Chapter 1

The Problem and Its Scope

Introduction

Mangroves live life on the edge while providing a forest of colours along

the tides. With their roots immersed in water and land as well as leaves in

the air, these botanical amphibians thrive to survive in hostile environments;

they inhabit an area of high salty conditions, with freshwater runoff,

desiccating heat, natural dangers and waterlogged mud that ordinary plants

cannot withstand. Even so, mangrove forests structure a productive and

biologically complex ecosystem that supports a diversity of life. Although

they lead such astonishing lives, they are one of the most rigorously

threatened and unappreciated ecosystems on Earth. People fail to

comprehend the importance of mangroves to the society as they continue to

neglect their protection, conditions and welfare.

Mangroves are trees, shrubs, palms or small trees that have adapted

to live in coastal saline or brackish water. Mangrove forests, also known as

“rainforest of the seas,” grow well in tropical and subtropical latitudes near

the equator including the Philippines. They are tough considering that they

survive in challenging conditions through imposing adaptations. Mangrove

1
forests are exceedingly beneficial bionetworks that provide various goods

and services both to the coastal and marine ecology along with the

populaces. The advantageous effects they offer are as follows: basis of

complex marine food webs, fisheries and nurseries, shoreline bio shields,

marine habitat protection, climate stabilisation, renewable resources, filtering

and assimilating waste and pollutants, maintenance of water sediments or

soil, water quality improvements, livelihoods and tourism. Despite all that,

mangroves are being cleared at a disquieting degree as numerous threats

such as deforestation, land developments and establishing fishponds for

aquaculture are rising resilient in adding the loss with human extortions the

greatest menace of all.

Due to the alarming lost and perceived significance of mangroves,

local communities near coastlines are empowered to plant mangroves,

protect remaining ones and cultivate science – based approaches to

rehabilitate lost forest areas.

In this paper, the specific mangrove forest site that the researchers

paid attention is located in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan, Misamis

Oriental, Philippines.

Mangrove deterioration has become an apparent problem. In the

Department of Environment and Resources of the Philippines, the

2
management of mangrove sites became a mandate of the Coastal and

Marine Management Division of the Protected Ares and Wildlife Bureau

(PAWB) under the DENR. Mangroves planting along shoreline communities

are encouraged by the DENR. Because mangroves provide economic and

ecological benefits, the DENR has recognized their vital significance and has

started many Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Projects in the

National Greening Program around regions including Negros, Capiz, etc.

This operation was mainly initiated due to the many storm surges in the

Philippines, most notably caused by typhoon Yolanda which washed out

many coastal areas. Additionally, many laws and policies have been passed

in the Philippines for the biodiversity of mangroves ensuring their protection,

conservation and management.

One of the emboldened local communities to plant mangroves by the

DENR was Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan in Misamis Oriental. The area

is located along the beach-coastline of Tubajon. The plantation and

preservation started before natural disasters became more prominent as the

community started planting in 1991, August. Although there were violent

reactions at the beginning as some perceived the plants a nuisance, the

barangay drove through and currently preserves 72 hectares of mangrove

forests today. At the present, Barangay Tubajon is reaping the benefits of

3
the mangrove forest, for example, coastline protection, tourism and

abundant material supplies.

Background of the Study

Despite mangroves having distinguished benefits, there are no clear

encompassing condition valuation tactics accessible. They are generally

sturdy as they face intimidating ambiances. Marine researches depend on

the coastal and habitat condition, natural disasters frequency and notable

ecosystem services to indicate mangrove’s health. Healthy mangroves give

further benefits to the surrounding terrestrial and marine environs. The

mangrove area in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan is presently managed

and preserved by the Tubajon Barangay Council.

The researchers are captivated by the significance of mangroves and

its preservation. The researchers are motivated to study about the condition

of the mangroves in Brgy. Tubajon, Laguindingan as the study’s

experimental ground in order to assess its health. This study would pave way

to more mangrove condition evaluations for the communities to fully reap the

benefits that mangrove forests give. This will also raise awareness to

coastline communities about mangrove conservation as it will disclose

information about its maintenance and prevent more losses. With this, the

4
research paper could give recommendation to the Barangay Tubajon

inhabitants and other communities with mangrove areas.

