SOCSCI7_T1_HO2 Physical Geography of Southeast Asia Learn-1 PDF

Objectives ✓ Define the concept of physical geography; ✓ Describe the physical features Physical Geography vs Human Geography of the Philippines and Southeast Asia; Geography, as a broad field of study, encompasses both the physical ✓ Differentiate the...

Objectives ✓ Define the concept of physical geography; ✓ Describe the physical features Physical Geography vs Human Geography of the Philippines and Southeast Asia; Geography, as a broad field of study, encompasses both the physical ✓ Differentiate the and human dimensions of the Earth. These two branches, physical concept of geography and human geography, provide a comprehensive physical and understanding of the planet's surface and the complex interactions human between natural environments and human societies. While they share a geography common goal of exploring the Earth's landscapes, resources, and ✓ Explain the inhabitants, they focus on different aspects and employ distinct significant role of the physical methodologies. Differentiating between these two concepts is crucial for features of the appreciating the diverse scope of geographical studies and their Philippines and applications in addressing global challenges. Physical geography and the region in human geography are two distinct but interconnected branches of shaping the geography that focus on different aspects of the Earth. Physical ancient history geography deals with the natural environment, studying Earth's and culture of the landforms, climates, ecosystems, and processes such as weather people in the patterns, volcanic activity, and the distribution of water bodies. It seeks Philippines and to understand the physical features of the Earth and how natural forces Southeast Asia; shape the landscape. On the other hand, human geography focuses on ✓ Appreciate the influence of the activities, cultures, economies, and social systems of human beings physical features and how these interact with and transform the environment. It examines on the Philippines population distribution, urbanization, cultural practices, political and Southeast boundaries, and economic development. Asia While physical geography provides insights into the natural world, human geography explores the ways humans adapt to, influence, and manage their surroundings. Both fields are interrelated, as human activities often impact the physical environment, and natural processes can shape human societies. Together, they offer a holistic understanding of the world, combining the study of nature with human interaction and adaptation. Getting to know Southeast Asia’s Physical geography Southeast Asia, a region nestled between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, is a land of extraordinary geographical diversity. Stretching from the mountainous terrains of Myanmar to the low-lying plains of Vietnam, this region boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes that have shaped its history, culture, and way of life. The region's geography is characterized by a complex interplay of tectonic forces, volcanic activity, and erosion. Mountains, such as the Himalayas and the Annamite Range, form natural barriers, while rivers like the Mekong and the Irrawaddy have played a crucial role in transportation and agriculture. Coastal areas, dotted with islands and peninsulas, have been vital for trade and maritime activities. This geographical diversity has given rise to a wide range of ecosystems, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts. These ecosystems support a vast array of flora and fauna, making Southeast Asia one of the world's biodiversity hotspots.  I. Physical Features of Southeast Asia Southeast Asia, a vast region of Asia situated east of the Indian subcontinent and south of China. It consists of two dissimilar portions: the mainland Southeast Asia and a string of archipelagoes to the south and Did you know? east of the mainland or insular Southeast Asia. Extending some 700 miles (1,100 km) southward from the mainland into insular Southeast Asia is the » Pacific Ring of Fire Malay Peninsula; this peninsula structurally is part of the mainland, but it also referred to as also shares many ecological and cultural affinities with the surrounding the Circum- islands and thus functions as a bridge between the two regions. Pacific Belt, is a path along the Mainland Southeast Asia is divided into the countries of Cambodia, Laos, Pacific Ocean Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Vietnam, and the small city-state of characterized by Singapore at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula; Cambodia, Laos, active volcanoes and frequent and Vietnam, which occupy the eastern portion of the mainland, often earthquakes. are collectively called the Indochinese Peninsula. Malaysia is both mainland and insular, with a western portion on the Malay Peninsula and an eastern part on the island of Borneo. Except for the small sultanate of Brunei (also on Borneo), the remainder of insular Southeast Asia consists of the archipelagic nations of Indonesia and the Philippines.  