAVIMA Boardwalk is a haven for naturalists and photographers. Just a 45-minute drive from Tagbilaran City, it is an ideal stop on the way to the island’s other tourist destinations. Homestay programs are also available for those who would like to be with the warm, friendly, enterprising, and yes, resilient, Boholanos up close.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-39464912395177507652013-06-28T09:00:00.000+08:002013-07-02T09:00:33.309+08:00Sitio Lubo Powers On!<p>Reliable, available 24/7, quiet, and best of all, clean. For some 80 <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ykKaXfgtb3c/UdGrA8IhjpI/AAAAAAAAB04/fBYA2QtOe44/s1600-h/P62200023.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Sitio Lubo's rich watershed, from a distance." border="0" alt="Sitio Lubo's rich watershed." align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-F3qZt_d0hrg/UdGrBmGwf_I/AAAAAAAAB1A/omQvJdYpno4/P6220002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>households in Sitio Lubo, May 9, 2013 marks the first time lights were turned on without having to check the juice in the solar batteries or the fuel in a gas- or diesel-fed generator. After waiting for nearly three years since the idea was first proposed, abundant water cascading from Lubo’s 2,500 hectares of watershed forest cranked the turbine that brought the first sparks of hydroelectricity to the isolated upland community.</p> <p>Construction of the micro-hydropower generator and its distribution network were both completely finished on March 22, 2013, three months to the day ago. A few problems with <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-yYa083PjRz0/UdGrC7zkdPI/AAAAAAAAB1I/3pns4r8pA5Q/s1600-h/IMG_0012%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Kalulong stream, one of the waterways feeding the micro-hydro." border="0" alt="IMG_0012" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-8sJKDrIUXkQ/UdGrDormh8I/AAAAAAAAB1Q/Q_ivcZHeYYA/IMG_0012_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>the generator’s “exciter” delayed its commissioning, but technical experts from <a href="http://amore.org.ph/" target="_blank">AMORE</a>, another of <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a>’s project partners, finally resolved the issues a couple of months later. The system was at long last turned over to the community on May 29, and the Lubo Renewable Energy and Community Development Association or LURECDA was promptly formed to manage its operations.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1sBmbOpdC1Q/UdGrEkBE5cI/AAAAAAAAB1Y/JUTqMbshaYg/s1600-h/IMG_0014%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The first gate that lets water into the canal leading to the powerhouse." border="0" alt="IMG_0014" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-xEu82kwAD9s/UdGrFG-xdDI/AAAAAAAAB1g/GQYCl9dg0n8/IMG_0014_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a></p> <p>Scarcely had <a href="http://www.yamog.org/" target="_blank">Yamog</a> Executive Director Nonoy Cayayan and I got past the arduous 8-hour journey up the mountain last Saturday, June 22, when we overheard TV sets and radios from lit homes at Sitio Lubo’s outskirts. At their hearths, steaming electric rice cookers had replaced rice pots blackened by wood fire, a sharp contrast to my first visit in <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2010/09/watershed-of-possibilities-for-sitio.html" target="_blank">September 2010</a>, when the few signs of electricity were powered either by a leased solar panel home system or a 2 to 3 kilowatt gas- or diesel-fed generator. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-95cGTM34R24/UdGrGWwPOzI/AAAAAAAAB1o/Z5IZBD1VJ6Y/s1600-h/IMG_0021%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Nonoy shows how calcified sediments may be cleaned." border="0" alt="IMG_0021" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-D6HK20jduwI/UdGrG71q3qI/AAAAAAAAB1w/QHfFAo1AFfs/IMG_0021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>I rode behind Allan Romano, himself a LURECDA board member, on his motorcycle as we worked our way up the mountain. Electric posts at intervals of about 20 meters lined the dirt road leading to Allan’s house where we were met by LURECDA officers. Ali Danyang, nephew of T’boli leader Victor Danyang whom we met at the tribe’s main house two years ago, represents the T’boli and Manobo tribes in LURECDA and was one of those who were on hand to greet us.</p> <p>Over 80 out of 250 households have initially signed up as beneficiaries of the 35 kilowatt micro-hydropower project, I was <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Gzw7v2disNo/UdGrIGrJPWI/AAAAAAAAB10/YSRPd5ZLfeQ/s1600-h/IMG_0025%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The dam at Kalulong Stream." border="0" alt="IMG_0025" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-71VLWiF87tQ/UdGrI5_oJeI/AAAAAAAAB2A/U8ZpTU9tC4E/IMG_0025_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>told, while those who have adopted a wait-and-see posture are showing considerable interest in getting connected as well. Meters had been installed in each of the electrified household. Electricity is free for the first month, then the monthly rate of P150 (about US$3.60) is charged for the first five kilowatt hours and P20 (US$0.48) for every kilowatt hour thereafter. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TcX9bOUNt2A/UdGrKJ4oxyI/AAAAAAAAB2I/txq3ZrGdrgM/s1600-h/IMG_0031%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The weir spillway." border="0" alt="IMG_0031" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Deh2Mh2N_o0/UdGrK2cg2WI/AAAAAAAAB2Q/k-ZiGCzAr-I/IMG_0031_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Each participating household shouldered the roughly P3,000 (US$71.40) for the meter, connection and household wiring. The LURECDA board members are reading the meters themselves according to their area assignments, and 11 community members successfully finished the training in the operation and maintenance of the micro-hydropower generator. Another board member doubles as the accountant. All in all, it would seem that the management side of the enterprise is off to a good start.</p> <p>The T’boli and Manobo tribes who reside at the edges of the <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-d9yX9pdiHk8/UdGrMLVnOEI/AAAAAAAAB2Y/1jqDmVncszI/s1600-h/IMG_0037%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The long pipe from the weir going into the powerhouse." border="0" alt="IMG_0037" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hMUraYqcIxw/UdGrM0eGOuI/AAAAAAAAB2g/dOd6-UNOJxw/IMG_0037_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>watershed in the upper reaches of Sitio Lubo are tasked to patrol the forests against poachers and to continue gathering wildlings for the nurseries. For their efforts, 10% of the micro-hydro’s monthly net income will be given to them. A <em>covenant</em> to this effect, drawn in the local dialect, was read and presented to Ali Danyang, to take to his uncle and tribe leader to study.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-k5gcbH4Jz2w/UdGrN2HQdII/AAAAAAAAB2o/vebHcJcyQNs/s1600-h/IMG_0071%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Nonoy, Ali and me at the powerhouse." border="0" alt="Nonoy, Ali and me at the powerhouse." align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-tmGxiIklmg8/UdGrOtbXAcI/AAAAAAAAB2w/mXEfQMfeI5Y/IMG_0071_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Another <em>covenant</em> was previously drawn up and signed, I was again told, since the signing of the first covenant between Seacology and Sitio Lubo’s leaders. This is between the Municipality of Lake Sebu, Barangay Ned, and Sitio Lubo, which essentially recognizes the importance of the watershed with respect to the micro-hydro, and assures that no activity deleterious to the forests therein will be allowed.</p> <p>Perhaps they sense a certain solemnity and emotion or the reciprocation of <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6b7GGYO_htU/UdGrPatXhrI/AAAAAAAAB24/nZ3VsENhD00/s1600-h/IMG_0055%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Nga posing between the turbine and the digital load controller." border="0" alt="IMG_0055" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WhNX4NGLLq8/UdGrPwA_dcI/AAAAAAAAB3A/mkH8U98HUak/IMG_0055_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>honor and respect in the word “covenant.” And they would not be very far off, because the first covenant with Seacology carried those, at least on Seacology’s part, when they agreed to protect  2,500 hectares of watershed forest within the 7,345 hectare ancestral claim of the T’boli and Manobo tribes in exchange for the micro-hydropower generator and fruit tree nursery. In the micro-hydro’s September 16, 2010 groundbreaking ceremonies, the first two covenants were buried in a time capsule capped by a circular cement marker. For anyone going to and from the powerhouse, it is a constant reminder of obligations that need keeping.</p> <p>Among other points brought up is the complaint lodged by a mining company against the alleged unauthorized placement of an electric post inside its recently bought property. This would be the subject of a long huddle later on with the LURECDA board.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-VHbyHDJXpaY/UdGrQ8NrVjI/AAAAAAAAB3I/43SJgIiMQbw/s1600-h/IMG_0069%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Nga showing the logbook to Nonoy." border="0" alt="IMG_0069" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3tDOLsM62Wg/UdGrReQm-TI/AAAAAAAAB3Q/rQmSsYkpHzo/IMG_0069_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>After resting a bit, we hiked down to the powerhouse, some 30 minutes away, where we saw first hand the micro-hydro at work. There we were met by Nga Villanueva, one of the recently trained operators and whose family donated the lot on which the powerhouse was built. A logbook records the town’s electrical consumption at certain times of day. Nga’s job is to regulate the flow of water through the turbine so that the electricity generated is just slightly above the total expected consumption. Ballasts mounted on the walls take up any excess electricity. At that moment, 5:00 pm, the total output was a little less than 5 kilowatts per hour, well below the micro-hydro’s 35 kilowatt per hour <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gkvlFKfxAl0/UdGrSkPjaCI/AAAAAAAAB3Y/TAHD1I2uHP4/s1600-h/IMG_0073%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The cement marker where the covenants are sealed in a time capsule." border="0" alt="IMG_0073" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-2TdDnb_joaQ/UdGrTCPYVoI/AAAAAAAAB3g/E6jum9_8T78/IMG_0073_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>rating. From his growing experience, Nga is expecting consumption to rise a bit, maybe 3 or 4 kilowatts more per hour, as soon as it gets dark and more lights and appliances are turned on. There is definitely a lot of room for more consumers.</p> <p>Nonoy noted that Lubo’s water has a very high calcium carbonate content, and that periodic cleaning of the pipes, headrace canal and turbine, perhaps as often as every 6 months, will be needed to remove the expected encrusting of sediments over time. That aside, adjusting the aperture of the gates and valves depending on the season (wet or dry) and the community’s consumption habits remains the only task the operators have to constantly keep watch for.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-am9goZT4kaU/UdGrUB_KGGI/AAAAAAAAB3o/Llp8frg8VXQ/s1600-h/IMG_0077%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The marker for the powerhouse." border="0" alt="IMG_0077" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6uy1DtGlUo0/UdGrU9GtByI/AAAAAAAAB3w/edpA4PJPHCQ/IMG_0077_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Nga went back to his nearby farm, where sacks of peanuts were waiting to be sealed, as we began our return to town before it got too dark. He and his workers have to bring the peanuts inside the shed while daylight still allows it. Sitio Lubo’s many farms produce corn and peanuts in the main, and Nga’s yields several sacks of high grade peanuts per planting cycle. </p> <p>The micro-hydro is fed by only a tiny fraction of the water from Kabusong and Kalulong streams. It is the start of the dry season in the mountains, and the amount of water from the streams is expected to diminish by just a bit more until the next rainy season comes around. The available water however is so plentiful that the potential for expansion is undeniable. Should LURECDA manage its operations and finances well, they may be in a position to supply electricity to neighboring villages in the near future, particularly if <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WEHMI8kraHs/UdGrV8DbAvI/AAAAAAAAB34/rD8PAXQLImU/s1600-h/IMG_0040%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="A sack of peanuts from Nga's farm." border="0" alt="IMG_0040" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-4ETN_SVrQZg/UdGrWlb8mlI/AAAAAAAAB4A/IGgvUt4NKmA/IMG_0040_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>they are able to save enough to finance the construction of another micro-hydro.</p> <p>Minor management details were knocked around over dinner that night. At what point will they hire a full-time manager, accountant, meter reader and electrician? Would it be practical to ask the T’boli and Manobo to open their own bank account to facilitate the monthly transfer of funds? And so on. Good problems to have, being positive indicators of a business starting to take off. And then there was this <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-XYMBI2vZDV8/UdGrX96fuiI/AAAAAAAAB4I/oKBiIu5qhHY/s1600-h/IMG_0008%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Typical meter." border="0" alt="IMG_0008" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/--MCseS2LZGE/UdGrYqaB9NI/AAAAAAAAB4Q/yUAaXAPXUJ4/IMG_0008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>letter from the mining company.</p> <p>One of the burning issues in 2010, when I first came here, was the coal exploration being conducted by big companies in the area in spite of the community’s strong opposition. On balance is the potential damage to the watershed due to open pit mining, which is the usual method of extraction used. It seems that late that year, San Miguel Corporation, one of the nation’s biggest conglomerates, bought the coal mining franchises of several smaller mining companies (Daguma Agro Minerals Inc. and Sultan Energy Philippines Corp., among others) with the intention of diversifying into mining. These mining franchises are not in Sitio Lubo but<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--F8nSlApILs/UdGrZXqYtcI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/l-XhkWwyfJE/s1600-h/IMG_0075%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="One of the poles that hold up the network of wires." border="0" alt="IMG_0075" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2-dNCtBPdy0/UdGrZ22YRxI/AAAAAAAAB4g/JL6N3TZntc8/IMG_0075_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> elsewhere in the Municipality of Lake Sebu. If reports are to be believed, the Daguma mountain range on which Sitio Lubo is located contains 426 million metric tons of “coal resources.” Big business, harkening to the imagined <em>ka-ching</em> of their cash registers, push on one side of the issue, and indigenous peoples, particularly the T’boli and Manobo tribes of Sitio Lubo, fearing the destruction of the watershed area in their ancestral domain, stand firmly opposed.</p> <p>In 2011, San Miguel was able to purchase land on which one crucial transmission pole passes through by permission of the previous owner. After the micro-hydropower was commissioned, a series of letters were served on the community demanding that the pole and <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0CFReW79CSQ/UdGra1BKhJI/AAAAAAAAB4o/INMlkFlpPFk/s1600-h/P6220012%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="An after dinner meeting with the LURECDA Board. Note the series of sockets mounted on the wall." border="0" alt="P6220012" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zIZezprEI6c/UdGrbmTCkFI/AAAAAAAAB4w/gM8yN4JR0fM/P6220012_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>transmission line be taken off their property. The last one, dated June 15, gave LURECDA seven days to comply.</p> <p>Being at the infancy of its operations, LURECDA is hard put to come up with the estimated P18,000 needed to uproot, replant the pole and modify the transmission lines accordingly, and no one as of yet is stepping forward to lend the amount – huge compared to Sitio Lubo’s average per capita income – despite what is looking like a threat of an expensive and drawn-out lawsuit. A board member posited that the unneighborly behavior is a warning, that San Miguel is showing that it can be a major inconvenience for their operations unless a certain arrangement <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xg_dy6iPQEU/UdGrcqZc0UI/AAAAAAAAB44/JB1rBEh7VE8/s1600-h/P6220005%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The beginning of street lighting for Lubo." border="0" alt="P6220005" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4MHJ8IoO0C4/UdGrdXqjllI/AAAAAAAAB5A/kn5zaCZPOV0/P6220005_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>(mining rights?) can be agreed on. </p> <p>It was decided that they will meet with San Miguel’s representative and say that they will comply with San Miguel’s demand. But with an eye at San Miguel as a likely LURECDA client in the future, they will negotiate for an advance, P18,000 worth, to be deducted against the company’s electrical consumption when it eventually begins its business operations. Should bargaining fail, LURECDA or the community members themselves will just have to pool their money to remove, replant and rewire the pole. In any case, it was agreed that this problem can be licked one way or another if the board members remain united in their approach. </p> <p>After breakfast at Allan’s house the next morning, we began our way down the mountain as the five Christian churches in town welcomed everyone for Sunday services.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-yNQkTq-YfsY/UdGreglYiFI/AAAAAAAAB5I/oIXOjf91v8k/s1600-h/P6220003%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Our traveling party at rest, near Lubo." border="0" alt="P6220003" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7M6c-cBkhuE/UdGrfQWKVuI/AAAAAAAAB5Q/Y7SDa-NGORU/P6220003_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>In the short time we were here, we witnessed Sitio Lubo townfolk who have managed to be very productive despite the odds in a distant mountain, and who have come up with common sense solutions to startup challenges. Industry, business acumen, and a lot of faith. It would certainly seem that the success of the micro-hydro is assured, and with it the continued preservation of Sitio Lubo’s watershed forest.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-11562880385328415542013-04-23T21:08:00.001+08:002013-04-23T21:17:44.950+08:00Seacology goes to Tubbataha en route to Manamoc Island Project Site Visit<p>The Manamoc Island project site visit was planned over a year in advance, and included in the itinerary was a visit to the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park. However, when news came out that a US Navy minesweeper ran aground at Tubbataha’s south atoll while on its way to Indonesia, we got worried.</p> <p>It was bad, but not as bad as we expected. As of last report, about <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-74BX2C9NDvw/UXaHURvJ3YI/AAAAAAAABsA/eT6bcMR0gxA/s1600-h/uss%252520guardian.png"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The USS Guardian aground on the south atoll, and tugboat. The minesweeper had to be cut into sections before it could be removed." border="0" alt="uss guardian" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-syR_ucSEhDU/UXaHV1EcfEI/AAAAAAAABsI/nwmo9uXGO_o/uss%252520guardian_thumb.png?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>2,345 square meters of the reef was determined to have been damaged when the USS Guardian was finally removed last March 30. First estimates put the figure at 4,000 square meters. Two dive spots were affected and had to be closed so the area can be allowed to recover.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-qda192utnVs/UXaHW8FBSWI/AAAAAAAABsQ/KS3bO0YM1xM/s1600-h/fishingboat%252520aground%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The F/N Min Long Yu. Two Philippine Navy vessels are coordinating efforts to extricate it from the reef." border="0" alt="fishingboat aground" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Wg6Q5b0igRc/UXaHX-0SjtI/AAAAAAAABsY/3UjomXj9t7g/fishingboat%252520aground_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="160" /></a>Then a Chinese fishing boat, F/N Min Long Yu, also ran aground a mere two nautical miles from the ranger station at the southwestern end of the north atoll one week before our trip. Initial news reports said that no marine products were found, and that is accurate. But the rangers we visited told us of their bizarre discovery within the wayward boat’s hull that fueled the news while we were at sea.</p> <p>The fishing boat was still stuck on the reef when we made our visit <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-sC3u6R6YP70/UXaHZOhmVJI/AAAAAAAABsg/-AXJ1HHEBmk/s1600-h/P4150023%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Seacology Executive Director Duane Silverstein and others on the way to the Tubbataha Ranger Station." border="0" alt="P4150023" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-iPdpCuPraAw/UXaHZxnOyEI/AAAAAAAABso/rvziiRvb1Sw/P4150023_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>to the Tubbataha Ranger Station. On duty at the isolated outpost were Erli Bundal (Philippine Navy) and Norwin Nuevo (Philippine Coast Guard). According to Mr. Bundal, the fishermen on board tried to bribe them with US$2,400 for their quick release. The culprits are now detained in some jail at Puerto Princesa. Their alibi, as far as the bribery charge is concerned, is that they were misunderstood owing to the language barrier, that the money was not a bribe but a proffer in exchange for assistance to extricate their vessel from the reef.