| Philippine Council for Sustainable Development
PHILIPPINE
STRATEGY FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
| FOREWORD
The Department of Environment and Natural
Resources initiated in 1987 the process of formulating a Philippine Strategy for
Sustainable Development (PSSD). Through a series of consultations with the different
sectors of society, the concept took form and substance. In a national workshop held on
June 6, 1988, a formal resolution urging the President and the Congress of the Republic of
the Philippines to adopt and implement a Philippine strategy for Sustainable Developments
was passed. Following the national workshop, the draft PSSD framework went through a
series of regional and sectoral consultations. On June 22, 1989 it was presented to the
Cabinet Assistance System (CAS) Plenary for comments. CAS-CRD was then tasked to input
PSSD principles into the formulation of the Strategy for Sustainable Development in the
Rural Sector. A consensus was made to adopt the PSSD concept in a joint meeting of the
CAS-CRD and the Cabinet Cluster A on Rural Development on August 3, 1989. On November 29,
1989, the Cabinet passed Cabinet Resolution No. 37 approving the Conceptual Framework of
the PSSD subject to the following approved modifications:
- The Philippine Strategy for Sustainable
Development shall address specifically the adverse impact of growth and development such
as but not limited to po11ution from factories an(l pesticide build up from agriculture;
and the depletion and degradation of natural resources due mainly to misuse and over
exploitation.
- It shall consist of a set of general strategies to
resolve and reconcile the diverse and sometimes conflicting environmental, demographic,
economic and natural resource use issues arising from the country's development efforts;
and sectoral strategies identified after a review of the current efforts being undertaken
in each of the identified sectors.
- The general strategies shall include the
integration of environmental considerations in decision making, proper resource pricing,
property rights reform, conservation of Biodiversity, rehabilitation of degraded
ecosystem, strengthening of residual management (pollution control), control of population
growth and human resources development, inducing growth in rural areas, promotion of
environmental education and strengthening of citizens participation.
- The conceptual framework shall be the basis for
the formulation of strategies for each of the identified sectors, namely: population,
environment and natural resources, industry, infrastructure and energy.
The resolution also directs all the pertinent
agencies to review the respective development programs and projects for consistency with
the PSSD framework.
This document contains the PSSD conceptual
framework incorporating the relevant modifications as directed in Cabinet Resolution IV
No. 37.
Accompanying the volume are two other documents
that contain the policy and institutional reform measures and action program initiated and
proposed by DENR. These documents represent the efforts undertaken 11w DENR to
operationalize the PSSD.
Pertinent sectoral agencies are now in the
process of reviewing their policies, programs and projects for consistency with the PSSD
framework Initial outputs have been submitted to DENR and are contained in a separate
document.
The same process will be undertaken at the
sub-national levels for more accurate focusing of the areal dimensions/implications of the
strategy.
The translation of the PSSD conceptual framework
will have reached its final cycle with the preparation of a Government Action Program
The COP Action Program _while specifically
addressing the concerns of a strategy for sustainable development will be treated as an
integral component of the country's national development plan. |
| 1.0 RATIONALE: THE ECOLOGICAL
IMPERATIVES IN THE PHILIPPINE CONTEXT
One of the more revealing lessons learned during the past two decades of environmental
awakening in the Philippines is that the maintenance of the earth's delicate balance by
the mere prophylactics of pollution control and other ecological mitigation measures
cannot ensure sustainable development. There Is now a compelling need to overhaul the
traditional concepts of development, with its exclusive focus on economic principles and
the political economy of natural resources. In 1979, Rafael Salas was already attuned to
this emerging worldview when he said:
"We are tending globally towards a more holistic view
of development with its emphasis on relating environmental factors to programmes.
Population growth and development patterns not only affect the demand for resources but
also generate environmental changes which will have repercussions on the future carrying
capacity of the earth. At the global level, it is not only necessary to take into account
the resources required to feed, clothe and shelter a growing population but also the type
of technology which will make this possible without worsening the environment. It is,
indeed, proper to ask at this point how far population and development plans are
consistent with the prudent use of resources, and do not bring about the degradation of
our environment"(l)
Most Filipinos still depend on natural resource systems for their subsistence and must
therefore confront the inexorable reality of ecological principles. Two thirds of the
Philippine population live in the rural areas and depend on agriculture, fisheries and
forestry. Soil erosion, deforestation, pollution and declining fish catch i. 811 point to
the fact that the limits of the natural carrying capacity are already being - exceeded.
While it is true that we can extend the limits by technological fixes such < as thc
green revolution and by industrialization, these responses take time and the ' galloping
population growth extinguishes whatever little gains we make. Secretary Fulgencio S.