A. Mainland Southeast Asia’s Physical Features Mainland Southeast Asia, also known as Indochina, is the continental portion of Southeast Asia, comprising the countries of Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. The mainland is characterized by a series of generally north–south-trending mountain ranges separated by a number of major river valleys and their associated deltas. It is relatively stable geologically, with no active or recently active volcanoes and, except in the northwest and north, little seismic activity. Key Physical Features: Mountain Ranges: Annamese Cordillera stretches along the border between Laos and Vietnam, forming a rugged spine, has played a significant role in shaping the region's climate and biodiversity, creating areas of high rainfall and dense forests. River Systems: Mekong River is the one of the world's longest rivers, flowing from the Tibetan Plateau through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam before emptying into the South China Sea. It is a vital  source of water for agriculture, transportation, and hydroelectric power generation. Irrawaddy River flows through Myanmar and is a major source of transportation and irrigation. It has played a significant role in the development of Myanmar's economy and culture. Chao Phraya River flows through Thailand and is a major source of water for agriculture and transportation. It has played a significant role in the development of Bangkok, Thailand's capital city. Plains and Plateaus: Central Plains of Thailand are ideal for rice cultivation and are among the most densely populated areas in the region. Khorat Plateau in northeastern Thailand is drier and less fertile compared to the river plains but still supports significant agricultural activities. Unpacking the Word Karst Landscapes: Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is located in Vietnam, » Karst is an area of this national park is home to a stunning karst landscape land made up of with limestone mountains, caves, and underground limestone. rivers. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mulu National Park is located in Malaysia, this national park is home to a vast network of limestone caves, including the Deer Cave, one of the largest cave passages in the world. In summary, mainland Southeast Asia's physical geography is defined by its mountain ranges, fertile river valleys, extensive coastline, and tropical climate, all of which shape the region’s ecosystems and human activities. B. Insular Southeast Asia’s Physical Features Characteristic of insular (or archipelagic) Southeast Asia are the chains of islands—the Malay and Philippine archipelagoes—that have been formed along the boundaries of the three crustal segments of the Earth that meet there. Crustal instability is marked throughout the region. Earthquakes and volcanic activity are quite common along the entire southern and eastern margin. One consequence of the seismic activity is that a large number of lakes are found in the region. Key Physical Features: Islands: Indonesia is the world's largest archipelago, and home to thousands of islands, including Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Sulawesi, and Papua. These islands vary in size, topography, and geological history. Philippines is an island nation that is composed of over 7,641islands, including Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. The islands are characterized by mountainous terrain, volcanic activity, and extensive coastlines. Sunda Shelf is in the portion of the Asian continental shelf that extends southward from the Gulf of Thailand to the Java Sea. Where the shelf meets and overrides the oceanic crust to the south, the vast volcanic arc of the Greater and Lesser Sunda islands have been formed. The islands are characterized by highland cores, from which flow short rivers across the narrow coastal plains. The shallow waters of the Sunda Shelf are as important to the inhabitants as the land, since the sea has facilitated communication and trade among the islands. At one time, sea levels were considerably lower than now, and land bridges existed on the Sunda Shelf that connected the islands and allowed plants and animals to migrate throughout the region. Volcanoes: Mount Pinatubo is a volcano in the Philippines erupted in 1991, causing widespread damage and displacing millions of people. Mount Krakatoa is a famous volcano in Indonesia erupted in 1883, causing a massive tsunami that killed tens of thousands of people.  Coastal Features: Coral Triangle is surrounded by some of the world’s most biodiverse marine environments which stretches across parts of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Timor- Leste. This area is known for its rich marine biodiversity, including coral reefs, fish species, and other marine life. The physical geography of Insular Southeast Asia is defined by its vast archipelagos, volcanic mountains, rich biodiversity, and tropical climate. The region's geological activity, fertile soils, and marine ecosystems play essential roles in both the natural environment and the lives of its inhabitants. However, it is also highly vulnerable to natural disasters due to its location on the Pacific Ring of Fire. II. Climate in Southeast Asia The climate of Southeast Asia can be described as tropical, meaning the weather tends to be the hot and humid most of the year. The only countries in Southeast Asia that experience a sub- tropical climate are Myanmar, Laos mountainous regions, and Northern Vietnam. As the monsoon winds start to retreat from the South Asian region by the end of September, the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) picks up moist wind and brings it into the South-East Asian region, covering much of Cambodia, Thailand and