</p> <p>What was not in the news at first is that the rangers, while removing the fishing nets, chanced upon some 500 sacks of dried <em>balintongs</em>, an endangered sub-species of scaly anteaters endemic to Palawan island. These would probably have landed in the shelves of Chinese drugstores alongside rhino horns and dried geckos and scorpions had they not been intercepted. There are laws, such as the Strategic Environment Plan for Palawan Act and the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act, that provide for penalties for trading in rare <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-vI1Et73FXhs/UXaHazLD_oI/AAAAAAAABsw/x4SdZR6raqQ/s1600-h/P4150030%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Me, Duane, Erli Bundal (Philippine Navy) and Norwin Nuevo (Philippine Coast Guard) at the Tubbataha Ranger Station." border="0" alt="P4150030" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5EHfcAScTVs/UXaHb0PB_pI/AAAAAAAABs4/tC3y5RU3vnw/P4150030_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>and endangered species, but it goes on anyway. Traditional Chinese medicine prescribes ground-up anteater scales for cancer, asthma, or to stimulate lactation. One can go on and on with a clinical discourse about poverty-driven poaching and the international pseudo-medicine that drives it, but as with many other issues, nothing wells up frustrations stirred by feckless government efforts to save endangered species higher than an actual incident so close to home.</p> <p>For now however, the issue that at least has in place some preventive measures, is the protection and conservation of the Tubbataha ecosystem. A UNESCO World Heritage Site covering a little over 130,000 hectares, the Tubbataha reefs include the north and south atolls, as well as the Jessie Beazley Reef. It is a wide expanse that is obviously much too big for the valiant efforts of a tiny ranger station. However, plans are underway for another, more electronically sophisticated ranger station, which should contribute a whole lot more in warding off errant vessels before damage is inflicted.</p> <p>Scuba diving in Tubbataha is a privilege. Not only is it accessible <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-jShIgG7zN7w/UXaHdBF3ZDI/AAAAAAAABtA/u00uAqekmac/s1600-h/DSC_1283%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="A hawksbill turtle ignoring the scuba divers around it." border="0" alt="DSC_1283" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-g5ypUySdKLI/UXaHdx4nQgI/AAAAAAAABtI/OuanfyPCRKg/DSC_1283_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>only by liveaboards, the marine life is unlike any other in the country. Sharks, turtles, stingrays, tunas and other large marine animals are mostly so curious that many of us were able to observe them up-close. While there were a few patches of rubble, most probably remnants of blast fishing before serious protection measures were instituted, the coral gardens are nothing short of magnificent. The long hilly stretch of dense staghorns at the south atoll is certainly very impressive.</p> <p>A whale shark swam below us during one wall dive, hawksbill and green turtles did not care whether we were virtually nose to nose <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zeLzlq1tG-w/UXaHeqOkLMI/AAAAAAAABtQ/t7_t_Z325EA/s1600-h/SS%25252042%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="A school of barracudas." border="0" alt="SS 42" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-boMu0Cw3ueo/UXaHfFgcSJI/AAAAAAAABtY/JJUoB-zqZsU/SS%25252042_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>with them on other dives, and schools of barracudas and trevally jacks were sighted on several dives. And then there are the reef sharks. Black tips, white tips, and grey reefs are so numerous one could be lulled into thinking that these are ordinary fare on scuba dives anywhere. A wholly visible nurse shark on a ledge that just allowed us to gawk at it for as long as we wanted was a highlight of one of our night dives.</p> <p>Arguably, the key to Tubbataha’s beauty is its remoteness to human activity. Other reefs are often too close to human settlements that they are extremely vulnerable to over-extraction and degradation. That is unless the island community nearest the reef actively protects and conserves it. And this is precisely what is happening in Manamoc Island.</p> <p>One of the major problems besetting island communities like<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-6E9R21e4ZDs/UXaHgKh7HeI/AAAAAAAABtg/gOI1GxbRw3o/s1600-h/P4210009%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="That distant island is Manamoc. Many of its residents are employed at the nearby resort island of Pamalican." border="0" alt="P4210009" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-7BzfRNoHUG4/UXaHg6kBH2I/AAAAAAAABto/bkn81_Zyf5Q/P4210009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> Barangay Manamoc is lack of reliable electricity. Its generators depend on fossil fuel, which has to be imported to the island and is very much susceptible to price increases. The relatively high cost of power makes it very difficult for barangay public facilities to provide efficient and effective services to the community. Moreover, the community's generators are usually turned on only at dusk (and turned off at midnight), to provide light for the village. In their high school for instance, students and teachers, before a covenant with <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> was reached, had to shell out personal money to purchase <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-PeYzOuN8Xr0/UXaHh7ZtVaI/AAAAAAAABtw/wvjv1iEJQks/s1600-h/P4210016%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Dancing children, barangay officials and ASF staff met us at the island." border="0" alt="P4210016" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-RKUdsjFBdS4/UXaHioyDRLI/AAAAAAAABt4/eIXPWqeUCRA/P4210016_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>gasoline for the sole generator set within the school to power at least 2 of the 6 working computer units in their classroom. <br />  <br />In 2008, in exchange for their commitment to protect a nearby 108-hectare Marine Protected Area (MPA), Seacology funded several solar power supply systems for their community health center, village hall, community training cum multi-purpose center, public high school, public elementary school and the pre-school center. Our partner on the ground, the <a href="http://www.anscor.com.ph/foundation/foundation.html" target="_blank">Andres Soriano Foundation</a> (ASF), has been reporting that the solar power systems have been continuously<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-P74EXveHxMw/UXaHkOSFEoI/AAAAAAAABuA/SQD2_bGLyN4/s1600-h/P4210021%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="A presentation on the condition of the MPA was given at the beach by a barangay councilman." border="0" alt="P4210021" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-o-5Wg1JtTg0/UXaHk3HxHmI/AAAAAAAABuI/DaQtV1VD1ew/P4210021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> serving the community well, and that the MPA is strictly being enforced as a no-take zone.</p> <p>Last Sunday, April 21, 2013, Seacology Board Member Lucien d'Sa, Executive Director Duane Silverstein, myself and other Seacology guests got to see for ourselves what is actually happening on the ground.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dEIArVODfXw/UXaHmfnEqpI/AAAAAAAABuQ/Zx7nylEWo3M/s1600-h/P4210040%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Pandan leaves being dried on the street will be woven into various handicrafts." border="0" alt="P4210040" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-orFRXJ2UWKw/UXaHnLjQM7I/AAAAAAAABuY/OJR193E5sgs/P4210040_thumb%25255B1%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>On our arrival, we were met by dancing children, ASF staff, and barangay officials who briefed us on the status of the MPA. It was reported that the reef suffered a crown of thorns infestation in 2008 but that it has since recovered. The chart we were shown graphed a fish count low of 1,479 in 2008 that dramatically increased to 4,826 in 2012. Also shown was the health of the corals in the MPA, which as of May 6, 2012 was comprised of 50% hard coral, 15% sand, 12% soft coral, 12% rubble, and 11% dead coral with algae. For perspective, there was only 25% mean hard coral cover in 2008.</p> <p>More importantly, the success of the MPA is being felt by the <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-g-IJgck5xBY/UXaHoQgr83I/AAAAAAAABug/tMWkKOwMFng/s1600-h/P4210050%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The Manamoc National High School, one of the sites where the Seacology funded Solar Power Systems were installed." border="0" alt="P4210050" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-xNdkLuH94Ts/UXaHpICu3aI/AAAAAAAABuo/03n31a9PRu4/P4210050_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>community’s fisherfolk who are having better catches just beyond the MPA.</p> <p>The villagers have organized their own <em>Bantay Dagat</em> or Fish Wardens who continuously patrol the MPA. Poachers, invariably other fisherfolk originating from neighboring islands, are apprehended and fined. Through the fines collected, the villagers were eventually able to purchase a patrol boat exclusively for this purpose.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-hU6GQW6NQwo/UXaHqHPJxlI/AAAAAAAABuw/m8HmLnIl36c/s1600-h/P4210053%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="The National High School's Computer Lab. The units were donated by companies upgrading their systems." border="0" alt="P4210053" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Gbb8YHFGr64/UXaHq_NwncI/AAAAAAAABu4/pamGB92Z3OI/P4210053_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>After the brief presentation at the beach, we were toured around the village where we saw the solar power systems at work, most notably at the health center where temperature-sensitive medicine such as vaccines are now kept refrigerated, and the national high school where the few functioning units in the computer lab have become usable for at least a few hours during schooldays.</p> <p>Our visit ended at the ASF Staff House in the island, where the <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HNRdxBfZoOI/UXaHsDTK49I/AAAAAAAABvA/jpLAbZxPtGg/s1600-h/P4210059%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="A snack and briefing by Seacology's partner NGO, the Andres Soriano Foundation, capped our visit." border="0" alt="P4210059" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pH_9XC9nb4g/UXaHtKKbwWI/AAAAAAAABvI/v-jda_eX4Xo/P4210059_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>admirable work of our partner organization in the island was explained in detail. There are many more challenges besetting Barangay Manamoc and the other outlying islands, but in a small way they are certainly fortunate to have NGOs such as the ASF watching out for them.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-jL7xP5wTr3s/UXaHuTVp_-I/AAAAAAAABvQ/UA9sa-M8Lp0/s1600-h/P4210060%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Kids frolicking near the beach would not stop saying hi to us and waving us goodbye." border="0" alt="P4210060" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-q1NOi9r4BQo/UXaHvLR0UoI/AAAAAAAABvY/dVt2pyym3mo/P4210060_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>This year’s Seacology Expedition to Tubbataha and Manamoc Island offers critical lessons in the management of the earth’s remaining wildlife and resources. A single ship grounding can instantly obliterate wide areas of coral growing for decades, if not centuries. Wanton poaching, for whatever purpose, can drive species to extinction. And a small island community taking responsibility for the protection of its marine resources can cause it to flourish, translating to increased bounty from designated fishing areas.</p> <p> </p> <p><em>[Underwater photos courtesy of Randy Wright, Atlantis Azores boat captain who would dive with us occasionally.]</em></p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-21695440102209147002012-05-02T13:03:00.000+08:002012-05-04T13:04:10.369+08:00Malhiao’s Mangroves Revisited<p>For the coastal community of Malhiao, Municipality of Badian, Cebu<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0jwKEeiCoy4/T6ImkrQYzXI/AAAAAAAAAog/Tlf6ErukEtg/s1600-h/P4270442%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270442" border="0" alt="P4270442" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-pOIVbiq2q3A/T6ImljLWrrI/AAAAAAAAAok/bkjkQ3C30iQ/P4270442_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>, it’s all about economics. It is having a dependable livelihood so that there will be food on the table. This takes precedence over other matters, including conservation. That is unless the twain shall meet.</p> <p>Mangroves have long been the source of firewood and charcoal, building materials, as well as shellfish and other edibles, for many coastal communities. Mangrove charcoal is particularly prized for the extended high heat it can provide. Shrouded for generations with a mantle of consistency and <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-giEaOK0VpOY/T6ImnN42xGI/AAAAAAAAAow/Ck6_k4bQ2T4/s1600-h/P7020007%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020007" border="0" alt="P7020007" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-qW4qtYId_LM/T6ImoBIXvZI/AAAAAAAAAo4/YQbz4wglroA/P7020007_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>dependability, the thought that the bounty from the mangroves will one day decline was far from anyone’s mind. But as burgeoning populations demanded more, the mangroves began to provide less and less. This, fortunately, did not escape notice from the leaders of Barangay Malhiao, and it was decided that steps had to be taken.</p> <p>In 2001, the community formed the Malhiao Resource Management Multipurpose Cooperative to spearhead the efforts to protect and conserve 73 hectares of its remaining mangroves, entering into a 25-year Community Based Forest Management Agreement with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. It did not take <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8bMc4zlj5C8/T6ImqWRHkPI/AAAAAAAAApA/Brkx61SFlC4/s1600-h/P7020002%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020002" border="0" alt="P7020002" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-AqGmtLNnqng/T6ImrUU_2WI/AAAAAAAAApI/Dy0ZkhiJ1ZQ/P7020002_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>long for them to realize that protection and conservation is not enough. For as long as there are no alternative means of livelihood available, it will be difficult to stop the poaching within. One alternative, which would force any enterprise depending on it to support the mangroves, is tourism development.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-TmD-aVCbihI/T6ImtCZRmOI/AAAAAAAAApQ/Y5Cr0UU63hE/s1600-h/P4270437%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270437" border="0" alt="P4270437" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-vWrkNmEni24/T6ImuAocdCI/AAAAAAAAApY/zZsZupKRWxE/P4270437_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Last year, <a href="http://www.seacology.org/" target="_blank">Seacology</a> agreed to fund a 300 linear meter boardwalk and view deck for Malhiao in exchange for the community’s commitment to maintain a no-take policy on their 73-hectare mangrove. The implementing body would be <a href="http://www.tambuyog.org/" target="_blank">Tambuyog</a>, an NGO that has already been working with the community for some time.</p> <p>Last weekend, a month after Tambuyog informed me that the project has been completed, I revisited Malhiao. To my surprise, I found only a 100-meter boardwalk, not the 300-meter I was expecting. I was not consulted about the change, nor was <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1Fkd5f0beLA/T6Imvyr4tHI/AAAAAAAAApg/XlZfPJHo49w/s1600-h/P4270438%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270438" border="0" alt="P4270438" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2bLhlD6uC7w/T6Imw5gn7qI/AAAAAAAAApk/qdzvXFOIPjw/P4270438_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Seacology’s permission sought. (This would become the subject of a heated discussion between Zeena Manglinong of Tambuyog and me after I got back from the trip, particularly what it means to ‘consult’ and why securing permission from the donor before implementing changes is important.) But this is an issue between Seacology and Tambuyog. My immediate concern was to find out if the community was expecting more from Seacology but now feels shortchanged.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KIBTVr4t2go/T6ImyVrGgaI/AAAAAAAAApw/FZstaMImUdI/s1600-h/P4270441%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270441" border="0" alt="P4270441" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-LonT-A-elVU/T6ImzS5AWbI/AAAAAAAAAp0/4hhfR0-x_fc/P4270441_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>The boardwalk, short as it is, is sturdy. The walkway and the tall abutment posts are of thick cement with reinforced bars, and the steel railings provide a very secure support for, say, birdwatchers. It actually felt nice and solid.</p> <p>As Delfa Talaid, my companion from Tambuyog, and I approached the end, I could see a bamboo network, which the villagers were using to get from one point of the mangrove to another, particularly within the five-hectare multi-use section. The multi-use area has been cordoned off so that it <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-yiVxrUX4qAE/T6Im1kllJEI/AAAAAAAAAqA/nOiO1hoAfQI/s1600-h/P4270448%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270448" border="0" alt="P4270448" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5mlBk-t_m_M/T6Im2tMwSMI/AAAAAAAAAqI/slB7_72wLNY/P4270448_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>would be not confused with the no-take zone. I would learn later on that this bamboo network they call the “catwalk” is envisioned to become, module by module, an extension of the boardwalk each time funds become available. Already the Badian Municipal Mayor’s office has allocated P150,000 for this. Good enough for about six more boardwalk modules, I am told.</p> <p>The officers of the cooperative and other villagers were waiting for us in a makeshift hut at the middle of the multi-use area. Also with them was Mai-mai Saludsod, a technical officer from the Bureau of <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-E677XeQ5yW4/T6Im4o0NzTI/AAAAAAAAAqQ/16lPjx_cwN4/s1600-h/P4270444%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270444" border="0" alt="P4270444" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-b7shLY3aK-Y/T6Im59uOfBI/AAAAAAAAAqY/NI8UgO_ba1I/P4270444_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (<a href="http://www.bfar.da.gov.ph/" target="_blank">BFAR</a>). They were conversing in Cebuano, a dialect I have yet to learn, but I could tell from the gestures that they were discussing the implementation of aquasilviculture, a mangrove-friendly fish farming system that the BFAR is trying to popularize and is helping them with.</p> <p>The cooperative had an election early this year, but it’s basically musical chairs as I have already met most of the current officers in my previous visit and there were only a few new faces. They animatedly described the difficulties they had in constructing the<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-uyNTJ7a9fs0/T6Im7hOsz5I/AAAAAAAAAqg/mcGbaZzNSdo/s1600-h/P4270456%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270456" border="0" alt="P4270456" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-62GgtAT0GMM/T6Im8TJYezI/AAAAAAAAAqk/94zDPPzZSss/P4270456_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> boardwalk, mostly because they had to wait for the tide to go out and quickly dig and pour cement for the posts before the tide comes back in. Then they had to wait until the tide conditions are ideal again before moving on to make the next post. They are darn proud of their work, and yes it is the length they anticipated to build from the Seacology funds.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WcfA4Qm8ZQc/T6Im-WyxVeI/AAAAAAAAAqw/YFGyLy4viYg/s1600-h/P4270446%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270446" border="0" alt="P4270446" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7slHJIL4eBI/T6Im_Y1RzTI/AAAAAAAAAq4/vJjDoInyy6o/P4270446_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>From the start, a key feature of the boardwalk that the villagers insisted on is that it should be durable enough so that only the most minimal of maintenance would be needed in the long run, and they were prepared to sacrifice the boardwalk’s length for this. It seems, at least, that their expectations were met in this respect.</p> <p>The harvest from the multi-use zone is also increasing, helped in no <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HjGdSZCQPz8/T6InBKtUCiI/AAAAAAAAArA/v31x_UyQsuo/s1600-h/P4270450%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270450" border="0" alt="P4270450" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-U2-z8VnXe-s/T6InCHcE1SI/AAAAAAAAArI/96cykUPQiFs/P4270450_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>small measure by the BFAR through its technical assistance. Groupers from Malhiao are finding their way to the markets of other municipalities, and mudcrab farming is being started. From where we were, I could see the green netting that separates the multi-use zone and the no-take zone.