Republic of the Philippines

University of Southeastern Philippines

College of Engineering
Bo. Obrero, Davao City

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT ON A PROPOSED 40-

HECTARE BANANA PLANTATION WITH PRODUCTION FACILITY OF JJD
FARMS

A Study

Presented to

Dr. Christopher C. Gonzales

Professor

College of Engineering

University of Southeastern Philippines

In Partial Fulfillment

Of the Requirements for

Environmental Impact Assessment

By

Baron, Kaye Bernadeth

Castañeda, Raphael Nico S.

Demdam, Donabel

Farase, Charity Mae E.

April 2019
 Table of Contents
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3
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ANNEXES 36

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 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

An Environmental Impact Assessment plays a significant role in every

project. This assessment is a planning tool now generally accepted as an
integral component of sound decision-making. It is mainly a process of
evaluating the potential environmental impacts of a proposed action. It is also
a formal study process used to predict the possible environmental
consequences of any development project.

These days, because of ecological results a task has been contributed,

the Environmental Impact Assessment will in general protect that leaders
think about the natural effects when choosing whether or not to continue with
a venture.

In this paper, the proponents will present and discuss the data gathered
from the conducted EIA of a proposed 40 hectares Banana Plantation and
Production Facility of JJD FARMS located at Barangay Concepion, Maco,
Compostella Valley Province. The study was conducted from February to
March 2019.

The main objective of conducting this EIA study is to determine the

impacts the project will cause to the existing environment. Furthermore, the
study aims to reduce the negative impacts of the project while amplifying its
positive impacts.

3
 LIST OF TABLES

Table 2.1: Chemicals Used in JJD Farms 10

Table 2.2 Type of Chemicals Used in the Banana 15

Packing Process, Concentration & Method
of Application
Table 3.1 Water Quality Analysis 18

Table 3.2 Population by age group of Barangay 18

Concepcion, Maco, ComVal

Table 7.1 Sources and List of Potential Impacts 28

Table 7.3 Summary of Assessment Environmental 31

Issues/Impacts
Table 8.1 Environmental Management Plan 33

Table 8.2 Monitoring Parameters and Sampling 35

Stations

4
 LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 2.1 Brgy. Concepcion, Maco, Compostella 10

Valley Province Location

Figure 2.2 Schematic Diagram of Banana Packing 15

Figure 3.1 Climate Graph Weather by Month Maco 19

Figure 3.2 Maco Weather by Month Weather Averages 20

Figure 3.3 Historical Population of Barangay 21

Concepcion, Maco, ComVal
Figure 3.4 Land Classification Map of Brgy. 21
Concepcion, Maco, Compostella Valley

Figure 6.1 Ocular Inspection in the Area of the 25

Proposed 40 Hectares Banana Plantation
with Production Facility (JJD Farms)

Figure 6.2 Existing Site Condition 26

Figure 6.3 Public Consultation 27

5
 ABBREVIATIONS

● DENR -Department of Environment and Natural Resources

● EIA - Environmental Impact Assessment
● ECA - Environmentally Critical Area
● ECC - Environmental Clearance Certificate
● EIS -Environmental Impact Statement
● EMB - Environmental Management Bureau
● EO -Executive Order
● ESMP -Environmental and Social Management Plan
● IP -Indigenous People
● LGU -Local Government Unit
● MGB -Mines and Geosciences Bureau
● MIAC - Municipal Inter-Agency Committee
● MPO - Municipal Project Office
● NGO - Non-Government Organization
● NIPAS - National Integrated Protected Areas System
● OM -Operation Manual
● PEISS -Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System
● R.A. -Republic Act
● TCP -Tree Cutting Permit

6
 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background

Banana plants may develop with fluctuating degrees of accomplishment

in assorted climatic conditions, however business banana manors are
fundamentally found in central locales, in banana sending out nations. The
four driving banana trade nations worldwide are Ecuador, Costa Rica,
Philippines, and Colombia. Ecuador gives over 33% of worldwide banana
sends out. In 2004, banana creating nations totaled 130.

As a tropical country, the Philippines grow an abundant variety of fruit

crops primarily for local consumption and export market. Banana is
considered as the most important fruit crop in the country in terms of volume
of production and export earnings. The Philippines is one of the top five
exporters of bananas, with some 1.4 m tonnes exported in 2016, down from
a high of 3.3m in 2013. In 2015, the country produced nearly 9.1m tonnes of
bananas on 443,270 ha, with Cavendish cultivars accounting for about 50%
of national banana production, Saba (29%) and Lakatan (11%).

The banana industry is one of the main economic drivers for the Davao
Region. The area has vast and rich lands suitable for growing export-quality
bananas. The province of Davao del Norte is even dubbed as the “Banana
Capital of the Philippines”. Though this big-scale banana industry continues
to be major economic player for Davao region, threats continue to emerge this
year from the various competitors our banana industry faces in the global
market.

Thus, in spite of opportunities seen in banana production, it seems that

external costs, if not addressed properly, are significant. This paper attempts
to evaluate the social and environment costs and benefits brought about by
banana plantations in general with focus in Mindanao, where primary data
are available. Analysis in terms of income, employment, health and
environmental effects will be made. Furthermore, analysis of the role of
government (LGUs) in achieving a win-win situation will be done.

Nowadays, due to environmental consequences a project has been

contributed, the Environmental Impact Assessment tends to insure that
decision makers consider the environmental impacts when deciding whether
or not to proceed with a project. EIA is defined as the process of identifying,
predicting, evaluating and mitigating the physical, social, and other relevant
effects of development proposals prior to major decisions being taken and
commitments made.