Factoran vividly describes the national situation:
"With a high population growth rate the country is
like a patient on a treadmill furiously running faster and faster, each stride becoming
more difficult, but not getting anywhere. (2)
Population Pressure
Indeed, there are strong coincidences between population growth, resource depletion,
environmental quality, and the incidence of poverty. These apparent linkages are
graphically portrayed in Figures 1, 2, and 3 for the Philippine situation. They are the
result of the development efforts of the past which failed to consider both population and
environment as resource bases that must be nurtured and taken care of as the central
assets behind the development process.(3) Figure 1 shows the increasing population and the
decreasing forest cover during the last five decades. Since the Philippines was almost all
forest in its natural state and since the country's topography and ecology appear to be
significantly controlled by the ecological dynamics of the forests, the state of the
forests could serve as a qualitative surrogate of environmental quality. Figure 2
reinforces the observation of the connection between population and forest cover because
it exhibits a clear correlation between population density and forest cover as they occur
in the various regions of the Philippines. The linkage between development and forest
cover is shown in Figure 3. This figure exhibits the regional variations of the
correlation between the incidence of poverty and remaining forest cover. There are a host
of other quantitative and qualitative indicators that could testify to the ominous decline
of environmental quality such as the ravaging of fishing grounds and coral reefs, the
pollution of rivers, lakes, and bays, and the clearly visible air pollution in Metro
Manila.(4)
Economic Costs
It
is possible to get a rough estimate of the economic cost of deforestation. The conversion
of one hectare of old growth forest amounts to a loss of about 100 cubic meters of
commercial quality logs, not to mention its potential for sustained yield at a growth rate
of about 2.4 cubic meters per hectare per year. If these are computed at the current price
of about P2,900 per cubic meter, and assuming that profit amounts to 50% of gross revenue,
this will represent a loss in net profit of around P145,000 per hectare. Estimates show
that some 119,000 hectares of natural forest vegetation were destroyed in 1988, amounting
to a gross loss of around P34.5 billion per year, or a loss in net profit of about P 17.3
billion. Even if these areas have been logged according to recommended practices, loss of
future revenues would still amount to P5.7 billion or a total of U' $12.98 million net per
year. Deforestation is responsible for erosion of all uplands. Here we also have an
indication of the monetary cost of the loss. In the case of Magat watershed, annual
erosion rate is pegged at 219 tons per hectare for open grassland and 71 tons per hectare
for other land uses. Using the above erosion rates as basis, actual economic costs of soil
nutrient loss amount to P1,068 to P3,392 per hectare per year. For the Pantabangan
watershed the total value of soil nutrient loss was estimated at P2,541 per hectare if
erosion takes place from the first 5 cm. layer of the top soil. (5) Thus, the unecological
use of forests entails huge economic losses. Development policies, without the guidance of
ecological principles, could go astray. This was clearly demonstrated by the past
government's policy of converting mangrove swamps into fishponds in the hope of
accelerating food production. The ultimate impact of this policy was the decimation of
virgin mangrove swamps from 500,000 hectares in the 1950's to only about 38,000 hectares
of original vegetation in 1985. Studies now show that we have lost more in terms of
sustainable fisheries production with the loss of spawning grounds, rich nutrient pools
and the protective values provided by mangrove ecosystems. According to estimates, one
hectare of a fully developed mangrove plantation could produce an annual yield of 100 kgs.
of finfish, 25 kgs. of shrimp, 15 kgs. of crabmeat, 200 kgs. of mollusks, and 40 kgs. of
sea cucumber in a direct harvest.(6) The economic cost of air pollution is not yet well
studied in the Philippine context. Experience from the US situation, however, shows that
air pollution is costly. According to the World Resources Institute in the U.S.:
- Agricultural losses for 1987 due to increase of ozone
concentration amounted to US$5,2 billion;
- On the other hand, the benefit of attaining standards for
particulates and sulfur dioxide is estimated to be at US$500 million per year.
Cost to the Ecosystem
Concern, however, should not focus mainly on economic costs. An unquantifiable cost of
forest destruction is the loss of species and genetic diversity. Even estimates for this
tragic loss does not exist for the Philippines. Dr. Seymour Sohmer of the Bishop Museum of
Honolulu, who has been studying Philippine flora for many years now, asserts that we have
already lost about 40% of our endemic flora. Philippine losses contribute to the global
loss of biological diversity estimated at about 100 species per year. By the year 2000, it
is predicted that about a million species would have been lost forever. In general, a
decrease in the diversity of flora and fauna makes ecosystems less stable. Environmental
degradation has other serious implications. According to Ganapin, "for a developing
country like the Philippines, the impacts of environmental degradation are much more
serious than simply erosion or pollution. In many cases, the social and political impacts
are of greater dimension and are more direct. The poor become poorer. And as larger
populations are pushed into a desperate struggle for survival, they wrought larger damage
to the environment and the cycle continues. There comes a time, however, when this vicious
cycle reaches a limit and the fragile fabric of a stressed society starts to unravel. The
gun substitutes for the plow. The fire that used to burn forests becomes fire that will
consume society."(7) |
| 2.0 THE PHILIPPINE STRATEGY FOR
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT (PSSD): THE CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
The
only rational way of planning the country's national progress is through sustainable
development: meeting the needs of citizens of today without limiting the options of future
generations to fulfill their needs. It is development without destruction; it is the
achievement of material progress without compromising the life-support functions of
natural systems; it is the pursuit of higher levels of quality of life while preserving or
even enhancing environmental quality. It is the only true development.
2.1 GOAL AND OBJECTIVES
Goal
Sustainable development stresses the need to view
environmental protection and economic growth as mutually compatible. This implies that
growth objectives should be compatible not only to the needs of society but also to the
natural dynamics and carrying capacities of ecosystems. The goal of the PSSD is to achieve
economic growth with adequate protection of the country's biological resources and its
diversity, vital ecosystem functions, and over-all environmental quality.
Objectives
The following objectives have been identified toward the
attainment of the PSSD goal.
- To ensure the sustainable utilization of the country's
natural resources such as forests, croplands, marine, and freshwater ecosystems.
- To promote social and intergenerational equity in the
utilization of the country's natural resources.
- To develop management programs to preserve the country's
heritage of biological diversity.