</p> <p>Folks from other villagers do not venture into the mangroves, I am told, but they are in the process of organizing regular patrols anyway just in case some outsiders are tempted to poach. I add that it<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QkTFYPRHovQ/T6InD4lNK6I/AAAAAAAAArQ/eau31uTDcx8/s1600-h/P4270449%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270449" border="0" alt="P4270449" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-nHvZjU2RXC4/T6InFLhJ1sI/AAAAAAAAArY/i85WaRwEfHM/P4270449_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> would be helpful if signs are put up to mark the no-take zone, as well as to identify the various species of mangroves for the benefit of tourists.</p> <p>Teachers from five public schools within Badian, through the assistance of the Regional Department of Education, are piloting a curriculum that integrates conservation ecology with visits to the mangroves of Malhiao when school opens in June. Students will be charged five pesos each (about 12 US cents), adults will pay ten pesos (25 US cents), and a pre-tour briefing will be given to all visitors.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-p8JMPq5EGBY/T6InGy5jtvI/AAAAAAAAArg/gJFoRmLL8PI/s1600-h/P4270447%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270447" border="0" alt="P4270447" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kKF4F_lyahQ/T6InIOCT1RI/AAAAAAAAAro/NI1oUnt34cg/P4270447_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>The conservation efforts of the villagers have been noticed by the provincial government when it recently recognized Malhiao as one of three most improved barangays of Badian because of its eco-tourism efforts, a barangay officer beamed as we were having lunch at a new building which will function as the village tourist center. For now, the structure serves as the headquarters of the cooperative’s nascent catering business that prepared the food, fresh fish and clams from the multi-use zone mostly, we were eating. A blackboard at one side lists <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-thXaJY8Twls/T6InKqivUvI/AAAAAAAAArw/vIZMOJ0-J6Q/s1600-h/P4270452%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270452" border="0" alt="P4270452" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-j-KPyZU372E/T6InLixDcLI/AAAAAAAAAr0/3eSqmhWzFUk/P4270452_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>the activities being done at the mangroves, the catering commitments, and profit projections. It certainly gives the impression that mangrove visitors will have no problem looking for good hot food while in the area. Only 30 minutes drive from the beaches and dive destinations of Moalboal, it should not take too much to attract tourists there who are on the lookout for something different.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-5V7ZY1SBW50/T6InNOT-7MI/AAAAAAAAAsA/PeBNyaVZzSg/s1600-h/P4270458%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270458" border="0" alt="P4270458" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-1PpaeVDKtWg/T6InOOMostI/AAAAAAAAAsE/NWJoP1FEtsU/P4270458_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Livelihood alternatives, it seems, can marry well with conservation efforts provided a community is determined and motivated enough. While eco-tourism still has to take flight in Malhiao, the community is already astir with other complementary endeavors. Their capacity to move ever forward with new ideas backed with action is what, I think, will carry them from one success to another. Consequentially, that will spell success for the conservation of the mangroves too.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-ruc_ofPER5E/T6InP8GRlNI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/jZt4t2ZRa6A/s1600-h/P4270459%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P4270459" border="0" alt="P4270459" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-YITerZL9BNQ/T6InQv1708I/AAAAAAAAAsY/qXFC0W1cib0/P4270459_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>After the long lunch, while Delfa and I were waiting for the bus that will take us back to Cebu City, some villagers were loading tables, chairs, serving dishes and more food in a small truck. They will be catering to a dinner party 60 kilometers away, at the Municipality of Santander.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-58522594270908742312011-07-03T21:24:00.001+08:002011-07-03T21:24:42.827+08:00A Covenant for Malhiao’s Mangroves<p> </p> <p><a href="http://www.seacology.org/">Seacology</a>’s win-win formula is simple. An island community commits to protect a natural resource, and in return, Seacology <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zqoHKZlzS2M/ThBs0kJdw0I/AAAAAAAAAfg/pNYFXGlBJl0/s1600-h/P7020001%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020001" border="0" alt="P7020001" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-GWyCBJedZwI/ThBs2GM4r9I/AAAAAAAAAfk/2_5y-MEh0Qk/P7020001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>funds a tangible need of the community. To finalize the agreement, a Covenant between the community and Seacology is then signed.</p> <p>The covenant is not complicated. It just stipulates a few important points: that Seacology will provide the funds required to build the tangible; that Seacology will not claim ownership over any land or sea belonging to the community; and that in return the community <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0e9to2EiYU8/ThBs5RTX-gI/AAAAAAAAAfo/mgBIOJMxvZ0/s1600-h/P7020006%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020006" border="0" alt="P7020006" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-mkMBogSTTxk/ThBs6dDnBMI/AAAAAAAAAfs/TNk_YfsKo1s/P7020006_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>pledges to protect the no-take zone agreed on.</p> <p>From past experience, this process is usually straightforward. The village will sign the covenant, and the construction will commence. That is, until the village of Malhiao raised a few questions that I thought should be answered face to face.</p> <p>It took a good three hour ride to get to Malhiao from Cebu City, past the noted beaches of Argao and Moalboal. The barangay’s leaders, led by putative Barangay Captain James Taboada, were waiting for <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-oVImgQx2j3k/ThBs8bX7DVI/AAAAAAAAAfw/xsfOZKU2MHw/s1600-h/P7020010%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020010" border="0" alt="P7020010" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fYS6mRNBL_E/ThBs9KdLKGI/AAAAAAAAAf0/jEZaLZBW0nY/P7020010_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>us by the time Delfa Talaid of <a href="http://www.tambuyog.org/">Tambuyog</a> (Seacology’s project partner) and I got there late morning yesterday. “Putative” because he is all but officially that, the previous Barangay Captain having died from a stroke the week before, I was just informed. Burial is today, July 3.</p> <p>The object of the covenant is the village’s commitment to protect 73 hectares of mangroves for 15 years, in exchange for Seacology’s funding of the construction of a boardwalk and view deck on the Mangroves. The community hopes to develop its own tourism <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-cdQOiOtQqhA/ThBs-3hGuyI/AAAAAAAAAf4/N7TZNUvMssU/s1600-h/P7020015%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020015" border="0" alt="P7020015" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0ctf7ybRJ84/ThBs_-85QXI/AAAAAAAAAf8/d9S3F6u09TQ/P7020015_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>industry by showcasing their lush mangroves.</p> <p>Of the many concerns they raised, I found four to be particularly incisive, which I have listed below along with my response to each:</p> <p><b>Question:</b> What exactly does a “no-take zone” mean? The community conducts mangrove planting activities every once in a while, and there is a concern as to whether activities of that sort will constitute a violation of the covenant. In fact, the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, in partnership with Malhiao, has a continuing program where parolees go to Malhiao to plant mangrove trees as part of their community service. Incorporating tree planting in future educational tours <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-E72iZqrbHzw/ThBtGoxKQvI/AAAAAAAAAgA/meq3-lUOB7c/s1600-h/P7020017%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020017" border="0" alt="P7020017" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-TCVw-vPNWOo/ThBtH8O2ueI/AAAAAAAAAgE/KuOQ8V1YlMc/P7020017_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>are planned as well.</p> <p><b>Answer:</b> Tree planting is allowable because this is not extractive in nature.</p> <p><b>Question:</b> Enforcing the no-take zone among the villagers of Malhiao is not a problem, but some fisherfolk from neighboring barangays go to the mangroves to collect shellfish for food. Will people still be allowed to gather shellfish within the mangroves if the mangrove trees themselves are left alone?</p> <p><b><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/--tEyd7W1nrg/ThBtKN1e_DI/AAAAAAAAAgI/cUvP9vfpo5Q/s1600-h/P7020025%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020025" border="0" alt="P7020025" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3BwVGCwGzY0/ThBtK1cqPlI/AAAAAAAAAgM/oqNzmEi-dZ4/P7020025_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Answer:</b> No. Setting aside the mangroves as a no-take zone means that gathering of any sort is prohibited. The benefits of this policy will redound to the five-hectare multi-use zone that the community has also declared. Maintaining an undisturbed mangrove area means more juvenile marine life will have a chance to grow into spawning adults, and the resulting spillover to the multi-use zone will mean more bountiful harvests. It is easy to imagine noticeable results in the quality of harvests in the multi-use zone within six months if the mangroves are fully protected.</p> <p><b>Question:</b> What if Malhiao is unable to effectively protect the <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Wtt62YkQF5c/ThBtM8B1cQI/AAAAAAAAAgQ/I9JfjUTgJTM/s1600-h/P7020026%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020026" border="0" alt="P7020026" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-6kJwh6dOfr4/ThBtNkj9ICI/AAAAAAAAAgU/H9yMwlPxs_0/P7020026_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>mangroves? Will there be a penalty imposed?</p> <p><b>Answer:</b> The first casualty, if the integrity of the mangroves is ruinously violated, is the productivity of the five-hectare multi-use zone. That by itself is heavy enough a penalty. Secondarily, the plans of the community to capitalize on tourism and the potential business it can bring will be in jeopardy. It will be hard to look for tourists who are willing to pay to see a mangrove area where people indiscriminately set traps and collect all sizes of crabs, seashells, and whatnot. But as far as Seacology is concerned, no penalty can or will be imposed, though it <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-t2Zetz9Vi_s/ThBtP7gSsZI/AAAAAAAAAgY/BwTbnYZjOHo/s1600-h/P7020021%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020021" border="0" alt="P7020021" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-L_1YOJ8TosM/ThBtVCE8zHI/AAAAAAAAAgc/16rW85EvwtI/P7020021_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>will be unlikely that we will enter into another agreement with the community in the future.</p> <p><b>Question:</b> Why does Seacology insist on a term on the village’s commitment to protect the mangrove?</p> <p><b>Answer:</b> The covenants Seacology enters into generally have a term ranging from 10 to 30 years. This stems from Seacology’s view that the succeeding generation should be free to make commitments of their own. If after 15 years the next generation decides to continue protecting the mangroves, it will be because they appreciate the merits of doing so; not because they have to honor some agreement their fathers entered into long ago.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zFe-8alPgKA/ThBtYZ6-uYI/AAAAAAAAAgg/E28rRpFO8Wo/s1600-h/P7020028%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020028" border="0" alt="P7020028" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DpxKiQ3RFJE/ThBtZD0bNoI/AAAAAAAAAgk/L99sLLZX1Cc/P7020028_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>We wound up beginning a shared lunch still discussing the covenant, until the conversations drifted onto other matters towards the end. Finally, after lunch, with all questions laid to rest, the covenant was signed. </p> <p>Then came the many ideas on the mangroves. Educational tours, guided mangrove river canoe rides, and bird watching are some of the possible mangrove activities that could spark the beginnings of <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-O6LGaDjw1Zw/ThBtcFRE1BI/AAAAAAAAAgo/OTtPl_GipJg/s1600-h/P7020033%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020033" border="0" alt="P7020033" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-01sRSMduv9k/ThBtd4NnP8I/AAAAAAAAAgs/Brrn6l7d_ZI/P7020033_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>tourism. Already, Tambuyog has had talks with the Regional Department of Education highlighting the Malhiao mangroves. As a result, an April 2011 <a href="http://www.depedcebuprovince.ph/Memo/Memo154_2011.pdf">memorandum was issued</a> holding the Malhiao mangroves as a guide in the implementation of the Coastal Ecosystem Education program of the department. To assist the barangay in enforcing the no-take zone, the Municipality of Badian agreed to train some villagers to become mangrove guards, and to provide enforcement support if needed. </p> <p>Looking back, if the questions on the project were raised as a consequence of the barangay’s sudden leadership transition, then a lot of credit must be given to incoming Barangay Captain Taboada. <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-2nt8VRa_H94/ThBthAxDNRI/AAAAAAAAAgw/mNJToFAm418/s1600-h/P7020040%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020040" border="0" alt="P7020040" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Kj1VMduwzfI/ThBthz2zyeI/AAAAAAAAAg0/IX3v1EUphuU/P7020040_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>He did not just go along with his predecessor’s project. He took the project, analyzed it, and after being satisfied with it, gave it his approval, thereby putting the responsibility for the project squarely within his watch.</p> <p>With each question I was asked, my impression on the seriousness of how the villagers of Malhiao are taking the covenant only deepened. There was a tour of the mangroves on a makeshift raft later on with some of the village’s leaders. It was a really nice and refreshing tour along passages between huge clusters of mangrove trees. But my mind was still on the upturn of the <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-u25b-DXdwk4/ThBtlRskScI/AAAAAAAAAg4/NZiu71sSq3s/s1600-h/P7020029%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P7020029" border="0" alt="P7020029" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-pbjQwufS5Eg/ThBtmCc9gFI/AAAAAAAAAg8/dexvPMJx8MI/P7020029_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>villagers’ regard towards their commitment with Seacology since we arrived. I just witnessed their progression from fawn-like tentativeness, to a doe’s leap of faith, to a stag’s confidence and optimism in the future. All in one day.</p> <p>It was a good feeling that stayed with me throughout the long bus ride back to Cebu City. And then some.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-47150301414722860102011-06-13T14:40:00.001+08:002011-06-13T14:45:27.794+08:00Protecting the mangroves and reefs of eastern El Nido<p> </p> <p>How much is a coral reef worth?</p> <p>On May 25, 2011, the country was jolted by horrific news. A <a href="http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/05/28/11/%E2%80%98destruction-reefs-now-national-concern%E2%80%99">coral reef at the Moro Gulf</a>, off Mindanao Island, five times the size of Manila was deemed destroyed when 21,169 pieces of black coral, 196 kilos of sea whips, 163 dead hawksbill and green turtles, and 7,340 pieces of trumpet and helmet shells, all harvested from the reef were intercepted at the Manila port by Customs officials as they were about to be shipped abroad. Ludivina Labe, a Senior Marine Biologist at the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) described it as the decimation of an entire reef complex, and Customs Commissioner Angelito Alvarez put the blame squarely on the multibillion-dollar marine ornamental industry for exotic decorative species and coral-accented jewelry. The shipper and consignee have been identified are being hunted by the authorities as of this posting. But this story does not end here.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-GU9LLijquBw/TfWwLmfT-PI/AAAAAAAAAdU/-Ew7oo1JxVI/s1600-h/moro%252520gulf%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="moro gulf" border="0" alt="moro gulf" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Gmc3aT4i5XY/TfWwX3nAw-I/AAAAAAAAAdY/UX6mmoSHCTs/moro%252520gulf_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="166" /></a></p> <p>Last <a href="http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/12299/%E2%80%98smuggled-corals-shells-in-zamboanga-city-can-cover-sulu-seabed%E2%80%99" target="_blank">June 4</a>, BFAR led a raid on the shipper’s warehouse in Zamboanga City, uncovering an estimated 30 to 40 tons of similar “marine products” roughly five times the volume of the previous discovery. A staggering chunk of marine habitat was taken just like that, leaving a severely impaired ecosystem in its wake.</p> <p>How much is a coral reef worth? For so-called connoisseurs of exotic jewelry, a tiny chip of black coral with chain on sterling silver would cost about US$90 (<a href="http://www.bonanza.com/listings/Black-coral-jewelry-pendant-with-chain-in-sterling-silver-/6343674">internet price</a>). About a hundred such chips can probably be made out of a single meter-long black coral. And then there are the turtle-shell eyeglass frames and decorative seashells. The cargo intercepted at the port of Manila is <a href="http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/nation/05/28/11/%E2%80%98destruction-reefs-now-national-concern%E2%80%99">estimated to be worth</a> about 35 million pesos or over US$800,000. If the stash at the Zamboanga City warehouse is five times that, the entire haul would be roughly 210 million pesos or US$4.8 million.</p> <p>How much is a coral reef worth? For islanders enticed to gather the corals, turtles and shells, it is worth what they are able to sell to the middlemen. Likely, they make more money doing this than what they normally would make if they were to farm or fish. As reef fishes disappear to dynamite and cyanide fishing, corals, shells and other rarer marine life are the next to fall. Moving further and further out to sea becomes just another fact of life as the gatherers leave behind virtually lifeless reefs, if those can still be called that.</p> <p>The BFAR’s <a href="http://www.bfar.da.gov.ph/infocorner/fast_facts.htm">website</a> reports that “only 4 percent of Philippine reefs [is] in excellent condition (i.e., over 75 percent hard or soft coral cover), 28 percent in good condition (50-75 percent coral cover), 42 percent in fair condition (25-50 percent coral cover), and 27 percent in poor condition (less than 25 percent coral cover).” One can only wonder how much the numbers have changed since those statistics were determined.</p> <p>Home to a very diverse aquatic species, coral reefs provide not just food but also livelihood, tourism included, for coastal communities. As people living off the sea for generations, they should be aware of the imperative to protect the little that remains of their reefs. And they are. Unfortunately, for the impoverished many, the gravitational pull of earning a quick profit, regardless of consequences, is <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-n2u_NRe_7no/TfWwY3nCTEI/AAAAAAAAAdc/6NvBqLboXLI/s1600-h/4%252520barangays%252520map%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="4 barangays map" border="0" alt="4 barangays map" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-NBQfBqEtYuE/TfWwZSvutfI/AAAAAAAAAdg/nb_zjMVJFVQ/4%252520barangays%252520map_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="213" height="244" /></a>too strong.</p> <p>But not for others.</p> <p>Barangays Sibaltan, New Ibajay, Villa Paz, and Mabini are four remote coastal barangays in the eastern part of the Municipality of El Nido, Palawan Island. Farming and fishing are the main sources of livelihood as tourists seldom venture into the villages. Roads are dusty during the dry season and muddy during the wet season. There are no restaurants and other tourist-related establishments, and the <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-F8hcyzEwVkA/TfWwbmGb1AI/AAAAAAAAAdk/GBqYGcHP8o4/s1600-h/DSC_0022%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0022" border="0" alt="DSC_0022" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-N2_WWoobzX8/TfWwcflmyPI/AAAAAAAAAdo/GeI2Dkc1IAI/DSC_0022_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165" /></a>villages are not served by the provincial electric cooperative. Despite their distance from the more affluent, tourism-oriented and more developed town center of El Nido, the villages are displaying a keen appreciation of their place in the ecosystem they are part of. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Btc-g4yTl44/TfWweRVD0kI/AAAAAAAAAds/NVKpmc2Ue3E/s1600-h/DSC_0149%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0149" border="0" alt="DSC_0149" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-yIQzdmekWeE/TfWwfDHBDsI/AAAAAAAAAdw/praW0P-ppqg/DSC_0149_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165" /></a></p> <p>Seeking to protect their coastal resource – 190 hectares of coral reef fronting the barangays as well as 974.63 hectares of mangrove forest – they asked for guardhouses, patrol bancas, marker buoys and signages, and communication equipment from <a href="http://www.seacology.org">Seacology</a>. <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wgG-pp2nvdU/TfWwg5VJlVI/AAAAAAAAAd0/djnNQ-JUllg/s1600-h/DSC_0183%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0183" border="0" alt="DSC_0183" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-IChjkFq2Ge8/TfWwhen0vrI/AAAAAAAAAd4/doiFulIwHKA/DSC_0183_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165" /></a>Cashew production equipment was likewise requested to support and strengthen their fledgling cashew industry, which provides a sustainable, ecologically friendly livelihood for the villagers.