Objectives

The researchers chose to study on the Mangrove Forest Assessment

in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan, Mis Oriental, Philippines for these

reasons:

1. To determine a general health of the mangroves located in Brgy.

Tubajon, Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental;

2. To analyse the environmental conditions of Tubajon where the

mangrove forest is located;

3. To recommend practical conservation methods for mangrove

forests;

Statement of the Problem

The problems that were encountered during the course of the study

paper were the following:

1. Are the mangroves in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan healthy?

2. How do the people in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan maintain the

health of the mangroves?

5
Basic Assumptions

The research is guided on the following assumptions:

1. Mangroves in luxuriant conditions give more benefits than non -

luxuriant mangroves.

2. Mangroves in luxuriant conditions are well – tended.

3. Residents in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental exert

tremendous effort in the preservation of its mangrove forest.

4. The health of a mangrove forest is determined by several factors such

as Coastal & Habitat Condition, Notable Ecosystem Services and

Frequency of Natural Disaster etc.

Significance of the Study

This research gives deeper understanding of the importance of mangroves

existence; it will also awaken the public’s appreciation towards natural

beauty and different ecosystems. Mangroves deliver significant benefits

especially against flooding, erosion, and environmental protection. The study

will benefit the following:

For the community, the research gives more knowledge on how the

mangroves function in nature and the importance of its presence. It would

empower the local coastal communities to commence mangrove planting

6
and preservation as well as releasing information on mangrove health

conditions. Additionally, the study would support Mangrove and Beach

Forest Development Projects.

For the residents of Tubajon, Laguindingan, the research would pave

way to fresh ideas on how to preserve Mangrove Forest and maximize its

benefits.

For the government, the research would give insight on how to

empower more coastal communes to begin planting, preserving mangroves

as well as providing information about the importance of mangrove forests.

The study would also encourage the government to fund and support more

Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Projects.

For the students, the research would serve as reference for future

researches concerning the topic. It will also raise awareness of the

importance of mangroves and inspire students to tend for them along with

supporting Mangrove and Beach Forest Development Projects.

7
Conceptual Framework

Coastal & Habitat

Condition

Frequency of Natural
General Health of
Disasters
Mangroves

Frequency of Climate
Change

Ecosystem Services

Coastal and habitat condition influence the health of mangroves and

the assessment in the general health of mangroves is done through

calculating species present, measuring canopy density, and nutrient

availability. Evaluating the notable ecosystem services that the mangroves

provide can determine how healthy the mangroves are. Healthy mangroves

offer more benefits and productivity to the marine ecosystem and

community. Due to natural disasters such as coastal hazards, the health of

the mangroves is affected, and possibly destroyed. Additionally, the daily

climate of the mangrove’s environment can also impact their health

conditions as they have specific requirements. These four factors

significantly affect the general health assessment of mangroves.

8
Delimitation of the Study

The researchers will only include the following:

1. Residents near the Mangrove Forest of Barangay Tubajon,

Laguindinan, Misamis Oriental;

2. Randomly selected mangrove areas within the Mangrove Forest of

Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan is observed, analysed, and

researched.

Definition of Terms

The terms are defined operationally:

 Assessment – the act of making a judgement about something

 Benefit - a good or helpful result or affect

 Coastline / Shoreline – the land along the edge of a coast

 Coastal and Habitat Condition – the state of their coastal and habitat

environment

 Condition – the state in which something exists; physical state of

something

 Ecosystems / Bionetworks – everything that exists in a particular

environment

9
 Ecosystem Services – the work or benefits gained via the

environment

 Frequency – the fact or condition of happening often; common

occurrence

 Frequency of Natural Disasters – the common occurrence of natural

disasters

 Frequency of Climate Change – the common occurrence of climate

change

 Habitat – the place where a plant or animal naturally lives or grows

 Luxuriant – having an appealingly rich quality

 Mangroves - trees, shrubs, palms or small trees that have adapted to

live in coastal saline or brackish water

 Preservation / Conservation – to keep (something) in its original state;

to keep (something) safe from harm or loss

10
 Chapter 2

Review of Related Literature

International Studies

The study that is being reviewed here is by Steve Needham and Marvel

Ledo, entitled, “Case Study: Mangrove Replanting in Indonesia,” which was

conducted within communities in Kupang District in Indonesia’s Nusa

Tenggara Timur (NTT) Province, in November 2011 – October 2012.

The purpose of this study was to make people understand and be

aware about how much help healthy mangroves could bring to their country

especially in coastline areas. The Regional Fisheries Livelihoods

Programme for South and Southeast Asia (RFLP) and involved Indonesians

in having the initiative to take time in enhancing the importance of healthy

mangroves and its rehabilitate in partnership with communities.