1.2 Scope and objectives

The scope and objective of the Environmental Impact Assessment study

are discussed on the succeeding paragraphs.

7
1.2.1 Scope

The scope of the study is the 40 hectare land situated in Barangays

Dumlan and Concepcion, Maco. This land is proposed to be develop as a
banana plantation with production facility.

The study will focus on the key issues and concerns and the impact of
the project to the community and to the environment. The EIA scope of study
shall be only limited to the parameters stated on the Terms of Reference.

1.2.2 Objectives

The objective of conducting the EIA study is to determine the impacts

the project will cause to the existing environment. Furthermore, the study
aims to reduce the negative impacts of the project while amplifying its positive
impacts. Specifically, the objectives of the study are the following:

● To determine the significant impacts of the project both the positive and
negative impacts.

● To determine mitigating measures that must be observed to minimize

the adverse effects that the project may bring to the existing
environment.

● To prepare an environmental management plan and monitoring based

on the data gathered.

1.3 Terms of Reference

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is “a formal process of

identifying and predicting the impacts of a proposed action on environmental
integrity and human welfare and communicating the information about such
impacts to planners and decision makers” (EMB Training Module No. 10)

The EIA study aims to determine and assess the direct and indirect
environmental impacts of the development projects prior to its
implementation so that proper mitigating measures may be formulated.
 The general approach of the conduct of the EIA study shall be based on
the annotated outline for IEE Report as presented in the Revised
Procedural Manual for DAO 03-30, Annex 2_15.
 Attachments, Annexes, Appendices to the IEER shall follow the
Procedural Manual DAO 03-30
 The IEER shall comply with the DENR EIA Review Criteria
 The IEER shall cover IEA study on the Physical, Biological and Social
aspect affected by the project
 Policy, Legal and Administrative Framework

8
 The Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is conducted pursuant to
Presidential Decree No. 1586 or the Philippine Environmental Impact
Statement System (PEISS), the main law that governs EIA in the country.

In the course of the review of the EIA study, there are certain existing
laws and legal orders that should be considered. Among these are the
following:

9
 CHAPTER 2: PROJECT DESCRIPTION

2.1 Site location

Maco, officially the Municipality of Maco, is a 1st class municipality in

the province of Compostela Valley, Philippines. According to the 2015 census,
it has a population of 81,277 people. It was formerly part of the Municipality
of Mabini before becoming an independent municipality in June 17, 1967.
Maco is politically subdivided into 37 barangays, namely Anibongan,
Anislagan, Binuangan, Bucana, Calabcab, Concepcion, Dumlan, Elizalde
(Somil)
Pangi (Gaudencio Antonio), Gubatan, Hijo, Kinuban, Langgam, Lapu-lapu,
Libay-libay, Limbo, Lumatab, Magangit, Malamodao, Manipongol, Mapaang,
Masara, New Asturias, Panibasan ,Panoraon, Poblacion, San Juan, San Roque,
Sangab, Taglawig, Mainit, New Barili, New Leyte, New Visayas, Panangan,
Tagbaros, and Teresa.

Concepcion is situated at approximately 7.4007, 125.8598, in the island

of Mindanao. Concepcion shares a common border with the following
barangay(s): Dumlan, Libay-libay, Hijo, and Lumatab. In this baragangy lies
the proposed banana plantation and production facility.

MACO

Brgy.
Concepcio
n

Figure 2.1: Brgy. Concepcion, Maco, Compostella Valley Province Location

10
2.2 Site status

Barangay Concepcion, one of thirty-seven (37) barangay that shared the

same land terrain lies along a dead stream that is estimated at 66.0 meters
or 216.5 feet above mean sea level. The project area is accessible by any mode
of transportation.

2.3 Nature of the project

The Proposed 40-Hectare Banana Plantation and Production Facility,

designed and planned by one the proponents advocating that this project has
a great impact in the economic aspect of the beneficiaries in Concepcion. It is
a new project that is classified as Group II that falls under Agricultural
Industry and the project falls under the Environmentally Critical Area (ECA).

2.4 Site Ownership

The company leased the land from various landowners in the locality,
it occupies approximately 40 hectares of land. In this scheme, the company
takes the full responsibility of the operation of the plantation from land
preparation to packing of the fruits.

2.5 Project Activities

The proposed project has been technically prepared by one of the

proponents. It is planned with accordance to the standards for the project
cycle. The activities done are typical of any agricultural undertaking –
planting, maintenance and harvesting. JJD Farms observed less chemical
farming. That is, supplementing the operation with chicken dung and plant
compost to reduce use of chemical fertilizer.

2.6 Operational activities

There are two components of banana production. These are planting and
packing.

1. Planting
JJD Farms occupies a total land area of approximately 40
hectares broken down as follows: 38 hectares planted and 3 hectares
allocated for facilities and access road.
The company leased the land from various landowners in the
locality. In this scheme, the company takes the full responsibility of the
operation of the plantation from land preparation to packing of the
fruits. The objective of this scheme is to maximize the potential of the
land at minimum cost. This strategy is covered by a contract/agreement
that is binding between the Company and the landowners.

