FLORA SURVEY AND BIODIVERSITY MUNICIPALITY OF CORON Flora Final Report.pdf · To the southeast are Tagumpay, Borac, Turda, and Marcilla. The YKR ( Yulo Kings Ranch ) although not

FLORA SURVEY AND BIODIVERSITY

ASSESSMENT FOR CORE ZONING MUNICIPALITY OF CORON

September 2006

Prepared for:

PALAWAN COUNCIL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Palawan Center for Sustainable Development Sta. Monica Heights, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, Philippines 5300

Email: [email protected] Tel.: (63-48) 434-4235, Fax: 434-4234

Funded through a loan from :

JAPAN BANK FOR INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

Prepared by:

PACIFIC CONSULTANTS INTERNATIONAL in association with

ALMEC Corporation CERTEZA Information Systems, Inc.

DARUMA Technologies Inc. Geo-Surveys & Mapping, Inc.

Photo Credits:

All photos by SEMP-NP ECAN Zoning Component Project Management Office

This report can be reproduced as long as the convenors are properly acknowledged as the source of information

Reproduction of this publication for sale or other commercial

purposes is prohibited without the written consent of the publisher.

Printed by:

Futuristic Printing Press, Puerto Princesa City, Philippines

Suggested Citation:

PCSDS. 2006. Flora Survey and Biodiversity Assessment for Core Zoning Municipality of Coron. Palawan Council for Sustainable Development, Puerto Princesa City.

_________________________________________________________________________ iii

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page List of Tables

v

List of Figures

vi

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

vii

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1

2.0 NEED FOR FLORA SURVEY 2.1 The Legal Basis for Management 2.2 Strategic Environmental Plan (SEP) for Palawan Act or

R.A. 7611 2.3 The Local Government Code of 1991 2.4 The National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS)

Act 2.5 Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines

1 3 3 3 3 4

3.0 OBJECTIVES OF THE SURVEY

4

4.0 LIMITATION OF THE SURVEY

4

5.0 METHODOLOGY OF THE SURVEY 5.1 Field Equipment and Supplies Preparation 5.2 Manpower Requirements 5.3 Sampling Design

5 5 5 6

6.0 CRITERIA FOR SELECTING AND DELINEATING CORE ZONES

8

7.0 RESULTS OF THE SURVEY 7.1 Physical Characteristics of Coron

7.1.1 Topography 7.1.2 Soils 7.1.3 Climate 7.1.4 River Systems and Drainage 7.1.5 Tourist Attraction Areas 7.1.6 Built-up and Road Network

7.2 Biological Characteristics and Land Uses in the Uplands

9 9 9 9 9 9 10 10

10

________________________________________________________________________ iv

Title Page

7.3 Biodiversity Assessment

7.3.1 Ecology of the Plant Forms 7.4 Biodiversity Levels 7.4.1 Similarity Index 7.4.2 Dominance of Species

7.4.3 Endangered Species

12 12 14 17 17 18

8.0 POTENTIAL CORE ZONE COORDINATES

19

9.0 ISSUES, PROBLEMS AND THREATS TO CORE ZONES

9.1 Land Degradation Problems in the Uplands

23

23

10.0 PRESENT AND POTENTIAL THREATS

24

11.0 PROPOSED MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONS OF CORE ZONES

25

12.0 PROPOSED MEASURES TO REHABILITATE DEGRADED ECOSYSTEMS

25

13.0 SIGNIFICANT FINDINGS

26

14.0 CONCLUSIONS 27 REFERENCES

28

APPENDICES

ANNEXES

Annex 1. Coron Pictures Annex 2. Checklist of Angiosperms (Non-monocots Paleoherbs and

Dicots) of Coron, Palawan Annex 3. Checklist of Gymnosperms, Coron, Palawan

30

30 38

55

________________________________________________________________________ v

LIST OF TABLES

Table No. Title Page

1

Biodiversity Scale (Fernando, 1998)

8

2 Number of Species Sampled in Coron according to Their Plant Form or Habit

13

3 Biodiversity Levels in Coron, by Transect

14

4 Ranking of Transects from Highest to Lowest of the Shannon Index

15

5 Ranking of Transects according to Abundance

15

6 Ranking of Transects in Terms of Number of Species

16

7 Summary of Rankings of the Transects in terms of N,S, and H’

16

8 Similarity Indices of the Transects in terms of Vegetative Composition in %

17

9 Coordinates of the Potential Core Zones

20

________________________________________________________________________ vi

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure No. Title Page 1

The Municipality of Coron and Its Barangays

2

2 Map of Coron Showing the Transect Lines Crisscrossing the Municipality

7

3 Map of Coron Showing the Identified Potential Core Zones in Red Circles

21

4 Cover Map of Coron Overlayed by the Potential Core Zones

22

_______________________________________________________________________EXECUTIVE SUMMARY vii

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The scope of the ECAN Zoning Project covers an aggregate area of 898,380

hectares that includes 13 municipalities in northern Palawan and Puerto Princesa City. Coron is one of the municipalities covered in this survey/assessment.

The municipality of Coron is one of the major under develop island – resorts in

the Calamianes Group of Islands. Strategically located in the northern tip of Palawan, it is an hour flight by light aircraft from Manila. It is bounded on the North by the Apo west pass, on the South by the Cuyo west pass, on the East by the Mindoro Strait, and on the West by the Busuanga municipality. It lies within 11o 38’ 40” to 12o 23 ‘ 14 “ North latitude and 119o 00 ‘ 20 “ to 120o 25 ‘ 01 “ East longitude. It has a total land area of 79,725 hectares and is located halfway between Manila and Puerto Princesa City. It is the first port of call of Palawan for ships plying between Manila and Palawan.

The municipality has fourteen ( 14 ) mainland barangays which are the focus of

the Flora survey. These are San Jose, Decalachao, Bintuan, Guadalupe, Decabobo, Malawig, Buenavista, and San Nicolas to the northwest of Poblacion and Barangay IV. To the southeast are Tagumpay, Borac, Turda, and Marcilla. The YKR ( Yulo Kings Ranch ) although not a barangay, is a significant site because of its size. The rest of the barangays ( 9 ) are island barangays.

The government of the Philippines recognized the potentials of Coron as one of

the centers of development in Palawan. Although Coron and Culion were not included in the top ( 1st ) priority areas for management planning, it is important to determine the terrestrial resources in these municipalities since these have significant influences on any development plans and activities in the municipality of Busuanga ( 1st priority site ).

Coron is one of the second priority sites of the ECAN Zoning Component of the

Sustainable Environment and Management Project of the PCSDS – DOT – DPWH. The survey of the terrestrial flora in Coron is aimed to determine what plant community types are found in the municipality, their relative locations, and species composition. The objectives of the survey are as follows:

1. To characterize the environment and the natural resources therein, albeit

as baseline information. 2. To identify potential Core Zone areas in Coron using the baseline

information gathered. 3. To determine the baseline Biodiversity levels of the forest cover of

Coron as part of the baseline information.

The sampling design ( LIM – Line Intercept Method ) of the survey for Coron is a gridline approach wherein the whole municipality is laid out with transect lines that cover the land area from coast to coast. Each transect is 2.5 kms apart having a direction of NE to SW as it traverses the municipality. The survey covered 17 barangays using 12 transects, and only upland forest ecosystems were surveyed.

_______________________________________________________________________EXECUTIVE SUMMARY viii

Mainland Coron is characterized by rugged terrain and rolling hills. It has deep wide valleys and high – wide plateaus. It is predominantly vegetated with Dipterocarps in the mid – slopes, the Molave type forest in the foothills, with the Brush lands in the undulating areas. The highest elevation is recorded at 650 meters above sea level which corresponds to Mount Daralla.

The floral survey in Coron yielded 252 species. The dominant plant form is the

Tree species ( 197 ), followed by Vines ( 19 ), Herbs ( 13 ), and the Palms ( 7 ). Of the 252 species, twenty two ( 22 ) were considered as endangered species, six ( 6 ) of which are endemic to Coron. This is about 8.33 % of the whole list. Two ( 2 ) rare plant species namely Insectivorous Hydrophyte ( found in YKR waterfalls ) and wild Santan ( Ixora species ) were also found in Coron.

The municipality of Coron has an overall biodiversity level of H’ = 4.50 which is

very high according to the Fernando scale. Its distribution index is J’ = 0.81 suggesting a clustered type of distribution.

Comparing the vegetative composition of the transects in terms of their

similarities, only transects 2 & 3 ( 64 % ), 9 & 10 ( 56.77 % ), and 11 & 12 ( 51.2 % ) have high similarities.

In terms of dominance, Tree species still dominates the landscape. Bintang (

Sysygium subfoetidum ) have an importance value of 7.75. this is followed by Katmon ( Dillenia philippinensis ) with an importance value of 5.88, Narra ( Pterocarpus indicus ) at 5.45, Dildil ( Cynometra integrifolia ) at 5.14, and Kayato ( Dysoxylum turczaninowii ) at 4.73.

The potential Core Zones are found to be areas traversed by transects 2, 3, 7, & 9.

Transect 2 traverses Bgy. Bintuan and the YKR. Transect 3 traverses Bgys. Banuang daan, Bintuan, and YKR. Transect 7 traverses Bgys. Buenavista, Decabobo, San Nicolas, and Guadalupe. Transect 9 traverses Bgys. Tagumpay, Borac, and Turda.

Old Growth forests were encountered in parts of Bgy. Borac and San Nicolas. Dipterocarps, Ipil and other economically and environmentally important species

were found in Bgys. San Nicolas, Borac, Sto. Nino, and Bintuan. A subspecies of Mankono or Iron Wood was encountered in Coron. Significant areas of Kaingin were encountered in Bgys. Turda, Marcilla, Cheey,

and San Jose. Present and potential threats to the natural resources are highlighted in this report.

One is the pervasive poverty in the localities of Coron. There is a need to generate sustainable source of income among stakeholders in the lowlands. Second is the poor protection system in the forest areas and the slow prosecution of forest violators. Third is the practice of slash – and – burn farming in several barangays. Fourth are the hillside farms cutting short the fallow period or “ rest period “ of abandoned kaingin that induces

_______________________________________________________________________EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ix

soil erosion. Fifth is the conflicting manner of resource management and protection among the national government agencies.

To address environmental concerns, proposed measures to rehabilitate degraded

ecosystems are dicussed in this assessment. For Grasslands, shading the grass species at 50 % is sufficient to suppress its growth. Planting of forest species that can tolerate acidic soils is another approach, but protection from burning is the key. For Brushlands, introduction of shade – tolerant tree species and protection from burning will progressively help brushlands to develop into secondary forest. For Denuded Forest and Eroded Slopes, its development into a more stable, complex , and functional ecosystem could be further enhanced through assisted natural regeneration ( ANR ). Vegetative hillside stabilization by planting small trees and the use of mechanical – structural approach such as rip – raps or concrete structures, or the combination of both could arrest eroding slopes. For Kaingin areas, let the area regenerate by planting adaptive species with the necessary cultural treatment plus protection from burning. Understanding the root causes of illegal activities of people in the forest is the pivotal point of finding solutions to the problem of Encroaching Upland Settlements into Primary and Secondary forests. A well formulated and adequately executed protection system must be put in place to address the progressive degradation of forest and natural resources.