</p> <p>On January 22 this year, the <a href="http://www.seacology.org/project_videos/index.htm">Seacology Expedition</a> visited Barangay Sibaltan. Three patrol bancas were turned over in simple <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-B53wiDrbXo0/TfWwj5NoehI/AAAAAAAAAd8/iCLA9pEk9VI/s1600-h/Seacology%252520Visit%252520El%252520Nido%2525206-26-08%252520%25252836%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Seacology Visit El Nido 6-26-08 (36)" border="0" alt="Seacology Visit El Nido 6-26-08 (36)" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-49FMgTVaXHc/TfWwksKpXuI/AAAAAAAAAeA/Al6sCTUGxMQ/Seacology%252520Visit%252520El%252520Nido%2525206-26-08%252520%25252836%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>ceremonies, along with signages and communication equipment. The marker buoys were already there, just waiting for the anchoring blocks defining the MPAs to be set up. The cashew equipment were already in use, and their cashew products are selling briskly at the resorts of west El <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-JxSer2Gz0vc/TfWwnQZsdvI/AAAAAAAAAeE/EONQp-QLPfE/s1600-h/DSC_0040%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0040 (2)" border="0" alt="DSC_0040 (2)" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0H4YNCMZ63c/TfWwn_2xnsI/AAAAAAAAAeI/cQ6r4EBwpRE/DSC_0040%252520%2525282%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165" /></a>Nido. And, finally, despite a province-wide shortage of gravel and sand since December last year, the guardhouse in Barangay Sibaltan, with its own solar power, was finished and inaugurated last May 27. The only item left is the guardhouse still being built at Barangay New Ibajay, which they hope to finish by August.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-zdDrLlhpwkw/TfWwqSGBzfI/AAAAAAAAAeM/HlH0fiHrk_A/s1600-h/DSC_0050%252520%2525282%252529%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0050 (2)" border="0" alt="DSC_0050 (2)" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-GHlgu8QJU8M/TfWwrDHy2ZI/AAAAAAAAAeQ/sjx1ReevtSI/DSC_0050%252520%2525282%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165" /></a></p> <p>The mangroves surrounding the four villages are thick, but the broad area on which it is located also provides cover for clandestine charcoal kilns. Foot patrols monitor the mangroves continuously, tearing down the illegal kilns whenever they are found. Lloyd Lumbania of the El Nido Foundation (ENF) says that through <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-DCMp_KhzIt0/TfWwsPGiz4I/AAAAAAAAAeU/xTV4dmREK50/s1600-h/DSC_0068%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0068" border="0" alt="DSC_0068" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-djDzbwP1i10/TfWwsq7R_iI/AAAAAAAAAeY/a-YRtZaM-uw/DSC_0068_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="163" height="244" /></a>these efforts charcoal making within the mangroves is becoming more costly for the poachers. Hopefully they will soon reassess the profitability of their business and look for an altogether different source of income. </p> <p>Poaching is also a problem at the Marine Protected Areas. Mrs. Carmelita Acosta, the feisty Kapitana of Barangay Sibaltan, along with the other barangay captains and the local fisherfolk association, organized the regular patrols of the MPAs. Several poachers from nearby Municipality of Linapacan had been apprehended since the <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-cyzAavR5Sfc/TfWwt6gSXYI/AAAAAAAAAec/jl-UTMs6_Cc/s1600-h/DSC_0061%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0061" border="0" alt="DSC_0061" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nzjTiP8EQwk/TfWwuXPjiqI/AAAAAAAAAeg/AaTMRK6Ncmc/DSC_0061_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="163" height="244" /></a>MPAs were established last year, with parish priest Fr. Ed Parreno leading the citizens’ arrests. </p> <p>The ENF reports that live coral cover in the MPAs range from 31-50%. The seagrass incidence of the area is greater than 50%, and serves as forage area for the endangered dugong. Dugong sightings have often been reported, and dugong feeding trails are frequently seen on the seagrass. Barangay Sibaltan in particular has also been identified as a nesting ground of sea turtles (Green, Hawksbill, and Olive Reedley turtles).</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-kJxdZRl4Crk/TfWwwsnJuGI/AAAAAAAAAek/lqSOmODWejo/s1600-h/DSC_0050%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0050" border="0" alt="DSC_0050" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Obf4HWsLNWc/TfWwxNR3o2I/AAAAAAAAAeo/cLmpBrTQvyE/DSC_0050_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>Unless the incidence of intrusion of poachers from neighboring municipalities is substantially reduced, maintaining the level of vigilance needed to effectively protect the mangroves and MPAs can become an costly endeavor for the villagers. Food and fuel expenses are just two considerations. A third and arguably most important is the time spent by those on patrol duty away from their regular <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9UFn0lHi7Qc/TfWwztIcjiI/AAAAAAAAAes/k0amWagvGJY/s1600-h/DSC_0053%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0053" border="0" alt="DSC_0053" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-8osnTC3GDqc/TfWw0TaMNUI/AAAAAAAAAew/Bs6VM9eu80w/DSC_0053_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>sources of income. But these are sacrifices the villagers are willing to undertake to ensure that the their multi-use zones will remain productive. Also, plans are in the works to influence neighboring municipalities to establish their own MPAs and forest reserves as well. More MPAs and forest reserves in this corner of <img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0061 (2)" border="0" alt="DSC_0061 (2)" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-0WVxhow7NqU/TfWw04KVe6I/AAAAAAAAAe0/2U_AS8QYv-U/DSC_0061%252520%2525282%252529_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165" />Palawan would mean more bountiful catches in the multi-use zones, and hopefully less reason for out-of-towners to resort to poaching in the no-take zones.</p> <p>How much is a coral reef worth? For the villagers of Barangays Sibaltan, New Ibajay, Villa Paz, and Mabini, it is worth spending their time and, often, personal resources to vigilantly protect it. And that goes for their mangroves too.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-53251019145044449232011-05-20T21:29:00.001+08:002011-05-21T06:14:28.164+08:00A New Light at the Edge of Cabilao<p>Early last year, the five barangays of Cabilao agreed to expand the <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsKxjjjXI/AAAAAAAAAX8/FcyMO-z6Tgs/s1600-h/cabilao_island_mpa_relationship_communities%20copy%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="cabilao_island_mpa_relationship_communities copy" border="0" alt="cabilao_island_mpa_relationship_communities copy" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsLmOLAgI/AAAAAAAAAYA/wYDHVSADe7I/cabilao_island_mpa_relationship_communities%20copy_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="191" /></a>two Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) of the island from a combined total of 21.8 hectares to 41.8 hectares in exchange for <a href="http://www.seacology.org/">Seacology</a>’s assistance in the renovation and conversion of their lighthouse into a Tourist Information Center. Once regarded as an abandoned and decaying ruin, by and large appreciated only as a marker for a nearby dive site, the Cabilao Lighthouse at Baluarte Point, Barangay Pantudlan is now an <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsOZwgCdI/AAAAAAAAAYE/tJRFehRL38E/s1600-h/P3270031%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P3270031" border="0" alt="P3270031" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsPMcEVcI/AAAAAAAAAYI/O0STgmX6lHo/P3270031_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>impressive structure at a picturesque lookout ready to house the best of products that the island can offer. What a difference a year makes.</p> <p>Cabilao, apart from scuba diving, is also known for the colorful and intricate mats and bags that its womenfolk produce from the <i>romblon </i>plant. The weeklong process starts from the harvest and removal of the thorny midribs and blades. Leaves are then cut into long strips, hung until dry, softened, dyed, and woven. It is a laborious craft passed <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsRGMd-HI/AAAAAAAAAYM/BJ8BbKgtoKU/s1600-h/P3270032%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P3270032" border="0" alt="P3270032" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsRh3QvOI/AAAAAAAAAYQ/bQ6hiVOjX6k/P3270032_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>from one generation to the next. The home-based industry complements what their husbands get from farming or fishing. To improve traction on the market, the womenfolk organized themselves and formed the Cabilao Romblon Weavers Network or CROWN, making quality control and collective transaction possible. But despite these strides in the earning capacity of their households, Barangays Talisay, Cambaquiz, Cabacungan, Looc and Pantudlan have longed for a strategically <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsUISzcHI/AAAAAAAAAYU/wKszNbkR-uY/s1600-h/P3270006%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="P3270006" border="0" alt="P3270006" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsVKTJqcI/AAAAAAAAAYY/5Xr6axAGTZk/P3270006_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>placed structure where their weavers can showcase their wares. They saw the answer in the lighthouse ruin at the northwestern edge of the island.</p> <p>The Cabilao Lighthouse is one of 55 lighthouses constructed during the Spanish occupation, this one classified as a <i>faro de los proyectos</i>. Sea vessels depended on lighthouses such as this to serve as stationary points for navigators, guides to port entrances and harbors, and warnings against shallow reefs. These reefs that surround Cabilao are also some of the country’s best <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsXBoSXYI/AAAAAAAAAYc/7JvRCEkEbxY/s1600-h/DSC00374%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00374" border="0" alt="DSC00374" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsX14BnSI/AAAAAAAAAYg/wX3DbZNMT1o/DSC00374_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>preserved, attracting hordes of scuba divers annually – a largely untapped market for the island’s products.</p> <p>Previous attempts to renovate the abandoned lighthouse were unwieldy. A coating of cement with lines drawn to mimic construction blocks not only made it look like a very new sham edifice much like those seen in theme parks, but it also unwittingly covered the mute history of the structure as suggested by the original material used by its builders. Even the Coast Guard, under whose jurisdiction lighthouses fall, <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsZKQXWhI/AAAAAAAAAYk/z0rhB6dPvI4/s1600-h/DSC00268%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00268" border="0" alt="DSC00268" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsaFMUykI/AAAAAAAAAYo/k7NlkEqvAys/DSC00268_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>thought it better to construct a new solar powered lighthouse nearby rather than upgrade the old structure. A proper renovation, one that will accent its Spanish colonial roots and island flavor, was needed. For this, the island’s villagers turned to Architect German Torero of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts. With further assistance from <a href="http://www.seacology.org/">Seacology</a>’s partners, <a href="http://www.processbohol.org/">Process Bohol</a> and the Local Government of Loon, the makeover that began mid-July last year was completed towards the end of April this year. As with my <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2010/03/it-takes-community-to-protect-cabilao.html">first visit last year</a>, Emmie Roslinda, Executive Director of Process Bohol, and Rey Monreal of the Loon Municipal Tourism Office were with me when I <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZscCgAw2I/AAAAAAAAAYs/jA_hz9mYqNY/s1600-h/DSC00270%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00270" border="0" alt="DSC00270" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsdFoChII/AAAAAAAAAYw/CDS79vt8VbU/DSC00270_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>returned to the lighthouse last Wednesday, May 18.</p> <p>The renovated building that greeted us prominently displayed its meter thick coral stone walls, now with a red tile roofing. Emmie tells me that the most difficult part of the renovation was the careful chipping away of the cement coating so that there would be very minimal damage to the original wall. With windows all around allowing the sea breeze in for <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsfFPOLyI/AAAAAAAAAY0/2ApSMEBZBwQ/s1600-h/DSC00274%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00274" border="0" alt="DSC00274" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsgG2cPHI/AAAAAAAAAY4/ww_xhcWWC8w/DSC00274_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>ventilation, it was pretty cool within despite the high humidity and the 35˚C (95˚F) outside temperature. Beaming with pride borne by a sense of accomplishment, Barangay Pantudlan’s village chief, Kapitan Maximiliano Lapez, showed us around, from the spacious washroom and toilet, to the walls on which sheets of blue paper were taped to indicate the items being prepared to be displayed on it.</p> <p>Luxuriously thick soft grass covering the promontory on which <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsiD5_AyI/AAAAAAAAAY8/jeJL98XzDUI/s1600-h/DSC00327%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00327" border="0" alt="DSC00327" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsin9AmKI/AAAAAAAAAZA/ZgyoKyhp-KY/DSC00327_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>the lighthouse was built, combined with a view of the crystal blue sea so clear one can see the harlequin-patterned reef disappear into the deep, is enough to make anyone wax poetic. Or at least try anyway. Leaving poetry to real poets, the potential of the lighthouse as an income-generating venue for social events, such as weddings, is something the village should probably consider too.</p> <p>Later some of the officers and members of the Fisherfolk Federation and CROWN joined us inside the lighthouse. In the local dialect, gratitude for <a href="http://www.seacology.org/">Seacology</a>, <a href="http://www.processbohol.org/">Process Bohol</a>, and the Loon Municipal <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZskYU-5XI/AAAAAAAAAZE/OSWJrhl1GAU/s1600-h/DSC00311%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00311" border="0" alt="DSC00311" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZslF6ylAI/AAAAAAAAAZI/_D9zfYJ2otY/DSC00311_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>Government was expressed all around, though any credit should really be to the villagers themselves, for having the vision to preserve their natural resource and adapt to more sustainable modes of livelihood.</p> <p>Reef guard duties for the two MPAs rotate among the members of the Fisherfolk Federation. Their president, Felix Molina, reports that the boundaries of the MPAs remain respected through their vigilance. However, while their operations are supposed to be supported by a portion of the user fee collected by the Protected Area Management Board from each tourist, they are having difficulties in securing the release of funds. In this, <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsnXkSvVI/AAAAAAAAAZM/P3J7j2heeSc/s1600-h/DSC00316%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00316" border="0" alt="DSC00316" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsoaS7VPI/AAAAAAAAAZQ/4KCOIDnyWhU/DSC00316_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Emmie assured them of assistance in making the proper paper work to facilitate the process.</p> <p>The romblon weavers have an altogether different issue. Orders for bags and mats keep coming, but CROWN president Leonila Mulato laments that one order for 3,500 bags was not met because they overestimated their production capability. Another lesson in <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsqlYUfBI/AAAAAAAAAZU/AaRRv1XYemM/s1600-h/DSC00332%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00332" border="0" alt="DSC00332" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsrfWfLSI/AAAAAAAAAZY/rxqy24_AIco/DSC00332_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>supply and demand economics from Hardknocks University. But they have learned their lesson well and have begun a survey of output of each member in terms of number of mats and bags per week.</p> <p>In taking the high road toward sustainable resource management, the villagers of Cabilao are encountering their share of problems, <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZstXPpV8I/AAAAAAAAAZc/-kuaC91197k/s1600-h/DSC00341%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00341" border="0" alt="DSC00341" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsuNAXqqI/AAAAAAAAAZg/boCDxF7SbiY/DSC00341_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>but these are neither insurmountable nor enough to weaken their resolve. No enterprise has ever been trouble free, and they are not expecting theirs to be exceptions. </p> <p>On our way back to the main island of Bohol, we passed by the two MPAs that are the subject of the covenant between Seacology and the island’s five villages. White buoys <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZswWFNkII/AAAAAAAAAZk/V2LSveznUXA/s1600-h/DSC00360%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-right-width: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC00360" border="0" alt="DSC00360" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TdZsxV8hgNI/AAAAAAAAAZo/ix2GF8G5204/DSC00360_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>marked the perimeter of the no-take zones. The water was so clear I could see the bluish green hard corals from the boat like fruits in a gelatin dessert despite depths of approximately 40 feet. I got to scuba dive on these MPAs <a href="http://ferdiem.blogspot.com/2010/03/it-takes-community-to-protect-cabilao.html">last year</a>, but not this time. Maybe I will again if and when I get to come back. If the villagers will let me, that is.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-64034809107091752002011-05-08T10:32:00.001+08:002011-05-08T10:37:40.885+08:00Palawan On Fire<p>Often called the Philippines’ last ecological frontier, Palawan’s rich biodiversity is very impressive but also so very fragile. Yet for the <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAXdjlz4I/AAAAAAAAAWs/Fv-NkepMKAs/s1600-h/DSC_0001%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0001" border="0" alt="DSC_0001" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAYPNeVII/AAAAAAAAAWw/L_vQUOyizUg/DSC_0001_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>month of April this year alone, in northern Palawan alone, the burning of swathes of mountain slopes was a near daily occurrence. Plumes of smoke could be seen from surrounding mountains signaling slash and burn activity. It was as if a concerted effort to destroy the island’s capacity to support life is being waged.</p> <p>Travelling toward the <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAbIWAQ_I/AAAAAAAAAW0/pOZLKrJzH5s/s1600-h/DSC_0008%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0008" border="0" alt="DSC_0008" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAcKcE91I/AAAAAAAAAW4/KHZ4dWDYdjI/DSC_0008_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>eastern side of El Nido, we passed quite a few blackened areas, tell-tale signs of swidden farming or <em>kaingin</em>. Meriam Arzaga of the <a href="http://www.elnidofoundation.org" target="_blank">El Nido Foundation</a> provides an interesting observation: that incidences of <em>kaingin</em> increase after a <em>tag-hirap</em> year – a year when crops fall short of what is needed. It is a method farmers seem to resort to, to augment harvests from their regular rice fields.</p> <p>Swidden farming, or <em>kaingin</em>, is most obvious during the dry months when plots are prepared by burning vegetation therein, awaiting the first <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAfFQX2bI/AAAAAAAAAXA/gk_DH3uh8HE/s1600-h/DSC_0009%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0009" border="0" alt="DSC_0009" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAf0IpYbI/AAAAAAAAAXE/9y9YWoetUSA/DSC_0009_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>rains before planting. It has been in practice for generations in many parts of the world, benignly, even favorably, viewed in such literature as Alan Paton’s <em>Cry, the Beloved Country (1948)</em> and NVM Gonzales’ <em>Children of the Ash-Covered Loam (1954)</em>. It is a method developed over the centuries as a means to reduce pests and facilitate the migration of biological control agents, such as insect parasites and predators, from the surrounding forests.