- To promote the technologies of sustainable lowland
agriculture and upland agroforestry through the encouragement of research and development
(R and D) and demonstration projects.
- To achieve and maintain an acceptable quality of air and
water.
- To promote and encourage an exploration program for
economically important minerals.
- To promote R and D in environmentally-sound and
economically-efficient processing of the country's mineral and energy resources.
- To enhance the foundation for scientific decision-making
through the promotion and support of education and research in ecosystems.
- To promote and support the integration of population concern
including migration variables and family welfare considerations in development programs
with special emphasis in ecologically critical areas.
- To expand sustantially the family planning programs and
responsible parenthood program.
2.2 GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Sustainable development, as defined by the World Commission on Environment and Development
(WCED), "is meeting the needs and aspirations of the people without compromising the
ability of future generations to meet theirs". It is difficult, however, to make use
of a general definition to guide actions with regard to particular development situations.
This general definition needs to be further explained in operational terms. Operationally,
sustainable development can be further explained through the following principles, which
form the guiding framework for actions under the PSSD:
- systems-oriented and integrated approach In the analysis and
solution of development problems;
- a concern for meeting the needs of future generations,
otherwise termed as Inter-generation equity:
- a concern for equity of people's access to natural
resources:
- a concern not to exceed the carrying capacity of ecosystems;
- living on the Interest rather than on the capital or stock
of natural resources;
- maintenance or strengthening of vital ecosystem functions In
every development activity;
- a concern for resource use efficiency;
- promotion of research on substitutes, recycling,
exploration, etc. from revenues derived from the utilization of non-renewable resources;
- a recognition that poverty Is both a cause and consequence
of environmental degradatlon; and
- promotion of citizens' participation and decentralization In
Implementing programs.
2.3 GENERAL STRATEGIES
The
PSSD has for its core a number of implementing strategies. This is aimed at resolving and
reconciling the diverse and sometimes conflicting environmental, demographic, economic and
natural resource use issues arising from the country's development efforts.
Integration of Environmental Considerations In
Decision-Making
The underlying theme in sustainable development is that economic and environmental
concerns must be addressed simultaneously in the planning/decision-making process. This is
a deliberate shift from the conventional practice characterized as predominantly single
sector planning exercises. The importance of pursuing a multisectoral approach in policy
and plan formulation can never be overstated. For instance, policies that conserve the
quality of agricultural land and protect forests improve the long-term prospects for
agricultural development. Efficiency in the utilization of energy and raw materials in
industrial processes reduces wastes and can also reduce costs.
Merging environmental and economic considerations In decision-making involves a
fundamental realignment of the overall objectives of development planning in the light of
a new awareness of the environmental implications of development activities. This means
that the process of development should be viewed from the outset as a multipurpose
undertaking that includes an explicit and defined concern for the quality of the
environment. Within such a planning context, it Is especially important that analysis and
evaluation stress the key role that environmental quality can play in sustainable
development.
To
effectively implement this desired shift in economic decision-making, the refinement of
analytical tools and methodologies is critical. For instance, to accommodate the social
and environmental consequences of the misuse of the nation's natural capital In economic
calculations, such tools as Natural Resource Accounting, Environmental Impact Assessment
(EIA) and Land Use Planning must be properly installed and strengthened..
Natural resource accounting emphasizes the productive role of natural resources in the
economic system. Natural resource assets must be valued in the same manner as man-made
assets. Inasmuch as natural resources are principally the main assets upon which we depend
for revenue, employment and foreign exchange, a system of national accounting and analysis
must be instituted that recognizes them as such.
Like
economic analysis and engineering feasibility studies, EIA is a management tool for
officials, managers and affected citizens who must make important decisions about major
development projects. In recent years, major development undertakings have encountered
serious difficulties because insufficient account has been taken of their impacts on the
surrounding environment. Some projects have been found to be unsustainable because they
caused resource depletion. Others have been abandoned because of public opposition,
financial encumbrance by unforeseen costs, very high liability for damages to natural
resources, and the disastrous accidents they have caused.
Given this experience, it is clearly very risky to approve and finance a major project
without first taking into account its environmental consequences, as well as, the siting
and project design considerations that will minimize, or better still, altogether remove
adverse impacts.
At
the local/regional level, Land Use Planning is also seen as a basic tool for Incorporating
environmental considerations in the decision-making process. Optional land-use allocations
can be determined using an environmental quality perspective, which take into account
ecological principles and the impact of human activities on natural systems as inputs,
along with other economic and social demands.
Proper Pricing of Natural Resources
The
most widespread opportunity for improving resource management is to treat natural
resources as truly scarce, not as if they were free. This is done by proper pricing based
on the cost of replenishment, increasing their supply and providing appropriate
substitutes. In essence, this strategy aims to correct the gross underpricing of natural
resources (e.g., logs, minerals) that is substantially responsible for the wasteful
extraction and utilization of these resources.
The
question of who pays for damages to the environment should be part of more wide-ranging
policy reforms regarding the pricing of the country's natural resources. It has become
obvious that natural resources such as timber and minerals are grossly underpriced.
Underpriced in the sense that those given the right to exploit these resources for profit
pay very little of the significant damage costs to society. They also share with the rest
of society very little of the "rents" they get out of exploiting these resources
("rent" represents the surplus after all cost and reasonable profits are paid).