The landscape of Coron is highly fragmented but there are pockets of vegetation

that harbor endemic and endangered species. As such, it is not enough to protect and conserve these habitats but also to manage the landscape as well. The remaining patches of forest stands in Coron represent a significant environmental capital that needs to be protected and managed.

________________________________________________________________________ INTRODUCTION AND NEED FOR FLORA SURVEY 1

1.0 INTRODUCTION

The municipality of Coron is one of the major underdeveloped island-resort in the Calamianes group of islands. Strategically located in the northern tip of Palawan, it is an hour’s flight by light aircraft from Manila. The municipality has a total land area of 79,725 has. It is located halfway between Manila and Puerto Princesa. It is the first port of call of Palawan for ships plying between Manila and Palawan (Coron CLUP 1992).

The municipality has 14 mainland barangays which are the focus of the flora survey. These are San Jose, Decalachao, Bintuan, Guadalupe, Decabobo, Malawig, Buenavista, and San Nicolas to the northwest of Poblacion and Barangay IV. To the southeast are Tagumpay, Borac, Turda, and Marcilla. In Coron Island, there are two barangays namely Banuang Daan and Cabugao. The Yulo King Ranch, although not a barangay, is a significant site because of its size. The rest of the barangays are island barangays (Coron CLUP 1992).

Figure 1 shows the locations of these mainland barangays.

2.0 NEED FOR FLORA SURVEY Coron, one of the four municipalities in the Calamian Group has rich natural resources both terrestrial and marine, including manganese deposits. It also has a rich history. The people of Coron have always known that about 26,011.33 hectares of forests and mountains are the sanctuary of terrestrial wildlife such as the porcupine (Dorian), skunks (Pantot or Stink Badger), and the “Balinsasayaw” (swifts). The government of the Philippines recognized the potentials of Coron as one of the centers of development in Palawan. In order that development activities could be pursued, there is a need to formulate a functional development plan for the Calamian Group. Although Coron, Linapacan and Culion were not included in the top (first) priority areas for management planning, it is important to determine the terrestrial resources in the municipalities since these have significant influences on any development plans and activities in Busuanga. In order to finalize a management system for Busuanga, the resources in the peripheral municipalities must be quantified and indicated in the map. In short, there is a synergy between and among the four municipalities, Busuanga, Coron, Linapacan and Culion, they being situated in one island group.

________________________________________________________________________ INTRODUCTION AND NEED FOR FLORA SURVEY 2

Figure 1. The Municipality of Coron and its barangays

Busuanga

Cabugao

Banuang Daan

Lajala

Bintuan Guadalupe

Poblacion

Bgy IV Marcilla

Borac

San Nicolas

Turda

Decabobo Yulo King Ranch

Decalachao

San Jose

________________________________________________________________________INTRODUCTION AND NEED FOR FLORA SURVEY 3

2.1 The Legal Basis for Management

Aside from the National Integrated Protected Areas System Act (NIPAS Act

or R.A. 7586), there are existing Philippine laws and special laws that serve as bases in the management of natural resources in the Province of Palawan, specifically in the Municipality of Coron. These are the SEP for Palawan, the Local Government Code, the NIPAS Act and the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines.

2.2 Strategic Environmental Plan (SEP) for Palawan Act or R.A. 7611

Section 7 of this Act provides for the establishment of a graded system of protection and development control over the whole province known as the Environmentally Critical Areas Network (ECAN), which is the main strategy of the SEP. It recognizes and respects the rights of indigenous communities to their ancestral lands.

The Strategic Environmental Plan (SEP) for Palawan or Republic Act 7611 is the fundamental law that governs Palawan’s natural resources. It was enacted on June 19, 1992 as a comprehensive framework for the sustainable development of Palawan’s natural resources. It serves as a guide to the local government of Palawan, concerned government agencies, and non- government organizations in the formulation and implementation of plans, programs, and projects in the province. The Palawan Council for Sustainable Development (PCSD) is the governing body implementing and setting the policy direction of the SEP. It functions under the Office of the President.

2.3 The Local Government Code of 1991

The Philippine Congress enacted the Local Government Code or Republic Act 7160 in 1991 to devolve several government functions to the local government units (LGUs). The code gives LGUs greater responsibility and accountability in the delivery of basic services, implementing national programs and projects, and the protection and management of natural resources.

2.4 The National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act

The Philippine Congress enacted the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act or Republic Act 7586 in June 1992 to address concerns on ecological conservation and sustainable development. This is in response to the Philippines’ commitment to the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit in 1992, where it is also a signatory and where global environmental concerns were discussed. The law is also in recognition and awareness of the invariable decline of the country’s biologically unique environment. The Act accentuates collaborative partnership among national government, local government, and concerned private organizations in the effective administration of these resources. It encompasses terrestrial, wetlands, and marine ecosystems with remarkable biological importance.

The Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) have control and administration in all

________________________________________________________________________OBJECTIVES AND LIMITATION OF THE SURVEY 4

declared Protected Areas. The PAMB is composed of members coming from different sectors (LGU, DENR, NGOs, Private sector, POs, etc). It serves as the governing and policy making body of the protected area and oversees its general management. It decides on matters concerning environmental protection and planning in accordance with the General Management Plan (GMP).

2.5 Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines Presidential Decree (PD) No. 705 or the Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines, revised PD No. 389 or the Forestry Reform Code of the Philippines. PD 705 was enacted May 19, 1975 and serves as the legal basis in the conservation, utilization and sustainable management of forestland resources. DENR is the government agency responsible in overseeing the management, planning, implementation of national programs and projects that pertain to the forestry sector.

3.0 OBJECTIVES OF THE SURVEY Coron is one of the second priority sites of the ECAN Zoning component of the Sustainable Environment and Management Project of the PCSDS-DOT-DPWH. The survey of the terrestrial flora in Coron is aimed to determine what plant community types are found in the municipality, their relative locations, and species composition. As a second priority site, the objectives of the survey are:

1. To characterize the environment and the natural resources therein, albeit as baseline information

2. To identify potential core zone areas in Coron using the baseline information gathered

3. To determine the baseline biodiversity levels of the forest cover of Coron as part of the baseline information

4.0 LIMITATION OF THE SURVEY

The survey covered 17 barangays using 12 transects and only upland forest ecosystems were surveyed.

The Line Intercept Method (LIM) was used to collect the baseline information of Coron. However, the resulting data gathered became difficult to handle because of the tediousness of the computations, which could also be considered as “in-depth”.

________________________________________________________________________METHODOLOGY OF THE SURVEY 5

Hence, the adjustments made in the resulting computations in this report become more baseline as required in the inception of the ECAN Zoning component. In effect, parameters used in the computations are the following:

1. Abundance 2. Relative Abundance 3. Frequency 4. Relative Frequency; and 5. Importance Value

Island barangays were not included in the survey.

Characterization of Coron is discussed in a general manner rather than in-depth,

like going down to the barangay and the transect levels.

5.0 METHODOLOGY OF THE SURVEY

5.1 Field Equipment And Supplies Preparation

This activity is done prior to field deployment. Field equipment/instruments identified for use in the survey were the Global

Positioning System (GPS), Abney Hand Level, Diameter Tape, Compass, Altimeter and Surveyors Transit.

For the Herbarium specimen collection, the team used pruning shears, specimen bags, and specimen tags. For recording the data gathered and important events during the field survey, the team used tally sheets and field journals. A digital camera was used for documentation and capturing relevant pictures in the field. A laptop was used in processing gathered data and reports made and stored in electronic files.

One of the most important instruments used by the team is the GPS (Garmin Etrex Model). GPS is a satellite based instrument that takes the coordinates and elevation of a specific place. The data can later on be plotted onto a map.

The team also prepared the necessary food supplies and medicines. Tents and other field equipment were also prepared.

5.2 Manpower Requirements

One Survey Team Supervisor and 5 team leaders were required to complete the survey in 3 weeks. Each team leader heads a crew of 3 who are assigned the following tasks:

o Guide / brusher o Laborer – to carry the camp and food supplies and also serves as camp cook

and guard o Recorder of data that the team leader gathers


5.3 Sampling Design

The sampling design of the survey for Coron is a gridline approach wherein the

whole municipality is laid out with transect lines that cover the land area from coast to coast. Figure 2 shows the municipality of Coron crisscrossed by these transects.

Each transect is 2.5 km apart having a direction of NE to SW as it traverses the municipality.

The Line Intercept Method (LIM) was used in the survey. The LIM is similar to the belt transect such that it basically consists of selecting strips or transects in a systematic manner, usually with equal spacing, which permit continuous sampling within a specified strip width. Details of the LIM are mentioned in the Field Survey Manual.

All standard vegetational measurements except absolute density may be obtained by this technique, hence, the “in-depth” qualification of the method.

The weakness of the LIM is that it is not appropriate for forest ecosystems. It is especially useful in sampling non-forest vegetation types (Sajise & Cuevas, 1987). In data analysis, the parameters computed are as those mentioned in the limitation section. As a baseline, all transects are computed for the biodiversity index so that potential core zones could be identified.

The Shannon-Weiner Biodiversity Index, H’, is used:

H’ = - Σ pi ln pi Where: H’ = the biodiversity index

Pi = the proportion of the ith species in relation to all individuals Ln = the Naperian logarithm = 2.71

The Pielou Distribution Index (J’) is also calculated using the formula:

J’ = H’/ ln(S)

Where: H’ = the Shannon – Weiner Index S = the total number of species Ln = the Naperian logarithm


Figure 2. Map of Coron showing the Transect Lines Crisscrossing the Municipality

Cabugao

Banuang Daan

Lajala

Poblacion

Bgy IV

Guadalupe

Bintuan Marcilla

Borac

Turda

San Nicolas

Yulo King Ranch

Decabobo Decalachao

San Jose


To determine the levels of biodiversity in the area, the Fernando Scale is used:

Table 1. Biodiversity Scale (Fernando, 1998)

Relative Values

Shannon (H’) Index

Pielou (J’) Evenness Index

Very High 3.5 and above 0.75-1.00 High 3.0-3.49 0.50-0.74

Moderate 2.5-2.99 0.25-0.49 Low 2.0-2.49 0.15-0.24

Very Low 1.9 & below 0.05-0.14

The Menhinick Species Richness Index is also used to enrich the discussion in terms of abundance and number of individuals per species. The formula is the following:

SR = S / sqrt N Where: S = total number of species

N = total number of individuals

6.0 CRITERIA FOR SELECTING AND DELINEATING CORE ZONES

The criteria used in selecting and delineating the core zones are:

a.) Presence of economically and environmentally important flora/fauna species. b.) Presence of old growth/close canopy forest. c.) Has high biological diversity either plants or animals d.) The area has significant influence on either agricultural system, settlement

area, coastal and marine ecosystems. e.) Head water of a river system. f.) The area has steep slope and is prone to erosion when left alone. g.) The area is more or less certain to be encroached upon by squatters or land

speculators when left alone.

Criteria for Delineation:

The watershed divide is the most practical ground boundary of any core zone or protected area.

________________________________________________________________________RESULTS OF THE SURVEY 9

7.0 RESULTS OF THE SURVEY

7.1 Physical Characteristics

7.1.1 Topography

The municipality of Coron is characterized by rugged terrain and rolling hills. There are mountainous areas almost in all directions extending towards the shorelines. There are broken plains along coastal areas. Coron has deep wide valleys and high – wide plateaus. 7.1.2 Soils

Coron municipality has extensive silty clay loam soil in the plains, valleys and plateaus, covering about 48,675 hectares. About 7,500 hectares of the valleys have rich Busuanga loam. There are portions of the level lands about 32,008 hectares which, like the mountains and hillsides, have poor, rough, and rocky soils where a hardy grass species “kirib” and Mancono, the ironwood, thrive well.

