Post-logging Ban Timber Tree Planting in Thailand and the Philippines

SEARCA Agriculture & Development Discussion Paper Series No. 2012-4

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Hilconida P. Calumpong
Pablina L. Cadiz

SOUTHEAST ASIAN REGIONAL CENTER FOR GRADUATE STUDY AND RESEARCH IN AGRICULTURE Science and education for agriculture and development

Post-logging Ban Timber Tree Planting in Thailand and the Philippines

Hilconida P. Calumpong Principal Researcher Institute of Environmental and Marine Sciences Silliman University Tel/Fax: +63 (35) 4209002 or +63 (35) 2252500 E-mail: hpcalumpong@yahoo.com Associate Researcher Pablina L. Cadiz

The SEARCA Agriculture and Development Discussion Paper Series aims to disseminate information on current trends or researches to inspire discussion between the author and other stakeholders in the same field of interest. SEARCA encourages readers to directly contact the author through the address provided or join the discussion board for this paper at http://bit.ly/searca-dps-2012-4.

DISCLAIMER The point of view taken in this paper is entirely that of the authors and does not reflect in any way, SEARCAs position.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

ABSTRACT
ight mangrove forest stands with a total of 473.52 hectares (ha), and 105.38 ha of fishponds were surveyed in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines in 2010 and 2011 to determine areas for rehabilitation. The stands varied from a very small (0.9 ha) monospecific stand in Sitio Sawang, Barangay Famosa, Monreal to large (244.72 ha) and diverse stands like the Bongsanglay Natural Park, Batuan. Species composition is diverse, consisting of 23 species of true mangroves and 24 species of mangrove associates. Avicennia marina, Sonneratia alba, and Nypa fruticans, were the most common, occurring in all sites surveyed. The rarest were Pemphis acidula, Aegiceras floridum, and Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea, all of which were found only in the Bongsanglay Natural Park, Batuan. The highest species number was obtained in Sitio Baladingan, Barangay Famosa, Monreal (19) while the lowest was in Sta. Rosa, San Jacinto (5). Three species, Ceriops decandra, Aegiceras floridum, and Sonneratia ovata, are listed in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN 2010) Red List as globally near threatened, while another two species, Avicennia lanata Ridley and Intsia bijuga, are listed as vulnerable. The density of mature trees ranged from 600 stems per hectare (ha) in Barangay Santa Rosa, San Jacinto to 6,557 stems per ha in Sitio Baladingan, Barangay Famosa, Monreal. The high variation may be due to the patchiness of the species within the forest. In terms of basal area (BA), Sawang, although having one of the lowest tree densities, had the highest BA (199.69 per square meter per ha) contributed mostly by very old Sonneratia alba with circumference at breast height ranging from 88 to 189 centimeters (cm). Based on tree density, Sawang and Sta. Rosa both obtained the highest dominance index (C) of 1.0 and consequently the lowest species diversity index (H) of zero while Pandan obtained the lowest C of 0.08, and consequently the highest H of 5.23. In terms of species importance, S. alba in Sawang and A. marina in Sta. Rosa obtained the highest values of 300. This is because the Sawang stand was very small (0.9 ha) with S. alba being the dominant tree species in the area surveyed, while in Sta. Rosa,

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

although the stand was bigger, the area surveyed was also dominated by A. marina. Rhizophora mucronata had the highest importance values in Sitio Pandan and Barangay Poblacion, Monreal; Barangay Burgos, San Jacinto, and Bongsanglay Natural Park, Batuan; Rhizophora apiculata in Barangay Famosa, Monreal and Barangays Tacdugan and Washington, San Jacinto; and Xylocarpus granatum in Sitio Baladingan, Barangay Famosa, Monreal and Barangay Daplian, San Fernando. Seedlings and saplings of three species were found the whole year round: Ceriops tagal, Rhizophora apiculata, and R. mucronata. The highest density of seedlings occurred in Daplian contributed mostly by Ceriops decandra. As in mature trees, the variation between plots was high due to the patchiness of the species within the forest. Also, the occurrence of seedlings is very much dependent on the time of sampling as flowering and fruiting is seasonal. The results indicate that the mangrove forests of Daplian, Tacdugan, and Poblacion, Monreal have natural regeneration and may just need species enhancement planting. Sawang and Sta. Rosa, meanwhile, need to be rehabilitated. In terms of secondary productivity, three species of mollusk, Geloina erosa, Lutraria sp., and Vasticardium sp., and one species of crustacean, Scylla serrata, were commonly gleaned and harvested for food. Two mangrove nurseries were established: one in Ticao Island (Baladingan) and the other in Negros Island (Dumaguete City). In both nurseries, 19,167 seeds/propagules were germinated consisting of 13 uncommon species, half of which were directly potted. Survival rates of six species monitored were very high, ranging from 100 percent for X. granatum to 8085 percent for C. tagal, except for S. ovata and S. caseolaris, which had zero germination. The low number of propagules is due to (1) seasonality in fruiting, (2) limited mother trees of rare species like Kandelia candel, (3) unusually low propagule yield, and (4) inclement weather conditions. The proposed areas for rehabilitation have been identified in Monreal (53.5 ha), San Fernando (1.5 ha), and San Jacinto (100 ha), the latter mostly idle fishponds and fishponds without approved leases. Soil analysis showed that Daplian has dominant medium coarse sand suitable for Sonneratia spp. while the rest had dominant silt-clay substrate suitable for Avicennia

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

spp., Rhizophora spp., and Bruguiera spp. Of these, a total of 90 ha have been allocated funding by the DENR through its ICRM project. Enhancement planting has started at Sitio Baladingan and Ticao Island Resort with Bruguiera sexangula, C. decandra, and C. tagal. Bruguiera sexangula and K. candel planted in both sites showed high survival (8090%) after two months. Ceriops tagal and C. decandra in Baladingan showed growth increment of 1.13 0.03 and 0.47 0.60 cm. Bruguiera sexangula in Baladingan had growth increment of 14.89 4.06 cm after seven months. Capacity building was given in two forms: training and technical assistance. Three trainings on mangrove ecology, management, and restoration were attended by participants consisting of farmers, faculty, and DENR and LGU staff. Volunteer cooperators for the Baladingan nursery were identified. Technical assistance was provided to the LGU and the DENR through assistance in mapping the mangrove forest and identifying areas for reforestation and rehabilitation as well as abandoned fishponds. The project has also provided the DENR and LGU with the seedlings necessary for mangrove rehabilitation. The participation of the DENR and LGU staff in the training and assessment has facilitated development of capacity for the integrative planning and management of mangroves. The DENR and the LGU must be more active in the reversion and rehabilitation of fishponds without approved leases, idle and abandoned fishponds, and in the protection of remaining mangrove forests and forest fragments. Reforestation must be multi-species based on soil types.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

INTRODUCTION

continuing decline in mangrove forest cover in the Philippines has been reported by several studies (Primavera and Esteban 2008; White and de Leon 2004; de Leon and White 1999; Calumpong 1994), from around 500,000 hectares in 1920 to less than one-fifth remaining today. Logging caused a substantial reduction to about half during the period 1920 to 1970. The introduction of fish and shrimp pond culture in the 1950s exacerbated the problem. Fishponds occupied from 88,681 hectares (ha) in 1952 to over 224,000 ha in just 30 years (Ronquillo 1988). Other causes of the decline were urbanization and coastline development, charcoal industry, and construction. Overall, the decline can be traced to lack of appreciation and knowledge on the ecological and economic values of mangroves. Efforts and initiatives on mangrove rehabilitation have been a major activity of government and non-government entities. Yet, despite these efforts and government policies protecting mangrove forests, the survival of the latter remains uncertain mainly because of ineffective law enforcement and powerful political and business interests, especially in the fishpond and tourism sectors.