</p> <p>For the system to be sustainable (myopically ignoring its impact on <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAiNsTjJI/AAAAAAAAAXI/hk9ahVkOhG8/s1600-h/DSC_0004%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0004" border="0" alt="DSC_0004" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAimvAXJI/AAAAAAAAAXM/jHDKMgiP8kY/DSC_0004_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>global warming and ocean siltation, that is), a plot, after being used for a few years, must be allowed to fallow for about 20 years before beginning the cycle again. In this period, the soil is allowed to rest and regain the nutrients that only time left alone can provide. But when the number of people the land has to support becomes so great that the fallow periods are drastically reduced, productivity declines and the system becomes destructive, eventually working its way into new areas in the forest.</p> <p>When a farmer begins cutting the fringes of public land in <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAjlLfFDI/AAAAAAAAAXQ/5qy1HPsQBhY/s1600-h/mangrove%20forest%20from%20Sibaltan%20extending%20to%20nearby%20barangays%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="mangrove forest from Sibaltan extending to nearby barangays" border="0" alt="mangrove forest from Sibaltan extending to nearby barangays" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAkQb2oLI/AAAAAAAAAXU/xmuk-fx1zhY/mangrove%20forest%20from%20Sibaltan%20extending%20to%20nearby%20barangays_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>preparation for burning, Meriam explains, no one else but the farmer who torched it gets to plant on it when the rains come. It is a tradition of respect among <em>kaingin</em> farmers that has been observed for as long as anyone can remember. </p> <p>But if <em>kaingin</em> activity is that plain to see and the culprits so easily identifiable, why isn’t anyone doing anything to apprehend the offenders? To be sure, unauthorized burning of forest and grazing <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAlqsAlJI/AAAAAAAAAXY/NFmXDLePQAE/s1600-h/New%20%20Ibajay%20mangrove%5B2%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="New Ibajay mangrove" border="0" alt="New Ibajay mangrove" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAnBJrECI/AAAAAAAAAXc/bVJE34K8LHM/New%20%20Ibajay%20mangrove_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>land is illegal under the Revised Forestry Reform Code. Moreover, a 1998 presidential proclamation declared all of El Nido and Taytay, its adjacent municipality, as a Protected Area, putting it under the supervision of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, with its own Protected Area Superintendent. Whether it is for lack of political will or simple bureaucratic laziness, solutions, for now at least, do not seem to be forthcoming from any government enforcement effort.</p> <p>It isn’t that the farmers are not aware of the illegality of kaingin or its implications; often, they do it because they feel they need <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAo8ECnqI/AAAAAAAAAXg/9kRi-Gk7hTg/s1600-h/Mgt%20planning%20Mabini%2011-13-08%20%2815%29%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Mgt planning Mabini 11-13-08 (15)" border="0" alt="Mgt planning Mabini 11-13-08 (15)" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAp10LKnI/AAAAAAAAAXk/bhNSVMxeJXU/Mgt%20planning%20Mabini%2011-13-08%20%2815%29_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>to. Apparently, if farmers have to choose between putting food on the table and obeying some law, the former will always win hands-down. The answer must lie in providing an alternative to <em>kaingin</em>.</p> <p>At the eastern villages of Mabini, New Ibajay, Sibaltan and Villa Paz, <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> provided cashew production equipment, among others, as an alternative livelihood enterprise in exchange for the establishment of a 470-acre marine protected area and 2,408-acre mangrove protected area. In this project, the villagers have <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYArSfGyNI/AAAAAAAAAXo/DglIqvMUCuE/s1600-h/DSC_0076%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="DSC_0076" border="0" alt="DSC_0076" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAr6bSA3I/AAAAAAAAAXs/EpVZyD7fCqY/DSC_0076_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>committed themselves to actively protect these resources, with the municipal government and DENR relegated to a supporting role. Even the local parish priest, Fr. Ed Parino, has taken an active role in the enforcement of the protected areas, and has been instrumental in the apprehension of poachers from out-of-town. And as alternative livelihoods go, the brisk sales of their cashews at the upscale resorts of El Nido are certainly encouraging.</p> <p>There is still much to appreciate in northern Palawan in terms of rich <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAtorw9rI/AAAAAAAAAXw/ruKK2IpPHy8/s1600-h/packaged%20cashew%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: right; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="packaged cashew" border="0" alt="packaged cashew" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TcYAuMThlPI/AAAAAAAAAX0/9fwCnQwFTtM/packaged%20cashew_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="165" /></a>natural resources. But to preserve it, the focus has to shift from what the communities should not do, to what they can do instead.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-14455524135252582222010-09-15T05:45:00.001+08:002010-09-15T21:17:01.751+08:00A watershed of possibilities for Sitio Lubo<p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_rx31WGFI/AAAAAAAAAR0/xdieDG0OSMU/s1600-h/DSC_0007%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0007" border="0" alt="DSC_0007" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_ry4gBXGI/AAAAAAAAAR4/TxuclzhwNGE/DSC_0007_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> Sitio Lubo is at a cusp. Economic activity is on the upswing, but  infrastructure support is not keeping up. Farms are yielding sacks and sacks of corn and peanuts, but the far upland community is not being served by the power grid running through the Municipality of Lake<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r0GqLLuI/AAAAAAAAAR8/24ANwm2wWRY/s1600-h/DSC_0039%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0039" border="0" alt="DSC_0039" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r1H_wcGI/AAAAAAAAASA/0ed91dE18z8/DSC_0039_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> Sebu, water is tapped from the many waterfalls through makeshift  flexible hoses, and the roads are so bad that mud is 3 to 4 feet deep in many sections. On one hand, coal mining companies have offered to fix the roads, provide electricity and even scholarship programs, <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r2vw6WnI/AAAAAAAAASE/tyjyhG5a08A/s1600-h/DSC_0040%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0040" border="0" alt="DSC_0040" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r3gUqSuI/AAAAAAAAASI/0yGAHbMQx3s/DSC_0040_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>in  exchange for rights to extract coal from the area. On the other, <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> and its partners, <a href="http://www.yamog.org/" target="_blank">Yamog</a>, <a href="http://www.misereor.org/misereor-international.html" target="_blank">MISEREOR</a>, and <a href="http://amore.org.ph/" target="_blank">AMORE</a> have offered to provide renewable energy through micro-hydro power in exchange for the community’s commitment to protect their watershed. The community chose renewable energy.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r5KTosNI/AAAAAAAAASM/qs8EW7L6gWM/s1600-h/DSC_0054%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0054" border="0" alt="DSC_0054" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r6ETGV-I/AAAAAAAAASQ/MuCbrm-TclM/DSC_0054_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> </p> <p>Barangay Ned is the biggest barangay in the Municipality of Lake Sebu. With a total area of 21,246.27 hectares, it is likely also the biggest barangay in Mindanao, if not the whole country, in  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r7cGhxJI/AAAAAAAAASU/TkefhQGxbMs/s1600-h/DSC_0109%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0109" border="0" alt="DSC_0109" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r8u3-h6I/AAAAAAAAASY/TSbiktTSBIQ/DSC_0109_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="163" height="244" /></a> terms of land area. Sitio Lubo, one of some 30 sitios in Barangay  Ned, has a total area of 7,345 hectares, 2,500 hectares of which is part of the Kabulnan Watershed Forest Reserve. The climate is cool, a consequence of the 900 meter average elevation.</p> <p>We arrived in the village on September 10, 2010 at about 3:30 pm  after an hour and a half ride on a pick-up truck, which took us from the General Santos City airport to the Municipality of Sto. Nino, and another 4-hour ride on a<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r9wJ7VsI/AAAAAAAAASc/UCXxlV3II1c/s1600-h/DSC_0069%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0069" border="0" alt="DSC_0069" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_r-3MjDRI/AAAAAAAAASg/vrdpeJz1ACs/DSC_0069_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> motorcycle up the southern Tiruray Highlands after a quick early lunch. We were supposed to have met with the community leaders at about 5:00 pm, but the meeting was preempted by an <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sARdRcwI/AAAAAAAAASk/wTnH_C3cNjY/s1600-h/DSC_0018%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0018" border="0" alt="DSC_0018" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sBZUh3xI/AAAAAAAAASo/PXjzlZVZ9Nk/DSC_0018_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>unscheduled PTA assembly at the Lubo High School on Responsible Parenthood, precipitated by an incidence of teenage pregnancy. We had to reschedule the following  day. Just as well. Riding<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sDP2yzMI/AAAAAAAAASs/IbU8eZTW9ns/s1600-h/DSC_0005%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0005" border="0" alt="DSC_0005" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sEIRSiQI/AAAAAAAAASw/rW6goHwQmjc/DSC_0005_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> tandem on a motorcycle as it sloshed for hours uphill through thick mud and loose rock took a lot more from me than I expected. I was tired.</p> <p align="left">Sitio Lubo residents  generally rely on kerosene <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sEwwS2DI/AAAAAAAAAS0/OGWh2Ukn6wM/s1600-h/DSC_0038%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0038" border="0" alt="DSC_0038" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sFon_oNI/AAAAAAAAAS4/ojn3rTRYO3E/DSC_0038_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="163" height="244" /></a>for lighting and fuel wood for cooking. A few households lease solar power home systems from a cooperative for P220 a month – pretty steep considering one unit can only power 3-4 lightbulbs per night. Still fewer households have small 3-kilowatt gas-fed generators, which provide enough power for several lights, a television set, and a satellite dish antenna. Gil Bopas, who graciously fed us and put us up for the night, is one of the latter.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sHKBs9CI/AAAAAAAAAS8/xad8zjRcXxw/s1600-h/DSC_0020%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0020" border="0" alt="DSC_0020" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sH_AG9UI/AAAAAAAAATA/XrcA_qmfuYE/DSC_0020_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a></p> <p>Owners of a corn farm, corn mill and a sari-sari store, Gil Bopas and  his wife Josephine, who teaches at the Lubo High School, are one of the more affluent members of the community. But  they too are looking <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sJaJKQSI/AAAAAAAAATE/2naUl9BWoUs/s1600-h/DSC_0031%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0031" border="0" alt="DSC_0031" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sKImYwHI/AAAAAAAAATI/RxcrMuY-PXs/DSC_0031_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>forward to the promise of clean energy from the micro-hydro because it would mean 24-hour electricity for their appliances without having to buy fuel all the way from municipal centers like Sto. Nino. There are simply no gas stations in these mountains.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sLpt1kkI/AAAAAAAAATM/rY9znsgOi_8/s1600-h/DSC_0033%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0033" border="0" alt="DSC_0033" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sMcG23TI/AAAAAAAAATQ/G7gnQMHrWjE/DSC_0033_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a></p> <p>Lubo High School itself owes much of its facilities from the local PTA. Its 12 computers were provided by the PTA, and the generator that powers them was also solicited from the PTA. Internet connection and fuel for the <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sN4vWJ7I/AAAAAAAAATU/cZKmjEM0q2w/s1600-h/DSC_0044%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0044" border="0" alt="DSC_0044" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sOqIvGkI/AAAAAAAAATY/DjVU4Kexoeg/DSC_0044_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> generator? Monthly PTA dues. In a sense, the community seems to have been left to fend for themselves, but it also seems that they are doing a pretty decent job at coping as well.</p> <p>Double-differential 4x4 10-wheeler trucks are the economic lifeblood <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sQLNeppI/AAAAAAAAATc/uak19PovOyM/s1600-h/DSC_0053%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0053" border="0" alt="DSC_0053" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sQ3sXsNI/AAAAAAAAATg/K1wKqBWn4ns/DSC_0053_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> of the village. These and the nimble motorcycles are the only vehicles that can traverse the miry roads. Maybe a monster truck will do too, except I didn’t see any. Soap, sugar, fossil-based fuels, and other necessities are cargo going up. Sacks of corn, peanuts, and <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sSZzbc1I/AAAAAAAAATk/Hira7TnUtWw/s1600-h/DSC_0064%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0064" border="0" alt="DSC_0064" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sTPktgZI/AAAAAAAAATo/GccfORBIOMk/DSC_0064_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>fertilizer from huge compost heaps are cargo going down. From the T’boli  sub-community, coffee and fruits like marang and durian occasionally make it to the lowland markets as well.</p> <p>Meeting over brews of local coffee the following morning, the community leaders<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sUYGqvzI/AAAAAAAAATs/fIeVeTQo5sI/s1600-h/DSC_0062%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0062" border="0" alt="DSC_0062" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sWHjDf6I/AAAAAAAAATw/k2MtfNmnBSM/DSC_0062_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> reaffirmed their commitment to protect their  watershed as they expressed their gratitude to <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> and partners for the micro-hydro project. A cooperative will be set up to manage and maintain the micro-hydro, meters will be installed in houses, and  <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sXduFsiI/AAAAAAAAAT0/YXdcTb7QiTg/s1600-h/DSC_0059%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0059" border="0" alt="DSC_0059" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sYf8X1qI/AAAAAAAAAT4/AehzN3hJL2s/DSC_0059_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>revenues based on consumption will be collected.</p> <p>Also discussed were the strategies the coal mining companies were employing to gain access to mining rights, as well as the steps the community is taking, with <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sZsu5e4I/AAAAAAAAAT8/EOZGVaY-KXI/s1600-h/DSC_0095%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0095" border="0" alt="DSC_0095" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_savdqHrI/AAAAAAAAAUA/4mqwXM5rVGs/DSC_0095_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>the help of local Christian  churches, to neutralize these. Anti-mining posters around town, some improvised, some church-provided, give a clue to their  sentiments.</p> <p>The micro-hydro power station will be constructed nearby at the point where the Kalulo and Kabusong creeks meet, some 300 <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sbxq4esI/AAAAAAAAAUE/mLggwF_jbRk/s1600-h/DSC_0099%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0099" border="0" alt="DSC_0099" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sc-qF3VI/AAAAAAAAAUI/VlGOJP9lazo/DSC_0099_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>meters below the main village. But this is too far for electricity to reach the T’boli sub-community some 6 kilometers  further up the mountains. For a win-win solution, it was agreed that the cooperative will set aside a fixed amount from revenues for <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_seDlhKgI/AAAAAAAAAUM/xl3TaV6BxVE/s1600-h/DSC_0076%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0076" border="0" alt="DSC_0076" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sfov06CI/AAAAAAAAAUQ/mekJykpWTqU/DSC_0076_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>the  benefit of the T’bolis. This may then be used to construct and maintain a ram pump or 3-5 kilowatt pico hydro for the T’boli, depending on their preference. The T’boli will also have representation on the cooperative. </p> <p>After a hearty breakfast <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sg_6g7bI/AAAAAAAAAUU/MV8SJAQdMno/s1600-h/DSC_0105%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0105" border="0" alt="DSC_0105" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sh5mGn5I/AAAAAAAAAUY/z3jGIEg3jqo/DSC_0105_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>at the Bopas’ home, we went off on motorcycles again for the 1-hour trip to the T’boli sub-community. Slopes devoted to corn gave way to coffee plantations  leased by a big company, before reaching the edge of the forest where we were welcomed into<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sj1cUnnI/AAAAAAAAAUc/uzLzRLqilco/s1600-h/DSC_0089%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0089" border="0" alt="DSC_0089" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_slAGv25I/AAAAAAAAAUg/sT5vwSU0hq4/DSC_0089_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> the main house of the T’boli.</p> <p>Datu Victor Danyang is the leader of the T’boli in Sitio Lubo, and is also the Chair of the T'boli Manobo Sdaf Claim  Organization or TAMASCO. He spoke of the T’boli’s commitment to the protection of their <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_smcUJ-0I/AAAAAAAAAUk/UcJvZ7TiJeU/s1600-h/DSC_0090%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0090" border="0" alt="DSC_0090" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_snauzQII/AAAAAAAAAUo/W9DcPQdTRLI/DSC_0090_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>watershed as something second-nature to them, that they shouldn’t even be asked about it in the first place. He spoke against the coal mining companies and exhorted those who were listening to unite in the struggle against any mining in their ancestral domain.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sogm1xXI/AAAAAAAAAUs/jdgANVL_fOE/s1600-h/DSC_0084%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0084" border="0" alt="DSC_0084" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_spv-fqDI/AAAAAAAAAUw/DTviTJyX3Jc/DSC_0084_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> He spoke with such intensity and conviction, with a no-nonsense  grin blood red from betel nut chewing, that it was impossible not to be inspired by his words. And maybe a little frightened. I thought anyone would be  an idiot to contradict him then and there.</p> <p>When my turn came to speak, I thanked them for their firm  commitment to protect their watershed, and that it is their commitment precisely that is making the funds for the micro-hydro <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_srPVCwYI/AAAAAAAAAU0/jcJs34D2870/s1600-h/DSC_0083%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0083" border="0" alt="DSC_0083" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_ssgLeW2I/AAAAAAAAAU4/ARcev7P2puc/DSC_0083_thumb%5B8%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>possible. Fear has a way of making diplomats of us all. kidding. But the meeting left no doubt in my mind that the T’boli will hold up to their part of the bargain.</p> <p>T’boli coffee has a smoky flavor and went very well with the boiled taro root<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_suGkYKvI/AAAAAAAAAU8/u7x14NCaqjs/s1600-h/DSC_0094%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0094" border="0" alt="DSC_0094" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_su7YbJKI/AAAAAAAAAVA/gVGwVGQqtvo/DSC_0094_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> served during the meeting. As talk turned to the needs of the T’boli, TAMASCO leader Abelardo Wali lamented the lack of a water distribution system in the sub-community. It turns out that a ram pump was installed in the area before, but it was not well constructed. It was generally agreed that the first funds from the micro-hydro revenue <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sw-5DBZI/AAAAAAAAAVE/UJ_0MhUC9uI/s1600-h/DSC_0075%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0075" border="0" alt="DSC_0075" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_sx3AaMGI/AAAAAAAAAVI/12uy5NlIqY0/DSC_0075_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>would be used to rehabilitate the ram pump.</p> <p>Lubo is a T’boli word meaning disappearing water. Apparently, Sitio Lubo sits on top of a  network of limestone caves where water on higher elevations can suddenly divert to without<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s0VAmDUI/AAAAAAAAAVM/dfJBnkbBAjY/s1600-h/DSC_0102%5B5%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0102" border="0" alt="DSC_0102" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s1Ob7rFI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/fTqLYAvzxvY/DSC_0102_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> warning. The non-functioning ram pump was designed with a particular water source in mind, when the water abruptly flowed underground as construction was finished.