The soils in Coron are classified under “Coron Series”. Soils of this series are not very suitable for agricultural purposes because their topography is oftentimes hilly and steep. Small valleys are found and could be cultivated. Some valleys with wide areas cannot be cultivated because of high presence of pebbles and gravel. This is the result of severe erosion from the uplands.

Coron series has soil that is gray to brown. The soil layer is shallow and in the open areas, soil erosion is very severe so that practically the surface soil and the subsoil are gone. As a result, the bedrock is exposed or fragments of rocks litter the ground surface. The bedrock is mostly of chert, jasper, or shale. These rocks are rich in quartz and are used for road surfacing. The subsoil is dark brown clay to clay loam while the substratum is of the same texture although harder and more compact than the subsoil. Below this layer are the laminated chert rocks in various degrees of faulting or strikes. These rocks are usually associated with manganese ores (Dept. of Agriculture, 1988).

7.1.3 Climate

The climate of the municipality of Coron is characterized by rainy season from June to October and dry season from November to May. The average rainfall is 170mm, average temperature is 27.0°C and average relative humidity is 76%. There are two distinct monsoon wind directions; Northeast monsoon from November to March and Southeast monsoon from April to August.

7.1.4 River Systems and Drainage There are two rivers in the municipality of Coron that have economic and environmental significance namely; Banga and San Nicolas River. Both are sources of water that supply commercial irrigation systems. There are several smaller rivers but these are mostly intermittent.


7.1.5 Tourist Attraction Areas Data and information for Coron indicated several tourist attraction sites as follows: 1. Darale Mountain 2. Kadyang Falls

3. Mabentangen Forest Park 4. Tapyas Mountain 5. Banal Beach 6. Baracuda Lake 7. Cabugao Lake 8. Coron Island 9. CYC Beach 10. Kayangan Lake 11. Tara Island 12. Twin Lagoon 13. Dive Link 14. World War II Shipwrecks 15. Maricaban Bay Marina Resort 16. Sea Horse Island 17. Sangat Island Reserve 18. Club Paradise 19. Debatac Island 20. Dinam Island 21. Ditaytaya Island

7.1.6 Built – up Areas and Road Network

Built up areas cover only 230 hectares. The roads in Coron are classified into three as follows:

a) National Road: 1.9 km concrete 0.8 km asphalt 28.3 km all weather gravel b) Provincial Road: 0.4 km concrete 3.0 km all weather gravel c) Barangay: 17.4 km all weather gravel 26.0 km dirt roads

7.2 Biological Characteristics and Land Uses in the Uplands

Agriculture areas: 25,028 hectares Pasture lands: 12,257 hectares


Forests are also found in the more or less inaccessible areas. The forest growth is very sparse with comparatively low trees. One important wood is the Dolo (Fragraea fragrans), which is often used for posts of houses.

A high rate of endemism was found by earlier researchers, most particularly in the Island of Coron. Lithophytes adapted to bare soils and cremnophytes to rock crevices with weathered plant parts and soils, dominate the area. Around 25% of Coron island’s rolling and steep hills are covered by tree species such as taluto (Pterocymbium tinctorium), ipil, (Instia bijuga), amugis (Koordersiodendron pinnatum), and dungon (Heritiera sylvatica) while mainland Coron has dipterocarps and katmon (Dillenia philippinensis), mankono (Xanthastemon spp), lanete (Wrightia pubiscens), kamagong (Diospyrus philippinensis), akle (Albizzia akle), narra (Pterocarpus indicus), molave (Vitex parviflora), antipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) and rattan species palasan (Calamus merrillii) and limuran (Calamus spp.)

A large part of the area is open grassland with scatterings of small trees. There is less cogon (Imperata cylindrical) or Talahib (Saccharum spontaneum) but more often dominated by a species of grass locally called “Garas” or “Paray-paray”. The presence of this grass suggests that the soil in this area is often dry.

A resident of Coron described the upland biological environment with the observation that “when there are logging operations in a locality, the large diameter and long timbers are usually harvested, ranging from 50-cm diameter and larger. What are left are smaller, suppressed and under storey vegetation. Logging operations have been conducted in parts of Brgys. San Nicolas, Borac, Sto. Niño and Cheey.”

Since the people in Coron have very unstable sources of income, being heavily dependent on fishing, many resorted to slash and burn agriculture. This type of agriculture further reduced the forest areas. The survey teams found that large parts of Coron became brush lands and dominated by pioneer species such as those plants under the families Sterculiaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Moraceae, Myrtaceae, Verbenaceae, and Compositae.

Barangay Buenavista has several economically and ecologically important species such as apitong (Dipterocarpus sp.), ipil (Intsia bijuga), kamagong (Diospyros discolor), narra (Pterocarpus indicus), malapo , ikoyan (Payena leeri), and pioneer species like binunga (Macaranga tanarius), anagdong (Trema cannabina) and putat (Baringtonia racemosa).

The following plant community types were encountered in Coron: a) Old Growth forests - Parts of Brgys Borac and San Nicolas b) Grasslands - San Jose, Decalachao, Guadalupe, Bintuan, San Nicolas c) Kaingin Areas - Brgy. Turda, Marcilla, Cheey, New Busuanga, San Jose d) Barangays where there were logging operations - San Jose, Cheey, Decalachao e) Barangays where Dipterocarps, Ipil, and other important species were found -

San Nicolas, Borac, Sto. Niño, Old Busuanga, Bintuan


On a per barangay basis, the following Barangays have forest areas of about 1,000 hectares:

Banuang Daan 2,706 hectares Brgy. Poblacion (6) 980 Bintuan 7,710 Borac 1,294 Buenavista 822 Bulalacao 1,151 Cabugao 3,248 Culion 10,048 Decabobo 1,661 Decalachao 2,840 Guadalupe 1,571 Marcilla 1,960 San Jose 1,656 San Nicolas 4,678 Turda 2,185 All others 1,605 46,115 hectares

Open grasslands occupy 18,987 ha and swamps and mangrove areas about 6,570 hectares.

Vegetative growth is associated with slope, exposure, soil depth, elevation, and

moisture availability. The municipality of Coron has a mountainous terrain with elevation reaching 650 meters above sea level. Mount Daralla is the highest mountain in Coron. Forested portions in the municipality include Barangays San Nicolas, Bintuan, Malawig, Decabobo, Decalachao, Cabugao, Borac, Turda, and Bunuang Daan. Large tracts of land in Coron town are dominated by grass-boho species, as there are wide tracts of brush lands.

The dominant plant families encountered, in terms of plant biomass and area covered, consisted of Dipterocarpaceae family in the mid-slopes, the molave type forest in the foothills, with the brush lands in the undulating areas. Most of the barangays are accessible by road except Malawig and Buenavista.

Fishing and subsistence agriculture are the main sources of income of the people in San Nicolas and Bintuan. Kaingin making and illegal timber harvesting particularly in Barangay San Nicolas is evident. There are large tracts of bare area and boho (Schizostachyum lumampao) plant community type.

7.3 Biodiversity Assessment

7.3.1 Ecology of the Plant Forms

The survey in Coron yielded 252 species. Of this number, tree species dominate having 197 species identified. This is followed by vines, which have 19 species, herbs


have 13 species, and the palms have 7. Table 2 below shows the number of species per plant form and their distribution.

Table 2. Number of Species Sampled in Coron according to Their Plant Form or Habit.

Plant Form

No. of Species

Tree 197 Vines 19 Herb 13

Epiphyte 6 Fern 1 Palm 7

Rattan Palm 6 Bamboo 3

Total S 252

The Menhinick Species Richness (SR) index is 3.5. This indicates a trend that there is lesser number of individuals per species. As such, with lesser number of individuals, there is an effect in its distribution in the area. The tendency of a particular species is to aggregate, hence, there is clustering or clumping of the distribution. This could be expounded later in the report.

In referring to the table again, Coron could be interpreted as having ample cover because of the high number of tree species identified. However, there is also a high number of vine species. Ecologically, the vine is an indicator that the forest ecosystem is not intact as it looks because vines are naturally light - loving plants. The high number of vine species indicates the ecosystem is quite favorable for their growth. As such, one can deduce that the forest ecosystem is open canopy, which allows plenty of sunlight to reach the forest floor.

This could also be the same argument with palms. As shown in the table, the palms cumulatively have about 13 species, divided into the erect and the crawling (rattan). They generally have the same number of species; hence their distribution is equal in terms of number, although the erect palms are leading with one species over the crawling. Palms are also naturally sunlight – loving plants although the rattan palms need it less than the erect palms since they need to grow under diffused light under canopy. Nevertheless, the presence of many palms also indicates a disturbed forest cover.

Bamboo species also grow in Coron. There are three species identified. The most common is the Buho Bamboo (Schizostachium lumampao). It is found extensively on the island. Again, this bamboo species also indicates a disturbed ecosystem.

The presence of the herbs and the fern indicates one thing – the presence of moisture. Herbs are naturally succulent requiring much moisture to maintain its succulence. The fern, although only one species would indicate an outlyer – is a species


distributed outside of its habitat and found its place with adequate environmental conditions to survive. And they also need moisture to thrive.

However, ocular observation would show that the higher elevations are devoid of moisture since only the grasses could survive in such harsh conditions. The typical hill top of the Coron landscape is “bald”. The tree cover could be seen only on its side and the lower slopes. The higher slopes are composed of the grass “Kirib”, which thrives well in dry and limestone rocky to gravelly conditions.

7.4 Biodiversity Levels

The Municipality of Coron has an overall biodiversity level of H’= 4.50. This is very high. The distribution of the species found therein is a bit clustered, having an index of distribution J’ = 0.81. Table 3 summarizes the biodiversity of the municipality by transect and overall.

Table 3. Biodiversity Levels in Coron, by Transect. Trans

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

N 16 719 566 28 49 59 1279 55 1182 833 259 120 S 15 92 108 20 40 24 93 23 86 51 49 38

H’ 2.69 4.03 4.2 2.9 3.6 3.0 3.67 2.89 3.98 3.39 3.46 3.22 J’ 0.99 0.89 0.90 1 1 0.90 0.81 0.92 0.89 0.86 0.89 0.88

N=Total # individuals; S=Total # species; H’=Shannon index; J’=Pielou Distribution index

The biodiversity (H’) of Coron in terms of flora is moderate to very high (Table 3). Not one transect has a low to very low index. Distribution (J’) of the species per transect is highly even except in transect 7 where it shows that the distribution tends to clustering.

Transect 7 also displays the highest number of individuals, but it is transect 3 that was the highest number of species. Since that is the case, transect 3 also have the highest diversity at H’= 4.2.


The transects in the order of highest to lowest Shannon index is shown below:

Table 4. Ranking of Transects from Highest to Lowest of the Shannon Index

Rank

Trans No. H’

1 3 4.2 2 2 4.03 3 9 3.98 4 7 3.67 5 5 3.60 6 11 3.46 7 10 3.39 8 12 3.22 9 6 3.0 10 4 2.9 11 8 2.89 12 1 2.69

In terms of total number of individuals or abundance, Transect 7 has the highest

followed by transects 9, 10, 2, 3 and 11. The implication of this is that the top 6 transects having the most number of individuals have a high forest cover. However, it does not necessarily follow that having a high forest cover also has high diversity. Table 3 shows that transects with high indices do not necessarily have high number of individuals.