Many of the mangrove rehabilitation efforts, especially those undertaken by government agencies, were monospecific, using propagules of Rhizophora spp. (Rhizophoraceae) as major planting materials. This is attributed to the convenience of using these propagules in planting and monitoring and to the abundance of Rhizophora spp. However, this practice has been found to be unsuccessful in inappropriate substrates and poses a threat to mangrove biodiversity (Cadiz and de Leon 1997). Calumpong and Cadiz (1997) have advocated multi-species reforestation and conducted such successfully in a 52-square kilometer (km2) area in Bais Bay on Negros Island in cooperation with the local government unit of Bais City. The Talabong Mangrove Forest, a 300-ha Wildlife Refuge and part of Bais Bay, is a demo site for in situ mangrove nursery and multispecies reforestation. This project sought to rehabilitate abandoned fishponds and establish a mangrove nursery for rare species in Ticao Island, Masbate. This area was

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

selected because there is a considerably large mangrove forest in Ticao. Furthermore, Silliman University (SU) has acquired a 500-ha property on the island, including approximately 10 ha of abandoned fishponds that can be reforested. Rare species of mangroves, such as Kandelia candel (L.) Druce, were proposed to be propagated in the area. The overall goal of the study was to protect the mangrove areas and rehabilitate abandoned fishponds in Ticao Island, Masbate using multi-species approach. Participatory strategies were employed in the assessment, establishment, and monitoring of mangrove nursery and plantation sites. The specific objectives of the study were the following: 1. Conduct an assessment of the mangrove forests in Ticao Island to include extent, species composition, community structure, and soil profile and productivity; 2. Establish at least two nurseries for rare mangrove species: one in SU-Institute of Environmental and Marine Sciences (IEMS) in Dumnaguete and one in Ticao; 3. Monitor the germination, growth performance, and survival of the different species reared in the nursery and plantation sites; 4. Rehabilitate at least 25 ha of abandoned fishponds; reforest or conduct enhancement planting of at least 100 ha; 5. Provide training opportunities and technical assistance to local communities, local governments units, other government organizations (Community Environment and Natural Resources Office [CENRO] and Municipal Agriculture Office [MAO]), and other private organizations in mangrove assessment, rehabilitation, and conservation; and 6. Develop capacity for integrative planning and management of mangroves among local government units (LGUs) in Ticao Island, Masbate.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Background of the Study Mangroves are coastal trees or shrubs that are adapted to estuarine or even saline environments (Tomlinson 1986). Mangrove forests cover about 75 percent of the worlds tropical coast (Kairo et al. 2001). Asia has approximately 5.2 million ha of mangrove forests with the largest found in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. However, because of so many disturbances such as fishpond conversion and other anthropogenic pressures, mangrove hectarage has been reduced to less than 65 percent of the original forest cover (Atmadja and Man 1994). In the Philippines, 500,000 ha of mangroves were reported in 1920 and less than 100,000 ha reported in 1997 (Calumpong and Meez 1997). White and de Leon (2004) reported 140,000 ha remaining in 2004. The increase may be a reflection of the rehabilitation efforts in those intervening periods or may just be an artifact of the estimation method. At any rate, it is clear that only about one-fifth of the original hectarage remains today. This is particularly caused by intensive logging for charcoal and construction materials, fishpond conversion for aquaculture (Ronquillo 1988), and coastline development. In response to the decline, the government passed laws, policies, rules, and other regulatory instruments (Umali and Roque 1991), including Republic Act 7161 in 1991, which prohibits cutting of all mangroves species; Presidential Proclamation No. 2151 declaring Quezon, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Bohol, Surigao del Norte, and Davao del Sur as wilderness areas; and the Fisheries Code of 1998 (Section 49), which authorizes reversion of all abandoned, undeveloped, or underutilized fishponds to mangrove habitat (de Leon and White 1999). Primavera (1995) recommended new legislations and enforcement of existing laws to conserve remaining mangroves and to undertake massive rehabilitation of denuded mangrove areas as well as promotion of sustainable aquaculture and fisheries. Salmo and Juinio-Meez (2001) emphasized natural regeneration as the best management option. Lewis (2001), meanwhile, advocated ecological engineering for the successful management and restoration of mangrove forests. Mangrove planting was documented as early as 1902 in Malaysia (Kairo et al. 2001; Farnsworth and Ellison 1997). In the Philippines, coastal reforestation, rehabilitation, and management have gained a lot of support

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

and undertakings in 1990 through community-based approach (White and de Leon 2004), although, mangrove plantings existed as early as 1964 as part of the civic activities of schools and private organizations in Bohol, Central Visayas. During the late 1980s, massive plantings were also done in Negros Oriental and Siquijor by the Central Visayas Regional Project. One of the observations gathered by Cadiz and de Leon (1997) was that the monospecies stand of Rhizophora was vulnerable to pest infestation. Rhizophora spp. (bakauan or bakhaw) were used almost exclusively as planting material in mangrove rehabilitation activities in this project due to the availability and ease of planting of the propagules (Calumpong and Cadiz 1997). The unsuitability of Rhizophora spp. to the site and lack of monitoring and maintenance were also found to contribute to the dismally low survival rates (< 50%) of the reforestation efforts (Cadiz and de Leon 1997). Utilizing the lessons from their studies and from past experiences (ERDS-DENR 1993), Calumpong and Cadiz (1997) introduced multispecies reforestation in Bais Bay as part of a project on the environmental and resource management of Bais Bay funded by the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA). This was expanded to another project funded by the City of Bais wherein an in situ mangrove nursery was established. Description of the Project Areas Ticao Island belongs to the province of Masbate and lies at the eastern part of the Philippine archipelago (between 12.550725E latitude and 123.689746N longitude) (Figure 1). It is one of the three major islands comprising the province of Masbate, endowed with white beaches and natural mangrove stands (CRM Plan for 2007-2011, Monreal, Masbate). Being in the eastern portion, the island is vulnerable to typhoons. In 2007, SU acquired a 465-ha lot in Sitio Baladingan, Barangay Famosa, Municipality of Monreal, Province of Masbate through a donation from one of its alumni. The area is located along the Ticao Pass (Figure 1), which is contiguous with the Verde Island Passage, reported by Carpenter and Springer (2005) as the center of the center of biodiversity of shorefishes and dubbed as the manta bowl of the Philippines because of the presence of manta rays year-round. It is about an hour from Donsol, the whale shark capital of the Philippines and 30 minutes from Bulan,

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Figure 1. Extent and location of mangrove forest and fishponds in Ticao Island, Masbate

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Sorsogon where the major fish species caught is sardines. The area is mostly planted with coconut, with some parts fringed with mangrove. There is livestock (cattle) raising, and about 10 ha of idle fishponds. The major problem in the coastal areas as reported by the local government and verified during a reconnaissance visit by the principal researcher is the rampant use of dynamite. Up to 20 blasts a day could be heard in the area, especially in the early morning. Fishing and farming, both extractive activities, are the major sources of livelihood for the local population.