The study found out the significant after effect of healthy mangroves.

The WFP (World Food Programme), an organization that collaborated with

this study, realized that healthy mangrove forests have long – term benefits

for the reason that it can reduce vulnerability to disasters such as erosion

11
and can also provide coastal communities more opportunities in livelihood

through fishing and aquaculture. Because of the time and effort spent by

villagers planting mangroves and learning about them, “man-made”

problems are mitigated. (Needham and Ledo, 2012)

Mangroves in good health condition generally bring productivity to the

marine and terrestrial environment via diversifying income opportunities due

to the productive fish habitat areas or lessen the impact of calamites as they

stand as bio shields for the region. In assessing a mangrove forest’s health,

the notable ecosystem services and natural disaster frequency should be

given great examination to evaluate their health. Naturally, those in bad

conditions acts as pests in the coastline areas.

Another study being reviewed here is by Verena Hoelzer, entitled,

“Strategies and Tools of Mangrove Health Monitoring – An Approach for the

Bay Island Roatan, Honduras,” published in Honduras, in September 2014.

The purpose of this study was to enhance the monitoring of mangrove

forest ecosystems’ health using the Bay Island Roatan, Honduras as the

study area. The study raised the awareness of the rapid degradation of

mangroves and citing the importance of healthy mangrove forest. A healthy

mangrove forest offers many ecological and economic benefits and services.

12
 The study used the following methods: distant (“off – site”) method, in

– situ (“On-site) monitoring, biophysical monitoring, ecological monitoring,

biological monitoring, and ecosystem services monitoring. Distant methods

handle satellite monitoring, remote sensing, and geographical information

systems. In – situ monitoring, it monitors the site, site character, long – term

vs short – term monitoring and plot and transects. Biophysical monitoring

evaluates the sediments, water velocity, water quality, mangrove zonation,

and mangrove canopy and density. Ecological monitoring monitors’ Leaf

Litter Fall & Microbial Communities, Organic Carbon & Isotope Analysis,

Phytoplankton and Carbon Pools. Biodiversity monitoring oversees the

mangrove root sessile communities, bird populations, mangrove crabs, and

juvenile fish communities. Ecosystem service monitoring examines the

services and benefits of the mangrove forest. All these methods inspect how

the factors stated above influence the mangrove forest’s health conditions.

(Hoelzer, 2014)

In the present study, the researchers are handling various methods

that can be used to assess the chosen mangrove forest site. The researchers

can examine the site character which concerns the influence of many

environmental functions that shape the abundance, diversity and productivity

of each mangrove forest; evaluate the mangrove zonation which includes the

13
length and frequency of inundations; monitoring the biodiversity variability

and species; and ecosystem service monitoring which indicate economic

advantages. All these can be categorized in the coastal and habitat condition

and ecosystem services. Nevertheless, these factors can greatly impact the

mangrove - forests though the researchers are only limited to these methods.

The last study that is being reviewed here is by G.M. Wagner, F.D.

Akwilapo, S. Mrosso, S. Ulomi and R. Masinde, entitled, ”Assessment of

Marine Biodiversity, Ecosystem Health, and Resource Status in Mangroves

Forests in Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park,” conducted within Mnazi

Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park, in December 2004.

The purpose of the study was to assess the marine biodiversity in the

chosen location, to make preliminary assessments of threats affecting

biodiversity in these mangroves forest, and to provide recommendations for

long term monitoring to the mangrove forests within the site. The study gave

a general overview of the mangroves’ importance, the factors affecting its

distribution and ecology, and assessment methods.

The study found out that there are numerous factors affecting the

structure and function of mangroves including their species composition and

distribution. These factors include: coastal physiography, climate, tides,

14
waves, currents, river flows, salinity, dissolved oxygen, soil and nutrients.

Mangroves flourish in sheltered bays, estuaries, inlets, leeward sides of

islands and areas of the coast. They require ample solar radiation, adequate

rainfall and warm temperature in terms of climate. The tides influence the

salinity and temperature which impacts the mangrove species distribution.