The rents from the exploitation of natural resources are huge, and they have gone to only
a few. The World Resources Institute, for example, has estimated that for the Philippines,
only 20% of the more fi than P20 billion rent from logs harvested from 1979 and 1982 went
to the Philippine government. To attain sustainability, the government should recover the
full economic rent for natural and environmental resources.
A component of the needed price reform
strategy involves charging a price on those environmental resources (e.g., air, water)
which have until now been regarded as free resources and which have thus been polluted
freely and indiscriminately. At present, polluters continue to view the environment as a
mere sink, for which they pay nothing. This concept should be changed. A social price
should be assigned to these otherwise free resources. The polluter must then learn to
internalize this price within his profit-oriented decision-making process. If there is
pollution, the polluter must pay for the consequent social costs. The choice can be made
between cutting down on pollution by investing in pollution control devices or cutting
down directly on pollutive aspects of an activity. In effect, the polluter regulates his
own behaviour within the context of an environmental pricing system. The system is based
on the so-called "polluter pays" principle.
In general, price reform provides a
way to internalize environmental costs as part of decisions on how resources are used. The
advantage of proper resource pricing in resource management is that, once in place, it
provides a self-regulating system. Resource users still make choices in a way that
maximizes real resource costs.
By establishing a fair valuation of
natural resources and charging the users appropriately, an automatic economic restraint on
the way environment and natural resources are used is created.
Relevant to the successful Implementation of such pricing mechanisms Is the development of
capabilities in environmental economics and the conduct of measures in this field. In
addition, there Is a need to set up support funds and incentives for those willing to
shift from pollutive or destructive technologies to those that are environmentally
protective.
Property Rights Reform
Natural resources have a tendency to be exploited as free resources by individuals even
though they are in effect scarce resources. This is the case for "open access"
resources in which there Is 8 strong tendency for misuse and depletion. It is difficult
for an individual producer such as a shifting cultivator or an artesanal fisherman to
conserve an open access resource and unilaterally regulate his exploitative efforts, since
from his perception anything that he conserves will only be taken up by others. This is
the famous "tragedy of the commons."
Self-regulation in the exploitation of natural resources can be achieved by assigning
secure access rights perhaps even private ownership over these resources to responsible
individuals and communities. Through secure access rights, the individual or community
establishes a lasting tie with the resource and a long-term stake in its protection for
sustained productivity.
The
need therefore is to develop creative and secure instruments such as forest stewardship
contracts, small-holder timber concessions, artificial reef licenses, community forests,
community fishing grounds and mining cooperatives to ensure equitable access and tenurial
security in the utilization of natural resources. It has to be noted, however, that an
essential condition for transferring control over resources or distributing resource
rights is for recipient individuals or communities to demonstrate the capacity for the
sustainable development of such resources.
Establishment of an Integrated Protected Areas
System
The
importance of the preservation of the variety of genes, species, and ecosystems cannot be
overemphasized. The development of man and his civilization has always been based on the
biological wealth of nature. Agricultural crops and livestock, virtually most of the
country's daily food intake, were derived from wild species. From wild species have also
come many of the medicines available today. In biodiversity resides the new genetic pool
of information needed to adapt to various environments. It can thus well provide the
answers and increased capacities for man to deal with future questions of survival and
development especially in the face of the rapidly changing local and global environments.
Unfortunately, this is not generally recognized.
Ecosystems are composed of species, and species are composed of genes and all these are
linked to one another. The stability of ecosystems ultimately depend on the diversity of
genes and species.
Protected areas should therefore be established for the conservation of wildlife and
unique ecosystems, with the end in view of conserving genetic resources for scientific,
educational, cultural and historical values. The establishment of protected areas should
be preceded by a reassessment of the status of parks and equivalent reserves. This will
serve as the basis for developing rehabilitative strategies for degraded parks and at the
same time identify new areas where X conservation of genetic resources and preservation of
biological diversity can be pursued.
Rehabilitation of Degraded Ecosystems
Rehabilitation of degraded ecosystems is a significant strategy given the massive
destruction of ecosystems that has already occurred. Under such conditions, nature's
regenerative capacity is not enough. Deliberate rehabilitative efforts are needed.
Rehabilitation must keep pace with the continuous degradation caused by the increasing
demands for both raw materials and products that come from natural resources. As the
pressures on these resources continue to intensify so must the country's commitment and
capability for rehabilitative action. A concerted action, therefore, of a magnitude never
tried before in the reforestation of denuded watersheds, mangrove re-plantation, clean-up
and control of pollution and revival of biologically dead rivers, and seagrass
transplantation should be vigorously undertaken.
Natural ecosystems, however, will continue to be threatened unless a more comprehensive
program on ecosystems rehabilitation is undertaken. Rehabilitation, therefore, has to be
linked to ecosystems protection programs and to policy reforms and institutional
strengthening that decisively deal with the socio-economic roots of ecosystem degradation.
Strengthening of Residuals Management in Industry
(Pollution Control)
The
most commonly applied instrument for pollution control is "end-of-pipe" control
systems that treat or attempt to limit waste products with standards and limits on the
permissible emissions rate. Residuals management, however, looks at the pollution problem
within a more comprehensive framework of materials policy which includes resource
recovery, recycling, and appropriate by product design that save on materials and energy.
A
move should be made towards adopting recent innovations in industrial process designs
which are aimed at reducing waste streams, especially as increasing restrictions on
disposal becomes more necessary. Reformulating products, developing saleable by-products
from residuals, and redesigning or combining processes are some innovations that have
often been found to reduce wastes and costs as well. A U.S. plant, for example, was able
to reduce wastes by 66 percent by cutting on water use by 32 percent. The use of biogas
digesters to recover methane from piggery or distillery wastes is another example of
pollution reduction through technological innovations.