</p> <p>Around the main house the T’bolis gathered wildlings from which they would start the nursery with. Sustainable agriculture and forestry will occur just <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s2ZP8LoI/AAAAAAAAAVU/uEzcgHBHyyk/s1600-h/DSC_0103%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0103" border="0" alt="DSC_0103" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s3BlD4CI/AAAAAAAAAVY/DDm0oRgyvvk/DSC_0103_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>beyond the forest. The fruit trees they intend to plant are durian, mangosteen, rambutan and marang – highly marketable fruits that can be found to some degree within the watershed.</p> <p>The planting of fruit trees brings with it the promise<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s4tsiBdI/AAAAAAAAAVc/udMP-4BDPnA/s1600-h/DSC_0074%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0074" border="0" alt="DSC_0074" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s5aJIxrI/AAAAAAAAAVg/TAt1OVxFLmQ/DSC_0074_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> of a  continuation of the T’boli’s gathering ways. It will also serve as hunting ground for deer and wild boar that stray outside the forest.</p> <p>Later a T’boli metalworker showed me how they make their tools and trinkets using <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s7MYMw4I/AAAAAAAAAVk/zjW3998eVcM/s1600-h/DSC_0096%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0096" border="0" alt="DSC_0096" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s8KNSNYI/AAAAAAAAAVs/GsEWr_orsN8/DSC_0096_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a>bamboo blowers with feather-lined pistons. It was also where the communal lunch was singed before being stewed.</p> <p>We left just after lunch for the long way back to General Santos City  where I will catch my flight back to Manila the following day. This<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s9z0TPOI/AAAAAAAAAVw/1sslZgj97q4/s1600-h/DSC_0072%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC_0072" border="0" alt="DSC_0072" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/TI_s-1Z-vSI/AAAAAAAAAV0/tqIAW7_FMaU/DSC_0072_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="163" /></a> Thursday, September 16, there will be a groundbreaking ceremony at the micro-hydro project site to mark the start of construction – really the start of an endless slew of possibilities for Sitio Lubo.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-35879657244688518942010-03-28T10:27:00.000+08:002010-04-13T06:49:29.019+08:00It takes the community to protect Cabilao<p>Here’s a trick question: What does it take for 5 villages to sustainably coexist with an island’s ecosystem? Answer: the mindset<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mdUh40rI/AAAAAAAAAOk/L7XLVyb_YuQ/s1600-h/clip_image002%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="clip_image002" border="0" hspace="5" alt="clip_image002" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mee0P-eI/AAAAAAAAAOo/eGJAKTLkkj0/clip_image002_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="183" /></a> that they are an intrinsic part of the ecosystem.</p> <p>Human activity inside a complex and diverse island environment is often difficult to balance against what the rest of the organisms within require to thrive. <a href="http://coral.unep.ch/atlaspr.htm" target="_blank">According</a> to the United Nations <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mfF8QmVI/AAAAAAAAAOs/YQDrf85vbkM/s1600-h/clip_image002%5B5%5D%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="clip_image002[5]" border="0" alt="clip_image002[5]" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mfxeDk-I/AAAAAAAAAOw/-RbsOUVItv8/clip_image002%5B5%5D_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="173" height="147" /></a>Environment Program (UNEP), the most diverse region of the world for coral reefs is centered on the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia and Papua New Guinea, with between 500 and 600 species of coral in each of these countries. Unfortunately these are also some of the most threatened coral reefs in the world. The UNEP publication <i>World Atlas of Coral Reefs</i> (2001), rang the alarm bells when it<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mhvrcn9I/AAAAAAAAAO0/tPcyo7VZa5Q/s1600-h/P32700023.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270002" border="0" alt="P3270002" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69miVG9kZI/AAAAAAAAAO4/WoeYIPGkc-w/P3270002_thumb1.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> reported that <a href="http://www.ru.org/ecology-and-environment/coral-reefs-in-the-philippines-slowly-dying.html" target="_blank">97 percent of reefs in the Philippines</a> are under threat from destructive fishing techniques, including blast fishing, cyanide poisoning, overfishing, or from deforestation and urbanization that result in harmful sediment spilling into the sea. Of the estimated 27,000 square kilometers of coral <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mkM8m0tI/AAAAAAAAAO8/QROX4B06lVM/s1600-h/Cabacungan%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="Cabacungan" border="0" alt="Cabacungan" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mlIXZ6AI/AAAAAAAAAPA/Dsb7oTiCb1Q/Cabacungan_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="193" /></a> reef, only 5% remain in “excellent condition” (<em>Reef Check, as quoted in previous <a href="http://www.ru.org/ecology-and-environment/coral-reefs-in-the-philippines-slowly-dying.html" target="_blank">link</a></em>). Cabilao Island’s reefs seem to belong to the 5%.</p> <p>Cabilao Island in Bohol Province is a prime scuba diving destination,  boasting of giant fan and table corals, wall dives pockmarked with <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69ml0X5vcI/AAAAAAAAAPE/FYpQJAa-g5M/s1600-h/loon_proposed_fish_sanctuary%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="loon_proposed_fish_sanctuary" border="0" alt="loon_proposed_fish_sanctuary" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mmjoGhhI/AAAAAAAAAPI/7g6M8mg1_4Q/loon_proposed_fish_sanctuary_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="177" /></a>dark and foreboding crevices, schools and schools of reef fishes, and occasional sightings of thresher sharks and hammerheads. Even the resort operators in nearby Cebu Island bring their diver-guests here, despite the 2-hour travel time by boat.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mn1fH2yI/AAAAAAAAAPM/ploLwA5O1wo/s1600-h/P3260040%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3260040" border="0" alt="P3260040" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mor6zg4I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/qMx5IGaM-eM/P3260040_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> Sport scuba diving and the tourists the industry brings is a major source of income for the communities. Three resorts in the island cater to the tourists, and the communities support the resorts with manpower, as well as excess fish and vegetables they manage to catch or harvest. </p> <p>In 2001, Cabilao’s villages (Talisay, Cambaquiz, Cabacungan, Looc<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mp3Or_NI/AAAAAAAAAPU/ky9OKXxrXdE/s1600-h/P3260047%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3260047" border="0" alt="P3260047" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mqg3mB-I/AAAAAAAAAPY/GZbqEw7lu1E/P3260047_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a> and Pantudlan) established two Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), one in Barangay Pantudlan (10 hectares) and another in Barangay Cabacungan (11.8 hectares) to address the growing need to ensure the protection of their reefs. At about this time, many dive destinations in other areas, notably the Jessie Beazley and Bastera Reefs in the Sulu Sea, have become so damaged by destructive fishing methods that many dive tour operators stopped offering them as <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mr1C4OtI/AAAAAAAAAPc/mTnEBw8VXoU/s1600-h/P3270011%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270011" border="0" alt="P3270011" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69ms8Pkm8I/AAAAAAAAAPg/XbshtSGQZQ4/P3270011_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> destinations. Having one of the most intact reefs in the country firmly positioned Cabilao as a must-see diving destination.</p> <p>Early this year, the island’s villagers, through <a href="http://www.processbohol.org/" target="_blank">PROCESS Bohol</a> (our NGO partner), asked <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> for assistance in refurbishing a long<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69muCZ9QdI/AAAAAAAAAPk/BZdEAGnoEIE/s1600-h/P3270013%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270013" border="0" alt="P3270013" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mu1R9VyI/AAAAAAAAAPo/ZmelA82RKO0/P3270013_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> abandoned Spanish-era lighthouse on the northwestern tip of the  island. The intention is to convert it into a Tourist Information Center that will promote inland tourism and showcase their handcrafted mats and bags. In exchange, they agreed to extend the existing MPAs by 10 hectares more each, <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mw2HPgDI/AAAAAAAAAPs/YcJ9W_uXOjo/s1600-h/P3270009%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270009" border="0" alt="P3270009" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mxzoQzBI/AAAAAAAAAPw/pYDjQ9-10L8/P3270009_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> and to actively protect these for at least 20 years.</p> <p>I visited the project site last March 26 and 27, 2010. Emmie Roslinda, PROCESS Bohol’s Executive Director, and Rey Monreal of the Municipal Government, were my patient and solicitous companions and guides.<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69mzsZc5LI/AAAAAAAAAP0/u5sVTY5VgOg/s1600-h/P3270010%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270010" border="0" alt="P3270010" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69m0kFp0AI/AAAAAAAAAP4/gx49oc4LP78/P3270010_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a></p> <p>Scuba diving on the MPAs was first on the agenda. No mean feat,  considering strictly no activity whatsoever is allowed within. I am told that in the early years of the MPAs, a reef guard himself was found fishing <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69m2U8iuMI/AAAAAAAAAP8/i4CWMiAhITE/s1600-h/P3270016%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270016" border="0" alt="P3270016" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69m3bFqXcI/AAAAAAAAAQA/uxvXJXnSvBM/P3270016_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>in the Cabacungan MPA. He was severely reprimanded and penalized with such a hefty fine that no one else gave a thought to violating the MPAs  since. My dive buddy was Alain, a divemaster and instructor of the <a href="http://www.polaris-dive.com/" target="_blank">Polaris Beach and Dive Resort</a>.</p> <p>If you will imagine two doors of average dimension side by side<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69m5Tk03xI/AAAAAAAAAQE/plURkYcRpRo/s1600-h/P3270015%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270015" border="0" alt="P3270015" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69m6fS8FOI/AAAAAAAAAQI/hAb1dBguUAY/P3270015_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> underwater, that would be the approximate size of the biggest fan coral that greeted us at the Cabacungan MPA. Schools of batfish, surgeonfish, rabbitfish, purple antheas, and other reef fishes abound. Over at the Pantudlan MPA, huge <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69m8E9tOoI/AAAAAAAAAQM/4RFp76gSdbQ/s1600-h/P3270008%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270008" border="0" alt="P3270008" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69m9PqqSII/AAAAAAAAAQQ/W9n569kesU4/P3270008_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>table  corals, some about 3 meters across, cover the edges just before the drop-off. We saw reef fishes similar to those of Cabacungan, as well as a few barracudas. A testament to the integrity of the MPAs, it was Alain’s first time to dive the MPAs too, and he was very grateful for the opportunity.</p> <p>Diving and traditional fishing are restricted to areas outside the<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69m-QHosvI/AAAAAAAAAQU/XLwsbJXjnO0/s1600-h/P3270007%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270007" border="0" alt="P3270007" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69m_WGg6VI/AAAAAAAAAQY/-IK4teDBctc/P3270007_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> MPAs, and the spillover marine life seems sufficient for the needs of the dive industry and fisherfolk. But the villagers do not rely solely on what the ocean provides. An imaginative, environment-friendly farming method they fondly call “rock farming” has, well, gained ground in the island. <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nAyPIFsI/AAAAAAAAAQc/gIF30At9j9Y/s1600-h/P3270027%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270027" border="0" alt="P3270027" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nBuCIeNI/AAAAAAAAAQg/JpHvTXx8nnI/P3270027_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Onions,  casava, rice and corn are grown from small pockets of fertile soil that have accumulated on rocky surfaces. Their onions, the farmers swear, are the biggest and sweetest anywhere. In fact, merchants from mainland Bohol would travel to  Cabilao to snap up the onions as soon as these are<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nDMKPp-I/AAAAAAAAAQk/g5zvzEjRTPs/s1600-h/P3270028%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270028" border="0" alt="P3270028" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nD5DFfKI/AAAAAAAAAQs/WOnDcOomehk/P3270028_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> harvested, and very few, if any, remain for export outside of the province.</p> <p>Also, Cabilao is known for the beautiful mats and bags that its residents, mostly women, weave from the ubiquitous romblon plant (<i>Pandanus</i> sp.) of the island. The Cabilao Romblon Weavers <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nFaSld-I/AAAAAAAAAQw/xpeqpkl02O8/s1600-h/P3260027%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3260027" border="0" alt="P3260027" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nGdJj3VI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/OnAxuBbT238/P3260027_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>Network  (CROWN) is the island’s association of weavers, with its own president, board of directors, and quality control group. Meeting them on Day 2 is one of the highlights of the trip, as I came to observe firsthand how the womenfolk discuss the orders in the pipeline (500 just met, 100 just<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nHm4DKHI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/jgcB7o_WVvo/s1600-h/P3270032%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270032" border="0" alt="P3270032" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nIcN4vDI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/CNqJ0PRfkok/P3270032_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> placed), their plans to procure a high-speed sewing machine  (for the bag zippers) from their earnings, and their ideas for the interior layout of the soon to be converted lighthouse. Their optimism, resourcefulness and industry, I think, is worth <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nJttcCJI/AAAAAAAAARA/xUcfuqY7Rzc/s1600-h/P3270026%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270026" border="0" alt="P3270026" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nKpjGJII/AAAAAAAAARE/HXnj_E-4LCI/P3270026_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="184" height="244" /></a>showcasing as well.</p> <p>There were recent attempts to renovate the lighthouse, but these  were clumsy at best. Architect German Torero of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), who will assist in the restoration and preservation efforts, explained to me that the newly added thin layer of cement on the walls will have to be taken off to expose the Spanish-era coral stones used in the original<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nMHhbp4I/AAAAAAAAARI/KuPnIJmW7ro/s1600-h/P3270003%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270003" border="0" alt="P3270003" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nNJNI4fI/AAAAAAAAARM/Qf9h0xYja7M/P3270003_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> construction.</p> <p>Exploring inland, I was taken to a lagoon in Barangay Looc where an edible species of seaweed locally known as lato (<i>Caulerpa</i> sp.) grows in abundance. Red shrimp and clams are also harvested during full <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nOBFfyuI/AAAAAAAAARQ/1phkSmgB2HU/s1600-h/P3270021%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270021" border="0" alt="P3270021" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nO6M0TOI/AAAAAAAAARU/RkkppF0cAUY/P3270021_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>moons in a nearby shallow cavern.</p> <p>In Barangay Pantudlan, they have a majestic lake frequented  by migratory birds. Locals do not venture into the lake for fear of being sucked in by quicksands. As a story Emmie told goes, a carabao once inadvertently wandered into the lake and was not seen again. The<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nQDOCkGI/AAAAAAAAARY/kWq-nNmSAho/s1600-h/P3270019%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270019" border="0" alt="P3270019" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nQwTpqlI/AAAAAAAAARc/ulvKhnR84TQ/P3270019_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> local fisherfolk constructed  viewing decks made from discarded wooden cable spools of a telecommunication company – taking recycling to a whole new level, literally.</p> <p>From the looks of it, Cabilao can stand as a <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nSIjl34I/AAAAAAAAARg/r8i23JrS2yc/s1600-h/P3270018%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="P3270018" border="0" alt="P3270018" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/S69nS8UNvrI/AAAAAAAAARk/ep6xRymfYnY/P3270018_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>model for community-based sustainable resource management, and I  hope to visit again the praiseworthy villagers that make this possible as soon as the lighthouse is finished.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-83291925366980013492009-11-30T21:44:00.000+08:002009-12-01T05:17:38.516+08:00Palaui: An island bastion against the changing climate<p>Last year, when <a href="http://seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> agreed to fund the rehabilitation of the<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKQEyBkFI/AAAAAAAAAIk/6CrH-SXaFQ8/s1600-h/locator%20map1%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="locator map1" border="0" alt="locator map1" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKRP1BLNI/AAAAAAAAAIo/h7D5VljJxzk/locator%20map1_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="220" height="244" /></a>  Community Center (Bayanihan Hall) of Palaui Island, Cagayan Province in exchange for the island villagers’ commitment to protect their 2,172.5 hectares of watershed forest, not much thought was given to the typhoons that regularly hit this tiny green dot on the map once or twice every year. After all, the islanders are no strangers to typhoons (the Philippines is hit by an average of 20 <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKSE8im6I/AAAAAAAAAIs/jJgXhzeOj74/s1600-h/typhoon%20isang%20copy%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="typhoon isang copy" border="0" alt="typhoon isang copy" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKS0pGgoI/AAAAAAAAAIw/IlM1WY58WGA/typhoon%20isang%20copy_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="152" /></a> typhoons per year), and they have gone through some of the worst. But two particular typhoons this year were different.</p> <p>No less than five typhoons came within a hundred kilometers of the island this season. Three followed the<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKTlVoZ7I/AAAAAAAAAI0/DNX3Ezix-Bc/s1600-h/typhoon%20jolina%20copy%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="typhoon jolina copy" border="0" alt="typhoon jolina copy" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKUQdSloI/AAAAAAAAAI4/StRu2ipifZk/typhoon%20jolina%20copy_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="152" /></a> usual pattern of coming from the southeast and proceeding either north, northeast or northwest.  Two however made paths that made it seem like they had a mind of their own.</p> <p>First was Typhoon Isang on the second week of July with winds of up <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKVW_DPbI/AAAAAAAAAI8/njXV8LoX0H8/s1600-h/Typhoon%20nando%20copy%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="Typhoon nando copy" border="0" alt="Typhoon nando copy" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKWHuyZhI/AAAAAAAAAJA/RGu_Vy0XvAc/Typhoon%20nando%20copy_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="152" /></a>to 120 km per hour. At its heels came Typhoon Jolina on the first week of August, which while weaker at 75 km per hour almost made a direct hit. In the mainland Jolina left 8 fatalities. Typhoon Nando came on the second week of September also with 75 <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKXO8xvsI/AAAAAAAAAJE/97FmZ2J5OtM/s1600-h/typhoon%20pepeng%20copy%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="typhoon pepeng copy" border="0" alt="typhoon pepeng copy" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKXw0Ks2I/AAAAAAAAAJI/Wb7u40gv1BM/typhoon%20pepeng%20copy_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="188" /></a> km per hour, triggering landslides, road closures and evacuations in nearby Kalinga Province.