As shown in Table 3, it is the transects that are nearer the border with Busuanga that have the highest diversity but it is the transects in the middle of the municipality that have the highest number of individuals and the highest forest cover. Table 5 below shows the rankings of transects in terms of number of individuals or abundance.

Table 5. Ranking of Transects according to Abundance.

Rank

Trans. No. Abundance (N)

1 7 1,279 2 9 1,182 3 10 833 4 2 719 5 3 566 6 11 259 7 12 120 8 6 59 9 8 55 10 5 49 11 4 28 12 1 16


On the other hand, ranking in terms of total number of species shows a different

order of transects. The top 6 transects are: 3, 7, 2, 9, 10, and 11. This does not mean that the order of transects for high biodiversity indices would follow. Table 6 presents the rankings in terms of number of species, S.

Table 6. Ranking of transects in terms of number of species

Rank

Trans. No. No. of Species (S)

1 3 108 2 7 93 3 2 92 4 9 86 5 10 51 6 11 49 7 5 40 8 12 38 9 6 24 10 8 23 11 4 20 12 1 15

Table 7 summarizes the rankings of the transects.

Table 7. Summary of Rankings of the Transects in terms of N, S, and H’.

Transect Rank

Transects according to

highest to lowest N


highest to lowest S


highest to lowest H’

1 7 3 3 2 9 7 2 3 10 2 9 4 2 9 7 5 3 10 5 6 11 11 11 7 12 5 10 8 6 12 12 9 8 6 6 10 5 8 4 11 4 4 8 12 1 1 1

N = Number of individuals; S = Number of species; H’ = Shannon Biodiversity Index


Following the revised criteria for the selection of core zones, the transects that traversed the area with high biodiversity and species richness are 3 and 2 at the northern area of the municipality; and 7 & 9 in the southern part. All four transects have been consistent in their rankings as shown in the above tables. 7.4.1 Similarity Index

In mapping out the similarities of the transects in terms of vegetative composition, three pairs have been identified exhibiting high similarity to one another. The first pair is transects 2 & 3 (64%); the next pair is transects 9 & 10 (56.77%); and the last pair is transects 11 & 12 (51.2%). Again, transects 2 & 3 have been consistent, thus, in selecting a core zone, the forested area between transects 2 & 3 could be delineated as such. Table 8 shows the similarity indices of the transects in terms of vegetative composition.

Table 8. Similarity Indices of the Transects in terms of Vegetative Composition, in %.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

1 x 2.45 3.1 4.5 9.2 5.3 0.62 5.63 0.67 0.71 2.91 5.88 2 x x 64.0 1.1 5.7 8.5 15.6 8.01 35.6 23.71 22.7 10.3 3 x x x 8.4 10 15 17.5 11.3 30.5 26.02 27.6 17.8 4 x x x x 18 16 1.84 2.41 1.49 2.1 4.18 10.8 5 x x x x x 30 3.77 17.3 5.04 5.44 9.09 16.6 6 x x x x x x 5.83 17.5 4.67 5.6 15.1 22.3 7 x x x x x x x 6.6 34.9 45.17 12.6 8.58 8 x x x x x x x x 6.95 6.75 15.3 14.9 9 x x x x x x x x x 56.77 20.7 11.5 10 x x x x x x x x x x 21.4 13.9 11 x x x x x x x x x x x 51.2 12 x x x x x x x x x x x x

Except for the three pairs with high similarities, the table tells us that the vegetation in Coron is highly dissimilar to one another in terms of locations. This explains the very high overall index of biodiversity, H’ = 4.50. The table also shows evidences that the species distribution in the municipality tends to cluster because of high dissimilarity of composition. Hence, the distribution index of J’ = 0.81.

7.4.2 Dominance of Species

In Coron, the dominating species is the Bintang (Syzygium subfoetidum), having an importance value of 7.75. This is followed by the Katmon (Dillenia philippinensis) with an importance value of 5.88. Narra, Pterocarpus indicus (5.45), Dildil, Cynometra


integrifolia (5.14) and Kayatao, Dysoxylum turczaninowii (4.73) follow respectively at 3rd, 4th, and 5th ranked.

What this presents is that the top 5 dominant species are pioneer species able to thrive in harsh conditions. As such, as an indicator to the health of the forest ecosystem, environmental conditions are a bit extreme such that pioneer species dominate.

The rest of the rankings of species are found in the Appendix table.

7.4.3 Endangered Species

Of the 252 species identified in Coron, there are 22 endangered species that comprise the list. This is only about 8.33% of the whole list, a very small number. However, the mere fact that they are endangered makes them more precious and the small proportion of them makes them even rarer in the wild. In terms of number of individuals, they may be considered as locally common. Such examples are Narra (P. indicus), Molave (Vitex parviflora), Mancono (Xanthostemon spp.), Antipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) and the rattan species Palasan (Calamus merrillii) and Limuran (Calamus ornatus).

One example of a locally common species is the Mancono (Xanthostemon spp.). The species has limited range in the Philippines, confined only in Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao and Palawan, which makes it endemic and endangered. However, in Palawan, its distribution is from the southern Palawan up to Busuanga. It is limited to approximately from sea level to 150 - 200 meters above sea level (masl). It is quite common in ultramafic soil in the southern to central Palawan and the chert – based soil of the Busuanga Island. However, its distribution in Busuanga is up to Bgy San Jose in Coron only. Beyond it, the team did not see any of the species up to Calauit Island. On the western side of Busuanga Island, the species becomes sparse up to Bgy Salvacion, Busuanga.

The following is a list of endangered species found in Coron.

1. Narra Fabaceae Pterocarpus indicus 2. Amugis Anacardiaceae Koordersiodendron

pinnatum 3. Banga Arecaceae Orania paraguayanensis 4. Ipil Fabaceae Instia bijuga 5. Molave Verbenaceae Vitex parviflora 6. Mancono Myrtaceae Xanthostemon bracteatus 7. Mancono Myrtaceae X. verdugonianus 8. Malasantol / Santol-Gubat Meliaceae Sandoricum vidalii 9. Antipolo Moraceae Artocarpus blancoi 10. Lanete Sapotaceae Wrightia pubiscens 11. Malakatmon Dilleniaceae Dillenia luzonica 12. Kamagong / Mabolo Ebenaceae Diospyrus philippinensis 13. Akle Fabaceae Albizzia acle 14. Dungon Sterculiaceae Heritiera sylvatica 15. Pitcher Plant Nepenthaceae Nepenthes sp.

________________________________________________________________________POTENTIAL CORE ZONE COORDINATES 19

16. Rattan Palasan Palmae Calamus merrillii 17. Rattan Limuran Palmae Calamus ornatus var. philippinensis 18. Apitong Dipterocarpaceae Dipterocarpus sp. 19. Kayatau Meliaceae Dysoxylum turczaninowii 20. Katmon Dilleniaceae Dillenia philippinensis 21. Duguan Myristicaceae Myristica philippinensis 22. Kalaum Myrtaceae Syzygium ixoides

One very rare find in Coron, specifically in the YKR Waterfalls near the airport, is an insectivorous plant, about the size of a one peso coin; its leaf-like appendages are arranged in a whorl. These appendages have pinkish margins and at the edges are trichomes with globules / droplets at each tip that are quite viscous. This serves as the insect-trapping mechanism of the plant. Once an insect is stuck on the glandular traps, the leaf-like appendage curls inward, covering the “prey” and eventually digests it.

The root system has two bladder-like organs that help the plant stay afloat in water. Because of these bladder-like structures, it is initially identified as a “Bladderwort”, which belongs to the Bryophytes and insectivorous plant group. Initial identification from Edinburgh, Scotland by a taxonomist of the Royal Botanic Gardens names it as a Drocera sp., unfortunately, the picture sent was indistinct thus limiting for a more thorough identification (See picture in appendix). Comparing it with a voucher specimen from the Phil. National Museum, it is identified as Drocera spathulata of the Droceraceae.

The habitat of the plant is a river with clear flowing waters. The plant was found attached to a rock just before the flow leading to the waterfalls, and just above the waterline. During the rainy season, the plant is constantly awash. The root system grasps the rock, and if swept away, the float bladders keep it afloat until it can attach itself to another rock.

The specimen was one of its kind in the area. According to the National Museum however, specimens have been collected in Mt. Halcon, Mindoro. It is still a rare plant, though.

Another interesting find is the Wild Santan (Ixora sp). It is found in the same location as the insectivorous hydrophyte. Whereas the insectivorous hydrophyte is found on the rocks in the waterline, the Wild Santan is found on the river bank. The difference of this plant from its ornamental cousins is that the flower has longer petals and peduncle. This species is listed in the CITES.

8.0 POTENTIAL CORE ZONE COORDINATES

As mentioned, the potential core zones are found to be areas traversed by transects 2, 3, 7 & 9. The forested areas between transects 2 & 3 are included in this core zone. On

________________________________________________________________________POTENTIAL CORE ZONE COORDINATES 20

the other hand, transects 7 & 9 are 5 km apart, hence, only the areas in which they traverse are considered for the core zone. Transect 8 is not included.

The coordinates of these potential core zones are the following:

Table 9. Coordinates of the potential core zones.

Transect Number

Tie Point Coordinates End Point Coordinates

2 N 120 01’ 02” : E 1200 03’ 04” N 120 3.51’ : E 1200 4.7’ 3 N 110 59.21’ : E 1200 14.73’ N 120 8.62’ : E 1200 8.52’ 7 N 120 8.78’ : E 1200 14.71’ N 120 1.75’ : E 1200 14.71’ 9 N 110 59.63’ : E 1200 13.66’ N 120 5.81’ : E 1200 16.31’

Transect 2 traverses Bgy Bintuan and the YKR. Transect 3 traverses Bgys Banuang Daan, Bintuan and YKR. Transect 7 traverses Bgys Buenavista, Decabobo, San Nicolas and Guadalupe. Transect 9 traverses Bgys Tagumpay, Borac and Turda

Overlaying the forest cover map of Coron onto the transects and circled potential core zones, figure 4 shows the final outcome of this survey.

________________________________________________________________________ POTENTIAL CORE ZONE COORDINATES 21

Figure 3. Map of Coron showing the identified potential core zones in blue circles.

Cabugao

Banuang Daan

Lajala

Poblacion

Bgy IV Guadalupe

Bintuan

Marcilla

Borac

Turda San Nicolas

Yulo King Ranch

Decabobo Decalachao

San Jose


Figure 4. Satellite Image Map of Coron Overlayed by the Potential Core Zone.

Legend:

o Red lines – potential core zones o White lines – barangay boundaries o Yellow circle – areas covered by transect 2&3 and 7 & 9

Banuang Daan

Lajala

Poblacion

Bgy IV

Marcilla

GuadalupBintuan

San Nicolas

Borac

Turda

Decabobo

Yulo King Ranch

Decalachao

San Jose


9.0 ISSUES, PROBLEMS AND THREATS TO CORE ZONES

9.1 Land Degradation Problems in the Uplands

The presentation of the land degradation problems does not prioritize the activity. The highly visible land degradation problems in Coron are the ff:

Hillside Farming. Like the slash – and - burn agriculture, hillside farming is highly destructive to the forest. This denudes all vegetation consisting of pioneer tree species, brush species, shrubs, and grasses. When all the cut vegetations are dried, they are set on fire for easy clearing. The intense heat kills all germinating seeds, plant tubers, and rhizomes. Every year, the same process of land preparation is done. In so doing, the soil is exposed to heavy rain which erodes the top soil. The nutrients are also leached until the hillside farm is no longer productive. The unproductive farm is eventually abandoned and grass plant community, after some time, invades the area. It has been well documented that grassland plant community types are perpetuated by burning.