2.1.1 Activities in the Plantation

11
 The activities done are typical of any agricultural undertaking –
planting, maintenance and harvesting. JJD Farms observed less
chemical farming. That is, supplementing the operation with chicken
dung and plant compost to reduce use of chemical fertilizer.
Planting, maintenance and harvesting are being done by the
contract workers. JJD Farms uses boom spray in lieu of aerial spraying
because of the terrain. Boom spraying is done daily. It is being
conducted in the morning between 5:30 a.m. and 9:00 a.m.
2.1.2 Sources of Materials
Majority of the materials to be used in the plantation such as
fertilizers, chemicals, plastics, and other inputs will be sourced locally.
2.1.3. Chemical Used
Due to the stringent requirement imposed by the global market
on the chemical residues on the fruits, JJD Farms regulated the use of
synthetic chemicals. Organic chemicals are being used to supplement
the former. Chicken dung and compost are used to supplement the
synthetic fertilizers like 14-14-14. Table 2.1 reflects the different
chemicals used in the plantation operation with the corresponding
dosage, method of application and the frequency of application.
Aside from using it in boom spray, dithiane is also used as bunch
spray at a concentration of 18.00 gram per gallon of solution. A bunch
is sprayed with 130 cc of solution at an interval of 4 to 5 sprays.

Table 2.1: Chemicals Used in JJD Farms

Dosage Method of Frequency
Chemicals Per Hectare Application or Interval
A. Fertilizer
1. Compost 1kg/hill Pokehole
C. Dung (deep Once/year
placement)
2. Urea 35 g/hill -do- 8/year
3. ammosol 78 g/hill -do- 3/year
4. MOP 38-50 g/hill -do- 6/year
5. Dolomite 909 g/hill -do- Once/year
B. Fungicide
1.Mancozeb 1.56 liters Boom Spray 12 days
2.Dithane 2.00 kgs Boom Spray 12 days
19g/lt H2O Bunch spray 4-5/bunch
3.Bumper or Tilt 0.40 liters Boom Spray 12 days
4. Agrofuran 0.5 ml/lt Bunch spray 4-5/bunch
C. Nematecide

1. Apache 44 kg/ha Pokehole Once/year

D. Insecticide
1. Decis R 1 ml/li of water dose @ 0.75/bud Bud injection 1injct/bud

2. Parapest D As per recommen-dation of supplier.

E. Weed Control
1. Round-up 1/L/200L H2O/Ha Manual spray 8/year
2. Slash 1/L/200L H2O/Ha Manual spray 8/year
Source: JJD Farms

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 2.1.4. Buffer Zone
In compliance with the occupational health and safety standards,
a buffer zone of about 10 meters around the plantation will be
established and maintained throughout the operation of the plantation.
Spraying within the 10 meters buffer zone will be done manually.
Growers will be advised to do manual spraying.

2.1.5 Support Services and Facilities

The water used in the operation is ground water. The company
installed a ground water pump and constructed a water storage tank.
The electricity requirement on the other hand is supplied by DANECO.

2.1.6 Description of Waste Generated

Solid Waste. The generation of waste on banana plantations can
be classified into two types, namely: vegetal/ organic and
synthetic/inorganic. The organic/vegetal wastes are produced by the
ongoing activity of banana farming and commercial packaging. These
include shoots, the flower, crown, leaves, banana plant and rejected
fruits. The synthetic/inorganic wastes include plastic bags, support
material such as string, plastic tape and agrochemical containers.

Liquid Waste. The liquid waste is purely domestic in nature. This

comes from the office and guesthouse. The volume is not very
significant because the population in the office is very few.

Chemical Waste. Chemical (pesticide and fungicide) and Fertilizer

wastage from over application and handling is expected.

2. Banana Packing

Packing plant is an important component of banana plantation

industry. It is usually located in strategic place within the plantation area to
allow minimum travel time for banana bunches.
The capacity of the packinghouse is 2,500 boxes per day. The average
box weight is 13.5 kilograms. It operates for 20 days in a month.

2.2.1 Description of Packing Process

The packinghouse is divided into four (4) sections. These are 1)
receiving/sorting area, 2) de-handing area, 3) selection area, and 4)
weighing and packing.
The banana bunches are receive and sorted at the receiving area.
Bunches are examined of damaged and adulteration. Damages and
adulterated bunches are segregated. Good quality bunches are then de-
handed. Banana hands are then placed in the de-handing tanks where
these are sorted out as to size of bunch and hands. The oversized and
undersized bunches and hands are rejected while right sizes are
forwarded to the selection tank.

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 In the selection tank fine trimming of bunches and hands are
being done. Quality-check with respect to appearance and minute
damages. Bunches not passing the quality checks are also rejected.
While bunches passed the quality-check, are put in a tray, weighed and
packed. The standard packing weight is 13.5 kilograms per box.
Figure 2.2 shows the schematic diagram of packing bananas

2.2.2. Chemicals Used in Banana Packing

The chemicals to be used in the process are summarized in Table
2.2 Alum is used to remove the latex from the bunch and prevent it from
spreading to the fruits. In this manner, growth of mold is controlled.
Chlorine is used mainly as disinfectant. It protects the fruits from any
microorganism to develop especially while on transit.

Figure 2.2: Schematic Diagram of Banana Packing

Table 2.2 : Type of Chemicals Used in the Banana Packing

Process, Concentration & Method of Application

Method of
Chemicals Concentration Application
1. Alum 10.00 grams/li of water Cascade
2. Chlorine 0.20 grms/li of water Cascade

14
 2.2.3.Utilities
The water to be used in the process is ground water. Process
water is also recycled to save consumption and chemicals. Electricity is
being supplied by DANECO

2.2.4. Description of Waste Production

Process Wastewater. Huge volume of wastewater is generated.
This comes from de-handing and selection tanks. The wastewater
contains chlorine, alum and banana latex. Alum as a coagulant
thickens the latex for easy removal. The wastewater is thrown directly
to the drainage canals that drain into Tagsawa creek.

