Philippine Biodiversity & Protected Areas

Introduction

• The Philippines is a biodiversity hotspot with many endangered species.
• Protected areas are sanctuaries for unique organisms facing threats like habitat destruction and human activities.
• Mount Iglit-Baco National Park is essential for the survival of the endangered tamaraw, unique to the Philippines.
• Protected areas also provide essential ecosystem services: clean air and water, carbon sequestration, and climate regulation.
• These services mitigate climate change and maintain the health of surrounding communities.
• Protected areas help preserve natural landscapes for future generations
• Conservation of these areas is essential for ecological balance and human well-being.
• Urbanites are increasingly seeking nature for recreation and leisure.
• Demand for outdoor experiences is fueled by the pandemic, open spaces, and social media.
• A rise is happening in park visitation, outdoor fitness, and urban farms.
• Parks and protected areas are significant for recreation and leisure management.
• They serve as vital ecosystems supporting biodiversity and recreational activities for well-being.

The Philippine Protected Area System (NIPAS)

• Established under the NIPAS Act of 1992, it provides a framework for conserving and managing ecosystems.
• The Philippines is a biodiversity hotspot with endemic and threatened flora and fauna.
• The NIPAS Act aims to protect unique biological resources by establishing protected areas in ecologically significant lands and waters.
• 1903: Early forest reserves were established under Philippine Commission Act No. 648, which allowed the Civil Governor to reserve public lands for conservation.
• 1904: The creation of eight national reserves was ordered. The Forest Act of 1904 further expanded efforts, with Mount Maquiling designated as a forest reserve.
• 1932: The National Parks Act (Act No. 3195) formally established a national parks system, designating Mount Arayat as the first national park.
• 1975: Over the decades, various laws, including the Revised Forestry Code of 1975, strengthened conservation policies.
• 1992: The NIPAS Act was enacted, providing a comprehensive framework for managing protected areas.
• 2018: The Expanded NIPAS (E-NIPAS) Act amended the Act in 2018, increasing protected areas and enhancing management protocols.
• National Parks conserve native flora and fauna.
• Natural Parks are larger areas maintained for their natural significance.
• Natural Monuments are smaller areas protecting unique natural features.
• Wildlife Sanctuaries ensure natural conditions for significant species.
• Protected Landscapes/Seascapes highlight harmonious human-nature interactions.
• Resource Reserves are areas set aside for future resource use.
• Natural Biotic Areas are spaces allowing traditional lifestyles to adapt sustainably.
• The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) oversees protected areas, through the Biodiversity Management Bureau (BMB).
• The BMB provides technical support, develops management plans, and ensures community involvement through Protected Area Management Boards (PAMBs).
• Participatory management involves local communities and stakeholders in decision-making processes.
• Participatory management enhances community ownership.
• It uses local knowledge for better resource management.
• It improves transparency and accountability.
• It can help resolve conflicts.
• Promotes sustainable practices that align with local needs.
• Engaging communities fosters a sense of responsibility towards conservation efforts, ensuring that both ecological integrity and community livelihoods are prioritized.

Recreation and Leisure Opportunities in Protected Areas

• Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of local communities.
• It emphasizes environmental conservation, community involvement, sustainability, and cultural respect.
• Low-impact visits to biodiversity-rich areas foster appreciation for nature while supporting conservation efforts
• Ecotourism activities: viewing wildlife, touring parks, learning about local cultures, and seeing biodiversity.
• Protected areas offer unique natural and cultural attractions, making them ideal ecotourism destinations.
• Examples include Tubbataha Reefs in Palawan for marine biodiversity and Mount Apo for hiking.
• Provides activities like wildlife photography, bird watching, and cultural exchanges, enhancing visitor experiences and promoting conservation.
• Ecotourism generates economic benefits for communities by creating jobs, supporting businesses, and providing financial contributions to conservation.
• Revenue from ecotourism can be reinvested into community development and environmental protection.
• Protected areas offer diverse adventure activities and outdoor recreation opportunities.
• Hiking, trekking, camping, rock climbing, kayaking, bird watching, and wildlife photography are some options.
• These activities attract tourists seeking immersive experiences in nature.
• Visitor safety is crucial in outdoor recreation.
• Implementing safety protocols and educating visitors about environmental awareness helps minimize negative impacts on ecosystems.
• Responsible visitor management practices protect natural resources and participant safety.

Cultural and Historical Significance and Opportunities

• Protected areas often hold cultural and historical significance, preserving indigenous knowledge and traditions.
• Opportunities include cultural tourism through visits to ancestral domains, learning about local crafts, and participating in traditional festivals.
• Cultural tourism fosters meaningful exchanges between visitors and local communities.
• It empowers communities by showcasing their heritage and provides tourists with authentic experiences enhancing their understanding of local cultures.
• Tourism empowers local communities by providing economic opportunities and promoting cultural pride.
• Engaging communities in tourism development ensures that they benefit from their cultural heritage while fostering sustainable practices.
• Ecotourism promotes responsible travel, enhances conservation efforts, and provides economic benefits to local communities through diverse recreational activities and cultural engagement.

Challenges and Balancing

• Managing protected areas presents challenges in balancing conservation and recreational activities, necessitating sustainable practices to avoid negative environmental effects.
• Tourism can impact biodiversity, ecosystems, and local communities through habitat degradation, wildlife disturbance, and resource competition.
• Strategies to mitigate negative effects: implementing visitor limits, promoting responsible tourism practices, and engaging local communities in management.
• Developing appropriate infrastructure is crucial for enhancing visitor experiences while minimizing environmental impacts.
• Improved accessibility, especially for marginalized communities, ensures equitable opportunities for nature engagement.
• Innovative solutions for transportation, accommodation, and visitor services can facilitate sustainable tourism growth while preserving ecological integrity.
• Capacity building for local communities and tourism stakeholders is vital for effective management of protected areas.
• Training programs and education initiatives are fostering skills necessary for sustainable tourism development.
• Partnerships among government agencies, NGOs, and private sector organizations enhance collaborative efforts, ensuring that diverse perspectives are integrated into management strategies and community development initiatives.
• A collaborative approach empowers local communities to actively participate in conservation efforts while benefiting economically from ecotourism.