Waves, currents and river flow effect erosion and accretion including

sedimentation and the re – suspension of sediments as well as helping the

dispersion of mangrove species. Salinity aids in the mangroves growth since

they have an optimum salinity in 28 – 35 ppt. Dissolved oxygen have a

distinct importance to the mangrove’s respiration and photosynthesis

influencing decomposition. Both salinity and dissolved gasses strongly

influence species distribution and mangrove zonation. Lastly, mangroves

only have two particular soils: accumulation of sediments from coastal or

riverbank erosion (sand) and sediments transported from inland areas along

rivers and canals (mud). Soil particle size affect the species distribution of

the mangroves. Additionally, freshwater can also greatly benefit specific

species. (Wagner, Akwilapo, Mrosso, Ulomi and Masinde, 2004)

The coastal and habitat conditions affect the mangrove forests’ health.

This include the coastal physiography, appropriate climate, tides, waves,

currents, river flows, optimum salinity, dissolved oxygen, proper soil and

15
nutrient availability within the mangrove area. Healthy mangrove forest

thrives in areas where these factors are accessible and maximized.

Mangroves that are healthy generally have a wide species distribution and

mangrove zonation.

Local Studies

The study that is being reviewed here is by the Acting Regional

Inspector General, Steven Ramonas, entitled, “Audit of USAID/Philippines’

Mangrove Rehabilitation for Sustainable Managed, Healthy Forests Project”

and was conducted in Manila, Philippines in March 27, 2015.

The purpose of this study was to aid in strengthening resilience in

communities, and the reduction of deforestation. The study conducted a

project that entailed training for community-based. It also involved forest

management and reforestation, strengthening the technical and scientific

capacity for forest carbon monitoring, reporting, and verification. It also

offered recommendation about the restoration of mangrove forests within the

Philippines. Since Philippines is an archipelagic country, it is prone to

typhoons and thunder storms. Although mangrove forest can be damaged

16
badly, having mangrove forests can lessen the damages that comes in the

country and protect the species living within. (Ramonas, 2015)

The study concluded that though the planning was not completely

prepared and its financial costs exceeded expectations, the results were

good enough. Nevertheless, carbon emanations, natural disaster zones, and

climate change were found out to impact the mangrove’s condition.

Mangroves can help a lot in the environment. In fact, there are many

advantages of having mangrove forest. Knowing its capability to work in a

certain coastal area through surveying its performance in its day to day

climate, one can foresee how climate change affect the mangrove’s health.

The regular occurrence of natural disasters damages the sustainability of the

mangrove forest is also worthy to mention. In addition, carbon monitoring

can also help in evaluating the mangrove forests health since they can

lessen global carbon dioxide emissions in the coast and atmospheric

contamination. The present study can now implement the general

assessment of the mangrove forests’ health in the chosen area.

The final study that is being reviewed here is by Klaus Schmitt and

Norman C. Duke, entitled, “Mangrove Management, Assessment, and

Monitoring,” published within Quezon City, Philippines, in 2015.

17
 The purpose of the study was to provide an overview of mangrove

assessment, monitoring, and management. It is conducted in order to

examine the overall status of the mangrove forests in Quezon City. The study

encouraged local communities to manage the mangrove forests in an

effective way so as to maintain and enhance communities’ protection against

dangerous tidal waves as well as more livelihood opportunities. It also

educated students and the public about the importance of mangroves; it

highlighted the importance of applied/participatory as well as academic and

long-term monitoring. Furthermore, the assessment of the status of

mangrove forests is essential for better conservation planning and

management.

The study focused on the overall status of mangroves in a certain

period of time, the methods of monitoring the mangroves in a certain area,

the effects of mangroves to the coastal communities, and the total

assessment of mangroves in different aspects. The study included the

identification of indicators that can be used to monitor mangrove health.

Positive indicators are high number of viable fruiting on mangrove trees, high

abundance and diversity of birds, and high crab abundance and diversity,

whereas a high number of damaged trees are a negative indicator.

Moreover, the mangrove forest health and biodiversity are indicators of the

18
success of mangrove conservation and planting. The signs for a successful

forest growth include tree growth, stand density, stem form of timber trees,

and the production of non-timber forest products such as fruits and resins.

Nodal scars of primary stems of young seedlings is an also a useful

measurement for forest growth. The indicators of environmental success

consist of vegetation structure, species diversity, and ecosystem functions.

Lastly, socioeconomic success measurement indicators are local income,

local employment opportunities, and other livelihood opportunities, provision

of food and fiber, and local empowerment. (Schmitt and Duke, 2015)

With this study, the researchers were able to determine the complex

factors required for mangrove assessment. The understanding of these

components help provide a deeper insight on mangrove health and

assessment mangroves. In evaluating a mangroves’ health, there must be a

forest growth, environmental, socioeconomic, and coastal condition success.