Domestic Wastewater. Domestic wastewater is minimal since no

employees are housed within the compound. The domestic wastewater
will be contained in septic tanks.

Solid Waste. The solid wastes produced in packing banana are

also categorized into two: a) vegetal/ organic and b) the
synthetic/inorganic. The organic waste is composed mainly of banana
rejects and cuttings, while the inorganic/synthetic is mainly plastic
wrappers, cartons and plastic bags, and empty containers of alum and
chlorine

2.2.5. Manpower Requirement

The manpower requirement for the operation of banana packing
is taken care of by the growers. Majority, of which, is locally hired.

2.7 The Abandonment phase

JJD Farms will continue to operate as long as the landowners still

desire. However, once the landowners opted to stop the operation, the
company will assist their needs to restore the soil condition. Since the current
operation minimized the use of chemicals, restoration of the soil condition will
not be a problem

2.8 Project Budget

Budgeting a project proposal is one of the basic components needed to

implement a certain task. The project being agreed by the residents at Brgy.
Concepcion and the company was funded through the financial capacity of
the company involved.

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 CHAPTER 3: BASELINE CONDITIONS

3.1 Introduction

This section comprises a description of the baseline environment

appropriate to the Project site and surrounding area. The proponent availed
of the services of Ms. Carmelita P. Martinez to the do Initial Environmental
Examination for the agricultural development of JJD Farms. The baseline
condition of the project site was established by first conducting an ocular
inspection. Baseline information on the water quality was determined with
the help of the Immaculate Concepcion University Research Center.
Secondary data on the demographic characteristics of the two barangays,
rainfall data and information about the project were obtained from the NCSO,
PAG-ASA and from the office of the proponent.

3.2 Environmental setting

The Project area comprises land with an area of 40 hectares situated in

a forest-like environment. The noted features of the project site is an access
roads that connects to the other barangay.

3.2.1 Flora and fauna

The dominant vegetation covers in the project area are coconut, grasses
and weeds, which are not rare species. The first provincial-wide survey of
Odonata was conducted in Compostela Valley Province (Comval).
Opportunistic and segmented line transect method was employed in all fluvial
systems visited between March and September 2014. A total of 2,883
individuals belonging to 12 families 24 genera and 32 species were recorded.
Seventeen (17) out of 32 species or 53% belongs to suborder Anisoptera
(dragonfly) while 15 species or 47% are Zygopterans. Compostela Valley
province exhibits 56% endemism, one of the highest endemism records in
Mindanao. An immediate conservation effort to fluvial systems containing
high endemism and species quality is recommended.

3.3 Geographical setting

The project site is within an almost flat, alluvial plain that is generally
characterized by depression and natural levee or alluvial highs, which were
formed from fluvial action of an almost east-west trending ephemeral creek.
Elevation ranges from 20 to 40 meters. Tagsawa Creek is the main natural
drainage system traversing the property

16
3.3.1 Topography

Compostela Valley covers a total area of 4,479.77 square kilometres

(1,729.65 sq mi)  occupying the northeastern section of the Davao Region. The
province borders Davao del Norte to the west, Agusan del Sur to the north,
and Davao Oriental to the east. To the southwest lies the Davao Gulf.

3.3.2 Climatic conditions

The climate here is tropical. Compostela Valley has a significant amount

of rainfall during the year. This is true even for the driest month. In Maco, the
average annual temperature is 26.9 °C. About 2271 mm of precipitation falls
annually.

Figure 3.1: Climate Graph Weather by Month Maco

Precipitation is the lowest in March, with an average of 133 mm. The

greatest amount of precipitation occurs in May, with an average of 236 mm.

Figure 3.2: Maco Weather by Month Weather Averages

Between the driest and wettest months, the difference in precipitation

is 103 mm. The variation in temperatures throughout the year is 1.4 °C.

17
3.3.3 Geology and soils

Cambangan Clay Loam. This soil type is found in Nabunturan, Mawab,

Maco, Mabini, Pantukan, and New Bataan. Its soil depth is 50-100 cm. deep.
This type is good for agricultural purposes such as for rice paddies; it may
also be used for upland crops with simple drainage system;
Camansa Clay Loam. This soil type is found in Nabunturan, Mawab,
Pantukan, Maco, Mabini, and Maragusan. This is good for forest production
due to its topography;
San Miguel Silty Clay Loam. This type is found in Mawab, Pantukan,
Maco, Mabini, and Maragusan. It is good for diversified upland field crops.
The dominant feature of this type is leveled to nearly level, well drained,
medium texture and deep to very deep soil;
Mountain Soil Undifferentiated. This is found in Nabunturan, Maco,
Mabini, Maragusan, Pantukan, and New Bataan. This type of soil
classification is good for forestland. Aside from this, it does not have much
agricultural significance.

3.3.4 Water Quality

Tagsaw Creek is the major natural surface water traversing the

plantation. The outfall of the creek is the Hijo River. The quality of the water
of the creek is within the standard set for Class C as per DAO 34.
Ground water will be used in the packinghouse and for domestic purposes.
The ground water quality as reflected in Table 3.1 is suitable for intended
use. The pH of 6.7 is within the acceptable range for domestic and industrial
purposes.