10

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

METHODS
he study consisted of three activities: (1) assessment of the mangrove forests, (2) establishment of mangrove nursery, and (3) capacity building through training and technical assistance to the communities covered in the study. Assessment of Mangrove Forests Location and extent of mangrove forests The location of the mangrove forest was determined using a global positioning system (GPS) device. The extent of the ecosystem was estimated with the use of the Map Info Professional software utilizing coordinates of the boundaries of the ecosystem as determined by the GPS. Species composition Plant species encountered during the survey were identified and photographed. Identification of mangrove species followed Aksornkoae et al. (1992), Calumpong and Meez (1997), Madulid (2000), and Primavera et al. (2004). Local names were provided by the community partners. Whole plants, branches, and reproductive structures such as flowers and fruits were collected when available and kept in herbarium presses. The voucher specimens are stored at the SU-IEMS Museum. Community structure Community structure of the forests in Ticao Island was determined using the quadrat-plot method modified from English et al. (1994). At least two replicated transects were laid at each mangrove forest. The length of the transect depended on the width of the forest. At each 100-meter (m) interval, 10 m x 10 m plots were established. Data gathered include species composition, density of trees (i.e., any species that has a single stem and/or can attain a height of 10 m or more at maturity and 10 cm diameter at breast height [DBH]), saplings (1 cm DBH - 9.9 cm DBH), seedlings (height of less than 1 m), and circumference at breast height (CBH) where breast height is roughly 4.5 ft or 1.37 m above ground.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

11

For species with prop roots such as Rhizophora, measurement was taken above the prop roots. If branching occurred below breast height, CBH of each branch was measured. Basal area (BA) was computed using the formula: CBH = (d2/4) x area sampled, where: d = CBH/. Stand basal area (SBA) (i.e., the sum of all basal areas multiplied and divided by 10,000 to get basal area in square centimeters per hectare [cm2/ha]) was computed. This was further divided by 100 to get basal area in square meters per hectare (m2/ha). To determine species diversity, the following formulas from Odum (1971) were used: Simpsons Index of Dominance (c) where: ni = importance value for each species (density of each species) N = total of importance values (density of all species) Shannon-Wiener Index of Diversity (H) where: ni = importance value for each species (density of each species) N = total of importance values (density of all species) Pi = importance probability for each species = ln ni/N To determine importance value (i.e., a measure of the relative dominance of a species in a forest community), the following formula is used (Kent and Coker 1992): Importance Value = Relative Frequency + Relative Density + Relative Dominance where: Relative Frequency = number of occurrences of one species as a percentage of the total number of occurrences of all species;

12

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Relative Density = number of individuals of one species as a percentage of the total number of individuals of all species; Relative Dominance = Basal area of a given species divided by the sum of the basal area of all the species x 100; Soil analysis Soil samples were collected using PVC pipes (50 cm in length by 6 cm diameter) and passed through six sieve sizes, each sieve mesh size corresponding to a specific grain type (i.e., pebble, granule, coarse sand, fine sand, silt and clay, etc.) according to the Wentworth Scale (English et al. 1994). The relative percentage composition per grain size was determined using two methods: volumetric and dry weight. In the field, the volumetric method modified from Brailey (1992) was used wherein the sediment was sieved when wet and the total sediment remaining in the sieve poured into a graduated cylinder, allowed to settle, and the volume of the sediment obtained. Sediments that were brought to the laboratory were air dried for three to four weeks, weighed using a Mettler top loading balance until constant dry weight was attained. The dominant soil type of each site sampled is the major parameter that is used as basis for determining the species to plant. Productivity Secondary productivity of the mangrove forest was determined by collecting macro-invertebrates from the mangrove sampling sites. Gleaners and fishers were also interviewed when encountered. Species identification was based on Springsteen and Leobrera (1986). Establishment of Mangrove Nursery A suitable site within the mangrove area was chosen. Overhead netting was constructed to reduce heat. Fencing and netting were also done to exclude predators such as goats and land crabs. The propagules were potted in plastic pots using soil collected from the mangrove area. The seedlings and wildlings were watered with freshwater as needed. At least 60 pots were chosen at random and monitored monthly for germination, growth, and survival. A trained cooperator was hired part-time to manage the nursery.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

13

Capacity Building Courtesy calls were made to the chief executives of the four municipalities in Ticao, Masbate and to the barangay captains where the mangrove forests were found. Participants were chosen by the mayor and barangay captain. Additional participants were chosen by the Hacienda Baladingan manager and the MAOs. The training consisted of lectures, hands-on exercises, and field activities. Limitations of the Study Rare and uncommon mangrove species in the Philippines were prioritized in the two nurseries. These species will be used in enhancement planting. However, in the rehabilitation of the abandoned fishponds, common species may be used depending on the results of the soil compatibility analysis.

14

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Assessment of the Mangrove Forests in Ticao Island Location and extent of mangrove forests ll the mangrove forests in Ticao Island are located along the eastern and northeastern sides of the island. All the eight primary mangrove forest stands were identified and surveyed, which totaled 473.52 ha. Four were located in the municipality of Monreal, two in the municipality of San Jacinto, one in the municipality of San Fernando, and one in the municipality of Batuan. The extent of the forests surveyed is shown in Figure 1. In Monreal, the mangrove forests total 100.2 ha. The biggest stands are found in Sitio Famosa Proper (53.3 ha) and in Barangay MacArthur (37.9 ha). The other three stands are relatively small and are located in Sitio Sawang (0.9 ha) and Sitio Baladingan (8.1 ha). In Famosa Proper, there are about 1.13 ha of fishpond, while in Sitio Baladingan, there are about 10.35 ha of idle fishponds, about half of which are now being replanted through this project. The Famosa mangrove is a primary forest bisected by a river. Sawang is a very small monospecific stand of S. alba, although there is a small creek with other species. Baladingan and Tacdugan are on opposite sides of the Tacdugan River, both are primary forests dominated by Aegeceras sp. The mangrove forest in MacArthur, located in Barangay Poblacion and Barangay Pandan, is a primary forest which fringes the inner part of San Miguel Bay and is dominated by Rhizophora spp. In San Jacinto, all the mangrove forests have been partially or completely converted into fishponds or settlements, except for Tacdugan. The mangrove forests, or what remain of them, are found in Tacdugan (84.4 ha), Burgos (6.5 ha), Washington (7.5 ha), and Sta. Rosa (5.3 ha). Fishponds cover 24.1 ha in Burgos, 8.2 ha in Washington, 3.4 ha in Sta. Rosa, and 25.6 ha in Tacdugan. Washington is encroached by settlements while Burgos and Sta. Rosa are almost completely converted to fishponds. In San Fernando, all the mangrove forests have also been partially or completely converted into fishponds or settlements like in San Jacinto.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

15

Mangrove forests total about 24.9 ha while fishponds total about 32.6 ha in Daplian. Batuan has the biggest primary mangrove forest in the islandthe Bongsanglay Natural Park, covering an area of 244.72 ha and straddling the three barangays of Royroy, Gibertal, and Sawang. It was declared a Natural Park under the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) by Presidential Proclamation 139 issued on May 31, 2000. Species composition Twenty-three species of true mangroves belonging to 11 families and 24 species of mangrove associates belonging to 17 families were found in the forests surveyed (Appendix Table 1). Three species, Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh. (Avicenniaceae), Sonneratia alba Sm. (Sonneratiaceae), and Nypa fruticans Wurmb. (Arecaceae/Palmae), were the most common, occurring in all sites surveyed. Two species, Rhizophora apiculata Blume (Rhizophoraceae) and Excoecaria agallocha L. (Euphorbiaceae), were found in all except one site. The rarest were Pemphis acidula J.R. Forst. and G. Forst. (Lythraceae), Aegiceras floridum Roem. and Schult. (Myrsinaceae), and Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea C.F. Gaertn. (Rubiaceae), all of which were found only in Royroy, Batuan in the Bongsanglay Mangrove Reserve. Some associated species found only in one site were Dolichandrone spathacea (L.F.) K. Schum. (Bignoniaceae) and Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb., both found only in Pandan, Monreal; Intsia bijuga (Colebr.) Kuntze (Fabaceae), which was found only in Burgos, San Jacinto; Morinda citrifolia L. (Rubiaceae), only in Washington, San Jacinto; and Vitex rotundifolia L.f. (Verbenaceae), only in Baladingan. The epiphyte, Myrmecodia tuberosa Jack (Rubiaceae) and an unidentified species of orchid were also found only in Bongsanglay. The highest species number of true mangroves was obtained in Baladingan and Famosa, Monreal, and Batuan (19), while the lowest was in Sta. Rosa, San Jacinto (5). Three species are listed in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List as near threatened (2010; Version 3.1). These are: Ceriops decandra (Griff.) Ding Hou (Rhizophoraceae), Aegiceras floridum, and Sonneratia ovata Backer (Sonneratiaceae). Another two species, Avicennia lanata Ridley (Avicenniaceae) and Intsia bijuga (Colebr.) Kuntze (Fabaceae), are also listed as vulnerable B12c (IUCN 2010; Version 2.3) and vulnerable A1cd (IUCN 2010; Version2.3).