Grassland fires encroaching into natural forests. Related to the effects of hillside farming is the burning of grasslands where raging fires encroach into the natural forests. Those that survive the fires will be weakened and become susceptible to pest and disease infestations and eventually die.

Illegal timber harvesting. Timber extraction either in the secondary or primary forests causes destruction to nearby or adjacent plants during felling operation. Likewise, the continuous harvesting of timber, even by small time violators, cause tremendous strain to the forest ecosystem. The species of rattan vines, saplings, seedlings are directly injured by the impact of falling timber. The openings or gaps in the forest, as a result of timber harvesting, causes sudden exposure of undergrowth to extreme temperatures causing scorching or eventual necrosis.

Illegal pasture/grazing of large cattle in timberland. As pointed out in the Busuanga report, grazing of cattle in pasture lands especially in sloping areas is tantamount to accelerating land degradation. The constant movement of cattle on the slopes results to soil compaction that significantly reduces or desrupts the rate of water infiltration. Instead, the water rushes down slopes creating rill and gulley erosion.

Browsing and trampling of seedlings eventually make the pasture land devoid of tree and brush vegetation paving the way for noxious plant species like Hagonoy (Chromolaena odorata), sapinit (Lantana camara), sambong (Blumea balsamifera; although medicinal), cogon grass (Imperata cylindrical) and boho (S. lumampao). These species acting in unison exert tremendous allelophatic reactions to new “recruits”. The Compositae have exudates that are inhibitors of seed germination in other species.

Once cogon and boho invade an area, it is almost impossible for other plant species to grow in the site. Firstly, the thick clumps of boho prevent seeds of trees from reaching the ground surface. Secondly, the thick boho vegetation has significant shading effect that inhibits seed germination or if ever germination occurs, photosynthesis is limited thus killing the young plants. Thirdly, which is the worst, is the yearly occurrence of fires in the cogon – boho plant community type.

________________________________________________________________________ PRESENT AND POTENTIAL THREATS 24

Road construction inside the old growth forest. The about 8 – 10 km road constructed inside the old growth forest destroyed all forms of plant life along the road right-of-way. The side cuts during piloting of the roadway, the widening and finishing such as using road graders to attain the specified slope gradient, require large volume of earth movement. The various processes of road construction inside the old growth forest caused irreversible damage to the soil and forest vegetation. The road inside the forest is a convenient free-for-all access by people to and from the forest ecosystem. The road becomes the main artery for forest violators. Improperly constructed road and drainage systems cause severe soil erosion. Eroded materials will be deposited in river systems, agricultural areas, and mangrove and marine ecosystems.

10.0 PRESENT AND POTENTIAL THREATS

a.) The pervasive poverty in the locality is one of the serious concerns that need to be addressed as far as natural resource management and protection is concerned. There is a need to generate sustainable source of income among stakeholders in the lowlands so that the trees will not be looked at in terms of pesos or dollars.

b.) The poor protection system in the forest areas and slow prosecution of

violators encourage people to go to the forest for domestic and economic reasons.

c.) There is an issue on how to harmonize the provisions of the NIPAS Act and the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act (IPRA Law No. 8371) IPRA in the field level, specifically on the protection of biological diversity and with due consideration of the rights of the indigenous Peoples in Coron Island. The island is home to the Tagbanuas who were awarded a Certificate of Ancestral Domain Claim in 1988 (1204-CADC-134) of about 22,284 ha consisting of a marine area and two islands, namely Kalis and Delian.

d.) The slash – and – burn farming as practiced in several barangays.

e.) Hillside farms cutting short the fallow period or “rest periods” of abandoned kaingin, thus, further impoverishing the site through inducement of erosion.

f.) The use of fire to clear kaingin and hillside farms as a land preparation practice.

g.) The delayed implementation of the ECAN Zoning is also a cause of resources management problems. The stakeholders are not aware of the boundaries of the protected areas.

h.) The seemingly conflicting manner of resource management and protection among the national government agencies.

________________________________________________________________________ PROPOSED MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONS & MEASURES TO REHABILITATE DEGRADED ECOSYSTEMS OF CORE ZONES 25

11.0 PROPOSED MANAGEMENT PRESCRIPTIONS OF CORE ZONES

a) Firstly, define the limits of the core zone on the map and on the ground.

b) It is so important to place ground boundary delineation to enable people to

know the limits of the protected area – core zone.

c) Put markers at strategic locations along the boundary of the core zones with the information that it is off limits.

d) Continuous information and education campaign in the adjacent barangays

e) Equally important is the development or creation of sustainable livelihood for the people.

f) All of the above are bits and pieces of a well formulated protection system for the Municipality of Coron.

g) Make a detailed zoning and quantification of the whole core zone, specify the activities to be undertaken in a given area in the core zone, set the quality standards and specifications.

12.0 PROPOSED MEASURES TO REHABILITATE DEGRADED ECOSYSTEMS

Grasslands. This plant community type is a fire – climax ecosystem. This means

that burning perpetuates its biology. Therefore, once fire no longer occurs in the grasslands, other higher forms of plants invade the area through time and shade the grasses. Shading the grass species at 50% is sufficient to suppress its perpetuation. Planting of forest species that tolerate acidic soils is another approach, but protection from burning is the key.

Brushlands. A plant community type that has advanced from the grassland seral stage. When allowed to develop further, brushlands will eventually develop into secondary forest. With the introduction of shade – tolerant tree species and protection from burning, the brushlands will progressively develop into secondary forest.

Denuded forests and eroded slopes. Without human interference, a forest ecosystem could progressively develop into a higher, more complex ecosystem. The tropical rainforest is a unique terrestrial ecosystem having the tremendous capacity to regenerate, if burning is excluded. The development into a more stable, complex and functional ecosystem could be further enhanced through assisted natural regeneration.

Soil erosion in hillsides is a manifestation of loosening of the slopes. Usually, this happens when the area is devoid of vegetation, especially trees. Two approaches could be

________________________________________________________________________ SIGNIFICANT FINDINGS 26

adopted: through vegetative hillside stabilization by planting small trees. The other is through mechanical – structural approach. This entails the use of rip-raps or concrete structures or the combination of wattling and rip-raps plus planting of grasses and trees on the eroding slopes.

Kaingin Areas. The easiest and cheapest way is to let the area be regenerated by the surrounding forest stands plus protection from burning. The fastest way is to plant adapted species with the necessary cultural treatments plus protection from burning.

Encroaching upland settlements into primary and secondary forests. Understanding the root causes of illegal activities of people in the forest is the pivotal point of finding solutions to the problem. Socio – anthropologists, economists, politicians, and other sectors of society have concluded that the economic difficulty in the country, compounded by political patronage, weak enforcement of forestry law, weak and slow prosecution of forest violators are primarily the root causes of the deteriorating forest conditions in the country.

Until and unless a well formulated and adequately executed forest protection system is put in place, the forests, not only in Palawan but the whole country, will continue progressively to be plundered, decimated until degradation becomes irreversible.

13.0 SIGNIFICANT FINDINGS

a) Old growth forests were encountered in the following barangays: Parts of Borac Parts of San Nicolas

b) Wide grassland areas were encountered in the following barangays: San Jose Decalachao Guadalupe Bintuan San Nicolas

c) Significant areas of kaingin in the following barangays: Turda Marcillla Cheey San Jose

d) Barangays where there were logging operations: San Jose Cheey Decalachao

e) Barangays where Dipterocarps, ipil and other economically and environmentally important species were found:

San Nicolas Borac Sto. Niño Bintuan

________________________________________________________________________ CONCLUSION 27

f) A sub-species of mankono or iron wood (Xanthostemon spp) was encountered in Coron.

14.0 CONCLUSIONS

The number of plant species (252) encountered in Coron indicates that the municipality has high plant diversity. Out of 12 transects, 9 or 75% have high diversity index ranging from a high of 3 to very high of 4.2. The high diversity of plants in the municipality of Coron indicates that there may be more important species in those remaining patches of forest vegetations needing adequate management and protection.

The forest vegetations in Coron as shown in the results of the flora survey are strong candidates to be declared as core zones.

The remaining patches of forest stands in Coron are also the remaining environmental capital that needs to be protected and managed.

The sloping and high elevation areas in Coron are fit only for permanent vegetation – forest.

The transects that consistently belong to the top 4 in terms of the revised criteria for identifying core zones are Transects 2, 3, 7 and 9. Respectively, they have biodiversity indices of 4.03, 4.2, 3.67 and 3.98. All have high number of individuals indicating good forest cover. They also have high number of species.

Coron has 22 endangered species identified, equivalent to only 8.33% of the total species sampled. As such, this may indicate a decreasing trend in population of endangered species due to habitat destruction, or the ecosystems of Coron can harbor only that number of endangered species. However, there may be more endangered species that could be found in the forests of Coron. Either way, there comes a need to conserve these species.

Regarding the insectivorous hydrophyte (Drocera spathulata), there was only one specimen that was collected. It is very rare. There might be other individuals in the Waterfalls area of the YKR near the airport but they were not found. Being the habitat of the rare plant, this site should also be preserved.

The landscape of Coron is highly fragmented. However, there are pockets of vegetation that harbor endemic and endangered species. It is not enough to protect and conserve these habitats but also to manage the landscape so as to protect the habitats and the species therein.

There are only two locations in which the potential for core zones is high. One location is in Bgy Bintuan and the Yulo King Ranch at the northern part of Coron; and the central part of Coron where 7 barangays have been traversed by transects 7 & 9.

________________________________________________________________________ REFERENCES 28

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________________________________________________________________________ REFERENCES 29

Moody, K., C.E. Munroe, R.T. Lubigan, E.C. Jr. Paller. 1984. Major Weeds of the Philippines. Weed Science Society of the Philippines UPLB, College Laguna. p. 328

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Rojo, Justo P., Eustaquio G. Aragones, Jr. 1997. Philippine Dipterocarps: Botanical Identification Handbook. FPRDI – DOST. p 97

Salvosa, Felipe M. 1963. Lexicon of Philippine Trees. FPRDI UP. p.136

Santos, Jose V., Enriquito D. De Guzman, Edwino S. Fernando. 1986. Guide to Philippine Flora and Fauna Vol. I: Bamboos, Grasses and Palms. p. 255

Seeber, G., H.J. Weidelt, and V.S. Banaag. 1979. Dendrological Characters of Important Forest Trees from Eastern Mindanao. GTZ Eschborn Philippine - German Rainforest Development Project.