Table 3.1: Water Quality Analysis

Upstream Downstrean Deep
Parameter Tagsawa Tagsawa Well
Creek Creek
pH 6.70 7.40 6.70
Acidity, mg/L CaCO3 22.70 - 22.70
Alkalinity, mg/L CaCO3 - 349.00 -
Total Hardness, mg/L CaCO3 362.00 332.00 329.00
Biochemical Oxygen Demand 3.00 6.00 -
Total Suspended Colids 4.00 8.00 4.00

3.4 Socio-economic setting

The main sources of livelihood are agricultural products such as rice,

coconut, cacao, coffee, papaya, mango, pineapple, durian and banana. It has
been projected that by 2030, the province will be one of the richest provinces
in the country because of its rich natural resources and hardworking people.
Some residents have fishponds and culture their own fish like tilapia and
milkfish. The province is also rich with gold ore.

18
3.4.1 Demography

According to the 2015 Census, the age group with the highest
population in Concepcion is 15 to 19, with 819 individuals. Conversely, the
age group with the lowest population is 75 to 79, with 20 individuals.

Table 3.2: Population by age group of Barangay Concepcion, Maco, ComVal

Population Population
Age group Age group
(2015) (2015)
Under 1 64 40 to 44 186
1 to 4 339 45 to 49 191
5 to 9 455 50 to 54 139
10 to 14 448 55 to 59 109
15 to 19 819 60 to 64 75
20 to 24 376 65 to 69 51
25 to 29 371 70 to 74 40
30 to 34 328 75 to 79 20
35 to 39 260 80 and over 21
Total 4,292

The population of Concepcion grew from 1,520 in 1990 to 4,292 in

2015, an increase of 2,772 people. The latest census figures in 2015 denote a
positive growth rate of 9.99%, or an increase of 1,689 people, from the
previous population of 2,603 in 2010.

Figure 3.3: Historical Population of Barangay Concepcion, Maco, ComVal

19
3.4.2 Land Use and Socio-economic setting
The existing land use is agricultural. The area is planted to coconut,
banana and other cash crops.

Figure 3.4: Land Classification Map of Brgy. Concepcion, Maco, Compostella

Valley

3.4.3 Poverty

There were some problems involved in Brgy. Concepcion. In terms of

livelihood programs which does not suffice the community. In terms of
environmental aspects, some parts of their mountain range had been
deforested ang illegally logged. Employment, literacy and education has been
affected sometimes due to the effects of the calamities they were facing.
According to Philippine Information Agency (PIA), 22% poverty incidence on
families and 28.1% poverty incidence on population.

20
 CHAPTER 4: LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK

4.1 Institutional Framework

The institutional framework of World Bank, the funding agency of this

project, are the following:

1. Environmental Policy/Environmental Assessment Guidelines(2003)

2. OM/OP1: Operations Manual - Environmental Considerations
3. Policy on Involuntary Resettlement
4. Policy on Indigenous People

4.2 Legislative Framework in Philippine Related to This Project

The legislative frameworks in the Philippines related to this project are

the following:

1. R.A. No. 10121 (Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction Management Act of

2010)
2. R.A. 8371 (Indigenous Peoples Rights Act of 1997)
3. RA 8974 (Facilitating the Acquisition of Right-Of-Way Sites for
Infrastructure Projects)

4.3 Environmental Regulations

The project implementation and operation process shall abide to the

related regulations and the concerned party shall hereby commit to conform
to the provisions of the following applicable environmental regulations:

1. R.A. 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act (2001)

2. R.A. 7586 (National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of
1992
3. R.A. No. 9275 (Philippine Clean Water Act of 2004)
4. R.A. No. 8749 (Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999)
5. R.A. No. 7586 (Protect, Conserve and Maintain the Biological Diversity)
DENR M.C. No. 16 Series of 1993 pertaining to Forest Buffer zones
(Cutting of Trees Restrictions)

4.4 Policy framework

The EIA study should abide to the requirements of the drafted terms of
reference. The proposed banana plantation and production facility should
also abide to the existing policies of Barangay Concepcion, Maco, Compostella
Valley.

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 CHAPTER 5: ANALYSIS OF ALTERNATIVES

No action alternative

The proposed project by its very nature is designed to utilized unproductive

pinus plantation as productive banana cultivation with more socio-economic
benefits to the region and country. Thus no-project alternative is not an
option as it will not only prolong the existing unproductive condition and
related problems as well as decaying timber value could increase further.
Thus, no project alternative is easily ruled out.

Alternative site(s)

The present site at Concepcion has been selected through an exhaustive

consultative process involving the key stakeholder institutions and through a
technical assessment of the site suitability following the agricultural guidance
on banana cultivation in Compostella Valley. The availability of required land
that meets is the primary determinant in selecting alternative sites for the
proposed project. The EIA team studied and consulted the Local Government
Unit (LGU) and found that no other suitable candidate sites are available
within reasonable environmental conditions that will be for large scale banana
plantation.

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 CHAPTER 6: PUBLIC PARTICIPATION AND SITE VISITS

6.0 Introduction

The proponents of the EIA study conducted a site visit last February
22, 2019. During the site visit a joint meeting was participated by Mr. John
Jerry L. Demelino of JJD Farms, the local government unit of Brgy.
Conception represented by the Brgy. Captain, the EIA proponents and some
residents of the barangay.
Discussion were made regarding the purpose of the proposed project
and the components and the activities during the land development and
operation of the project. Furthermore, the overall effect of the project to the
barangay, significant impacts to the environment, mitigating measures for the
significant impacts, and possible methods of environment monitoring during
operation phase was also discussed to the residents of the barangay.