Vietnam. Consequently, October is the wettest month in the region. Temperatures vary slightly across Southeast Asia due to its tropical climate. South-East Asia experiences the Southwest Monsoon in the summer months, and the Northeast Monsoon and tropical cyclones in the winter months. Precipitation is high, ranging from 2.0m in Myanmar to 3.0m in Malaysia. El Niño has an effect on monsoons, increasing their intensity; it also increases incidence and intensity of tropical storms, such as cyclones and typhoons. However, in general, South-East Asia experiences drought-like conditions during El Niño events and wetter conditions during La Niña events. III. Vegetation in Southeast Asia The seasonal nature and pattern of Southeast Asia’s rainfall, as well as the region’s physiography, have strongly affected the development of natural vegetation. The hot, humid climate and enormous variety of habitats have given rise to an abundance and diversity of vegetative forms unlike that in any other area of the world. Much of the natural vegetation has been modified by human action, although large areas of relatively untouched land still can be found. The vegetation can be grouped into two broad categories: the tropical- evergreen forests of the equatorial lowlands and the open type of tropical-deciduous, or “monsoon,” forests in areas of seasonal drought. The evergreen forests are characterized by multiple stories of vegetation, consisting of a variety of trees and plants. Although a large diversity of tree species is found in these forests, members of the Dipterocarpaceae family account for roughly half of the varieties. Deciduous forests are found in eastern Indonesia and those parts of the mainland where annual rainfall does not exceed 80 inches. Just as in the equatorial forest, a wide variety of species is normally the rule. Certain species, such as teak, have become highly valued commercially. Teak is found in parts of Indonesia, Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos. In addition to these two basic types of vegetation, other regional patterns reflect topography. Especially noteworthy are coastal and highland plant communities. Mangrove belts, of which there are more than 30 varieties, occur where silt is deposited in coastal areas. Upland forests dominated by maples, oaks, and magnolias are found especially on mainland mountain slopes.  IV. Natural Resources in Southeast Asia Southeast Asia is richly endowed with a wide variety of natural resources that play a crucial role in its economic development and livelihoods. The region boasts vast reserves of minerals, such as tin, copper, gold, and oil, particularly in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Myanmar. Fertile soils in river deltas support extensive agricultural production, with rice, rubber, and palm oil being major exports. Additionally, the region's rainforests provide timber, while its surrounding seas are abundant in marine resources, including fish and natural gas. A. Mainland Southeast Asia Natural Resources Mainland Southeast Asia, which includes Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam, is endowed with a wide range of natural resources. These resources are fundamental to the region's economic development, providing key materials for agriculture, energy production, manufacturing, and international trade. The natural resources of this region include minerals, forests, water resources, and agricultural products, among others.  Key Natural Resources: Forests and Timber: a) Location: Forested areas in Myanmar, Laos, Did you know? Cambodia, Vietnam, and parts of Thailand b) Resources: Mainland Southeast Asia has large » 70% of Cambodia’s forested areas, particularly in Myanmar, Laos, and economy is Cambodia. These forests provide valuable timber, depending on the including teak, rosewood, ebony, and rubber trees. timber they get Non-timber forest products, such as bamboo, rattan, from their forest. and resins, are also harvested. c) Economic Importance: Timber exports contribute to the economies of Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia, although deforestation and illegal logging have raised environmental concerns. Rubber production, particularly in Thailand and Vietnam, is also significant, with both countries being leading global producers of natural rubber. Minerals and Metals: a) Location: Primarily in Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam b) Resources: Mainland Southeast Asia is rich in minerals and metals, including tin, copper, gold, iron ore, lead, zinc, and antimony. Myanmar is particularly well known for its significant reserves of jade, rubies, and other gemstones, making it one of the world’s leading gemstone producers. c) Economic Importance: Mining is an important sector in countries like Myanmar and Laos. Tin mining, particularly in Thailand and Myanmar, has a long history. Vietnam is also an important exporter of bauxite, which is used to produce aluminum. Water Resources: a) Location: Major river systems throughout mainland Southeast Asia, particularly the Mekong River, Irrawaddy River, and Chao Phraya River b) Resources: Water is a vital resource in mainland Southeast Asia, with major rivers like the Mekong, Irrawaddy, Salween, and Chao Phraya supporting agriculture, fisheries, transportation, and hydroelectric power generation. The Mekong River, in particular, flows through Laos, Thailand,  Cambodia, and Vietnam, and is essential for irrigation