Preserving the Biodiversity of Ulot Riparian Zones: A Continuing Collaborative Research Initiative in Samar Island Natural Park

May 06, 2024

Written by Anne Frances Buhay

The project “Biodiversity Assessment of the Riparian Zone in Ulot River in the Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) Kaigangan” started in January 2024 and is made possible through funding by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD) through the Grants-in-Aid Program (GIA), monitored by the Forestry and Environment Research Division (FERD). The study was initially led by Dr. Inocencio E. Buot Jr and served as the project leader. In May 2024, the leadership was transferred to Dr. Maria Celeste N. Banaticla-Hilario. With her is the dedicated team comprising of a Project Technical Specialist IV and Co-Project Leader, Ms. Anne Frances V. Buhay; a Project Staff, Ms. Lailani Masungsong; and CIP Graduate Fellow, Ms. Marne Origenes.

This project is an extension of the CONserve-KAIGANGAN Program that began in 2019. It represents a collaborative effort between the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB), Samar State University (SSU), Eastern Samar State University-Borongan (ESSU-Borongan), and local people’s organizations including Basaranan nga Organisasyon han San Isidro Samar (BOSIS) and the Tourguide and Boat Operators for Environmental Development Organization (TORPEDO). With the support of these institutions and organizations, the research team aims to better understand and preserve the biodiversity of the riparian zone along the Ulot River, the longest river in the Samar Island Natural Park.

Last April 22, 2024, the FERD team visited the location of the plot establishments as part of project monitoring. From April 24 to May 03, 2024, the research team, which includes Anne Frances Buhay and Marne Origenes from UPLB, Dr. Noba Hilvano of ESSU-Borongan, and Dr. Edelyn Echapare of SSU, conducted primary data gathering. During this period, they collected data on woody plant species and primary pollinators, such as insects and birds. These data are crucial for assessing the biodiversity of the riparian zone and developing conservation strategies to protect this unique ecosystem. The collaboration and fieldwork underscore the commitment to conserving the rich biodiversity of Samar Island. The research findings from this project will play a significant role in strengthening the nomination of SINP as a UNESCO World Heritage Park.

Promoting Ulot Watershed Conservation by Sharing Biodiversity Information to the Community

September 30, 2024

Written by Anne Frances Buhay

The third phase of the CONserve KAIGANGAN was made possible through the project Biodiversity Assessment of Riparian Zone in Ulot River in Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) Kaigangan, funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD). The project aimed to assess the floral biodiversity of the Ulot River in SINP and develop sustainable conservation practices to reduce climate change impacts and flood risks. It focused on studying the river’s morphology, biodiversity, and ecological properties, and identifying priority conservation zones using GIS technology. The target beneficiaries of this research were the local communities residing near the Ulot River.

A seminar was held at the headquarters of the local PO, Basaranan nga Organisasyon han San Isidro Samar (BOSIS), to share preliminary findings from the research activities. BOSIS has been an active partner with CONserve-KAIGANGAN since the project’s inception. Another key partner is the Tour Guides & Boat Operators for River Protection & Environmental Development Organization (TORPEDO), which focuses on ecotourism activities along the Ulot River. Additionally, the Tenani Association for Women and Development (TAWAD) offers tour guide services within the SINP.
Project Technical Specialist Anne Frances Buhay presented an overview of the Ulot Watershed, including general information and maps highlighting its general characteristics. She emphasized the significance of maintaining a healthy watershed and enumerated the benefits and ecosystem services it provides to the local community. Ms. Buhay also presented the flood-prone areas within the watershed, alerting the POs of potential hazards in Samar and Eastern Samar.

Following her presentation, Project Leader Dr. Maria Celeste Banaticla-Hilario, shared preliminary results of the floral and faunal inventories conducted in the riparian zones of the Ulot River. She emphasized the importance of biodiversity in the area and discussed the research study sites, and the species identified, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the Ulot Riparian Ecosystem. Dr. Banaticla-Hilario also explained the threats facing the ecosystem and their impacts on both the environment and the local community. She concluded the seminar by challenging the participants to be actively involved in the conservation and sustainable management of the Ulot Riparian Ecosystem’s natural resources.

Strengthening Partnerships: POs of Samar Join Forces in CONserve KAIGANGAN’s 3rd Phase for Riparian Biodiversity Conservation

October 4, 2024

Written by Anne Frances Buhay

The project “Biodiversity Assessment of Riparian Zone in Ulot River in Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) Kaigangan” is funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD). The project aimed to assess the floral biodiversity of the Ulot River in SINP and develop sustainable conservation practices to reduce climate change impacts and flood risks. It focused on studying the river’s morphology, biodiversity, and ecological properties, and identifying priority conservation zones using GIS technology.Since the launch of the CONserve KAIGANGAN program in 2019, led by Dr. Inocencio Buot Jr., two (2) local People’s Organizations (POs) from Samar, Basaranan nga Organisasyon han San Isidro Samar (BOSIS) and Tourguide and Boat Operators for River Protection and Environmental Development (TORPEDO) have actively participated in project activities, including field data collection, training, and seminars.

This project marks the third phase of the CONserve KAIGANGAN program, continuing its collaboration with BOSIS and TORPEDO. Additionally, the Tenani Association for Women and Development (TAWAD), having actively participated in previous extension activities, is now officially recognized as a partner. A Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) – signing event was held on September 21, 2024, at the BOSIS Headquarters in Barangay San Isidro, Paranas, Samar. This MOA signing formalized CONserve-KAIGANGAN’s official partnership with TAWAD, and its continued and reinforced collaboration with BOSIS and TORPEDO. PO presidents Danilo Miralles (BOSIS), Eugene Igdalino (TORPEDO), and Elizabeth Doza (TAWAD) signed the MOAs, with witnesses Ms. Rose Mae Merencillo and Ms. Emely Villocero from Samar Island Natural Park-Protected Area Management Office (SINP-PAMO), alongside the CONserve KAIGANGAN team. By forging alliances with the local community, the project aspires to effectively promote awareness and conservation of the Ulot Riparian Biodiversity.