6.1 Site Visit Documentation

The following are the documentations taken last February 22, 2019
during the proponents’ site visit and public consultation.

Figure 6.1: Ocular Inspection in the Area of the Proposed 40 Hectares Banana
Plantation with Production Facility (JJD Farms)

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Figure 6.2: Existing Site Condition

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Figure 6.3: Public Consultation

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 CHAPTER 7. PROJECTED IMPACTS AND MITIGATION MEASURES

Based on the site characterization made and on the process flow, the
potential impacts of the projects were identified. Each activity involved during
the land preparation, planting and packing were examined. The potential
emissions to the environment for each activity were determined and the
possible effects to the geophysical, socio-cultutral and biophysical
environment were identified. The summary of the impact identification is
presented in Table 7.1.

7.1 Impact Identification

Table 7.1: Sources and List of Potential Impacts

Sources of Impacts Potential Environmental Impact

Air Pollution
1. Boom Spray of Fungicide. Fungicide residue will contaminate the
2. Dusts and other vehicular (land & air and rainwater. It will pose great risk
air vehicles) air pollutants is emitted to human health.
into the atmosphere.
Increase incidence of occupational
chemical poisoning.

Emissions increase the concentration of

particulates and oxides of carbon,
nitrogen and sulfur in the ambient air.

Water Pollution
1. Fertilizer and pesticide Uncontrolled surface run-off will pollute
applications. the water in Tagsawa creek.

Discharged to the natural depression

2. Domestic wastewater from bathing, will pollute the water. Banana latex will
washing and sanitation make the water very suitable breeding
requirements of staff and workers. place for insect vectors like fly &
3. Wastewater from the packing plant mosquito.
high in banana latex and contains
residual chlorine and alum

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 Sources of Impacts Potential Environmental Impact
Solid Waste
1. Empty Chemical containers, Chemical containers and empty
fertilizer bags. fertilizer bags are hazardous since this
might contain chemical residues.

2. Vegetal such as shoots, banana Highly fibrous, which is very difficult to

rejects, crown, flower, leaves and breakdown and retards the natural
harvested banana plants. process of decomposition. Rejected
banana fruits are so voluminous that
handling and disposal is a problem.
Possible breeding places of insect
vectors.

3. Papers and other office related Adds to the solid waste problem of the
wastes barangay.

Noise Pollution
1. Noise will be generated during land The noise level of the vicinity will
preparation and boom spraying of increase.
fungicides.
Chemical Application to Land Domesticated animals will be poisoned.
1. Unregulated application of
chemicals to land
Soil Degradation
1. Mono – culture practice and Render the soil infertile and deficient of
excessive use of fertilizer & minerals.
pesticides.
Socio-Economic
1. Increase value of adjacent property. Improvement of the quality of life.
2. More employment and livelihood The plantation could help (directly and
3. Increase of business enterprise. indirectly) solve the unemployment
4. Population growth due to migration. problem.
5. Reduction of surface area for
rainwater absorption Increase in population will result to
overcrowding. This is a negative impact.

Increase the possibility of flood

occurrence.

7.2 Operation Phase

Air Quality
During boom spraying, marginal and acute increase in the
concentration of fungicide residue in the vicinity is expected. The fungicide
residues pose greater risks to the residents and domestic animals in the
plantation sites. Incidence of skin diseases associated with the spraying of
fungicide is already established in other parts of the country. The fungicides

27
suspended in the air will contaminate the rainwater. Air suspended
particulate is also expected to increase associated with the hauling of fruits
and other farms implements. Carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, oxides of
nitrogen and oxides of sulfur are also emitted to the atmosphere by the land
vehicles.

Water Quality
Earthworks in the project site such as soil grubbing although minimal
could loosen the soils and transport of these materials to surface waters would
result in the siltation of Tagsawa creek, which is the direct out-fall of
plantation drainage. Moreover, fertilizers that go with the surface run-off will
pollute the creek.

Noise
The operation of equipment during the site development and the boom
spraying will increase the noise level in the project site and its immediate
vicinity. The nuisance will be high considering the area is rural. However its
impact to human is not very significant because the immediate vicinity is
sparsely inhabited

Solid Waste
Vegetal wastes such banana trunks, leaves, flowers, etc constitute the
majority of the solid waste generated. Other solid wastes generated are plastic,
twine and empty containers of chemicals.
Other land contaminants include fuel that leaks from the vehicles and grease
used in the maintenance

Health Impact
Boom spraying of fungicide will endanger the health of the people living
within the plantation and in the vicinity. Fungicide residues will contaminate
the rainwater and the air. The direct health impacts will be skin irritation and
stomach upset from drinking contaminated rainwater. The method of
pesticide and fungicide application to the buds and fruits using knapsack is
also hazardous. The laborers administering the chemicals to bananas are
exposed. Health problems are associated with nausea, skin irritation, etc.

The laborers working in the packinghouse are also exposed to the risk
of chlorine and alum. Chlorine being a bleaching agent is a strong chemical.
It can damage skin. In addition, laborer tasked to prepare the solution will be
subjected to chlorine fumes, which is carcinogenic. The reaction of alum is
slightly acidic, hence it is corrosive. It can also cause skin irritation.