Seidenschwarz, Franz. 1994. Plant World of the Philippines. An illustrated Dictionary of Visayan Plant Names with their Scientific, Tagalog and English Equivalents, University of San Carlos, Cebu City Palawan p. 368

Zamora, Precillano M. and Leonardo Co. 1986. Guide to Philippine Flora and Fauna Vol. II: Economic Ferns, Endemic Ferns and Gymnosperms. p 273

________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 30

ANNEXES Annex 1. Coron Pictures

Banga Palm, Orania paraguayensis, is an endangered palm of Coron

________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 31

Dolo, (Fagraea cochinchinensis) a common species in Coron is used for posts and house construction

Kalaum (Syzygium ixoides) is another endangered species in Coron listed under the IUCN

________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 32

Wild Santan, Ixora sp, is another IUCN listed plant in Coron. Note the longer petals and peduncle that differentiate it from its ornamental cousins.

Landscape of the Yulo King Ranch in Coron

________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 33

Coron landscape. Note the watershed at the right side

Typical Coron mountain where it is bald to the peak and vegetated at the slopes.

________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 34

Kabkab, Drynaria quercifolia, CITES listed, in the YKR in Coron.

Forest over chert & limestone. Note the crooked growth of the trees. Forest line in San Nicolas, Coron.

________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 35

A rare Insectivorous hydrophyte found in the YKR Waterfalls, Coron, identified as Drocera spathulata.

Habitat of the Drocera spathulata, Waterfalls YKR, Coron

________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 36

Reforestation site in San Nicolas, Coron planted to Acacia mangium

Natural stand of Mapilig (aka Mancono), Xanthostemon bracteatus, near the Coron dumpsite in Bgy Guadalupe.

________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 37

Mapilig, a.k.a. Mancono, Xanthostemon bracteatus, a rare species under IUCN, is quite common in Coron

The true Mancono, X. verdugonianus, is the more endangered species. Note the narrower leaves and finer pistils compared to the Mapilig.

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 38

Annex 2. Checklist of Angiosperms (Non-monocots Paleoherbs and Dicots) of Coron, Palawan

FAMILY SPECIES LOCAL NAME COMMON NAME ECONOMIC/ECOLOGICAL

IMPORTANCE ECOLOGICAL

STATUS PIPERACEAE

Peperomia pellucida (L.) HBK.

Pansit-pansitan Medicinal Common

Piper betle L. Ikmo Medicinal Common Piper interruptum Opiz var.

interruptum

Pamintang aso Species Diversity Common Piper interruptum Opiz var.

loheri (C.DC.) Quis.

Litlit Species Diversity Common Piper nigrum L. Paminta Food Additives Common ANGIOSPERMS (DICOTS)

MAGNOLIACEAE *Magnolia coco (Lour.) DC. Magnolia Ornamental Common *Michelia alba DC. Champakang puti Ornamental Rare *Michelia champaca L. Champaka Ornamental Rare Talauma villariana Rolfe Patangis Species Diversity Rare ANNONACEAE *Annona muricata L. Guyabano Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common

*Annona reticulata L. Anonas Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common *Annona squamosa L. Atis Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common Cananga odorata (Lamk.)

Hook. f. & Thoms

Ilang – ilang Medicinal, Essential oils Common Goniothalamus amuyom

(Blanco) Merr.

Amuyong Light Construction Common Miliusa vidalii Sinc. Takulau Light Construction Rare Papualthia lancealata (Vid.)

Merr.

Anolang Fences Common Phaeanthus ebracteolatus

(Presl,) Merr.

Kalimatas Light Construction Rare

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 39



STATUS Polyalthia flava Merr. Yellow lanutan Light Construction Rare *Polyalthia longifolia Benth.

& Hook.f.

Indian lanutan Ornamental Common Mitrephora weberi Merr. Species Diversity Indeterminate MYRISTICACEAE Knema glomerata

(Blanco)Merr.

Tambalau Light Construction Rare Myristica elliptica Wall ex

Hook f. & Thoms.var. simiarum (A.DC.)Sincl.

Tanghas Light Construction Rare Myristica philippinensis Lam. Duguan Light Construction Rare LAURACEAE *Cinnamomum mercadoi Vid. Kalingag Food Additives Rare Litsea perrottetii (Blume) F.-

Vill

Marang Edible Fruit Rare Litsea sebifera Blume Sablot Light Construction Indeterminate *Persea gratissima Gaertn. Avocado Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common MENISPERMACEAE Arcangelisia flava (L.) Merr. Albutra Medicinal Common VITACEAE (LEEACEAE)

Cayratia trifolia (L.) quis. Alangingi Species Diversity Common Leea aculeata Blume ex

Spreng

Amamali Species Diversity Common Leea guineensis G. Don Mali-mali Species Diversity Common Leea philippinensis Merr. Kaliantan Species Diversity Common Tetrastigma harmandii

Planch.

Ayo Species Diversity Common Tetrastigma loheri Gagnep. Loher’s ayo Species Diversity Common Allophylus lopezii Merr. Species Diversity Common Cissus simplex Blanco Species Diversity Common Columella geniculata (Blume)

Merr.

Sampang Species Diversity Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 40



STATUS NYCTAGINACEAE *Bougainvillea spectabilis

Willd.

Bougainvillea Ornamental Common *Pisonia grandis R. Br. Maluko Light Construction Common POLYGONACEAE *Triplaris cumingiana Fisch.

& Mey.

Palosanto Light Construction Common LORANTHACEAE Loranthus philippinensis

Cham & Schlecht.

Dapong kahoy Species Diversity Common OLACACEAE Strombosia philippinensis

(Bail.) Rolfe.

Tamayuan Light Construction Rare CELASTRACEAE Euonymus javanicus Blume Malasangki Light Construction Rare ICACINACEAE Gomphandra luzoniensis

(Merr.)Merr.

Mabunot Light Construction Rare Gonocaryum calleryanum

(Baill.)Becc

Taingang babui Light Construction Rare Rare MALPHIGIACEAE Xanthophyllum excelsum (BI.)

Miq. Anono, Bagaulan,; Managbak (Tagb.) Banig (Tag.) Common

CLUSIACEAE (GUTTIFERAE)

Calophyllum blancoi Pi. & Tr. Bitanghol General Construction Rare

Calophyllum inophyllum L. Palomaria Bitaog General Construction Rare Cratoxylum formusum (Jack)

Dyer

Salingogon Light Construction Common Cratoxylum sumatranum

(Jack) Dyer

Paguringon Light Construction Common Garcinia binucao (Blanco)

Choisy

Binukaw Food Additives, Light Construction Common Garcinia dives Pierre Pildes Light Construction Rare Garcinia dulcis (Roxb.)Kurz Taklang anak Light Construction Rare Garcinia busuanganensis

Merr.

Indeterminate Garcinia sulphurea Elm. Indeterminate Garcinia venulosa (Blanco)

Choisy

Gatasan Light Construction Rare

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 41



STATUS EUPHORBIACEAE Acalypha amentacea Roxb. Bogus Species Diversity Common Antidesma bunius (L.) Spreng Bignai Fruit for Wine Making Rare Antidesma ghaesembilla

Gaertn.

Binayuyu Species Diversity Common Antidesma impressinerve Inyam Species Diversity Common Antidesma pentandrum

(Blanco) Merr.

Bignai pugo Species Diversity Common Antidesma pleuricum Tul. Bignai kalabaw Species Diversity Rare Bischofia javanica Blume Tuai General Construction Rare Bridelia penangiana Hook. f. Subiang Light Construction Rare Drypetes subcrenata (Merr.)

Pax & K. Hoffm.

Kari-kari Species Diversity Rare Endospermum peltatum Merr.

Gubas Novelties, Pulp and Paper, Light Wood Materials Rare

*Hevea brasiliensis (HBK.) Muell. Arg.

Para rubber Source of Rubber Common

Homolanthus populneus (Geisel.) Pax.

Balanti Species Diversity Common

Homonoia riparia Haw Agooi Species Diversity Common Macaranga bicolor Meull.

Arg.

Hamindang Light Construction Common Macaranga grandifolia

(Blanco.)Merr.

Takip asin Light Construction Common Macaranga tanarius (L.)

Muell. Arg.

Binunga Light Construction Common Mallotus philippinensis

(Lam.)Muell. Arg.

Banato Light Construction Rare Mallotus ricinoides (Pers.)

Muell. Arg.

Hinlaumo Species Diversity Common Melanolepis multiglandulosa

(Reinw.Ex Blume.) Reichb.f. & Zol.

Alim General Construction Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 42



STATUS Neotrewia cumingii (Muell.

Arg.) Pax & K. Hoffm.

Apanang Novelties and Light Construction Rare Phylanthus debilis Klein &

Willd. Sampa-sampalukan Species Diversity Common

Phylanthus reticulatus Poir. Tinta-tintahan Species Diversity Common Reutealis trisperma (Blanco)

Airy Shaw

Baguilumbang Species Diversity Common Sapium luzonicum (Vid.)

Merr.

Balakat gubat General Construction Rare Trigonostemon philippinensis

Stapf.

Katap Light Construction Common RHIZOPHORACEAE Carallia branchiate (Lour.)

Merr.

Bakauan gubat Light Contruction Rare PASSIFLORACEAE Passiflora foetida L. Karunggut Edible Fruit Common CHRYSOBALANACEAE Atuna racemosa Raf. Tabon-tabon Light Construction Rare Maranthes corymbosa Blume. Liusin General Construction Rare FLACOURTIACEAE Pangium edule Reinw. ex.

Blume.

Pangi Light Construction Common Taraktogenos heterophylla

(Blume) van Slooten Magluhi

Batu-bato Species Diversity Indeterminate OXALIDACEAE *Averrhoa bilimbi L.

Kamias Edible Fruit, Food Additives and Medicinal Common

*Averrhoa carambola L. Balimbing Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common

DATISCACEAE Octomeles sumatrana Miq. Binuang Light Construction Common FABACEAE ( LEGUMINOSAE, MIMOSACEAE, CAESALPINIACEAE)

*Acacia auriculiformis A. Cunn. ex Benth.

Acacia General Construction Common *Acacia farnesiana ( L.)

Willd.

Aroma Light Construction Common *Acacia mangiumWilld. Mangium General Construction Common Adenathera favonina Merr. Malatanglin Light Construction Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 43



STATUS Afzelia borneensis Harris Malaipil General Construction Rare Afzelia rhomboidea (Blanco.)

Vid.

Tindalo General Construction Rare Albizia acle (Blanco.) Merr. Akle General Construction Endangered Albizia procera (Roxb.)

Benth.

Akleng parang Light Construction Rare Archidendron scutiferum

(Blanco)Nielsen

Anagap Light Construction Rare Archidendron clypearia

(Jack.) Nielsen

Tiagkot Light Construction Rare *Bauhinia acuminate L. Kulibangbang Landscape Plant Common Bauhinia integrifolia Roxb. Agpoi Rope Making, Handicraft Common Bauhinia malabarica Roxb. Alibangbang Light Construction, Food Additives Common *Caesalpinia pulcherrima (L.)

Swartz.

Caballero Ornamental Common *Calliandra haematocephala

Hassk.

Fireball Ornamental Common * Cassia fistula L. Golden shower Ornamental Common Cassia occidentalis L. Balatong-aso Species Diversity Common Cassia tora L. Maning aso Species Diversity Common *Clitoria ternatea L. Pukinggang baging Species Diversity Common Koompasia excelsa Manggis General Construction Endangered Cynometra ramiflora L. Balitbitan Ornamental Endangered *Delonix regia (Boj. Ex

Hook.) Raf.

Fire tree Ornamental Common Dioclea reflexa Hook. Bai (Ig.) Species Diversity Common Entalada phaseoloides (L.)