In
the Philippines, resource recovery should prove highly economical because materials and
energy costs are quite high relative to labor costs. Paper, glass, metals, plastics,
oils and other materials could be recovered from waste streams and recycled by networks of
workers.
In
addition to and in support of technological innovations is the strengthening of
enforcement of appropriate pollution control laws. Other policy instruments such as the
use of economic incentives to encourage pollutive firms to install pollution control
facilities and collective actions such as the installation of central collection and
treatment facilities for wastewaters are needed to supplement current enforcement efforts.
These are especially important given the relatively small capital base of enterprises
involved. More conciliatory forms of pollution regulation involving persuasion and
information dissemination aimed at altering polluter as well as end-consumer behavior
should also be implemented to cause positive change in business attitudes towards the
environment.
Integration of Population Concerns and Social
Welfare In Development Planning
Population is the critical factor in any effort at sustainable development. Population and
the values espoused determine the speed at which productivity can be increased or
conversely the pressures on land and natural resources brought to bear by the process of
development. For a developing country like the Philippines, it is important that the
population factor-in all its dimensions - is turned into a real asset for building a
strong industrial base, for multiplying productive forms of livelihood, and for preserving
and Improving fragile ecosystems and the overall natural resource environment.
The
country's population program must not be limited to controlling numbers but must include
improvements in health, education and values formation. It must be implemented as part of
a comprehensive socio-economic program at the regional and community levels. The
population program must be based on methods that are consistent with the cultural and
religious norms of the population. Within our traditional rural society the benefits of
additional labor will always outweigh the benefits of reducing family size. It is for this
reason that our population policies must recognize the limitations of promoting fertility
control in Isolation from other incentives. To overcome social prejudices against birth
control and suspicions of the motivations behind the national population control program,
emphasis should now be placed on the benefits to each child and to the family of spacing
births.
Managing population distribution and mobility should also be considered to limit the rapid
and often uncontrolled population growth in urban areas. Promotion of programs and
policies that lead to balanced regional development are important. The development
potential of all regions should be assessed and programs to increase opportunities for
livelihood should be implemented to encourage migration towards less densely populated and
less environmentally sensitive areas.
Inducing Growth In the Rural Areas
Economic recovery and long-term stability depend on increasing incomes and employment in
the rural areas, where a majority of our people reside, It should be again noted that the
rural poor are linked very closely to natural resources. Their actions have a direct
Impact on natural resources. Conversely, any change in the actual and potential
productivity of these resources have serious repercussions on their present and future
welfare, even on their very survival. The sheer number of rural poor already in place
right on or beside fragile ecosystems make them a formidable force either for
environmental destruction or protection.
Attention must therefore be given to rural development, as it has already been established
that poverty forces the rural poor to be destroyers rather than caring towards of the very
resources that can liberate them from poverty. The economic, social and political
potentials of the countryside must be harnessed to alleviate poverty and uplift the
conditions of the rural poor. A rural development strategy which [s characterized by the
following elements must therefore be effected:
- Empowerment of the rural poor through greater participation
In policy-making processes and project implementation;
- Accelerated implementation of land reform to achieve equity
in the distribution of wealth and boost producer incentives;
- Grant of equitable access for the rural poor to natural
resource use and benefits;
- Removal of economic policy and public investment biases
against the rural sector;
- Provision of infrastructure and support services to increase
rural productivity and expand markets;
- Establishment and reinforcement of "growth
centers" to serve as base for industrial and commercial activities that can provide
alternative livelihood and Increased economic opportunities for the rural poor;
- Strengthening of social services such as education, health
and nutrition.
|
| Promotion of Environmental Education Environmental
education as conceived in the PSSD has two major objectives. The first is to enable
citizens to understand and appreciate the complex nature of he environment, as well as the
role played by a properly managed environment in economic development and to develop
social values that are strongly supportive f environmental protection and which will
create the commitment and political will to deal with difficult issues. Only a
well-informed and motivated citizenry could provide the mass base necessary for the
continued protection of the environment.
Decisions are ultimately a political responsibility, but the likelihood of the best
choices being made is greatly enhanced when there is widespread knowledge and
understanding of all aspects of the issues at hand. This could be achieved by integrating
environmental concepts in the elementary and secondary schools. This win equip people with
the basic capability to make up their own minds in an Informed way and do something about
their decisions.
The
second objective is to develop the local knowledge base about the local environment and
natural resources through the development and promotion of tertiary and graduate courses
in ecology, environmental science, resource management and resource economics. Research
and development in these areas should be promoted.
Strengthening of Citizens' Participation and
Constituency Building
Lessons from both failures and successes in environmental and developmental efforts have
shown that citizens' participation is an important decisive factor. Absence or lack of it
has caused failures. Its active presence has resulted not only in efforts meeting
immediate targets but also in the assured sustainability of positive trends that have been
initiated.
People have the inherent capacity to improve themselves and their community. Problems
confronting them can be solved through their own efforts. In cases where the poverty of
their situation and the difficulties they face are too serious for them to deal with,
initial assistance from government and non-government institutions may be needed. Their
active participation in planning and implementation, however, is a must so that they will
not be forever dependent on external support.