16

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Community structure Zonation A distinct zonation pattern of mangrove growth was observed in all sites surveyed. Sonneratia alba was seen growing in the most seaward portion of the forest, in all sites, while Excoecaria agallocha was seen generally growing in the most landward part. Lumnitzera racemosa Willd. and L. littorea (Jack) Voight, as well as Bruguiera cylindrica (L.) Blume, occurred in the inner part of the forest. In riverine areas such as Tacdugan, Aegiceras corniculatum (L.) Blanco and Rhizophora spp. were dominant (Figure 2). Zonation is a result of mangroves tolerance to tidal inundation, salinity, and substrate (Hogarth 1999). In the study sites, salinity ranged from almost zero in the landward sites to more than 34 parts per thousand (ppt) in the seaward portion. Density and basal area of mature trees The density of mature trees ranged from 600 stems per hectare (Sta. Rosa) to 6,557 stems per hectare (Baladingan). The low density in Sta. Rosa was contributed by only one species, Avicennia marina (600 stems ) while the high density in Baladingan was contributed by 11 species dominated by Aegiceras corniculatum (3,175 stems per ha) and Avicennia lanata (1,075 stems per ha). Rhizophora apiculata Blume was most dense in Famosa (1,745 stems per ha), Tacdugan (1,497 stems per ha), and Daplian (933 stems per ha). Rhizophora mucronata was most dense in Poblacion (MacArthur) (2,430 stems per ha), Batuan (1,500 stems per ha), Tacdugan (1,157 stems per ha), and Burgos (1,125 stems per ha). The high variation is due to the patchiness of the species within the forest so that as one goes from one plot seaward, species composition as well as density change. However, in terms of basal area (BA), Sawang, although having one of the lowest densities of trees, had the highest BA (199.69 square meters per ha [m2/ha) contributed mostly by very old Sonneratia alba with circumference at breast height (CBH) ranging from 88 to 189 cm. Based on tree density, Sawang and Sta. Rosa both obtained the highest dominance index (C) of 1.0 and consequently the lowest species diversity index (H) of zero, while Pandan obtained C=0.08 and consequently the

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

17

Figure 2. Zonation of mangrove species in the riverine areas: Sonneratia

alba zone (A); Avicennia marina zone (B); Rhizophora spp. (C); and Aegiceras corniculatum intermixed with Nypa fruticans (D)

A A

18

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

highest H of 5.23 (Table 1). Although Famosa also obtained a C of 0.08, its H (2.73) was much lower than Pandan (5.23). Only the trees measured for diameter at breast height (DBH) were used to calculate the indices. In Sawang, these were all Sonneratia alba while in Sta. Rosa, these were all Avicennia marina. The low values obtained for Bongsanglay and Sta. Rosa may be a reflection of the limited number of quadrats. Also, in Bongsanglay, the transects did not bisect the forest. In terms of species importance value, Sonneratia alba in Sawang and Avicennia marina in Sta. Rosa obtained the highest values of 300 (Table 2). This is because the Sawang stand was very small (0.9 ha) with Sonneratia alba being the dominant tree species in the area surveyed. In Sta. Rosa, although the stand was bigger, the area surveyed was also dominated by Avicennia marina. Rhizophora mucronata had the highest importance values in Pandan and Poblacion MacArthur, Burgos, and Bongsanglay Natural Park while R. apiculata had the highest importance values in Famosa, Tacdugan, and Washington. Xylocarpus granatum had high importance value in Baladingan and Daplian. In all areas, only species found in plots were included in the calculation of importance values.

Table 1. Simpsons index of dominance (C) and Shannons index diversity (H) of mangrove sites sureveyed in Ticao Island
Site Monreal Sawang Baladingan Famosa Poblacion, MacArthur Pandan, MacArthur Batuan San Fernando Daplian San Jacinto Tacdugan Washington Burgos Sta. Rosa Note: Highest indices are in bold font C 1.00 0.14 0.08 0.10 0.08 0.42 0.19 0.09 0.24 0.20 1.00 H 0.00 2.25 2.73 2.51 5.23 1.87 1.85 2.69 1.69 2.80 0.00

Table 2. Importance values of mangrove tree specimens

TR-SJ WA-SJ DA-SF BM-BA
82 48 92 35 18 61 23 15 15 44 28 14 54 65 34 15 103 90 41 50 300 18 40 64 44 76 50 69 37 82 33 42 64 28 16

Scientific Name

BA-MO FA-MO SA-MO PA-MO PO-MO BU-SJ SR-SJ

Aegiceras corniculatum (L.) Bl.

60

Avicennia lanata Ridley

40

Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh.

Avicennia officinalis L.

Bruguiera cylindrica (L.) Blume

20

Bruguiera gymnorhiza (L.) Lam.

20

Ceriops decandra Ding Hou

20

Ceriops tagal (Perr.)C.B.Rob.

Heritiera littoralis Dryand ex. Wait

Lumnitzera littorea (Jack) Voigt 15 151 114 117 160 86 49

20

Lumnitzera racemosa Willd.

20

Rhizophora apiculata Bl.

40

126 69 74

106 91

50 100

Rhizophora mucronata Lamk.

20

Rhizophora stylosa Griff. 95 300 63 25 55

Sonneratia alba J. Smith

20

63 66 35 34 35 43 138 50

Sonneratia ovata Backer 36 15

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Xylocarpus granatum Koen.

60

Note: BA-MO = Baladingan, Monreal; FA-MO = Famosa, Monreal; SA-MO = Sawang, Monreal; PA-MO = Pandan, Monreal; PO-MO = Poblacion, Monreal; BU-SJ = Burgos, San Jacinto; SR-SJ = Sta. Rosa, San Jacinto; TR-SJ = Tacdugan River, San Jacinto; WA-SJ = San Jacinto; DA-SF = Daplian, San Fernando; and BM-BA = Bongsanglay Natural Park, Batuan

19

20

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Seedlings and saplings During the September to October 2010 survey period, seedlings of seven species were found. These were: Aegiceras corniculatum, Avicennia marina, A. lanata, Ceriops decandra, C. tagal, Rhizophora apiculata, and R. mucronata. The highest density of seedlings occurred in Daplian contributed mostly by C. decandra (93,333 161,658 stems per ha) and along Tacdugan River, contributed mostly by Rhizopora mucronata (30,000 57,446 stems per ha) and Aegiceras corniculatum (25,000 61,237 stems per ha) (Figure 3A). During the March to May 2011 survey period, seedlings of five out of the seven species were found, except for Aegiceras corniculatum and C. decandra. Instead, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza (L.) Lam. and C. tagal seedlings were seen. Saplings of six species were found during the September to October 2010 survey period. These were Aegiceras corniculatum, Avicennia lanata Ridley, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Ceriops decandra, C. tagal, and Rhizophora mucronata. However, during the survey period MarchMay 2011, saplings of five of the six species (no Aegiceras corniculatum) plus Avicennia lanata and A. officinalis were found. The highest density of saplings occurred in Poblacion (MacArthur) contributed mostly by R. apiculata (8,889 2,667) (Figure 3B). As in mature trees, the variation between plots for both seedling and sapling is high due to the patchiness of the species within the forest, thus the high standard deviations. These results indicate that the mangrove forests of Daplian, Poblacion, and Tacdugan have natural regeneration and may just need species enhancement planting. Sawang and Sta. Rosa, meanwhile, need to be rehabilitated. The occurrence of seedlings, however, is very much dependent on the time of sampling as flowering and fruiting is seasonal. Soil profile Soil analysis showed a dominance of very fine sand to silty clay (Table 3). This explains the dominance of Avicennia marina, Rhizophora spp., and Aegiceras corniculatum in most of the study sites, except in Daplian, San Fernando where medium sand dominated and where Sonneratia alba and S. ovata were dominant in the landward zone.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

21

Figure 3. Density (stems per ha) of seedlings (A) and saplings (B)

B
Note: FA-MO = Famosa, Monreal; PA-MO = Pandan, Mac Arthur; PO-MO=Poblacion, Mac Arthur; TR-SJ = Tacdugan River, San Jacinto; WA-SJ=Washington, BU-SJ=Burgos, San Jacinto; DA-SF = Daplian, San Fernando and BM-BA = Royroy, Batuan.