and rice farming. Mainland Southeast Asia’s rivers and coastal waters are rich in fish and other marine life, making fisheries a critical resource. The Mekong River, in particular, supports one of the world’s largest inland fisheries, providing livelihoods and food security for millions. c) Economic Importance: These rivers support large- scale irrigation systems for rice paddies, which are the backbone of the region’s agricultural economies. Hydropower is also a growing sector, with Laos, in particular, heavily investing in hydroelectric dams on the Mekong River, aiming to become the "battery of Southeast Asia." Fisheries are vital for both domestic consumption and export, especially in countries like Vietnam, which is a leading exporter of shrimp and catfish. The fishing industry also supports small-scale artisanal fishing and aquaculture, particularly in the Mekong Delta. Mainland Southeast Asia is endowed with a variety of natural resources, including abundant minerals, fertile agricultural lands, extensive water resources, and vast forests. These resources are fundamental to the region’s economies, supporting agriculture, mining, energy production, and fisheries. B. Insular Southeast Asia’s Physical Features Insular Southeast Asia, which comprises the island nations of Indonesia, Did you know? the Philippines, Malaysia (East Malaysia on Borneo), Brunei, East Timor, and Singapore, is rich in natural resources. These resources play a crucial » Palawan is role in the region's economies, providing raw materials for energy, considered as the agriculture, and industry. The region’s abundance of forests, minerals, “The Last Frontier” of the Philippines marine resources, and fossil fuels contributes significantly to both due to its domestic consumption and international trade. thousand kilometers of According to World Conservation Monitoring Centre (WCMC) of United forest and Nations Environment Program, Indonesia and the Philippines is considerd coastline that is as countries with mega-biodiverse ecosystem in the world which means still not being that varied and unique species could be found in these two countries. touched. Sumatran Tiger, Sumatran Rhinoceros and tree kangaroo could only be found in Indonesia while begonias, orchids and dipterocarp are known endemic in the Philippines. Key Natural Resources: Forests and Timber: a) Location: Indonesia (Sumatra, Kalimantan, Papua), Malaysia (Sabah, Sarawak on Borneo), and the Philippines b) Resources: Insular Southeast Asia is home to vast tropical rainforests that provide valuable timber, including teak, mahogany, rattan, and ebony. The forests are also a source of non-timber products such as rubber, resins, and rattan. c) Economic Importance: Timber logging, though increasingly regulated due to environmental concerns, remains an important industry. Rubber plantations are particularly significant in Malaysia and Indonesia, which are among the world’s top producers of natural rubber. Marine Resources: d) Location: Coastal areas of Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Timor-Leste e) Resources: The waters surrounding insular Southeast Asia are part of the Coral Triangle, one of the most biodiverse marine regions in the world. These marine ecosystems provide rich fisheries, including tuna, shrimp, and various shellfish. f) Economic Importance: Fisheries are a vital industry for countries like the Philippines and Indonesia, supporting millions of livelihoods. The region’s fish exports are crucial for food security and international trade. Agriculture (Plantations and Cash Crops): a) Location: Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and East Timor b) Resources: Palm oil: Indonesia and Malaysia are the world’s leading producers of palm oil, used in food products, cosmetics, and biofuels. Large palm oil plantations cover extensive areas of Sumatra, Borneo, and the Malay Peninsula. Coconuts: The Philippines is one of the world’s top producers of coconuts, with coconut oil being a major export product. Other crops: Other significant crops include coffee (Indonesia and East Timor), rubber (Malaysia and Indonesia), sugarcane, cacao,  and tropical fruits (bananas, pineapples, and mangoes). c) Economic Importance: Agriculture is a major contributor to the region’s economies, providing both domestic food supply and export revenue. Palm oil, in particular, is a highly valuable commodity, though its production has raised concerns about deforestation and environmental impact. Insular Southeast Asia is a region rich in natural resources, including abundant forests, minerals, fossil fuels, marine life, and agricultural products. These resources are crucial for the region’s economic development, supporting industries such as mining, agriculture, energy, and tourism. Effects of the Physcial Geography on Southeast Asia Southeast Asia's physical characteristics significantly impact human life in various ways, influencing settlement patterns, economic activities, culture, and vulnerability to natural hazards. The region's diverse geography—ranging from fertile river valleys to mountainous interiors and island archipelagos—creates both opportunities and challenges for the people living there. The fertile floodplains of rivers like the Mekong, Chao Phraya, and Irrawaddy are among the most densely populated areas in Southeast Asia. These regions support extensive rice cultivation, which is the staple food for much of the population. The