The indicators include: high number of viable fruiting on mangrove trees, high

abundance and diversity of birds, nodal scars of primary stems of young

seedlings, vegetation structure, species diversity, livelihood opportunities,

provision of food and fiber etc. These are all factors under the coastal and

habitat conditions and ecosystem services of the mangrove forest.

19
 Chapter 3

Research Methodology

3.1 Overview of the Study

This study was conducted in order to generally assess the health

condition of the mangroves in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan, Misamis

Oriental Philippines. To be able to gather the necessary data, the researcher

utilized the descriptive method using qualitative approach. Furthermore, an

interview was conducted with the personnel involved in the conservation of

the local mangrove forest. Relevant literatures were also used to support the

gathered findings.

3.2 Research Methods

This study utilized the descriptive method of research. As widely

accepted, the descriptive method of research is a fact-finding study that

involves adequate and accurate interpretation of findings. Descriptive

research describes a certain present condition. Relatively, the method is

appropriate to this study since it aims to describe the present health

assessment of the specified mangrove forest area. Specifically, two types of

20
direct-data survey are included in this study. These are actual observation of

the site and interviews. Interviews with the DENR, Barangay Council

members, and other locals in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan, Philippines

were conducted to provide further insight about the results of the survey. The

direct-data type of survey is a reliable source of first-hand information

because the researcher directly interacts with the participants. Furthermore,

the researchers utilized the actual site observation method where the said

local mangrove area is personally observed. The select mangrove area was

divided into different quadrants for observation. The researchers then

identified what kind of mangrove tress thrive per quadrant and later on, the

researchers did a general health assessment of the mangrove area using a

Mangrove Health Chart and a Mangrove Type Chart.

21
 A. Mangrove Type Chart

Dominant Description Uses Sample Photo

Types of
Mangroves
1. Red Recognized The wood
Mangrove/ by their can be
“Red prop and transformed
Mangrove” aerial root into
(Rhizophora system charcoal
mangle) which while the
secures the bark
trees. creates
tannin (can
be used for
leatherwork)

2. Black Easily The seed is

identified by edible but if it is
Mangrove/ not processed
“Courida” their roots
in a specific
that take in way, it can be
(Avicennia oxygen, harmful. Also, it
germinans) which look is used for
like bristles fishing poles,
that stick out charcoal, and in
the production
vertically.
of honey.
3. White Normally Can be used
Mangrove grows in the as a fishing
back of pole, tool
(Laguncularia mangrove handles and
racemosa) swamps. The wood for
leaves are
fences.
coated with
white salt
crystals due to
their salty
environment,
which gives
the mangrove 22
its name.
B. Mangrove Health Chart

Environmental Health Condition

Characteristics Excellent Moderate Poor
Root System Compact, Thick, close- Loose,
continuous, thick, packed with withered, weak
strong roots. occasional roots with
gaps between shells clung on
roots it
Trunk Sturdy and broad Sturdy and Frail and thin
quite slender
Location Not vulnerable to Infrequently Frequently
tides, waves, vulnerable to vulnerable to
currents and tides, waves, tides, waves,
storm surges; currents and currents and
Faces the coast storm surges; storm surges;
and is the back In the middle Faces the open
area of the of the ocean.
pe Mangrove Forest Mangrove
if faced to the Forest.
ocean.
Diversity of Life Abundant Ample Scarce
quantities and quantities and quantities and
variety of species variety of variety of
species species

Reference:

User, Super. “Types of Mangroves.” Restoring Guyana’s Mangrove Ecosystem. Mangrovesgy: 27

Apr. 2014. Web. 3 Aug. 2016.

Maglangit, Ruby. Personal interview. 27 August 2016.

Schmitta, Klaus and Duke, Norman. "Mangrove Mangagement, Assssment and Monitoring."
Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Deutsche Gesellschaft f€ur
Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and Centre for Tropical Water and Aquatic
Ecosystem Research: 2015. PDF file.

23
3.3 Subjects of the Study

The study involved the conduct of interview with barangay council

members, local personnel and other knowledgeable residents. All of these

participants were selected randomly.

3.4 Direct – data Survey

Direct-data survey aims to collect pertinent data about technical analysis.

Accordingly, direct-data survey is used to reveal the status of some

phenomenon within an identified class of people, organisations, or regions

at a particular time through questionnaire and interview to directly collect

information (Brubaker & Thomas, 2000).