22

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Table 3. Soil profile of mangrove areas surveyed

Very Coarse Sand Baladingan, Monreal Famosa, Monreal Poblacion, Mac Arthur Pandan, Mac Arthur Tacdugan River, San Jacinto Daplian, San Fernando Burgos, San Jacinto Washington, San Jacito Proposed Nursery (Burgos, San Jacinto) 13 9 1 2 6 0 1 9 4 Coarse Sand 19 1 2 2 1 6 9 6 Medium Sand 5 15 8 11 2 38 2 16 7 Fine Sand 4 19 4 8 30 28 1 19 3 Very Fine Sand 14 23 1 2 28 28 0 8 2 Silt/ Clay 45 32 85 75 33 28 95 39 79

Productivity Three species of mollusk, Geloina erosa (Corbiculidae), Lutraria sp. (Mactridae), and Vasticardium sp. (Cardiidae) and one species of crustacean, Scylla serrata (Forskal) (Portunidae), were commonly gleaned and harvested for food in the surveyed mangrove sites. The gleaners (mostly children) were encountered in the abandoned fishponds. The abundance and catch data on these organisms were not determined because gleaners harvest occasionally. Littorina scabra (Linnaeus 1758), Terebralia sulcata (Borne 1778), and Ostrea sp. were also found in the mangrove areas surveyed. Some wild ducks were seen, especially in Tacdugan, including other unidentified birds. No reptiles and mammals were encountered during the surveys. Threats The biggest threat to the mangrove ecosystem in Ticao Island is fishpond conversion (Figure 4). The survey showed that there are 473.52 ha of intact mangrove forests compared to 105.38 ha of fishponds. The highest conversion rate was observed in San Fernando where there are more fishponds than mangrove forests. Most of these fishponds, located in San Jacinto have been found wanting in approved leases and are mostly idle. The second leading threat to mangrove ecosystem is the conversion of mangrove areas into settlements. The other causes of loss of mangrove forests are cutting for construction and firewood.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

23

Figure 4. Threats to mangrove ecosystem: Fishponds big (Burgos, San Jacinto) and small (Washington, San Jacinto) and settlements

24

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Past and current rehabilitation efforts There have been massive rehabilitation efforts in the past that resulted in present-day secondary Rhizophora forests. These are found in Royroy, specifically in the Bongsanglay Natural Park in Batuan and in MacArthur, Monreal. In Royroy, the reforestation effort has even encroached into the seagrass bed. Current rehabilitation efforts are conducted by the LGU in San Jacinto and by nongovernment organizations (NGOs) in Monreal. In San Jacinto, however, these are limited to the fringes of the mangrove forest as in Sta. Rosa or along river banks as in Burgos since most of the areas have been fenced off and converted into fishponds with No Trespassing signs. Establishment of two nurseries for rare mangrove species Two nurseries were established: one in Sitio Baladingan, Barangay Famosa, Monreal, Ticao and the other in the SU-IEMS Compound in Dumaguete City. Only species rare in Ticao were germinated. Propagules and wildlings were collected from anywhere in the country when available. A total of 19,167 seeds/propagules of 11 species were germinated; 9,974 seeds were directly potted. Survival rates of six species monitored were very high, ranging from 100 percent for Xylocarpus granatum to 80 85 percent for Ceriops tagal, except for Sonneratia ovata and S. caseolaris which have zero germination (Figure 5). Experiments are currently being conducted exposing the seeds of S. ovata and S. caseolaris to various treatments such as acid and warm water soaks. Among the species that were germinated, Bruguiera sexangula, B. gymnorrhiza, Ceriops tagal, C. decandra, Heritiera littoralis, and Kandelia candel (L.) Druce were monitored for growth. Higher growth increment of B. sexangula after three months was obtained at Baladingan (21.98 3.48 cm) compared to SU-IEMS (10.98 2.0 cm). The first batch of C. tagal and C. decandra at Baladingan showed growth increment after four months of 0.81 0.02 cm and 6.73 2.01 cm, respectively. The second batch of C. tagal showed growth increment of 0.06 0.58 cm while species of K. candel and H. littoralis showed growth increment of 15.18 2.36 and 16.49 4.48 cm, respectively. Other growth parameters measured for all three species were stem diameter and numbers of leaves.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

25

Figure 5.

Percent survival of mangroves planted in Ticao Island, Masbate and SU-IEMS mangrove nurseries.

Legend: BS= Bruguiera sexangula; CT= Ceriops tagal; CT= Ceriops decandra; XG= Xylocarpus granatum; HL= Heritiera littoralis; KC=Kandelia candel; AM= Avicennia marina; SO= Sonneratia ovata; SC= Sonneratia caseolaris and LR= Lumnitzera racemosa

The low number of propagules propagated is due to (1) seasonality in fruiting, (2) limited mother trees of rare species like Kandelia candel, (3) unusually low propagule yield, and (4) inclement weather. Rehabilitation areas Fishponds surveyed totalled 105.38 ha; although this may be an underestimate since many of the ponds could not be accessed. Many of the ponds were found to have been idle for many years but not abandoned. In Sitio Baladingan, one entity had leased a total of 10.35 ha of fishpond. In San Jacinto, the exact area is yet to be determined, but the agricultural technologist in charge of fisheries reported that there are 268 ha of fishponds on record but only two have approved leases of 2 ha each. Soil analysis showed that the areas are dominated by silt-clay soils best suited to Avicennia spp., Rhizophora spp., and Bruguiera spp. Daplian has dominant medium coarse sand suitable for Sonneratia spp. while siltclay, which is suitable for Avicennia spp., Rhizophora spp., and Bruguiera spp. dominated the rest. Considerations for site selection include soil type, tidal exposure, and dominant species. Proposed areas for rehabilitation have been identified in Monreal (53.61 ha), San Fernando (1.5 ha), and

26

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

San Jacinto (100 ha). In Monreal, these sites are in Sitio Baladingan (10.35 ha), Famosa Proper (5.03 ha), and MacArthur (37.3 ha); in San Fernando, Daplian (1.5 ha); and in San Jacinto these are idle fishponds and fishponds without approved leases totaling more than 100 ha. Of these, a total of 90 ha have been allocated funding by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through its Integrated Coastal Resources Management (ICRM) project. These are distributed as follows: MacArthur (30 ha), Washington (10 ha), Burgos (10), Poblacion 2 in San Jacinto (5 ha), Tacdugan (30 ha), and Famosa (5 ha). Reforestation contracts have been issued to the accredited peoples organizations (POs) in these respective areas at PHP 25,000.00 per ha. Reforestation/Enhancement Planting Enhancement planting has started at Sitio Baladingan with 3,800 seedlings of Bruguiera sexangula, Ceriops decandra, C. tagal, and Rhizophora mucronata planted along a very small creek near the Famosa Hacienda House and a portion of the 10.35-ha idle fishpond in Baladingan, Famosa. Bruguiera sexangula planted in Baladingan compound showed higher survival (80%) and Kandelia candel planted in both sites also had higher survival (80-90%) after two months. C. tagal and C. decandra planted in Baladingan fishponds showed growth increment of 1.13 0.03 and 0.47 0.60 cm while B. sexangula planted in Baladingan compound had growth increment of 14.89 4.06 cm after seven months. Enhancement planting of about 1 ha surrounding the Ticao Island Resort commenced in March 2011 with 50 seedlings of Ceriops decandra. Capacity Building Capacity building was conducted in two forms: training and technical assistance. Courtesy calls were made to local chief executives (mayors and barangay captains) to inform them about the project and seek their support. Three training courses on mangrove ecology, management, and restoration were conducted during the duration of the project. The first batch consisted of 45 participants, mostly farmers from the SU-Ticao Island Project, faculty from Masbate School of Fisheries, and staff from the DENR-Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) Masbate, DENR-CENRO, and LGUs in Batuan, San Jacinto,