Socio-economic
The project will generate both positive and negative socio-economic
impacts. Definitely with the project, the value of the adjacent property is
expected to increase. The attractiveness of the site will be enhanced with the
improved road network, thus attracting more investors. The economic activity
will no longer be confined to agriculture specifically banana growing. Trading
and other enterprises will start to boom.

28
 With improved economic status and road network, the residents will be
able to avail of services like health care, education and other social services.
The negative impact foreseen is the increase in population due to in-
migration. Overcrowding will become a problem. Problems associated to
overcrowding and increase in population such as crime, are anticipated to
rise.

7.3 Impact Prediction & Evaluation

The project will generate both negative and positive impacts. The
negative impacts as reflected in Table 7.3 are towards the physical
environment and human health. Water pollution is very likely to happen. The
source will be surface run-off contaminated with fertilizer. Air pollution from
boom spraying of fungicide is also a significant impact considering the area is
rural. Residues of the chemicals used in spraying will contaminate the air as
well as the rainwater.

The use of chemicals such as fungicide, pesticide and fertilizers poses

dangers to the people working in the plantation, living within the plantation
and those living in the vicinity. Exposure to various chemicals will cause
different kinds of illnesses such as skin irritation, nausea, stomach upset,
etc. Thus, health impacts are considered negative with significant magnitude.

Table 7.3: Summary of Assessment Environmental Issues/Impacts

Environmental Impact Assessment

Issues/Impacts Time
Classificati Probabilit Reversibili Scal Magnitud
on y ty e e
Air Pollution - L R Lt S
Noise - L R Lt M
Water Pollution - L Ir Lt S
Solid Waste - L R Lt S
Employment + L Ir Lt S
Chemical Poisoning
- L R St M
Accidents - L R St M
Increased in Gov’t
Revenue + L Ir Lt S
SoilDegradation - L Ir Lt S
Pop. Increase + L R Lt S
Increase Income + L R Lt S
Health Effects - L Ir Lt S
Property Values &
Commercial + L Ir Lt S
Attractiveness
+ Positive L – Likely R – Reversible St – Short Term S – Significant
- Negative U – unlikely Ir – Irreversible Lt – Long Term M – Moderate
I – Insignificant

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Banana plantations generate a considerable volume of solid waste, both
organic and synthetic in nature. The impact is significant because of the
volume that will be generated. In addition, secondary impacts like health
problems are likely to occur. Soil degradation is a significant impact because
mono-culture is the farming system being practiced. Also, chemical inputs
such as fertilizer will eventually render the soil acidic. This impact is
irreversible. Most of the positive impacts are associated to economics –
increase in income, more government revenue, etc.

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 CHAPTER 8. ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
(ESMP) AND MITIGATING MEASURES

8.1 Mitigating Measures/Enhancement Plan

The project is already partially operating therefore, the impacts presented and
the mitigating measures are those expected in relation to the operation of
banana plantation. The management who is also the proponent of this study
will implement the mitigating measures for each negative impact. Table 8.1
presents the matrix of the environmental management plan to be adopted.

Table 8.1: Environmental Management Plan

Potential Manner of
Environmental Mitigating Measures Implementation Schedule
Impacts
1. Air Pollution  Careful work scheduling shall Management to During the
(TSP, vehicle be strictly observed. Spraying ensure that air project
and aircraft should be done only during pollution is operation.
emissions, moderate wind velocity. minimized
fungicide  Warning signs should be placed
spraying) in strategic places to warn the
people on the on-going spraying
activity.
 Regulate the use of fungicide
and pesticides.
 Control of vehicle emissions like
using motor vehicles that are
not smokebelchers.
2. Water Pollution.  Domestic wastewater will be Management to During the
contained in septic tanks. ensure the proper project
 Regulate fertilizer application to implementation. operation
avoid wastage that will go with
surface runoff. Regular monito-
 Recycle water from the packing ring will be con-
plant to save chemicals & ducted by the
water. monitoring team.
 Formulation of Monitoring
Program. Wastewater dis-
 Provision of adequate and safe charge shall con-
storage facilities for the form to the
chemicals to be used. effluent standard
 Provide the residents with safe set forth in DAO
potable water for domestic use. 34 and 35.
3. Flooding  Provide adequate drainage Malon Farms During
system Management to project
 Plant deep rooted trees in the implement operation
buffer zone areas
4. Solid Waste –  Empty containers will be stored Management to During the
empty sacks, in safe place. It will be regularly implement the project
empty chemical returned to the supplier for re- conditions set operation.
containers, use. forth in RA 6969
banana rejects,  Impregnated plastic bags will be strictly.
leaves, stalk, properly stored to be returned
and banana to the supplier. Management to
trunk.) put up a compost