The aim of the survey was to obtain pertinent data to achieve the research

objective. The site of the study was the specified area within the mangrove

forest in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines.

Representative samples were taken using a random sampling approach. In

this research study, the critical general health assessment of the mangroves

was made. In observation and interview were conducted to gather needed

data of the study.

24
 In this study, the chosen respondents were selected from Barangay

Council members and other local people who contribute in the preservation

of mangroves. Interview questions will focus on the research problems and

questions.

One the other hand, for the personal interviews, most of the interviewees

were given time according to their convenience. Choices were given for the

interviewees who answered the interview questions, through phone, email,

online conversation, chat or personal interview. There were only five

participants who were willing and/or had the chance to share their time and

talk about their experiences handling mangroves.

3.5 Instrumentation

Content Analysis

Content analysis was done to analyse the health of the mangroves in

order to answer two levels of questions – the descriptive and the interpretive.

Descriptive questions focused on the general assessment of health

conditions of mangroves in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan, Misamis

Oriental Philippines. Interpretative questions focused on what affects the

mangroves’ health. The process entailed searching for more information

about the health of mangroves in the specified mangrove area in order to

25
further enhance the knowledge concerning the study. Content Analysis was

used to analyze and interpret the interviews.

26
 Chapter 4

Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data

The whole 72

hectares of the mangrove

forest of Barangay Tubajon,

Laguindingan, Misamis

Oriental, Philippines is

currently being preserved

by the Barangay Council of

Tubajon. The type of mangrove found in the site is called the “Red Mangrove”

(Rhizophora mangle). Although the Council has a very stern hold in the

mangrove forest’s protection, no preservation methods are used.

Additionally, the researchers noted that a coastal clean-up handled by the

barangay or other coastal preservation organizations occur once or twice a

month. Aside from the statements mentioned above, a huge area of the

mangrove forest is mainly left alone. In the specific mangrove area within the

mangrove forest, the researchers discovered that the council built a

boardwalk through the big gaps among the mangroves in order to help

maintain the stability and cleanliness of the individual mangroves affected.

27
 The researchers chose a specific area in the Mangrove Forest of

Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines as the site

of the study. The researchers further divided the specific mangrove site in

the mangrove forest into 6 randomly selected areas with each having

approximately 500 square meters.

28
 GENERAL MAP OF THE RESEARCHER’S SETTING

SEA

QUADRANT 2 QUADRANT 1

QUADRANT 3

QUADRANT 6 QUADRANT 4 QUADRANT 5

ENTRANCE

29

BEACH COASTLINE
 Location

Areas Greatly Directly faces Near the (direction) from

affected by the open sea drainage the entrance
waves system
1 ✔ ✔ North

2 ✔ ✔ North West

3 North East
4 ✔ West

5 East

6 ✔ West (beside Q4)

Root system

Areas Continuous Wide and Inhabited Mostly Dead

and strong noticeable by various affected mangroves
gaps marine life by common in
between animals area
mangroves during low
tide
1 ✔ ✔ ✔
2 ✔
3 ✔ ✔
4 ✔ ✔
5 ✔ ✔
6 ✔ ✔

30
 Trunk

Areas Relatively thin and has a Sturdy and Least affected by

lot of branches strong animals during low tide
1 ✔
2 ✔
3 ✔
4 ✔
5 ✔ ✔
6 ✔ ✔

Diversity of life

Areas Large number of Big number of Presence of large

small sized fishes various kinds of number of small crabs
birds
1 ✔
2 ✔
3 ✔ ✔
4 ✔
5 ✔ ✔
6 ✔ ✔

31
 Area 1

Location:
 Located at the northeast of the mangrove area with the sea located
north of it and the beach to the south.
 Area that directly faces the open sea.
 Mangroves in this area are not as healthy as the mangroves in area
3, 4, 5 and 6.

32
 Root System:
 Root System are not as strong as
the roots in area 3, 4, 5, and 6.
 Always affected by the waves
since it is vulnerable to the
ocean.
 There are wide and noticeable
gaps between mangroves.
 Root System is inhabited by
various marine life.
 Least damaged by animals like
dogs during low tide.
 Several dead mangroves are
present in the area.

Trunk:
 Trunks are not as strong and
sturdy as the trunks in area 3, 4,
5, and 6.
 Trunks are not fully straight in
height and are a little curvy.
 Trunks are relatively thin and has
lot of branches.
 The mangroves in this area are
found to be the least healthy
among the others.