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

27

and Monreal, mostly from the MAO. This was conducted on 25-28 March 2010 at Sitio Baladingan, Famosa, Monreal. Activities undertaken during the training were (1) lectures on the mangrove ecosystem, mangrove species identification and ecology, and methods in assessing mangrove communities; (2) a field trip to the mangrove forest of Famosa to practice mangrove species identification; (3) a field trip to the mangrove forest in Sitio Baladingan to practice assessment and undertake propagule collection; and (4) actual establishment of mangrove nursery. Techniques in propagule collection, soil analysis, potting mangrove seeds and propagules, and monitoring growth and survival were taught. Volunteer cooperators for the Baladingan nursery were later determined. The second batch consisted of 34 participants, mostly barangay LGU officials and representatives from the fishers association f four barangays in San Jacinto and MacArthur, Monreal. Lectures were held at San Jacinto. On-site practice of mapping, species identification, assessment, and soil analysis were conducted separately for Barangay Washington (30 April 2011), Barangay Burgos, and Barangay Sta. Rosa (31 April 2011) in San Jacinto, and Barangay MacArthur, Monreal (3-4 May 2011). A Validation and Integrative Planning Workshop was held at the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Training Center in San Jacinto, Masbate on 21 March 2011. The objectives of the workshop were to (1) update participants about the project, (2) share the results of the assessment conducted on 21-24 March 2010 so these can be validated, (3) update participants on the progress of the two nurseries and plantings, and (4) plan for upcoming rehabilitation and reforestation activities. The 26 participants were from the LGU of Monreal and San Jacinto and CENRO-San Jacinto. The most important activity of the validation workshop was the identification of areas for assessment in this project and rehabilitation of degraded mangrove forests or idle fishponds to be funded by the ICRMP. A resource person from CENRO-Jacinto showed the participants the technical description of mangrove areas in their respective barangays. The barangay officials validated the DENR maps. As a result, areas that had mangroves but have not yet been assessed in this project were identified and schedules for training and assessment were tentatively set by the MAO of both municipalities. In addition, a total of 100 ha in two sites (MacArthur, Monreal and the mangrove areas in Washington, Burgos, and

28

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Sta. Rosa, San Jacinto), were identified as priority areas for rehabilitation under the ICRMP. Technical assistance was provided to the LGU and the DENR through assistance in mapping the mangrove forests and fishponds, identifying areas for reforestation and rehabilitation, and identifying threats. The project has also provided the DENR, LGU, and private entities (e.g., Ticao Island Resort) with the seedlings necessary for mangrove rehabilitation.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

29

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

he mangrove forests of Ticao Island were surveyed and eight stands were identified: four located in the municipality of Monreal, two in San Jacinto, one in San Fernando, and one in Batuan. Of these, four were surveyed in 2010 and the rest in 2011, with a total area of 473.52 ha. The stands varied from very small (0.9 ha), monospecific stand in Sawang to large (244.72 ha), and diverse stands like the Bongsanglay Natural Park in Batuan. The species composition is diverse, consisting of 23 species of true mangroves in 11 families and 24 species of mangrove associates in 17 families. Three species were the most common, Avicennia marina, Sonneratia alba, and Nypa fruticans, occurring in all sites surveyed. Three were rare, occurring only in one site (Bongsanglay Natural Park) Pemphis acidula, Aegiceras floridum, Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea. The highest species number was obtained in Baladingan (19), while the lowest was in Santa Rosa (5). Three species, Ceriops decandra, A. floridum, and Sonneratia ovata are listed in the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN 2010) Red List as globally Near Threatened while another two species, Avicennia lanata and Intsia bijuga, are listed as Vulnerable. The forests have distinct zones with S. alba growing in the most seaward portion of the forest while Excoecaria agallocha was seen generally growing in the most landward part. Rhizophora spp. and Aegiceras corniculatum were found along rivers. The dominant soil type was very fine sand to silt-clay which explained the dominance of Rhizophora spp. and A. corniculatum in all of the surveyed, except in Daplian, San Jacinto where medium sand dominated and where S. alba and S. ovata were dominant in the landward zone. The density of mature trees varied from species to species and ranged from 600 stems per ha (Sta. Rosa), all contributed by A. marina to 6557 stems per ha (Baladingan) contributed by 11 species dominated by A. corniculatum and A. lanata. A high variation was observed which may be due to the patchiness of the species within the forest.

30

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

In terms of BA, Sawang, although having one of the lowest densities of trees, had the highest BA (199.69 m-2 ha-1) contributed mostly by very old S. alba with circumference at breast height (CBH) ranging from 88 to 189 cm. Based on tree density, Sawang and Sta. Rosa both obtained the highest Dominance Index (C) of 1.0, and consequently the lowest Species Diversity Index (H) of zero, while Pandan obtained the lowest C of 0.08 and consequently the highest H of 5.23. In terms of species importance, S. alba in Sawang and A. marina in Sta. Rosa obtained highest values of 300. This is because the Sawang stand was very small (0.9 ha) with S. alba being the dominant tree species in the area surveyed while in Sta. Rosa, although the stand was bigger, the area surveyed was also dominated by A. marina. Rhizophora mucronata had the highest importance values in Pandan and Poblacion MacArthur, Burgos, and Bongsanglai Natural Park; R. apiculata in Famosa, Tacdugan, and Washington; and Xylocarpus granatum in Baladingan and Daplian. The seedlings and saplings of three species were found the whole year round: Ceriops tagal, Rhizophora apiculata, and R. mucronata. The highest density of seedlings occurred in Daplian, San Jacinto contributed mostly by Ceriops decandra. As in mature trees, the variation between plots was high due to the patchiness of the species within the forest. Also, the occurrence of seedlings is very much dependent on the time of sampling as flowering and fruiting is seasonal. The results indicate that the mangrove forests of Daplian, Tacdugan, and Poblacion - Monreal have natural regeneration and may just need species enhancement planting. Sawang and Sta. Rosa, meanwhile, need to be rehabilitated. The occurrence of seedlings, however, is very much dependent on the time of sampling as flowering and fruiting is seasonal. In terms of secondary productivity, three species of mollusk, Geloina erosa, Lutraria sp., and Vasticardium sp. and one species of crustacean, Scylla serrata, were commonly gleaned and harvested for food. The gleaners (mostly children) were encountered in the abandoned fishponds. Some wild ducks and birds were seen, especially in Tacdugan, but these were not identified. No reptiles and mammals were encountered during the surveys.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

31

Two mangrove nurseries were established: one in Ticao Island (Baladingan) and the other in Negros Island (Dumaguete City). In both nurseries, approximately 19,167 seeds/propagules were germinated consisting of 11 uncommon species, half of which were directly potted. The survival rates of six species monitored were very high, ranging from 100 percent for Xylocarpus granatum to 80-85 percent for C. tagal except for S. ovata and S. caseolaris which have zero germination. Germination experiments are on-going. The low number of propagules is due to (1) seasonality in fruiting, (2) limited mother trees of rare species like Kandelia candel, (3) unusually low propagule yield, and (4) inclement weather. The proposed areas for rehabilitation have been identified in Monreal (53.5 ha), San Fernando (1.5 ha), and San Jacinto (100 ha), the latter mostly idle fishponds and fishponds without approved leases. Of these, a total of 90 ha have been allocated funding by the DENR through its ICRM project with reforestations contracts at PHP 25,000/ha given to accredited Peoples Organization in MacArthur (30 ha), Washington (10 ha), Burgos (10), Poblacion 2 in San Jacinto (5 ha), Tacdugan (30 ha) and Famosa (5 ha). The soil analysis showed that Daplian has dominant medium coarse sand suitable for Sonneratia spp. The rest had dominant substrate of siltclay suitable for Avicennia spp., Rhizophora spp., and Bruguiera spp. Enhancement planting has started at Sitio Baladingan and Ticao Island Resort with Bruguiera sexangula, Ceriops decandra, and Ceriops tagal. Bruguiera sexangula and Kandelia candel planted in both sites showed also high survival (80-90%) after two months. Ceriops tagal and Ceriops decandra in Baladingan showed growth increment of 1.13 0.03 and 0.47 0.60 cm, respectively. Bruguiera sexangula in Baladingan had growth increment of 14.89 4.06 cm after seven months. Capacity building was given in two forms: training and technical assistance. Three trainings on Mangrove Ecology, Management, and Restoration were attended by participants consisting of farmers, faculty, and DENR and LGU staff. The activities undertaken during the trainings were (1) lectures on the mangrove ecosystem, mangrove species identification