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Potential Manner of
Environmental Mitigating Measures Implementation Schedule
Impacts
 Unimpregnated plastic bag will plant for the
be recycled. vegetal waste.
 Banana rejects will be
distributed to barangay folks to
be used as animal feed
supplement.
 The company will establish
drop – off points of rejected
fruits to facilitate pick-up.
 Banana trunks, leaves, flowers,
etc will be spread in the field for
decomposition. The compost
will be used to reduce the
synthetic potassium fertilizer.
 Establish a compost plant
within the plantation to handle
vegetal wastes, which are very
difficult to decompose.
5. Noise Pollution  Avoid simultaneous use of Management to During
due to heavy equipment ensure the proper project
operation of  Maintain vehicle speed to 20 implementation. operation
packinghouse. kph
 Maintenance of green belt zones
and vegetation
6. Traffic Con-  Coordinate with the Barangay Management to During
gestion traffic management office. ensure the proper project
 Increase resources so that implementation operation
congestion in primary roads is
reduced.
 Putting up appropriate traffic
signs in strategic areas to avoid
traffic accidents.
7. Pop Increase  Prohibition of residential Mgt to ensure the During
establishment within the strict project
plantation implementation operation
 Coordinate with LGU on in-
migration control
8. Employment.  The residents of the two Management to During
Barangays will be given the hire local labors. project
priority in the hiring of laborers. LGU officials operation.
should ensure
that local
constituents are
given priority.
9. Chemical  Schedule of chemical Management to During
Poisoning application will be disseminated implement project
to the residents operation
 The compound will be fenced
10. Environ-mental  Management to provide Management to During the
and Health protective equipment such as ensure health and project
Hazard. chemical resistant gloves, safety of the operation.
mask, coverall goggles or face workers in the
shields, apron, etc to field field.
workers.

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Potential Manner of
Environmental Mitigating Measures Implementation Schedule
Impacts
 Observe dirty man in - clean
man out principles.
 Provide wash rooms.

8.2 Environmental Monitoring Plan

A multi-sectoral monitoring team will be constituted. The team will be

responsible for the monitoring activities.
The environmental parameters to be monitored will be the surface water and
air quality. The procedures to be used for the sampling and analysis of water
quality are those prescribed in the DENR Administrative Order 34 and 35.
The air quality on the other hand will be analyzed using the instrument of
DENR. Table 8.2 summarizes the parameters to be determined and the
recommended frequency.

The recommended parameters to be monitored will be finalized by the

EMPAS-DENR XI in coordination with the Barangay and concerned agencies.
Although monitoring frequency is quarterly, the management will also do a
monthly monitoring of the presence of fungicide in rainwater

Table 8.2: Monitoring Parameters and Sampling Stations

Parameters Sampling Stations Responsibility Frequency

1. Surface water  Tagsawa Creek Multi-sectoral Quarterly
- Nitrates monitoring team
- Chlorine residues
- Pesticides
2. Air Quality  to be identified Multi-sectoral Quarterly
- Oxides of nitrogen, by DENR Monitoring
- Oxides of sulfur Team
- Oxides of carbon
3. Groundwater  to be identified Multi-sectoral
- Nitrates Monitoring
- Phosphates Team. Quarterly
- Pesticide residues
- pH

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 CHAPTER 9. CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

9.1 Conclusions

The primary objective of the EIA is to provide a scientific assessment of

the potential environmental impacts of the proposed banana plantation and
production facility project and to give recommendations to make the project
environmentally sustainable.

This was achieved by several methods:

Selecting the least damaging alternative; it became amply clear that of

the site alternatives to the proposed site is not practically possible and that
no-action alternative is the economically viable. Thus the propose site decided
through a consultative process of stakeholder agencies and a suitability
analysis is the most appropriate site to establish the banana plantation.

Identifying the environmental impacts and screening them to define the

most significant impacts was the fundamental task of this EIA report.
Complex methods were employed for this purpose and the findings were fed
to the design team in order to integrate mitigation into the planning and
designing of the project.

The use of the legal framework and technologies will enable the project
proponent to mitigate most of the serious environmental impacts identified by
the experts and the people living in the area. These technologies were
integrated into the designing of the plantation establishment.

9.2 Recommendations

Majority of the surrounding community has accepted the project. But they
are keen on the project activities because most of them are use water from
the sources which are located within the project site. Therefore, coordination
with the community is strongly recommended.

The monitoring program suggested in this EIA report should be complied with
extreme care and attention to ensure the effective implementation of
mitigation measures.

The Monitoring Committee comprising the Project Proponent, other

stakeholders from the state sector and the community should be established
before the commencement of the project and should meet frequently.

Taking all these factors into consideration, the EIA team suggested the project
subject to the effective implementation of the mitigation and monitoring plan.

34
 REFERENCES

DAO 96-37
DAO 34
DAO 35

The Environmental Impact of Banana Industry: A Case Study of Costa Rica.

http://Banana.agoranet.be/Environmental.html

Volta River Estated Ltd, Ghana: Ecological Report.

http://Banana.agoranet.be/Environmental.html

Organic Banana Production for Alternative Trade

http://Banana/agoranet.be/Environmental.html

Climate in Maco, Compostella Valley Province

https://en.climate-data.org/asia/philippines/compostela-valley/maco-
20537/

Natural Resources of Compostella Valley

http://www.ecomval.gov.ph/ecomvalk/natural-resources-compostela-
valley/#1516067863031-6b799cbe-75d8

Barangay Concepcion, Maco, Compostella Valley Information

https://www.philatlas.com/mindanao/r11/compostela-
valley/maco/concepcion.html

Bureau of Soil and Water Management Report 2015

Poverty Statistics of Compostella Valley – Philippine Information Agency

https://pia.gov.ph/provinces/compostela-valley

35
 ANNEXES

A1. Terms of Reference PowerPoint Slides

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37
38
39
40
A2. EIA Coverage and Screening Requirements Checklist

41
42
43
44
45
Chapter Assignments:

Baron, Kaye Bernadeth - Chapter 1, 2 & 9

Castañeda, Raphael Nico S. - Chapter 5, 6 & 9

Demdam, Donabel - Chapter 3,4 & 9

Farase, Charity Mae E. - Chapter 7, 8 & 9

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