In
promoting the active participation of the citizenry for sustainable development,
non-government organizations (NGOs) can be the central vehicle in mobilizing people to
participate. NGOs have certain advantages. They have less bureaucratic red tape and can
thus move fast. They have already establi8hed strong direct links with the grassroots,
Their members are the very citizens whose Participation is needed and who see their NGO
membership as a citizen's responsibility. They are thus imbued with the needed commitment
and drive to deal with difficult sustainable development issues. A strategy in this regard
is to develop a network among NGOs as well as NGOs and governmental organizations which
will work on community organizing, public Information campaigns, research/situation
assessment, environmental surveillance and monitoring, science and appropriate technology
and the like. |
| 3. ASSESSMENT OF MAJOR SECTORS
The conceptual framework shall be the basis for the formulation of strategies for each of
the Identified major sectors, namely, Population, Environment and Natural Resources,
Agriculture, Industry, Infrastructure and Energy. A review of each sector, except for the
Infrastructure sector, has been undertaken as part of the formulation process. This
section presents the preliminary results of this review, including current efforts, key
issues and key measure Is needed.
3.1 POPULATION
Situationer. The Philippine population in 1989 was
estimated at 60.1 million and is expected to rise by 2.3 percent to 61.5 million in 1990.
With regards to population distribution, Southern Tagalog, Metropolitan Manila, and
Central Luzon are the country's highly concentrated regions, with a population of 8.1
million, 7.9 million, t and 6.1 million, respectively. The most common type of internal
migration in the Philippines Is the flow of people from the rural areas into the urban
areas. For the period 1975-1980, Metropolitan Manila received a total of 378,878 rural
migrants to followed by Southern Tagalog with 183,077 and Central Luzon with 101,844.*
The
present population situation has already strained the government's capability to provide
basic services such as education, health care and food for the nation. The critical issues
to be discussed should therefore address the balance between population size and available
resources; and the rate of population growth in relation to the capacity of the economy to
provide the basic needs of the population.
Key Concerns .
- Continued rapid population growth which usually leads to a
decline in the quality of life for the majority
- Encroachment of population into marginal ecosystems,
including population settlements in ecologically-sensitive uplands
- Continued influx of rural migrants into densely populated
urban areas, which taxes the capacity of these areas to sustain concentrated populations
resulting In congestion, urban blight, slums, and environmental degradation
Current Efforts. The
direction for the population program in the country was drawn up in a population policy
statement issued in April, 1987. It specifically addresses the following demographic
concerns: fertility reduction, family formation, status of women, maternal and child
health, child survival, morbidity and mortality, population distribution and urbanization,
internal and international migration, and population structure. The policy also stresses
the Importance of a consistent population growth rate in relation to existing resources
recognizing the strain imposed by the population on scarce resources.
Family Planning services continue to be provided by 3,545 family planning clinics/service
outlets of government and non-government organizations nationwide. The remote areas are
served by 39 Comprehensive Itinerant Teams. Support systems for these activities include
1,753 full-time outreach workers (FTOW's) and 50,000 Barangay Supply Point Officers
(BSPO's).
The
Population Education Program continues to work for the integration of population education
into the school curriculum at all educational levels. The Adolescent Fertility Program
through its twelve adolescent centers also continues to provide information and counseling
services.
In
1987, 87 medical personnel were trained on basic family planning and voluntary surgical
sterilization. Manpower development and continuing education, which were mostly
foreign-funded, were also conducted.
The
Population Information Management and Dissemination Program also conducted widespread
dissemination activities on the new population policy. These include the conduct of
symposia and conferences, the release of two Issues of the Population Bulletin and the
publication of a weekly newsletter.
The
Population Policy Analysis and Coordination Unit of POPCOM is also continuing its task of
collecting, processing and analyzing various sources of information for dissemination.
A
National Consultation among 107 Natural Family Planning NGO's was convened to formulate
workable schemes with NGO's and with the church-based Family Planning - Maternal and Child
Health (FP- MCH) network. The "Ugnayan sa Kababaihan" Project was also launched
as a vehicle to promote women's welfare and strengthen women's participation in planning
and decision-making.
Support activities to the population program are also implemented by the Department of
Social Welfare and Development. These include daycare and supplemental feeding program,
family planning motivation, population awareness, and sex education. The Department of
Health also promotes/implements the following programs: primary health care development,
control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, health promotion and specific
protection, food assistance, selective home food production, nutrition information and
education campaign, and the malnutrition prevention project.
Key Measures Needed
- Vigorous population program based on methods that are
consistent with the cultural and religious norms of the population
- Broader scope of population programs to Include improvement
of the quality of human resources In terms of productivity, environmental consciousness,
ability to manage communal natural resources, and social responsibility
- Intensification of rural development with emphasis on
sustainable livelihood programs to reduce the push factor in rural-urban migration
3.2 ENVIRONMENT AND NATURAL RESOURCES
Ecosystems are life support systems. They are capable of
renewal, even in the face of major man-made disturbances -- but only up to a certain
point. Beyond this limited threshold and carrying capacity, ecosystem functions are
impaired; hence deterioration occurs. The challenge for resource management is to treat
the ecosystem as the unit most suitable for analysis, so that the maintenance of vital
life support functions may be ensured.
This sector is currently facing a lot of problems, among
them: resource depletion, environmental degradation due to pollution, tenurial problems in
the public domain, and inequitable distribution and allocation of lands and natural
resources, among others.