32

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

and ecology, and methods in assessing mangrove communities; (2) a field trip nearby mangrove forests to practice mangrove species identification and assessment and to undertake propagule collection; and (3) actual establishment of mangrove nursery. The techniques in propagule collection, soil analysis, potting mangrove seeds and propagules, and monitoring growth and survival were taught. Volunteer cooperators for the Baladingan nursery were later determined. Technical assistance was provided to the LGU and the DENR through assistance in mapping the mangrove forest and identifying areas for reforestation and rehabilitation as well as abandoned fishponds. The project has also provided the DENR and LGU with the seedlings necessary for mangrove rehabilitation. The participation of the DENR and LGU staff in the training and assessment has facilitated development of capacity for the integrative planning and management of mangroves.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

33

POLICY IMPLICATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

n the conduct of mangrove reforestation, this project was able to tie up with the DENR-ICRMP for massive reforestation (about 200 ha) to be undertaken in San Jacinto and Monreal. During the integrative planning with CENRO-San Jacinto, it was agreed that 100 ha of mangrove area in Monreal (Barangay MacArthur) and another 100 ha in San Jacinto (total in five barangays) be applied for reforestation under the ICRMP. However, under the ICRMP, the reforestation efforts will have to be undertaken by a Peoples Organization (PO). This is fine in areas with registered and accredited POs with good track record in project management and implementation such as the one in MacArthur but in areas where the PO is just being formed, as in San Jacinto, this may not be effective. In terms of mangrove nurseries, massive reforestation efforts such as the one described here and that under the ICRMP require a lot of seedlings and propagules, hence, the need for nurseries. During the integrative planning meeting with the DENR and the LGU, it was decided to establish barangay nurseries. However, except for Batuan and Baladingan, the other areas had very fragmented mangrove forests and limited area that could be established as a nursery. Only Sitio Pandan, Macarthur, was identified as having a site suitable for nursery establishment. Also, MacArthur has a very well-established PO that could manage the nursery well after this project. Policy implications on the rehabilitation of abandoned fishponds, the conduct of mangrove reforestation, and the establishment of mangrove nurseries became evident during this project. The following are recommended: 1. All fishponds without approved leases should be reverted to the government and reforested. The DENR should take a lead in this effort per DENR Memorandum No. 3, 4, 5, and 6 of Joint Department of Agriculture (DA)-DENR General Memorandum Order No. 3.

34

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

2. The remaining mangrove forests in Ticao should be declared mangrove reserves to stop further encroachment. Again, this should be spearheaded by the DENR since mangrove areas are considered timberlands. 3. Reforestation must be multi-species based on soil types, tidal exposure, and dominance.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

35

REFERENCES
Aksornkoae, S., G. Maxwell, S. Havanod, and S. Panichsuko. 1992. Plants in Mangroves. Huayhwang, Bangkok, Thailand: Chalongrat C., Ltd. Atmadja, W., and A. Man. 1994. Threats and Pressures on Mangroves and Current Management Practices. In Living Coastal Resources of Southeast Asia: Status and Management: Report of the Consultative Forum edited by C.R. Wilkinson, 62-70. Townsville: Australian Institute of Marine Science: Brailey, R. (Ed.) 1992. The Giant Clam: Hatchery and Nursery Culture Manual. ACIAR Monograph No. 15, 144 pp. Cadiz, P., and R.O.D. de Leon. 1997. Mangrove Reforestation. In Assessment of the Central Visayas Regional Project-1: Nearshore Fisheries Component, 62-71. Dumaguete City, Philippines: Silliman University Marine Laboratory. Calumpong, H.P. 1994. Status of Mangrove Resources in the Philippines. Proceedings of the ASEAN-Australia Third Symposium on Living Coastal Resources, 139-145. Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand, 16-20 May, 1994. Calumpong, H.P., and P.L. Cadiz. 1997. Mangrove Rehabilitation Efforts in Bais Bay. Silliman Journal 37 (3-4): 187-203. Calumpong, H.P., and E. Meez. 1997. Field Guide to the Common Mangroves, Seagrasses, and Algae of the Philippines. Makati City, Philippines: Bookmark, Inc. Carpenter, K., and V. Springer. 2005. The Center of the Center of Marine Shore Fish Biodiversity: Philippines. Environmental Biology of Fishes 72: 467-480. de Leon, R.O.D., and A.T. White. 1999. Mangrove Rehabilitation in the Philippines. In An International Perspective on Wetland Rehabilitation, 37-42. The Netherlands: Kluwer Academic Publishers. English, S., C. Wilkinson, and V. Baker. (Eds.) 1994. Survey Manual for Tropical Marine Resources. Townsville: Australian Institute of Marine Science.

36

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

ERDS-DENR. 1993. Technology Transfer Series 4 (1): 1-19. Farnsworth, E., and A. Ellison. 1997. Global Conservation Status of Mangroves. Ambio 6 (26): 6. Hogarth, P.J. 1999. Biology of Mangroves. New York: Oxford University Press. IUCN 2010. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species Version 2010.4. Accessed 19 June 2012. http://www.iucnredlist.org Kairo, J.G., F. Dahdouh-Guebas, J. Bosire, and N. Koedam. 2001. Restoration and Management of Mangrove Systems A Lesson for and from the East African Region. South African Journal of Botany 67: 383-389. Kent, M., and Coker, P. 1992. Vegetation Description and Analysis. A Practical Approach. New York: John Wiley and Sons. Lewis, R.R. 2001. Ecological Engineering for Successful Management and Restoration of Mangrove Forests. Ecological Engineering 24 (4): 403-418. Madulid, D. 2000. A Pictorial Cyclopedia of Philippine Ornamental Plants. Quezon City: Bookmark. Municipality of Monreal. 2007. CRM Plan of Monreal, Masbate for 20072011. Municipality of Monreal: Monreal, Masbate, Philippines. Odum, E.P. 1971. Fundamentals of Ecology. 3rd Edition. Philadelphia and London: W.B. Saunders Company. Primavera, J. 1995. Mangroves and Brackishwater Pond Culture in the Philippines. Hydrobiologia 295 (1-3): 303-309. Primavera, J.H., R.S. Sadaba, M.J.H.L. Lebata, and J.P. Altamirano. 2004. Handbook of Mangroves in the Philippines Panay. Iloilo, Philippines: SEAFDEC Aquaculture Department. Primavera, J.H., and J.M.A. Esteban. 2008. A Review of Mangrove Rehabilitation in the Philippines: Successes, Failures and Future Prospects. Wetlands Ecology Management. 16 (5): 345-358.