33
 Diversity of life:
 The presence of large number of
small sized fishes are noticeable
in the area given that the area
faces directly the open sea.

34
 Area 2

Location:
 Located at the northwest of the mangrove area with the sea located
north of it and the beach to the south.
 Area directly faces the open sea.
 Greatly affected by the tides, currents, and waves.

35
 Root System:
 Root System looks messy.
 Not as strong as the roots in
area 3, 4, 5 and 6 since it is
directly affected by the waves.
 Dead mangroves are
common in this area.

Trunk:
 Not as healthy as in area 3, 4,
5 and 6.
 Trunks have lot of branches.
 Trunks are frail and weak.
 Newly planted mangroves are
noticeable in the area.

Diversity of Life:

 The presence of large number

of small sized fishes are
noticeable in the area given
that the area faces directly the
open sea.

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 Area 3
Location:
 Located south of area 2.
 Located at the middle of area 2 and 5.

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 Root System:
 Root System is quite thin but
continuously joining the root
system of other mangroves.
 Root System is one of the
most inhabited by various
marine life.
 Root System is least affected
by animals during low tide.
 Root system in this area is
generally very healthy with
very little gaps found between
mangroves.

Trunk:
 Trunks are the most inhabited
by birds.
 Trunks are sturdy and strong.

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 Diversity of Species:
 The presence of big number of
various kinds of birds are
found in this area.
 The fishes and other marine
life are noticeably bigger than
those found in area 1 and 2.

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 Area 4
Location:
 Located north of the beach line.
 Located west of the entrance of the board walk.
 Located east of the outlet of a drainage system.

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 Root System:
 Root System is continuous
and strong.
 Root System has fewer gaps
in this quadrant compared to
the other quadrants.
 Root System is well protected
from the strong waves of the
sea.
 Root System is mostly
affected by animals during low
tide.

Trunk:
 Trunks are not bending.
 No dead mangroves were
found.
 Trunks are packed together
and stable.
 Trunks are sturdy and thick.

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 Diversity of Species:
 The presence of large
number of small crabs were
found.

(Holes in the picture are the habitat

of small crabs)

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 Area 5
Location:
 Located north of the beachline.
 Located east of the entrance of the board walk.
 Area least affected by incoming tides, currents, and waves.

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 Root System:
 Root System is thin but
continuous.
 Root System is more spread
out than area 3, 4, and 6.
 Root System has little visible
spaces between them.

Trunk:
 Trunks are scrawny but
strong.
 Trunks are least affected by
animals during low tide.

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 Diversity of Life:
 The presence of large number
of small crabs and fishes were
found in the area.

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 Area 6
Location:
 Area is within the drainage system.
 Left side of Area 4.
 Area that faces the beach coastline.

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 Root System:
 Root System is the most
continuous out of all areas.
 Root System is one of the
most inhabited areas by
marine life.
 Root System is least damaged
and has almost no significant
gaps between them.

Trunk:
 Trunks are thick and sturdy.
 Trunks are least affected by
animals at low tide.

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 Diversity of Life:
 The presence of large number
of small crabs and fishes were
found in the area.

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 Interview

Q1: How frequent do coastal hazards such as submersion and coastal

erosion occur?

Answer: Although in a small scale, they usually occur once a year.

Q2: When did the last major coastal hazard occur?

Answer: No major coastal hazards have occurred in the last 10 years.

Q3: Did local fisheries survive the coastal hazards?

Answer: Yes.

Q4: Is there an increase in the fishermen’s overall income or catch due to

the mangrove forest?

Answer: No, due to the increase of population from the recent transfer
families migrated by the construction of Laguindingan airport.

Q5: Who currently preserves the Mangrove Forest?

Answer: The Barangay Council of Tubajon.

Q6: What are the preservation method currently used?

Answer: Aside from the frequent clean – ups and strict protection, the
barangay council mostly leaves the mangrove forest alone.

Q7: What are the common nuisances for the health condition of the
mangroves?

Answer: The strong storm surges, tidal waves, and frequent unwanted
contact by locals.

Interviewee: Ruby Maglangit

Personnel of the Mangrove Forest in Barangay Tubajon

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In an overall view, the researchers assess that the chosen mangrove area is

healthy. Although different variations of description arose between the

location, root system, trunk, and diversity of species in all areas, majority are

found to be healthy. Considering that mangroves thrive in adverse

environments, individual mangroves generally have high adaptation skills

and are tolerant to nuisance. Finally, the researchers confirmed that the

chosen mangroves areas for study possess above moderate to excellent

health conditions. The above moderate to excellent health condition of the

mangroves are attributed to the effective mangrove preservation of the LGU

and its partners.