Forests
Situationer. The remaining forested areas of the
Philippines (without brushlands) s 6.5 million hectares, which is 21% of the country's
total area of 30 million hectares, and 40% of the legally classified forest lands of 16
million hectares. he country is losing 119,000 hectares each year or about 14 hectares per
hour due to Illegal logging, forest fires and slash and burn agriculture.
Key Concerns
- Degradation of forest lands due to logging as well as
encroachment of slash-and-burn cultivators into logged-over areas;
- Settlement of ecologically-sensitive forest lands due to
population pressure and lack of opportunities in the lowlands
- Poor enforcement of forest protection laws
- Lack of tenurial security, infrastructure support, and
social services for upland dwellers which result in disincentives for adopting resource
conservation measures
Current efforts. The Department of Environment and
Natural Resources (DENR) launched the National Forestation Program (NFP) in 1986 declaring
as a policy "the perpetuation of forest resources for the benefit of present and
future generations of Filipinos."
The NFP restates the key objectives of the government's
basic policy in forestation as: adequate supply of industrial timber and fuelwood;
provision of livelihood for upland communities; and, restoration and maintenance of a
stable, functional and wholesome environment. The main focus of the 14-year forestation
program is the development of production forest plantations for supplies of timber and
fuelwood, while at the same time rehabilitating denuded watershed areas.
With the assistance of program loans from the Asian
Development Bank (ADB) and the Overseas Economic Cooperation (OECF) of Japan, the DE! Is
targeting to reforest through various modes and approaches about 300,000 hectares by 1992.
The main thrust of the policy framework of the NFP Is to
position thc private sector communities and families as the vanguard of the country's
reforestation efforts. Thus, apart from encouraging the private sector to Invest In
commercial forest plantations at its own risk, the policy also directs the employment of
the private sector (to include, apart from entrepreneurs and enterprises In forestation,
thc NGOs, Individual farmers and farmers' associations) In executing government-funded
forestation projects on contract terms The government considers that contract forestation
would enable It to make use of the experience and commercial motivations of the private
sector towards the expeditious and efficient accomplishment of NFP targets, add that the
terms of the contracts would ensure that the planted areas paid for will actually grow
into forests.
Projects under the direct administration of the DENR are:
Timber Stand Improvement in second-growth forests, and protection and maintenance of
existing forests. Private sector participation will be In contract reforestation;
watershed rehabilitation; assisted natural regeneration; bamboo, rattan and mangrove
plantations; industrial tree plantations, and Integrated social forestry activities to
rehabilitate forest migrants.
Contracts to reforest or manage specified activities In
reforestation areas are open to qualified corporations, non-government organizations,
communities, tribes and/or families. DENR pays these private entitles and Individuals for
the reforestation activities they undertake in specific sites.
Key Measures Needed
Reforestation approaches that actively Involve the upland
population, and which combine the goals of re-establishing forests as well as providing
sustained livelihood for upland dwellers
Intensified development of lowland resources to Increase
productivity and divert pre8fsure away from critical uplands
Preparation of site-specific resource management plans,
based on Inventory of resources, census of upland population, and assessment of carrying
capacities
Devolution of control over the management of forest
resources to local communities and tribal groups based on of their ability to utilize thc
common resource properly
Strengthening of resource access rights for small-holders
through more secure tent arrangement d disposition of remaining A and D lands.
Intensification of environmental information and education
Protected Areas and Biodiversity
Situationer. The Philippines has a total of 62
national parks and 7 wildlife sanctuaries encompassing some 1.3 million hectares, or about
4.3% of the country's total land area. However, some of these parks exist only on paper
since ere is a general lack of funds to implement protection activities and field
management of the areas. Almost all designated reserves contain Illegal settlements of
"slash and burn" (kaingin) farmers and have been Partially modified or
completely degraded. Critically important areas, such as Bicol National Park in Camarines
Sur and Mt. Apo National Park in Davao, have been heavily squatted and seriously denuded.
Others, such as Mt. Plug National Park In Bennett, Quezon National Park in Quezon
Province, and Mt. Canlaon National Park in Negros island, are seriously threatened by
illegal logging and "kaingin".
The wide diversity of marine and terrestrial ecosystems
form the habitats of five major forest formations (mixed dipterocarp, tropical montane,
mossy or sub-alpine, molave and pine), 8,000 species of dominant argiosperms (orchids and
roses), 960 species of terrestrial vertebrates (land mammals), 541 species of avifauna
birds), 252 species of herpetofauna (reptiles), 488 species of coral, 16 species of
mangroves, and 1000 species of fish. Among the more notable of these are the following
endangered species: the Philippine each, Black Shama, Philippine crocodile, dugong, and
marine turtles. The effects of hunting, trapping and trading of wildlife, aside from
habitat loss, have continually threatened the reproduction capabilities and the survival
of these endemic plants and animals in the Philippines.
Key Concerns
- Ineffective protected areas and parks management systems
- Threats to the existence of valuable flora and fauna as a
result of habitat removal or modification
- Need to increase the level of public awareness and
appreciation of the benefits of protected areas
Current Efforts. The DENR and the World Bank are
undertaking a study and review of the country's protected areas in order to rationalize
and develop an integrated protected areas system (IPAS) in the Philippines. The study will
,determine existing protected areas to be retained in the new system and recommend
qualified sites for inclusion. The study shall also provide the basic information for the
preparation of the legislation that will create the IPAS code as mandated by law. Also,
under the Debt-for-Nature Swap Program between the DENR, the World Wildlife Fund, and the
Haribon Foundation, the protection, management and development of two protected areas,
namely, St. Paul subterranean River National Park and El Nido Marine Sanctuary both in
Palawan are under way. Experience from the program shall serve as the basis and provide a
model for the management, protection and development of other national parks in the
future. The government is also currently conducting captive breeding programs for the
Philippine eagle, tamaraw, flying lemur, crocodile and other endangered species. NGOs have
also been tapped as partners in conservation projects.