availability of water and nutrient- rich soils in these deltas allows for intensive agriculture, making them vital for food production. High population density in these areas leads to thriving agricultural communities and urban centers, but also increases pressure on land and water resources. The fertile lowlands and deltas of Southeast Asia are ideal for rice cultivation, the region's main crop. In addition to rice, Southeast Asia produces rubber, palm oil, coffee, and various fruits, thanks to the tropical climate and abundant rainfall. Agriculture remains the backbone of many economies in the region, supporting livelihoods for millions of people. However, reliance on land for farming also contributes to deforestation and environmental stress. Coastal regions and river deltas, while agriculturally productive, are highly susceptible to flooding and typhoons. Countries like Vietnam, the Philippines, and Thailand experience annual monsoons and tropical storms, which can cause widespread damage. These hazards threaten food security, damage infrastructure, and displace populations. In response, many communities have developed resilience strategies, including building flood-resistant homes and adopting early warning systems. Southeast Asia's physical geography deeply influences human life, shaping where people live, how they make a living, and their exposure to natural hazards. Fertile plains and deltas support high population densities and agricultural economies, while coastal and insular areas foster maritime trade and fishing industries. However, the region’s diverse geography also presents challenges, including vulnerability to natural disasters, deforestation, and environmental degradation. The interaction between Southeast Asia's physical environment and human activities continues to define the region’s development and its future sustainability. Environmental Problems that Southeast Asia Faces Southeast Asia faces a range of environmental problems that stem from rapid economic growth, urbanization, deforestation, and industrialization. These challenges have significant consequences for ecosystems, biodiversity, and human populations. The region's unique geography and reliance on natural resources make it particularly vulnerable to environmental degradation and climate change. Here are some of the most pressing environmental problems in Southeast Asia: A. Deforestation and Land Degradation Forests play a significant role in people’s lives and the entire ecosystems. It serves as a home for various organisms that maintain ecological balance. However widespread deforestation and land degradation transform fertile areas into barren land, a process known as desertification. Once land is sufficiently degraded, it may be unable to support forests again, or even agricultural use. Deforestation and land degradation throughout Asia are caused by various factors, including demand for timber products and palm oil, intensive farming, and urban sprawl. Poor regulation and, in some cases, corruption have commonly allowed unsustainable practices. Land degradation is a major economic issue primarily because, like sufficient water, productive land is a necessary determinant of food security. Large-scale logging, agricultural expansion, particularly for palm oil plantations and rubber, illegal logging, and infrastructure development such as roads and dams. Deforestation leads to the loss of biodiversity, especially in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Myanmar, which are home to critical rainforests. Species like orangutans, tigers, and rhinoceroses are severely affected. Habitat destruction also disrupts ecosystem services like water regulation and carbon sequestration, and it contributes to soil erosion and increased vulnerability to floods. Indonesia and Malaysia are major producers of palm oil, and the expansion of plantations has led to widespread destruction of tropical rainforests, particularly in Sumatra and Borneo. B. Water Pollution and Marine Degradation Fresh water is essential to agricultural and industrial production. It is a basic requirement for human life, as well as for other organisms and biological processes. Water resources generally have multiple uses and users, and inadequate management of competitive use has frequently facilitated their over-exploitation and degradation. Water pollution results from industrial waste, agricultural runoff, urban sewage, and plastic waste. Water scarcity is also becoming an issue due to over-extraction of freshwater resources, poor water management, and climate change. Overfishing, destructive practices such as blast fishing and cyanide fishing, and marine pollution from plastic waste and oil spills are key drivers of marine degradation. Polluted rivers and lakes threaten both human health and aquatic ecosystems. Countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia face declining water quality in major river systems such as the Mekong River due to industrial pollutants and agricultural runoff. Water scarcity is becoming a problem in growing urban areas such as Bangkok, Manila, and Jakarta, where rapid population growth and poor infrastructure strain water supplies. Southeast Asia's rich marine biodiversity, particularly in the Coral Triangle (which includes Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia), is under threat. Overfishing has led to the depletion of fish stocks, affecting both food security and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Coral reefs, essential for marine life, are being damaged by pollution, climate change (coral bleaching), and destructive fishing practices. The Philippine and Indonesian fisheries are overexploited, with some species facing population collapse. The Coral Triangle is losing its coral cover due to warming ocean temperatures and pollution. The Citarum River in Indonesia is one of the most polluted rivers in the world, with waste from textile factories and household sewage contributing to the contamination. C. Climate Change and Rising Sea Levels The region is highly vulnerable to climate change due to its low-lying geography, dependence on agriculture, and coastal cities. