Philippine E-Journals

Inputs for Restoring Mangroves in a Tropical Island Province for Climate Change Solution Programs

Jimmy T. Masagca | Minerva I. Morales | Aurora E. Araojo | Catherine G. De Leon

 

Abstract:

Two mangrove sites in the tropical island of Catanduanes in Bicol Region, Philippines (Lat.13.5°–14.17° N and Long. 124.1°–125.5° E) are described here using a paradigm for mangrove habitat restoration of mangroves that considers anthropogenic degradation and restoration following natural disturbances within the concept of climate change solution initiatives. What remains unclear for restoring the mangroves in this island are the needed (a) specific tools for land and sea-use zoning as well as integrated coastal management and ecosystem based management concepts; (b) information [e.g. existing stressors or resistant areas] on managing mangroves for resilience to climate change; and (c) designs and ways on how to present these climate programs to the local coastal dwelling communities vis a vis sea level rise, typhoons, tidal or storm surges and tsunamis. Obstacles encountered by the local people are the (a) inappropriate political intervention at the municipal/provincial levels; (b) lack of knowledge, expertise and baseline data about the biophysical conditions of the mangrove areas; and (c) differing and diverse intents on the mangrove resources leading to communication gaps. Climate biology studies assessing plant and animal responses to the effects of changes in typhoon patterns are needed. Finally, mangrove restoration programmes may use the Vulnerability and Adaptation (V & A) approach and address the notion that highly vulnerable coastal villages must evolve within the notion of “coastal management as a basic service of local government”.