</p> <p>Then came the unusual typhoons. Category 4 Super Typhoon Pepeng came straight from the southeast and headed directly for Palaui. It went past Cagayan Province, then went back <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKYro6vNI/AAAAAAAAAJM/F7fnHtzaHiA/s1600-h/typhoon%20ramil%20copy%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="typhoon ramil copy" border="0" alt="typhoon ramil copy" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKZTrxWoI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/4qZJ0iMOtwI/typhoon%20ramil%20copy_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="181" /></a> and made landfall again, going back and forth during the first two weeks of October for a total of three landfalls before finally heading out towards Hainan Island, China.</p> <p>On the third and fourth week of October, Category 4 Super Typhoon Ramil tracked like it <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKbd5TNfI/AAAAAAAAAJU/ITmk31ftGEg/s1600-h/Bayanihan%20Hall%202%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="Bayanihan Hall 2" border="0" alt="Bayanihan Hall 2" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKcFoJt3I/AAAAAAAAAJY/iX3us9MqmNs/Bayanihan%20Hall%202_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>was going past the Philippines, going east northeast of Palaui a little  bit. Then it unexpectedly veered straight for the island like a dive bomber, and just as suddenly, it pulled up before actually making landfall and headed north.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKeHc7v3I/AAAAAAAAAJc/jAdtZZrAMxU/s1600-h/Bayanihan%20Hall%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="Bayanihan Hall" border="0" alt="Bayanihan Hall" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKfBPPL6I/AAAAAAAAAJg/kjc711na-qs/Bayanihan%20Hall_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> All this time, we in Manila were a bit concerned about how the typhoons affected the Community Center being constructed in the island. The Advocate of Philippine Fare Trade (<a href="http://www.apfti.org.ph/" target="_blank">APFTI</a>), Seacology’s partner in this project, had little to report as communication with the islanders <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKhTyhTII/AAAAAAAAAJk/40lkzqP1acg/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20052%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 052" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 052" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKicfSVVI/AAAAAAAAAJo/HIi6YVIYj2U/palaui%20site%20visit%20052_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>was spotty. Travel was made extremely difficult too, as four bridges to Cagayan Province  were damaged in Pepeng’s aftermath.</p> <p>So when APFTI consultants Chen and Louie Mencias informed me that the Palaui Community Center is <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKjjsZMeI/AAAAAAAAAJs/6aTVPbyzpa0/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20030%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 030" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 030" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKkprnTeI/AAAAAAAAAJw/RYEivXVyU6w/palaui%20site%20visit%20030_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>finished and invited me for a visit at the end of November, I jumped at the  offer.</p> <p>We left Manila by bus, 7:00 pm on November 27, 2009, and arrived at the Sta. Ana Pier about 10:00 am the following day. A 20 minute boat ride brought us to the house of Mang Diony, in whose backyard we made camp during our visit last year.</p> <p>According to Mang Diony, they were left relatively unscathed by the typhoons. Problems in the <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKl7wQGRI/AAAAAAAAAJ0/SUyGP2Kcmn4/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20032%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 032" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 032" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKmhGKnxI/AAAAAAAAAJ4/IXnD-RJFWi0/palaui%20site%20visit%20032_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>construction of the Community Center were more on the difficulties encountered ferrying the construction materials to the island than anything else. The thick foliage of the primary and secondary growth forest kept the winds from doing any damage, even as much of the mainland was reeling from the succession of typhoons.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKoqT_ZJI/AAAAAAAAAJ8/WrZ-C6guDL8/s1600-h/IMG_0202%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_0202" border="0" alt="IMG_0202" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKpTdYKPI/AAAAAAAAAKA/fBm2JXAyWwE/IMG_0202_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> Palaui is legally protected under the National Integrated Protected Area System Act (passed by Congress in 1992), and like many of the areas defined in the NIPAS Act, little or no community consultation was done, resulting in little or no community support. The original structure was built by the <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKqilmMkI/AAAAAAAAAKE/bYnowH_e6I8/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20005%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 005" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 005" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKrBBo3LI/AAAAAAAAAKI/28S5jnaOtqk/palaui%20site%20visit%20005_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>Department of Natural Resource and Environment in late 1993, but it  was never maintained over the years. Illegal logging and “slash and burn" farming occasionally occurred due to lack of agricultural land, decreasing productivity of the soil and the need to <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKssu7LgI/AAAAAAAAAKM/qXnSS3dxoXM/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20059%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 059" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 059" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKtpef3gI/AAAAAAAAAKQ/0uex9ABSsZo/palaui%20site%20visit%20059_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a> produce food crops for the local population.</p> <p>We proceeded to the Community Center where we were met by Barangay Captain Edgar Ugale. The building we saw is a far cry from the rundown shack we saw last year. There is a kitchen, a serving area, two toilet enclosures, a shower area, a stockroom where the solar powered batteries are kept, a guest room, and a wide activity center. The anahaw roofing keeps temperatures cool even at noon. The water tank outside, fed by a <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKvZx6fLI/AAAAAAAAAKU/r6U6foas-ck/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20069%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 069" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 069" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKwaoLQvI/AAAAAAAAAKY/lTU6p6Rj_iE/palaui%20site%20visit%20069_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>hand pumped deep well, keeps water flowing throughout the  building. A solar panel jutting out of the roof provides clean and renewable electricity.</p> <p>Simple ceremonies, where the villagers reaffirmed their commitment to protect their watershed for 20 <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKyT_m7CI/AAAAAAAAAKc/cmbkltf3Pjc/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20071%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 071" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 071" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPKzBeEv2I/AAAAAAAAAKg/vXr9cLpygYk/palaui%20site%20visit%20071_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> years, marked the turnover of the Community Center to the care of the community. Alternative livelihood training programs will be conducted in the center, with the hoped effect of easing economic pressure off the watershed. It will also serve as a place where the villagers may gather and organize themselves.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK0Tww_AI/AAAAAAAAAKk/tkIHzXyX64k/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20072%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 072" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 072" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK1dMlodI/AAAAAAAAAKo/84i6TlPRhlo/palaui%20site%20visit%20072_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> </p> <p>As a tourist destination, Palaui has much to offer. In the island are three beautiful waterfalls, several potential nature trails for flora and fauna enthusiasts, and numerous rest points with scenic views. Narra and other high value hardwood trees are <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK2zInWRI/AAAAAAAAAKs/CI_hF7j5C5w/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20076%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 076" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 076" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK3upfD7I/AAAAAAAAAKw/SCukTGXaiDg/palaui%20site%20visit%20076_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>abundant, as are birds and butterflies not often seen anymore in mainland Luzon. There is no electricity, and lodging is limited to  camping or home-stay (renting a room from a local). But maybe it is better this way as too many tourists and tourism-related establishments may impose too heavy a tax on the fragile ecosystem.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK5K_5uSI/AAAAAAAAAK0/YJHHAcYnLtk/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20080%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 080" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 080" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK5-lrx5I/AAAAAAAAAK4/NBaY6bi74dM/palaui%20site%20visit%20080_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>After lunch with the community, we headed out for one of the waterfalls. The one-hour hike wasn’t too bad, even if we did wade through a few creeks, cross a  rickety two-plank hanging bridge, and stare down a couple of barking dogs along the way. My <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK7UvnC5I/AAAAAAAAAK8/EHPjHtAJ5lg/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20133%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 133" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 133" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK8BZ2hBI/AAAAAAAAALA/HSI-ExwG8qA/palaui%20site%20visit%20133_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>shirt was wet with sweat by the time we got there, but I think anyone would feel as reinvigorated as I did after seeing all  that   clear water cascading down the steep slope.</p> <p>The following day, we went to the northern tip of Palaui – Cape Engaño, where the last lighthouse built by the Spaniards in the Philippines is located.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK9CO76bI/AAAAAAAAALE/OwoKIBh3POI/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20104%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 104" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 104" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK9_fs4wI/AAAAAAAAALI/hAJxKDaIy5E/palaui%20site%20visit%20104_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a></p> <p>According to the lighthouse keeper, the Americans built the perimeter wall of the lighthouse and the Japanese used it as a garrison during World War   II. And it is also supposed to be haunted by the ghosts of the Japanese troops that died defending it at the end of the war. He said he would sometimes wake up to the sound of marching boots just before dawn, though nothing or no one was ostensibly making it.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK-yeaLAI/AAAAAAAAALM/0c0ElXkV-nY/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20115%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 115" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 115" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxPK_vnf47I/AAAAAAAAALQ/GJno8wjN-n4/palaui%20site%20visit%20115_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>As spooky as the lighthouse keeper’s stories may be, one cannot help but be enchanted just by the panoramic view from the lighthouse. From the beaches of the east and west shores start the grasslands, and from thence the  edges of the forest. Where we were, we witnessed the huge waves crashing on the left side in contrast with the calm sea on the right. It is as good a metaphor as any of the island defending against the wildly changing weather patterns.<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxQ01uTN1sI/AAAAAAAAALY/y9ejX3x3fOw/s1600-h/palaui%20site%20visit%20086%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="palaui site visit 086" border="0" alt="palaui site visit 086" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SxQ02WDcFaI/AAAAAAAAALc/5dKETWQ0Ctw/palaui%20site%20visit%20086_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> </p> <p>Food for thought as we left the island for the overnight bus trip back to Manila.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-22794256695941181352009-10-18T17:20:00.000+08:002009-10-27T05:21:28.963+08:00Water can flow higher than its source<p>Descending into the gully, we heard the faint <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsR4h_JDTI/AAAAAAAAAFw/SHErkkXl7x0/s1600-h/128%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="128" border="0" alt="128" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsR50RSHwI/AAAAAAAAAF0/N7w6-UXo-4k/128_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>clanging of metal against metal, like there was a fairy blacksmith amidst the ferns and lichen hammering on a horseshoe somewhere down there. There was no fairy, of course, but the machine we saw is nearly as magical – it pumps 10 <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsR7oHFTuI/AAAAAAAAAF4/vlebYtEgOTU/s1600-h/099%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="099" border="0" alt="099" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsR9Gz7QTI/AAAAAAAAAF8/OsrzWsbbR-I/099_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>liters of water per minute up a steep 89-meter cliff without electricity. It is called a hydraulic ram pump system.</p> <p>How we came to be here needs a bit of history to explain.</p> <p>In 1992, the Philippine Government enacted the <i>National Integrated Protected Areas System Act</i>, which designated "biologically important public lands that are habitats of rare and endangered species". Unfortunately, very little community consultation occurred in the<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsR_BSIfpI/AAAAAAAAAGA/jYMqbGuodYs/s1600-h/101%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="101" border="0" alt="101" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSANSAAmI/AAAAAAAAAGE/uf5ECVj0ASM/101_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a> process, if at all, so consequently there is scant grassroots support for the protected areas.</p> <p>One of the areas so designated is Northern Negros Island, Western  Visayas Region, and Murcia is one of the municipalities located within both the North Negros Forest Reserve and Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park. Closed-canopy forests in these areas serve as an important part of the island’s watershed. They are also very <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSEPu6z8I/AAAAAAAAAGI/p0YRJUiPHS0/s1600-h/160%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="160" border="0" alt="160" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSFY5D9dI/AAAAAAAAAGM/1vVJuYJnisM/160_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>important habitats for several threatened species; such as the Negros Bleeding Heart Pigeon, the Blue-crowned Racquet-tailed Parrot, Blue-naped Parrot, the spotted Wood-kingfisher, the White-Winged Cuckoo Shrike, the Flame-templed Babbler, among others; and two critically <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSJ7jyinI/AAAAAAAAAGQ/0BQs0irgKeY/s1600-h/159%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="159" border="0" alt="159" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSLZ2Ek7I/AAAAAAAAAGU/oDcayUVKRUU/159_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>threatened hornbills:  Tarictic Hornbill and the Visayan Writhed or Walden’s Hornbill. Likewise, it has all the six Negros Island species of large mammals, two of which are endangered: the Philippine Spotted <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSOgkurnI/AAAAAAAAAGY/_3GurZ5yafo/s1600-h/161%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="161" border="0" alt="161" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSQrWJ3VI/AAAAAAAAAGc/lR_iKpZiRfc/161_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>Deer and the Visayan Warty Pig. Moreover, timber species like Red and White Lauan, Nato, Bagtikan, Tangele, Almon, Almaciga, Udling among others are  abundant in the area. Illegal logging, backyard charcoal production, and indiscriminate hunting persist as threats to the "protected area."</p> <p>In 2007, <a href="http://www.aidfi.org/" target="_blank">AID Foundation</a> asked <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> to help them build ram pump systems for 3 villages (barangays) within the  North Negros Forest Reserve and Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park. In return, the villages, i.e. <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSTs9npCI/AAAAAAAAAGg/WpDQzLLWQn8/s1600-h/092%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="092" border="0" alt="092" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSVI0tPeI/AAAAAAAAAGk/1uroPL-UAZA/092_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>Barangays Canlandog, Sta. Cruz and Buenavista, all in the Municipality of Murcia, will commit themselves to protecting 2,000 hectares of watershed forest area adjacent to their villages for at least 30 years.</p> <p>The installation of the ram pumps and water distribution system was completed last July, and now, October 17, 2009, I am visiting the sites to see how these are. With me is Auke Idzenga of AID Foundation. Auke is a <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSZIxwqFI/AAAAAAAAAGo/zYxTZOCztKQ/s1600-h/122%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="122" border="0" alt="122" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSa8pqqWI/AAAAAAAAAGs/JMeTX4VGgew/122_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>Dutch immigrant who has  been a resident of Negros since the late 1980s, and he speaks the Negros Island dialect fluently. He, along with 3 Filipinos, set up AID Foundation in 1992 to help the impoverished communities of Negros Island. In most of my conversations with<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSdsQYYJI/AAAAAAAAAGw/0i5ApIF9wMU/s1600-h/104%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="104" border="0" alt="104" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSe5uezlI/AAAAAAAAAG0/XSVFrCpk66Q/104_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> community members, he was my interpreter.</p> <p>The most extensive distribution network is at the village of Calandog, where the lines laid out total about 11 kilometers. This is also the first village to have had their ram pumps installed. So far, the <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSivAmbcI/AAAAAAAAAG4/txlUUj0jDsY/s1600-h/147%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="147" border="0" alt="147" align="left" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSj_5ZYYI/AAAAAAAAAG8/rZq9-82tUoM/147_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>distribution in Sta. Cruz village is  limited to Sitio Lacson, while in Buenavista village the water reaches Sitios Bug-as and Igkalay. </p> <p>The ram pumps need very little maintenance. Just a little cleaning once a week or so, and some parts have to be inspected every 6 months to check if they need to be replaced. Right <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSmij3NvI/AAAAAAAAAHA/eH1In3Z0bAA/s1600-h/152%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="152" border="0" alt="152" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSn9SYl2I/AAAAAAAAAHE/FD6pDtaJOew/152_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>now, each house is paying a fixed amount of Php20 (about 45 US cents) per month to draw water from the reservoir. The money goes to the system’s maintenance. </p> <p>Paterno Ledesma, chairman of the Purok Lacson Water Consumers Association, has a novel way of collecting payment, which is incorporated in one of the association’s clauses. Valves from the reservoir service a certain group <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSqe_fcDI/AAAAAAAAAHI/D-ZrFaa1kJ0/s1600-h/157%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="157" border="0" alt="157" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSsn3fH7I/AAAAAAAAAHM/k4A7uKMryxo/157_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>of households.  Should a group member forget to pay by the due date, Paterno shuts off the valve servicing that group until everyone pays. So far, he has had to shut off a valve 3 times in the past, and only for one day at most.</p> <p>At each of the communities benefitting from the ram pumps, we  were greeted with food painstakingly prepared by the grateful residents. It wasn’t much really. Different preparations of suman (sweetened rice wrapped in leaves), boiled sweet potatoes, macaroni salad, and pots of native coffee at<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSwgj4h4I/AAAAAAAAAHQ/IB0AIJd0eGk/s1600-h/153%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="153" border="0" alt="153" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsSydrrWuI/AAAAAAAAAHU/Ze9ydjThW10/153_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> every stop. But I felt like we were being served a costly feast, coming from families living on less than fifty pesos (about a dollar) a day.