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and industrial activities contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, accelerating global warming. Global warming refers to the rising temperatures of the world’s land and water. Greenhouses gases coming from vehicles, factories and production of electricity are the main casues of global warming. Due to this, changing precipitation patterns, and sea-level rise are impacting Southeas Asia's vulnerable countries. This includes coastal cities facing increased flooding and agricultural areas grappling with altered growing seasons. Extreme weather events such as typhoons, floods, and droughts are becoming more frequent and severe. Rising sea levels threaten major coastal cities like Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, and Manila, leading to flooding, land loss, and displacement of communities. Southeast Asia is also prone to extreme weather events like typhoons, floods, and droughts, which are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change. Agricultural productivity is at risk due to changing rainfall patterns and increased temperatures. Jakarta, the capital of Indonesia, is sinking at an alarming rate due to a combination of rising sea levels and over-extraction of groundwater. This has prompted the Indonesian government to plan the relocation of the capital to Borneo. I can be the spark in faith, service, and communion. So what do we do now that we know the environmental problems that Southeast Asia faces and threaten its very own state of living? Addressing these environmental problems in Southeast Asia requires a combination of policies, international cooperation, sustainable development practices, conservation efforts, and public awareness campaigns. Many organizations and governments are working to mitigate these issues and promote sustainable practices to protect Southeast Asia's environment and the well-being of its inhabitants. Sustainable ecological balance is an essential concept that is central to achieving several of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals highlight the critical importance of preserving and  restoring the delicate balance within our ecosystems to secure a sustainable and prosperous future for all. Enrich Yourself » Southeast Asia : Identifying the Boundaries » Southeast Asia Country Information and Resources As a youth that is part of the ecological balance, you need to promote » The Insular Region public awareness about how we can help our world to have a (Islands of sustainable ecological balance. Advocacy service learning is a Southeast Asia) » 11.2 The Mainland powerful educational approach that combines community service with Countries advocacy and social justice initiatives. It offers everyone a unique opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world issues, fostering active citizenship, empathy, and a sense of responsibility. Advocacy service learning empowers not only the adults but also the youth to become informed, engaged, and compassionate individuals. Combining service with advocacy equips youth with the skills and knowledge to address complex social issues and contribute to positive change in their communities and the world. Thus, by focusing on UN SDG 13: Climate Action, SDG 14: Life below Water, and SDG 15: Life On Land through advocacy service learning, we can achieve a more sustainable and equitable future. Recognizing its significance, taking informed actions, and fostering international cooperation is essential to address these critical challenges and ensure the planet's and its inhabitants' well- being. Sustainable ecological balance benefits the environment and safeguards our economies, communities, and future generations. References Batang, R, Daroni, C & Santingyaman, J. (2024). Siglo: Pilipinas sa Timog-Silangang Asya. (1st ed.) Rex Bookstore, Inc. Berglee, R (2016). World Regional Geography: People, Places, and Globalization. Retrieved from University of Minnesota Libraries Publishing: https://open.lib.umn.edu/worldgeography/part/chapter-11-southeast-asia/ Cohen, S. (2021, April 11). Ecological Balance And Living In Harmony With The Planet. Retrieved from Interfaith Center for Sustainable Living : https://interfaithsustain.com/ecological-balance/ Service Learning. (n.d.). Retrieved from University of Central Arkansas: https://uca.edu/servicelearning/types/ The 17 Goals. (n.d.). Retrieved from United Nation: https://sdgs.un.org/goals Three types of Service Learning. (n.d.). Retrieved from Pe_wlms_service: https://www.educationalimpact.com/resources/TeachChar/pdf/pe_wlms_service.pdf What is ecological balance?. (n.d.). Retrieved from Sentrum : https://www.sentrum.com.tr/en/blog/what-is-ecological-balance