Merr.

Gogo Soap Making, Handicraft Endangered *Erythrina crista galli L. Dapdap palong Ornamental Common Erythrina orientais (L.) Murr. Dapdap Ornamental Common *Gliricidia sepium (acq.)

Walp.

Kakauate Light Construction Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 44



STATUS Instia bijuga (Colebr.) O.

Ktze.

Ipil General Construction Endangered Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.)

de Wit.

Ipil-Ipil Light Construction, Fuel Wood Common Moghania strobilifera (L.) St-

Hill. ex jacobs.

Payang –payang Species Diversity Common Parkia roxburghii G. Don. Kupang Light Construction Common Peltrophorum pterocarpum

(DC.)Back & Heyne.

Siar Light Construction Rare *Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.)

Benth.

Kamachile Edible Fruit Common Pongamia pinnata (L.) Merr. Bani Medicinal, Light Construction Common Pterocarpus indicus Willd

formaindicus

Smooth narra General Construction Endangered Pterocarpus indicus Willd.

forma echinatus (Pers.)Rojo.

Prickly narra General Construction Endangered *Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr Rain tree

. General Construction Common *Sesbania gradiflora (L.)

Pers.

Katurai Edible Flowers and Agroforestry Common *Tamarindus indica L.

Sampalok Edible Fruits, Food Additives, Medicinal Common

Wallaceodendron celebicum Steen. Koord.

Banuyo General Construction Endangered

CASUARINACEAE Casuarina equisetifolia Forst. Agoho General Contruction, Ornamental Endangered Gymnostoma rumphianum

(Miq.) L. Johnson

Agoho del monte General Contruction, Ornamental Endangered FAGACEAE Lithocarpus ovalis (Blanco)

Rehd

Manggasiriki Light Construction Rare CELTIDACEAE Celtis luzonica Warb. Magabuyo General Contruction Rare Celtis philippinensis Blanco Malaikmo General Contruction Rare Trema orientalis (L.) Blume Anabiong Light Construction Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 45



STATUS ROSACEAE Prunus grisea (C. Muell.) Kal

km.

Lago General Construction Common Angelesia splendens Korth. Balik (P. Bis.),

Dangigan (S.L. Bis.) Species Diversity Indeterminate

RHAMNACEAE Zizyphus talanai (Blanco.) Merr.

Balakat General Construction Rare

CECROPIACEAE Poikilospermum erectum (Blanco) Merr.

Hanopol tindig Species Diversity Common

Poikillospermum suaveulens (Blume.) Merr.

Hanopol Species Diversity Common

MORACEAE *Artocarpus altilis (Park.) Fosb.

Rimas Edible Fruit Rare

Artocarpus blancoi (Elm.) Merr.

Antipolo General Construction Common

*Artocarpus communis J. R. & G. Forst.

Kamansi Edible Fruit Common

Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.

Nangka Edible Fruit, General Construction Common

Artocarpus odoratisimus Blanco.

Marang banguhan General Construction Common

Artocarpus ovatus Blanco. Anubing General Construction Common Artocarpus rubrovenius Warb. Kalulot Light Construction Common Broussonetia luzonica

(Blanco.) Burr.

Himbabao Light Construction Common Ficus benjamina L. Salisi Ornamental Common Ficus botryocarpa Miq. Basikong Species Diversity Common Ficus botryocarpa Miq.

var.linearrifolia(Elm.)Corner

Basikong kalauang Species Diversity Common Ficus collosa Willd. Kalukoi Ornamental Common Ficus congesta Roxb. Malatibig Species Diversity Common Ficus gul Laut. & K. Schum. Butli Species Diversity Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 46



STATUS Ficus heteropoda Miq. Alangas Species Diversity Common Ficus irisana Elm. Aplas Light Construction Common Ficus magnoliifolia Blume. Kanapai Light Construction Common Ficus minahassae (Tejism &

de Vr.)

Hagimit Species Diversity Common Ficus nota (Blanco) Merr. Tibig Species Diversity Common Ficus orodata (Blanco) Merr. Pakiling Species Diversity Common Ficus pseudopalma Blanco Niog-niogan Edible Leaves Common Ficus pubinervis Blume Dungo Light Construction Common Ficus septica Burm. f. Hauili Species Diversity Common Ficus ulmifolia Lam. Is-is Species Diversity Common Ficus variegate Blume. Tangisang bayawak Species Diversity Common Ficus variegata

Blume.var.sycomoroides (Miq.)Corner

Dolalo Species Diversity Common Streblus asper Lour. Kalios Ornamental Common URTICACEAE Leucosyke capitellata(Poir.)

Wedd.

Alagasi Species Diversity Common *Pilea microphylla (L.) Liebm. Alabong Species Diversity Common Pipturus arborescens (Link)

C.B Rob.

Dalunot Species Diversity Common COMBRETACEAE Terminalia catappa L. Talisai Landscape Plant, Edible Fruits Common Terminalia foetidissima Griff. Talisai gubat Light Construction Rare Terminalia microcarpa Decne Kalumpit Edible Fruit Rare Terminalia nitens Presl. Taket Sakat Light Construction Rare LYTHRACEAE *Cuphea hyssopifolia HBK. Singapore bush Ornamental Common *Lagerstroemia indica L. Melendres Ornamental Common Largerstroemia speciosa (L.)

Pers.

Banaba Ornamental, Medicinal Rare *Punica granatum L. Pomegranate Ornamental, Medicinal Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 47



STATUS MELASTOMATACEAE MYRTACEAE *Psidium guajava L. Bayabas Guava Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common Syzygium calubcob

(C.B.Rob.) Merr.

Kalubkob Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels Duhat Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common Syzygium ixoides Kilaum Kalaum Ornamenral; fuelwood Indeterminate Syzygium nitidum Benth. Makaasim Light Construction Rare *Syzygium samarangense

(Blume) Merr. & Perry

Makopa Edible Fruit Common Syzygium simile (Merr.) Merr. Panglomboien Light Construction Common MORINGACEAE * Moringa oleifera Lam. Malungai Edible Leaves and Fruits, Medicinal Common CARICACEAE *Carica papaya L. Papaya Edible Fruits Common DILLENIACEAE Dillenia luzoniensis (Vid.)

Martelli

Malakatmon Light Construction Endangered Dillenia philippinensis Rolfe Katmon Edible Fruits, General Construction Endangered Tetracera scandens (L.) Merr. Katmon baging Species Diversity Common DIPTEROCARPACEAE Dipterocarpus grandiflorus

Blanco

Apitong General Construction Endangered Hopea plagata (Blanco) Vid Yakal-Saplungan General Construction Endangered Shorea astylosa Foxw. Yakal General Construction Endangered MALVACEAE (STERCULIACEAE, BOMBACACEAE, TILIACEAE)

*Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn.

American kapok Furniture making Common Colona serratifolia Cav. Anilau Species Diversity Common Commersonia bartramia (L.)

Merr.

Kakaag Species Diversity Common Corchorus acutangulus Lam. Saluyot Edible Leaves, Medicinal Common Grewia acuminata Juss. Bagun, Alagau

(Tagb.) Alagat, Danloi (Tag.) Species Diversity Indeterminate Grewia eriocarpa Juss. Baronhasi, kanas-kanas (Tag.) Species Diversity Indeterminate

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 48



STATUS Heritiera littoralis Ait. Dungon late Light Construction Rare Heritiera sylvatica Vid. Dungon Light Construction Rare Hibiscus camphylosiphon

Turcz. var.glabrescens (Warb.ex Perk.) Borss.

Vidal’s lanutan Light Construction Indeterminate *Hibiscus rosa-sinensis L. Gumamela Ornamental Common Hibiscus schizopetalus

(M.T.Mast.)Hook.f.

Gumamela de araña Ornamental Common Hibiscus tiliaceus L. Malubago Light Construction Indeterminate Kleinhovia hospita L. Tan-ag Light Construction Common *Muntingia calabura L. Datiles Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common Pterocymbium tinctorium

(Blanco) Merr.

Taluto General Construction Common Pterospermum obliquum

Blanco

Kulatingan Light Construction Rare Pterospermum celebicum Miq. Bayok-bayokan Light Construction Rare Pterospermum diversifolium

Blume

Bayok Light Construction Rare *Sida acuta Burm. f. Walis-walisan Species Diversity Common *Sida rhombifolia L. Takling baka Species Diversity Common Sterculia crassiramea Merr. Tapinag Light Construction Rare Sterculia foetida L. Kalumpang Light Construction Rare Sterculia montana Merr. Mountain tapinag Light Construction Rare Sterculia oblongata R. Br. Malabuho Light Construction Rare Sterculia philippinensis Merr. Banilad Pulp and Paper Rare' *Theobroma cacao L. Cacao Edible Fruit, Medicinal Common *Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacq. Kulot-kulotan Species Diversity Common *Urena lobata L. Kollo-kollot Species Diversity Common ELAEOCARPACEAE Elaeocarpus candollei Elm. Impaparai (Tagb.) Impaparai Species Diversity Common Elaeocarpus grandiflorus Sm. Species Diversity Common BIXACEAE *Bixa orellana L. Achuete Food Additives and Coloring Common SAPINDACEAE Allophyllus lopezii Merr. Species Diversity Indeterminate

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 49



STATUS Guioa koelreuteria

(Blanco)Merr.

Alahan Light Construction Common Litchi chinensis Sonn ssp.

philippinensis Radlk.Leenh.

Alupag Light Construction Common Mischocarpus pentapetalus

(Roxb.)Radlk.

Ambalag Light Construction Common Pometia pinnata Forst. &

Forst.

Malugai Light Construction Rare Pomelia pinnata Forst. &

Forst. forma repanda Jacobs

Malugai liitan Light Construction Rare Sapindus saponaria L. forma

microcarpa Radlk.

Kusibeng Light Construction Rare BURSERACEAE Canarium asperum Benth. Pagsahingin Light Construction, Source of Elemi Rare Canarium calophyllum Perk. Pagsahingin bulog Light Construction, Source of Elemi Rare ANACARDIACEAE *Anacardium occidentale L. Kasoy Edible Fruit Common Buchanania arborescens

(Blume) Blume

Balinghasai Light Construction Rare Buchanania nitida Engl. Balitantan Light Construction Rare Dracontomelon dao (Blanco)

Merr.

Dao General Construction Rare Dracontomelon edule (

Blanco) Skeels.

Lamio General Construction Rare Koordersiodendron pinnatum

(Blanco) Merr.

Amugis General Construction Rare Mangifera altissima Blanco Pahutan General Construction Rare *Mangifera indica L. Mangga Edible Fruit Common Spondias purpurea L. Sineguelas Edible Fruit Common MELIACEAE Aglaia edulis (Roxb.) Wall. Malasaging Light Construction Rare Aglaia rimosa (Blanco) Merr. Bayanti Light Construction Rare Aphanamixis polystachya

(Wall.)R.N. Parker

Kangko Light Construction Rare *Azadirachta indica A. Juss. Neem tree Light Construction Rare

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 50



STATUS Chisocheton cumingianus

(C.DC.) Harms.ssp. cumingianus

Balukanag Light Construction Rare Chisocheton pentandrus

(Blanco) Merr.ssp. pentandrus

Katong matsing Light Construction Rare Dysoxylum arborescens

(Blume)Miq.

Kalimutain Light Construction Rare Dysoxylum cumingianum

C.DC.