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 Chapter 5

Conclusion and Recommendation

Conclusion

The following are the conclusions of the researchers in the study:

After the long process of gathering information, the researchers

conclude that the mangrove forest in Barangay Tubajon, Laguindingan,

Misamis Oriental, Philippines is generally healthy. The key factors that

mostly affect the mangroves are the coastal/habitat conditions, notable

ecosystem services, frequency of natural disasters climate changes within

the area. On the other hand, the aspects examined by the researchers to

evaluate the mangroves conditions are the location, root system, trunks, and

diversity of life inhabited in the areas. Though variations of attributes are

present, the specific mangrove forest embodies the characteristics as well

as environment required since the associated mangroves possess above

moderate to excellent health conditions. However, the researchers

discovered the tough exterior mangroves own allows them to sprout in

adverse circumstances hence the supervision is not a necessity to maintain

their survival.

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 Although mangroves inhabit hostile domains, the researchers have

taken in consideration the analysis of environmental conditions within the

mangrove forest to complete task at hand. Currently, the researchers

established no considerable threats that have endangered the mangroves.

Notably, policies for the conservation of mangroves under the Philippine law

are monitored to be followed by all local residents. The most prominent law

is from the Official Gazette of the Philippine Government issued as the

Presidential Decree No. 705 – The Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines

which enforces the protection, rehabilitation, development and preservation

of the mangroves all over the country. Nevertheless, the mangrove forest of

Tubajon is under the protection and preservation of the Barangay Council of

the barangay. The council supervises and conducts monthly cleanliness

drives as well as the effective conservation of the L. G. U. with its partners.

These operations greatly aids the mangroves yet cautiousness should be

observed when handling the botanical amphibians. Since the coastal area is

filled with mangroves, so far the region hasn’t been hit by major coastal

hazards such as typhoons that came in the Philippines. Though strong

waves hit the frontal mangrove section that faces the sea, they still manage

to be healthy as most are savoured due to the protection, coastal clean ups

every month and their continuous growth as the years pass by. The healthy

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conditions can mostly be observed by the secluded and well-nourished

location, continuous root system, thick and sturdy trunks, and the booming

diversity of life found in areas of the mangrove forest.

In the research, members of the group learned of the importance of

mangroves because of their strength as a shield to coastal communities and

beneficial benefits to terrestrial and marine life in our country. Therefore, it is

significant to preserve the mangrove forest. In order to do so, the researchers

recommend to clean the mangrove forest more than once a month to ensure

the health of it. By this method, it adds security to the mangroves as it

maintains its conditions though caution is advised to avoid damaging the

mangroves. Furthermore, the researchers recommend to continue the

current methods that are being done today though optimum efficiency should

be achieved and strict implementations of the protection. The researchers

have also learned how to evaluate the mangroves’ health condition using a

number of characteristics and key factors entailed. Moreover, the

researchers also realized that the condition of mangrove forest’s health

determines what they give back to the community.

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Recommendation

The following are the recommendations of the researchers in the study:

With the data gathered, it seems that the preservation system of the

chosen site is successful. Though variations of the attributes of the areas

differentiate their health conditions, the researchers have evaluated and

concluded that the mangrove forest is healthy. Nevertheless, the

researchers recommend to improve present methods with heightened

security and more maintenance over the area. Although with caution, have

more frequent clean – ups as well as replantation to further expand and

replace dead ones. The mangrove forest is an extremely beneficial

ecosystem but if its health deteriorates, the advantages will also follow. The

researchers recommend to continue to improve preservation methods to full

efficiency in order to receive the optimum benefits for the local community.

Another recommendation of the researchers is to future researchers. The

researchers advise them to carry on the study about mangroves because

there are more about them that has not been yet studied. Mangroves can

barely be seen in the Philippines, and only few numbers of researchers have

done research; there are many aspects of mangroves that the future

researchers can do; different functions of the types of mangroves, the

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common type of mangrove that can be seen mostly in a certain country,

health of mangroves determined by location of growth, etc. Future

researchers can also discover something new about them. Although they

have to be wary of the site location, time, research materials, and vehicle,

the researchers greatly encourages future researches new and different but

meaningful aspects about mangroves that will help the community progress.

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