</p> <p>Over and over one woman spoke to me in their  dialect of how, before the ram pumps were installed, a family <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsTsNM_8UI/AAAAAAAAAHw/czGHu3yGe-Q/s1600-h/130%5B7%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="130" border="0" alt="130" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsTt8fjAMI/AAAAAAAAAH0/NEEUi4WCn-A/130_thumb%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>member, sometimes a son or daughter, had to spend hours to go  down all the way to the water source every day to fill up a few containers and climb back up. Now, they have more time to do other things. The children have more time to devote to their studies, the men can spend more time at extra income-augmenting activities such as hog raising, and the women can do more house <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsS1olOTPI/AAAAAAAAAHY/AvTx39dHvQk/s1600-h/154%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="154" border="0" alt="154" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsS24W5S0I/AAAAAAAAAHg/8SpFfGAOnP4/154_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> chores.</p> <p>And everyone can bathe regularly. Not a joke. I’ve been told that incidences of skin diseases went down dramatically in Calandog, which had their ram pumps in place since mid last year. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsS4-jPLxI/AAAAAAAAAHk/KyyKhl1HWb8/s1600-h/138%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="138" border="0" alt="138" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/StsS6Sq1uAI/AAAAAAAAAHo/zhnyF6BAz1I/138_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a> The villages have set up their own Forest Guards who patrol the watershed regularly, mindful of its significance to the accessible water they now enjoy. About 3,000 seedlings (assorted indigenous species) were planted around the ram pump sites, and the no-take zone is being enforced.</p> <p>For the 217 households presently being served by the ram pumps, finding time to work for the future suddenly seems possible.</p> <p> </p> <div style="padding-bottom: 0px; margin: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; float: left; padding-top: 0px" id="scid:5737277B-5D6D-4f48-ABFC-DD9C333F4C5D:bad570ab-2c1b-4d00-ae7b-d2855cd6b1f3" class="wlWriterEditableSmartContent"><div id="8b8112fe-e82d-4d8a-befd-f9de2b077212" style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px; display: inline;"><div><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABfVdUGAJPk&hl=en&fs=1" target="_new"><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SuYS18P81kI/AAAAAAAAAIc/6ZhPEEP5itw/videoc342f6a65148%5B3%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-style: none" galleryimg="no" onload="var downlevelDiv = document.getElementById('8b8112fe-e82d-4d8a-befd-f9de2b077212'); downlevelDiv.innerHTML = "<div><object width=\"392\" height=\"327\"><param name=\"movie\" value=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/ABfVdUGAJPk&hl=en&fs=1&hl=en\"><\/param><embed src=\"http://www.youtube.com/v/ABfVdUGAJPk&hl=en&fs=1&hl=en\" type=\"application/x-shockwave-flash\" width=\"392\" height=\"327\"><\/embed><\/object><\/div>";" alt=""></a></div></div><div style="clear:both;font-size:.8em;">Fine-tuning the ram pump.</div></div> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-16656534414904030452009-08-16T08:04:00.000+08:002009-08-18T08:04:41.615+08:00There is Power at the Top<p>And it is clean and renewable.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwiDdvMhI/AAAAAAAAAEY/P6EQ6dwrLVc/s1600-h/IMG_00244.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_0024" border="0" alt="IMG_0024" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwjDsdCbI/AAAAAAAAAEc/PxTRLB509MY/IMG_0024_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> Sitio Malumpine of Barangay Old Bulatukan is composed of about 65 Manobo households. It is one of the isolated upland communities of Mt. Apo, and is among the 16 barangays of Malasila, North Cotabato. Located some 25 kilometers from Kidapawan City, North Cotabato, the community is composed of Manobos, and their barangay is within the recently recognized 3,500 hectare ancestral land of the Manobo Tribe.</p> <p>The community is off-grid, and when I visited them last year, the<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwkmJmmLI/AAAAAAAAAEg/b-VZ13QFkEY/s1600-h/IMG_00154.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_0015" border="0" alt="IMG_0015" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwlomVRRI/AAAAAAAAAEk/Bb9uP1dlDwE/IMG_0015_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>  residents relied on kerosene lamps for lighting and firewood for cooking. The province's electric cooperative, the Cotabato Electric Cooperative (COTELCO) will not be able to extend the grid to this community for the next 10 years at least, due to budget limitations.</p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofwm0hP-TI/AAAAAAAAAEo/Maibsw-DNLY/s1600-h/IMG_00404.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="IMG_0040" border="0" alt="IMG_0040" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwnnhcdyI/AAAAAAAAAEs/MhFT55mo_ro/IMG_0040_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> In exchange for funding from <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> to build a micro-hydro power station and a tree nursery, the Manobo community pledged to protect 300.998 hectares of forest land within their ancestral domain for 30 years. Seacology’s partner in the project, <a href="http://www.yamog.org/">Yamog Renewable Energy Development Group Inc</a> provided the technical expertise and sourced the needed materials and counterpart funding. </p> <p>I first visited the small<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwpfePp1I/AAAAAAAAAEw/ah0HqvCO27k/s1600-h/DSC00823%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="DSC00823" border="0" alt="DSC00823" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwqTw2DZI/AAAAAAAAAE0/TuUTgtfWN4Y/DSC00823_thumb%5B4%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a> community of Manobos living on the slopes  of Mt. Apo in July 2008. Datu Enoch Gascon (the tribe’s chief), Nonoy Cacayan (Yamog), and Ben Baril (Yamog) took me on a 4-hour hike up the mountain until we got to where the micro-hydro power station was to be built. Leeches and slippery slopes dogged me during the hike, and I realized then how <a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwsDTrrSI/AAAAAAAAAE4/g6Ktz-2jqdo/s1600-h/malumpine%20031%5B10%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="malumpine 031" border="0" alt="malumpine 031" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofws2LEjpI/AAAAAAAAAE8/gQO3BegqfDo/malumpine%20031_thumb%5B11%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="175" /></a>ill-prepared, attire-wise, I was for the hike. Ditching the shorts and rubber shoes for cargo pants and hiking boots this time around, I hoped to manage the hike better.</p> <p>It took us only two hours to get to the site yesterday, August 15, 2009. The Municipal Government of Malasila came through with its promise to<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofwt25aAlI/AAAAAAAAAFA/CWW75siYKX4/s1600-h/malumpine%20011%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="malumpine 011" border="0" alt="malumpine 011" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofwu1XMYKI/AAAAAAAAAFE/1B-sDLbtZGU/malumpine%20011_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a> construct a road on the periphery of the watershed where the materials for the project may be carried. We hiked through a steep 2-kilometer road that I reckon can be traversed only by bulldozers, donkeys, and some pretty determined mountain climbers like us. The road was meant to run for at least four kilometers, until the earth on a cliff was determined too soft for the bulldozer to risk going any further. But it was enough to halve the journey time, and I got through still pretty dry thankfully. </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofwwsw4BLI/AAAAAAAAAFI/N_qtQSISTIw/s1600-h/malumpine%20019%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="malumpine 019" border="0" alt="malumpine 019" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwxaHmHcI/AAAAAAAAAFM/hAqutSmvCbE/malumpine%20019_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> Last year, I was asked “What tribe are you from?” I was taken aback, but I answered “Tagalog” after a second or two. Tagalog is my ethnic group, though I’ve never really thought of it that way. Growing up in an urban area has a way of relegating words like <em>ethnicity</em> and <em>tribe</em> to Tarzan or John Wayne movies. This pointed query from Datu Enoch is, to me, an eloquent window to their<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwyaIkMAI/AAAAAAAAAFQ/T0hhnHQAaDo/s1600-h/malumpine%20034%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="malumpine 034" border="0" alt="malumpine 034" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SofwzDs61VI/AAAAAAAAAFU/6uzCWfF9Z7I/malumpine%20034_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a> perception of the world.</p> <p>The people from this Manobo community, I learned, spoke three dialects: their own Manobo dialect, which they use when talking to each other; Visaya, which they use when with the lowlanders; and Tagalog when they talk to me.</p> <p>The province of North Cotabato is one of the watershed frontiers of Mindanao, a portion of it being under the Mt. Apo National Park. The whole of Mt. Apo, the tallest <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofw0uTTG3I/AAAAAAAAAFY/CYGcLLSndh0/s1600-h/malumpine%20049%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="malumpine 049" border="0" alt="malumpine 049" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofw1Yx4rMI/AAAAAAAAAFc/-w46eEfkh1E/malumpine%20049_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a> mountain in the Philippines, is already a protected area by virtue of a 1936 edict, but very little enforcement had been done. It has one of the highest land-based biological diversity per unit area in the Philippines, and is home to many threatened and endangered species.</p> <p>Electricity, 10 kilowatts of it 24 hours a day from the micro-hydro power station, has given these Manobos a renewed respect for their watershed. Tribe elder Charlie <a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofw24gF72I/AAAAAAAAAFg/hm39N9mIt4A/s1600-h/malumpine%20068%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="malumpine 068" border="0" alt="malumpine 068" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofw3tSP3-I/AAAAAAAAAFk/NV0tzZbMwCk/malumpine%20068_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> Ili, who served us a humble meal of eel soup and rice spoke animatedly of the brighter prospects ahead – better value for their coffee crop  processed  from an electro-mechanized coffee bean husker and drier, new income from a potential base camp for tourist-hikers to the peak of Mt. Apo, their children’s exposure to <a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofw4konZRI/AAAAAAAAAFo/7msMNTtE35A/s1600-h/malumpine%20072%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="malumpine 072" border="0" alt="malumpine 072" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sofw5bKS6BI/AAAAAAAAAFs/zY7rOsBTtQE/malumpine%20072_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="164" height="244" /></a>modern, erstwhile unthinkable technologies like computers, and many more.</p> <p>With this Manobo community deriving clean and renewable energy from their watershed, there is little doubt that, at least in the area of Mt. Apo where they hold sway, the forest and everything in it will remain pristine for their next generation.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-4444914930038286052009-06-15T20:36:00.001+08:002009-06-16T04:24:24.972+08:00So many species in a fragile environment<p>Last Friday, June 12, the El Nido Foundation formally launched “Reef Fishes of El Nido”, a book resulting from the extensive study done by Dr. Gerry Allen and Dr. Mark Erdmann. It is a r<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZADN_KTxI/AAAAAAAAADo/BSyUodGYB80/s1600-h/083%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="083" border="0" alt="083" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAD4dTJFI/AAAAAAAAADs/JwOmqgeOFdQ/083_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>esult of countless dives, each averaging over an hour, in 2007. We were lucky to have been invited. Dr. Erdmann was not able to make it, but Dr. Allen was. He signed books, including the one my daughter bought.</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAE6VHO0I/AAAAAAAAADw/2ViHJtLXwsI/s1600-h/081%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="081" border="0" alt="081" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAF8tI46I/AAAAAAAAAD0/hNKKRBTi8qU/081_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> I first set foot in El Nido on January 23, 1989. In that year alone I tallied 594 dives within Bacquit Bay over 287 days, faithfully logging each dive in my log book, which I still keep. You see, I worked there as a divemaster and dive instructor for several years. The diving was great in those days.<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAGklyafI/AAAAAAAAAD4/Fylhzwqnmc0/s1600-h/065%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="065" border="0" alt="065" align="right" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAHZkV0dI/AAAAAAAAAD8/1bomxNo2W3w/065_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a></p> <p>Once, two other divers and I saw a huge dorsal fin sticking out of the water near our boat about two kilometers off Popolcan Island. We donned our masks, fins and snorkels and jumped in the water, and there I saw my first whale shark. I saw my second whale shark while scuba diving at Kulasa Point, between Matinloc and Inambuyod Islands. Between January and April of each year, we would see manta rays almost on every dive. There were turtles, sharks, and  barracudas. There were also the seldom seen saddleback clownfishes, leafy sea dragons, and other smaller and rarer  creatures. Foot-long groupers and snappers were ordinary for any given dive.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAIYJLOMI/AAAAAAAAAEA/zWo6wmop5zM/s1600-h/098%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="098" border="0" alt="098" align="left" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAJDoupdI/AAAAAAAAAEE/h7902Vqk8ts/098_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> Coral was good too, but not as colorful as the ones in Anilao, Batangas. Bacquit Bay does not have the strong currents of Anilao, and currents bring food to the coral, but enough nutrients were circulating so that the reefs in the bay were respectably varied. Even then, there were signs of blast fishing in some of the dive sites. And when diving activities waned in the mid-nineties, I’ve been told that blast fishing became more rampant, and the live fish trade flourished.</p> <p>Then came the kicker: the 1998 El Niño, when ocean<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAJ04jy4I/AAAAAAAAAEI/5Khv5n3rvFg/s1600-h/114%5B3%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="114" border="0" alt="114" align="right" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAKtfObII/AAAAAAAAAEM/5vhugelYNmo/114_thumb%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> temperatures rose by several degrees. An estimated 16% of the world’s coral died, and the reefs of El Nido were not exempt. A great many number of corals turned luminous green and blue, then white, and finally sections upon sections of the reefs died.</p> <p>When several areas in the bay were declared Marine Protected Areas, the marine life in those areas began to bounce back. In the Tres Marias site particularly, where Seacology funded the installation of ceramic reef modules, the results are astounding. Where <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAPLqzRdI/AAAAAAAAAEQ/8ZgXtgOIjpQ/s1600-h/image%5B3%5D.png"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="image" border="0" alt="image" align="left" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SjZAQjpFDuI/AAAAAAAAAEU/uNXbcEYnl-E/image_thumb%5B1%5D.png?imgmax=800" width="244" height="184" /></a>there was coral rubble a scant 3 years ago, there is now a thriving coral colony on each of the ceramic modules. Groupers, snappers, wrasses, and other reef fishes have returned in large numbers.</p> <p>So far, Drs. Gerry Allen and Mark Erdmann have documented 813 species of fish in El Nido. Dr. Allen says that the next book will be written by someone from El Nido who will be a Marine Biology Scholar of the Gerry Allen Scholarship Program (managed by the El Nido Foundation). Dr. Allen set the scholarship up just for the people of El Nido, and it will be funded from the proceeds of the book.</p> <p>Now that is one for the books. </p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6006444145325868626.post-51225485317904515382009-06-06T09:00:00.001+08:002009-06-07T06:26:44.937+08:00A Village Lights Up with Clean Energy<p>A secluded village in Northern Palawan Island is off-grid, that is, it is too remote to be served by the Palawan Electric Company (PALECO). <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sim_iA9IwWI/AAAAAAAAACc/o_ZIzbO28T0/s1600-h/018%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="018" border="0" alt="018" align="right" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sim_iylTB3I/AAAAAAAAACg/mv9YVg2xZ-8/018_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a> But Barangay Bagong Bayan in Roxas, Palawan has within its jurisdiction, over 825 hectares of rainforest –- its watershed. The abundant water from this feeds the beautiful Alibanua Falls, which has always been a source of pride for the villagers.</p> <p>An attempt was made to harness the water for micro-hydro power, but specifications were faulty and the equipment brought there never worked.</p> <p>My work as Seacology’s Field Representative for the Philippines  brought them to our attention. In exchange for preserving and protecting their watershed in perpetuity, <a href="http://www.seacology.org" target="_blank">Seacology</a> agreed to finance the rehabilitation of the micro-hydro power generator. <a href="http://www.sibat.org" target="_blank">SIBAT</a>, one of our NG<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sim_j-LAgiI/AAAAAAAAACk/sEsMzpobvq8/s1600-h/030%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="030" border="0" alt="030" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sim_kTL48aI/AAAAAAAAACo/lU1hYvg70Rc/030_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164" /></a>O partners, undertook the rehabilitation.</p> <p>Early May 2009, I was told that the rehabilitation has been completed. So on May 29, 2009, Jove Benosa of SIBAT and I traveled to the site to see for ourselves the micro hydro power at work.</p> <p>Our 8 am flight was delayed for 4 and half hours, and that in itself is a subject for another blog if I get the impetus for it. Suffice to say that we eventually touched down in Puerto Princesa at 1:30 pm. It’s the longest one hour flight I’ve ever taken.</p> <p>The driver of the rented pick-up was waiting for us. Waiting for longer than anyone should, as we were supposed to have arrived 9 am. I should have brought a medal with me to pin on him.<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sim_lY0muRI/AAAAAAAAACs/rA8hn6fwHac/s1600-h/034%5B4%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="034" border="0" alt="034" align="right" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sim_mMuIQVI/AAAAAAAAACw/iiyw2cR5dak/034_thumb%5B2%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="148" height="216" /></a></p> <p>It was a 2 hour drive to Roxas town proper, and another 2 hours to Barangay Bagong Bayan. By the time we got there, it was nearly 5:30 pm. But all the inconveniences we have encountered thus far was dispelled by the happy faces that met us. So infectious was their disposition that I think we never quite stopped grinning the whole time we were there.</p> <p>The first question I was asked was <em>Nasaan si Ma’m Karen?</em> (Where is Ma’m Karen?). They were referring to Seacology’s Senior Program Officer Karen Peterson who was with us when we came to visit last June 2008. A little disappointment was evident when I told them she couldn’t come this time, but not enough to dampen their spirits. After all, they’ve got electricity now!</p> <p>Some village leaders hopped on our vehicle and rode with us a kilometer or so further until the road ended. We stopped a few hundred meters from the power station and had to trek the rest of the way, through muddy walkways, a shaky two-plank foot bridge, a river, and a steep path. We were shown how the micro-hydro station worked, as well as Alibanua Falls where plenty of water still flowed despite some  being diverted to the micro-hydro power generator.</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/SioPx0UpfeI/AAAAAAAAAC8/QZsYs4NQfEs/s1600-h/042%5B6%5D.jpg"><img style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: 0px" title="042" border="0" alt="042" align="left" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/_ibCqaP4tBDM/Sim_npSbK1I/AAAAAAAAADA/AUySLZw9WLo/042_thumb%5B5%5D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="194" height="133" /></a></p> <p>Back at the Barangay Hall, the grateful villagers served young coconut, crab steamed in coconut milk, and red rice. After the meal, I walked around the village and saw several youngsters playing basketball even at dusk. That, to me, spelled the opening of new opportunities for the village.</p> Ferdie Marcelohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12200830331384627162noreply@blogger.com0