Tara-tara Light Construction Rare Lansium domesticum Correa Himamao Light Construction Rare Sandoricum vidallii Santol - gubat Malasantol Light Construction Common Sandoricum koetjape (Burm.f.)

Merr.

Santol Edible Fruits, Novelties, Light Construction Common

Dysoxylum turczaninowii Kayatao Kayatau

IUCN listed; vulnerable

*Swietenia macrophylla King Big leaf mahogany General Construction Common Toona calantas Merr. & Rolfe Kalantas General Construction Rare RUTACEAE Citrus grandis (L.) Osb. Lukban Edible Fruit Common Citrus madurensis Lour. Kalamunding Edible Fruit Common Clausena brevistyla Oliv. Kalomata Edible Fruit Rare Evodia confusa Merr. Bugauak Light Construction Rare Melicope triphylla (Lam.)

Merr.

Matang-araw Species Diversity Common Murraya paniculata Jack Kamuning Ornamental Rare SIMAROUBACEAE Ailanthus integrifolia Lam. Malasapsap Light Construction Rare EBENACEAE Diospyros ferrea (Willd.)

Bakh.

Ebony General Construction Endangered Diospyros philippinensis

(Desr.)Gurke

Kamagong General Construction Endangered Diospyros pilosanthera

Blanco

Bolong eta General Construction Endangered Diospyros pyrrhocarpa Miq. Anang General Construction Endangered MYRSINACEAE Ardisia clementis Presl. Katagpo Species Diversity Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 51



STATUS Ardisia pyramidalis (Cav.)

Pers.

Aunasin Ornamental Common Ardisia squamulosa Elm. Tagpo Species Diversity Common SAPOTACEAE Chrysophyllum cainito L. Caimito Edible Fruits Common Madhuca betis

(Blanco)Macbr.&Merr.

Betis Light Construction Rare *Manilkara sapota (L.) Royer. Chico Edible Fruits Common Mimusops elengi L. Bansalagin Light Construction Rare Palaquium foxworthyi Merr. Tagotoi Light Construction Rare Palaquium luzoniense (F.Vill.)

Vid.

Nato Light Construction Rare Palaquium merrillii Dub. Dulitan Light Construction Rare Planchonella nitida (Blume)

Dub.

Duklitan Light Construction Rare Pouteria macrantha

(Merr.)Baenhi

White Nato Light Construction Rare *Pouteria rivicoa (Gaertn.f.)

Ducke

Tiesa Edible Fruits Common THEACEAE Camelia lanceolata

(Blume)Seem.

Haikan Species Diversity Rare LECYTHIDACEAE Barringtonia asiatica (L.)Kurz Botong Ornamental Rare Barringtonia racemosa (L.)

Blume ex DC.

Putat Ornamental Common SOLANACEAE Cestrum nocturnum L. Dama de Noche Ornamental Common Datura metel L. Talong punay Species Diversity Common Solanum biflorum Lour. Bagan bagan Species Diversity Common Solanum ferox L. Talong gubat Species Diversity Common Solanum torvum Sw. Talong-talungan Species Diversity Common COVOLVULACEAE Ipomea batatas (L.) Lamk. Kamote Sweet potato Edible Leaves , Rootcrops Common Ipomea pes-caprae (L.) R.Br. Lambayong Species Diversity Common Ipomea purpurea (L.)Roth Morning glory Ornamental Common Merremia peltata (L.) Merr. Bulakan Species Diversity Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 52



STATUS Merremia vitifolia

(Burm.f.)Hall.f.

Kalalaknit Species Diversity Common APOCYNACEAE Dischidia tonsa Schltr. Species Diversity Indeterminate Alstonia macrophylla Wall.ex

DC.

Batino Light Construction Common Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br. Dita Light Construction Common *Catharanthus roseus

(L.)G.Don

Chichirica Ornamental, Medicinal Common Ervatamia mucronata

(Merr.)Markgr.

Taparak Species Diversity Common Ervatamia pandacaqui

(Poir)Pich.

Pandakaki Medicinal Common Ichnocarpus volubilis Merr. Hingiw Rope Making, Handicrafts Common Kibatalia gitingensis

(Elm.)Woods.

Laneteng gubat Light Construction Rare Voacanga globosa (Blanco)

Merr.

Bayag usa Species Diversity Rare Wrightia pubescens R.Br. ssp.

laniti (Blanco) Ngan

Lanete Light Construction Rare LOGANIACEAE Fagraea cochinchinensis

(Lour.)A. Chev. Dolo, Dulo, Uling (Tagb.); Susulin (Tag.) Dolo Posts, beams, fence posts Endangered

RUBIACEAE Anthocephalus chinensis (Lamk.) Rich.ex Walp

Kaatoan bangkal Light Construction Rare

Hedyotis asperrima (Merr.) Merr.

Species Diversity Common

Hedyotis costata (Roxb.) Kurz Species Diversity Common Uncaria insignis DC. Bungkauit Species Diversity Common Myrmeconauclea strigosa

(Korth) Merr.

Amontong Species Diversity Rare Gardenia lagunensis Merr. Makaboyo Species Diversity Rare

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 53



STATUS Gardenia merrilli Elm. bagaoi (P.Bis);

Niog-niog (P.Bis); Tayakan (Mang.)

Ligad – ligad Species Diversity Rare

Gardenia pseudopsidium (Blanco) F.-Vill.

Gilikak, Klapi (Tag.) Bayag- usa, Species Diversity Rare

Prismatomeris obtusifolia Merr.

Species Diversity Rare

Lasianthus cyanocarpus Jack Maratagata (Neg.) Species Diversity Rare *Coffea Arabica L. Kape Beverages Common Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. Rosal Ornamental Common Gardenia longiflora Vid. Balanigan (Tagb.);

Kalmala, Balanigan Ornamental Rare Hedyotis biflora (L.) Lam. Hedyotis Species Diversity Common *Ixora chinensis Lam. Santan Ornamental Common Morinda bracteata Roxb. Nino Species Diversity Common Mussaenda philippica A. Rich. Kahoy dalaga Ornamental Rare Nauclea orientalis (L.) L. Bangkal Light Construction Common Neonauclea bartlingii (DC.)

Merr.

Lisak Light Construction Rare Neonauclea calycina (Bartl.)

Merr.

Kalamansanai Light Construction Rare Neonauclea media (Havil.)

Merr.

Wisak Light Construction Rare OLEACEAE Jasminum sambac (L.) Ait. Sampaguita Ornamental, Essential Oils Common BIGNONIACEAE *Spathodea campanulata

Beauv.

African tulip Ornamental Rare LAMIACEAE (VERBENACEAE)

Clerodendrum intermedium Cham.

Kasupangil Ornamental Common

*Gmelina arborea Roxb. Gmelina General Construction Common Premna odorata Blanco Alagau Medicinal Common

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 54



STATUS *Tectona grandis L.f. Teak General Construction, Pulp and Paper Common Vitex negundo L. Lagundi Medicinal Common Vitex parviflora Juss. Molawin Molave General Construction Rare Viticipremna philippinensis

(Turcz.) H.J.Lam.

Lingo-lingo General Construction Rare VERBENACEAE *Lantana camara L. Coronitas Species Diversity Common ARALIACEAE *Brassaia actinophylla Endl. Octopus tree Ornamental Common Polyscias nodosa (Blume.)

Seem.

Malapapaya Light Contrustion Common *Polyscias ornatum (Bull.)

Meer.

Yellow Papua Ornamental Common Schefflera orodata (Blanco)

Merr.& Rolfe

Galamay –amo Ornamental Common PITTOSPORACEAE Pittosporum pentandrum

(Blanco)Merr.

Mamalis Light Construction Rare GOODENIACEAE Scaevola frutescens (Mill.)

Krause Balak-balak, Balok-balok Bokabok Species Diversity Common

ASTERACEAE *Chromolaena odorata (L.)

R.M King & H. Rob.

Hagonoy Species Diversity Common Mikania cordata (Burm.f.)

B.L.Rob.

Uoko Species Diversity Common Tithonia diversifolia Asa Gray Wild sunflower Species Diversity Common Vernonia vidalii Merr. Malasambong Species Diversity Common Vernonia pyrrhopappa

Schulz- Bip ex Klatt

Species Diversity Common *This Checklist is only partial and exclusive for the whole Coron, Palawan Forest Plant Taxonomy. The families and species of this ecosystems can be found distruibutedly in the Municipality. The Classification follow the New Classification System of Angiosperm Phylogeny Group, Annals of the Missouri Botanical Gardens 85: 531 – 553 ( 1998 ). Other Information are taken from the various references of Philippine Flora.This intend for the use of ECAN Zoning Component-SEMP, PCSDS, February, 2004 ** Biodiversity and Taxonomy Specialist, ECAN Zoning Component-SEMP, PCSDS, February, 2004 *** Research Assistant, ECAN Zoning Component-SEMP, PCSDS, February, 2004

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 55

Annex 3. Checklist of Gymnosperms of Coron, Palawan

Family Species Local Name Common name Economic / Ecological

Importance Ecological Status CYCADS

CYCADACEAE

*Cycas revoluta Thunb. Oliva Ornamental Common

Cycas rumphii Miq. Pitogo Ornamental Rare

Cycas edentata de Laub. Pitogong dagat Ornamental Rare

Cycas circinalis Miq. Pitogo Ornamental, Edible Seeds and Leaves , Medicinal

Rare/ Endemic

CONIFERS

ARAUCARIACEAE

Agathis celebica (Koord.) Warb.

Bagtik (Kuy.), Baltik (Tagb.)

Palawan almaciga Endagered

Agathis philippinensis Warb.

Bagtik (Kuy.), Baltik (Tagb.)

Almaciga Manila Copal, Contruction, Novelties, Pulpand Paper, Veneer

Endagered

*Araucaria columnaris (Forst) Hook.

Auracaria Ornamental Plant Common

*Araucaria heterophylla (Salisb.)Franco

Norfolk Island pine Ornamental Plant Common

CUPRESSACEAE

*Platycladus orientalis (L.) Franco

Arbor vitae Ornamental Plant Common

GNETACEAE

Gnetum gnemon L. Bago Fiber for Rope Making, Edible

Fruit and Leaves Rare

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ANNEXES 56

Family Species Local Name Common name Economic / Ecological

Importance Ecological Status PODOCARPACEAE

Podocarpus polystachyus R. Br. ex Endl.

Bantigi (Neg.), Inamagyo (Tagb.)

Common

Podocarpus neriifolius D. Don ex Lamb.

Malaadelfa (Tag.) Ornamental Common

*This Checklist is only partial and exclusive for the whole Busuanga, Palawan Forest Plant Taxonomy. The families and species of this ecosystems can be found distributed in the Municipality. The Classification follows the system of A. Cronquist, The Evolution and Classification of Flowerng Plants. Other Information are taken from the various references of Philippine Flora. This is intended for the use of ECAN Zoning Component-SEMP, PCSDS, April, 2004 ** Biodiversity and Taxonomy Specialist, ECAN Zoning Component-SEMP, PCSDS, February, 2004 *** Research Assistant, ECAN Zoning Component-SEMP, PCSDS, February, 2004

Documents

FLORA SURVEY AND BIODIVERSITY MUNICIPALITY OF CORON Flora Final Report.pdf · To the southeast are Tagumpay, Borac, Turda, and Marcilla. The YKR ( Yulo Kings Ranch ) although not