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

37

Salmo III, S.G., and M.A. Juinio-Meez. 2001. Mangrove Reforestation. In Coastal Resources Management Tools, 9-43. Diliman, Quezon City: Marine Environment Resources Foundation, Inc., The Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines. Springsteen, F.J., and F.M. Leobrera. 1986. Shells of the Philippines. Carfel Seashell Museum. Kyoto, Japan: Kyoto Printing Co., Inc. Ronquillo, I.A. 1988. The Fishery Resources in the Philippines and Its Relation to Mariculture. Proceedings of the Workshop on Applied Mariculture and Fisheries, 93-117. Silliman University, Dumaguete City, Philippines, October 15-22, 1988. Tomlinson, C.B. 1986. The Botany of Mangroves. Cambridge Tropical Biology Series. Cambridge, Cambridge New York, USA: Cambridge University Press. Umali, R.M., and C.R. Roque. 1991. Regulations. Quezon City: DENR. Compilation of Mangrove

White, A.T., and R.O.D de Leon. 2004. Mangrove Resources Decline in the Philippines: Government and Community Look for New Solutions. In Turbulent Seas: The Status of Philippine Marine Fisheries, 8489. Cebu City, Philippines: Coastal Resource Management Project.

38

Appendix Table 1. True mangrove and associate species in Ticao Island, Masbate

APPENDICES

Scientific Name

Local/Common Name

BA- FA- SA- PA- PO- BU- SR- TR- WA- DA- BMMO MO MO MO MO SJ SJ SJ SJ SF BA

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

True Mangroves Arecaceae/Palmae 1. Nypa fruticans (Thunb.) Wurmb. Nipa Avicenniaceae 2. Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh Miapi/Piapi puti 3. Avicennia officinalis L. Miapi/Piapi laki 4. Avicennia lanata Ridley Miapi/Piapi laki Combretaceae 5. Lumnitzera racemosa Willd. Tabau/Kulasi 6. Lumnitzera littorea (Jack) Voigt Sagasa Euphorbiaceae 7. Excoecaria agallocha L. Lipata/Buta-buta Lythraceae 8. Pemphis acidula Forster Meliaceae 9. Xylocarpus granatum Koen. Piagau 10. Xylocarpus moluccensis (Lam.) Roem. Tabigue + + + + + + Myrsinaceae 11. Aegiceras corniculatum (L.) Bl. Saging-saging 12. Aegiceras floridum Roem. and Schult. Tinduk-tindukan Rhizophoraceae 13. Rhizophora mucronata Lamk. Bakaw/Bakhaw-baye Note: BA-MO = Baladingan, Monreal; FA-MO = Famosa, Monreal; SA-MO = Sawang, Monreal; PA-MO = Pandan, Monreal; PO-MO = Poblacion, Monreal; BU-SJ = Burgos, San Jacinto; SR-SJ = Sta. Rosa, San Jacinto; TR-SJ = Tacdugan River, San Jacinto; WA-SJ = San Jacinto; DA-SF = Daplian, San Fernando; and BM-BA = Bongsanglay Natural Park, Batuan

Appendix Table 1 (continued)

Local/Common Name BA- FA- SA- PA- PO- BU- SR- TR- WA- DA- BMMO MO MO MO MO SJ SJ SJ SJ SF BA

Scientific Name

Bakaw/Bakhaw-laki Bakaw/Bakhaw batu Pototan/Langarai Busaing Busaing Tawing-tawing/Lapis-lapis Tungog/Malatangal

True Mangroves Rhizophoraceae 14. Rhizophora apiculata Bl. 15. Rhizophora stylosa Griff. 16. Bruguiera cylindrica (L.) Blume 17. Bruguiera gymnorrhiza (L.) Lam. 18. Bruguiera sexangula (Lour.) Poir 19. Ceriops decandra Ding Hou 20. Ceriops tagal (Perr.) C.B. Rob. Rubiaceae 21. Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea C.F. Gaertner Sonneratiaceae 22. Sonneratia alba J. Smith 23. Sonneratia ovata Backer Pagatpat Buro-batuan; Bongkalo 19 19 8 15 12 13 5 16 10 18

19

Subtotal

Mangrove Associates Tagal-ang/ Lagiwliw Tagal-ang/ Lagiwliw Tui

Acanthaceae

1. Acanthus ebracteatus Vahl

2. Acanthus ilicifolius L.

Asclepiadaceae

3. Finlaysonia maritima Backer ex K.Heyne

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Bignoniaceae

4. Dolichandrone spathacea (L.f.) K. Schum.

39

40

Appendix Table 1 (continued)

Local/Common Name Dangkalan/ Bitaug Lambayong Kanumay Ipil Marok-arok/ Balok-balok Sig-id/Tubli Malak-balak Biton/Bolobito-on Malubago Talisay BA- FA- SA- PA- PO- BU- SR- TR- WA- DA- BMMO MO MO MO MO SJ SJ SJ SJ SF BA

Scientific Name

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Clusiaceae/ Guttiferae 5. Calophyllum inophyllum L. Convolvulaceae 6. Ipomoea pes-caprae (L) R. Br. Ebenaceae 7. Diospyros maritima Bl. Fabaceae/ Leguminosae 8. Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb. 9. Intsia bijuga (Colebr.) Kuntze 10. Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pier. 11. Derris trifoliata Lour. Goodeniaceae 12. Scaevola frutescens (Mill.) Krause Lecythidaceae 13. Barringtonia asiatica (L.) Kurz Malvaceae 14. Hibiscus tiliaceus L. 15. Terminalia catappa L. Moraceae 16. Ficus sp. Pandanaceae 17. Pandanus sp. Pandan

Note: BA-MO = Baladingan, Monreal; FA-MO = Famosa, Monreal; SA-MO = Sawang, Monreal; PA-MO = Pandan, Monreal; PO-MO = Poblacion, Monreal; BU-SJ = Burgos, San Jacinto; SR-SJ = Sta. Rosa, San Jacinto; TR-SJ = Tacdugan River, San Jacinto; WA-SJ = San Jacinto; DA-SF = Daplian, San Fernando; and BM-BA = Bongsanglay Natural Park, Batuan

Appendix Table 1 (continued)

Local/Common Name Lagolo Lagolo Nino/Apatot Dungon Adyaw/Abgaw, Agbaw, Alagaw 13 32 28 18 9 10 6 21 5 17 3 16 0 5 5 21 6 16 7 25 13 32 BAMO FAMO SAMO PAMO POMO BUSJ SRSJ TR- WA- DA- BMSJ SJ SF BA

Scientific Name

Polypodiaceae

18. Acrostichum speciosum Willd.

19. Acrostichum aureum L.

Portulacaceae

20. Sesuvium portulacastrum (L.) L.

Rubiaceae

21. Morinda citrifolia L.

Sterculiaceae

22. Heritiera littoralis Dryand ex. Wait

Verbenaceae

23. Vitex rotundifolia L.f.

24. Premna odorata Blco.

Sub-total

Overall total

Mangrove Rehabilitation in Ticao Island, Masbate, Philippines

Note: BA-MO = Baladingan, Monreal; FA-MO = Famosa, Monreal; SA-MO = Sawang, Monreal; PA-MO = Pandan, Monreal; PO-MO = Poblacion, Monreal; BU-SJ = Burgos, San Jacinto; SR-SJ = Sta. Rosa, San Jacinto; TR-SJ = Tacdugan River, San Jacinto; WA-SJ = San Jacinto; DA-SF = Daplian, San Fernando; and BM-BA = Bongsanglay Natural Park, Batuan

41

EDITORIAL STAFF Adviser: Gil C. Saguiguit, Jr. Technical Editors: Bessie M. Burgos Maria Celeste H. Cadiz Managing Editor: Mariliza V. Ticsay Language Editors: Leia Fidelis Gisela F. Castro Avril Adrianne D. Madrid Layout Artist: Paulo Miguel F. Sandoval Production Assistant: Arlene A. Nadres For more information about SEARCA publications, please contact: Knowledge Resources Unit Knowledge Management Department SEARCA Los Baos, Laguna 4031, Philippines Tel. No. (63-49) 536-2283 local 138 Fax: (63-49) 536-2283 (Attn: KRU) Email: publications@agri.searca.org or visit www.searca.org