The survey, rehabilitation, reproduction, conservation, information, training and
research of the country's diverse ecosystems and wildlife comprise the proposed National
Biodiversity Program of the DENR. The survey and rehabilitation of critical ecosystems
such as coral reefs, mangroves, wetlands, lakes, rivers and lowland forests shall be
undertaken. Ecological researches, surveys, captive breeding and re-introduction of
endangered species Into the wild shall be implemented. The program shall promote
conservation awareness to the public and establish training opportunities for field
personnel under the DENR.
Key Measures
- Assessment and evaluation of existing national parks and equivalent reserves towards the
formulation of a systematic management and protection scheme
- Integration of protected area planning into the overall land use and regional planning
- Implementation of an intensive nature conservation education program
- Training of managers of protected areas
Urban Ecosystems
Situationer. The migration of the populace to urban areas will continue to put
pressure on limited urban land resources in the coming years. By 1990, about 25 million or
43% of the national population will be residing in urban areas. By the year 2000, this
will increase by 40%.
In Metro Manila, 7 million of the total population crowd 636 square kilometers of land.
With a population that is increasing at a rate of 3.6% annually, Metro Manila will be one
of the mega cities in the world with a population of 11 million.
Generation and disposal of solid wastes, air pollution emitted by transport vehicles
(60%) and stationary industrial sources (40%) will continue to be a major problem. High
volume sample measurements of total suspended particulates (TSP) indicate that annual
averages in Metro Manila can exceed 250 milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m3), exceeding the
US annual average TSP air quality standard by over 200%.
Furthermore, jeepney, bus and taxi commuters are exposed to excessive concentrations of
Respirable Suspended Particles (RSP) in the order of 1,000 mg/m3 while millions of Metro
Manila residents are exposed to ambient concentrations of RSP in the order of 100 mg/m3.
The long term health effects of such exposure need to be determined.
Sulfur dioxide (S02) does not appear to be a major problem in Metro Manila. There is
relatively less concentration of heavy industry near urban centers and consequently the
levels of S02 measured in Manila are all well below .05 parts per million (ppm) on an
annual average basis. however, since most of the major vehicles in Metro Manila are
diesel-fueled the exposure of S02 by people directly exposed to traffic exhaust are
higher.
Water pollution in Metro Manila and other major urban and regional centers is caused by
the general public and, to a lesser extent, by the industrial sector. All metropolitan
areas in the Philippines have no efficient sewage collection and treatment except for some
affluent subdivisions with residents who can afford an expensive sewage treatment
facility. Only about 12% of Metro Manila's population is served by a sewerage collection
system. The balance of unserved areas contribute about 70% of all the biodegradable
organic pollutants that flow into the different river systems in Metro Manila Untreated or
partially treated industrial wastewater is also being discharged into rivers, lakes, or
esteros. These wastes account for the other 30% of the organic pollutants that have all
but killed Metro Manila's water systems.
Municipal solid wastes or garbage usually finds its way into the river system through
open canals and culverts and end up in the river system and exert additional oxygen
demand. Metro Manila alone generates about 3,600 tons of garbage per day and this is
expected to reach more than 5,000 tons per day in tie year 2000. There are no sufficient
funds to finance a systematic and Integrated solid waste management system although a very
thorough solid waste master plan has been formulated and approved by a Presidential Task
Force on Solid Waste Management.
Another problem is the disposal and proliferation of toxic and hazardous wastes from
industries. This is especially true in Metro Manila where 69% of the country's 15,000
Industrial firms are located. Most of the toxic substances are apparently discharged
without treatment into natural water bodies and coastal waters.
Key Concerns
- Pollution from industrial effluents
- Solid waste disposal by domestic, commercial and Industrial establishments
- Air pollution from gasoline/diesel fueled vehicles and industrial establishments
- Population migration to urban areas
Current Efforts. The DENR, in cooperation with other government agencies, the
private sector and non-governmental organizations, is currently undertaking a rivers
revival program, foremost of which is the "ILOG KO, IROG KO" project aimed at
lowering the pollution load of the Navotas-Malabon-Tenejeros-Tullahan river system. The
DENR, being the lead agency, has committed to lower the industrial pollution load by 60%
by 1992, from 32,777 kq. Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) per day to about 23,200 kg. BOD
per day. To date, the DENR has lowered the industry load by about 7%. The MWSS is
committed to implement a basin-wide septic tank cleaning program that will lower the
sewage load from the projected 1992 load of about 26,608 kg. BOD per day to about 9,978
kg. BOD per day. The National Housing Authority (NHA) is also committed to remove all the
squatter shanties lined along the 26 kilometer waterway and relocate them within the
basin, thus lowering the pollution load. The Department of Public Works and Highways
(DPWH) is committed to dredge the 26 kilometer waterway and build (2) parallel roads along
the waterway.
The Inter-agency Committee aims to lower the overall pollution load in 1992 by 50%. The
cost to implement these programs is about U.S $25.75 million spread over the next three
years, ending in 1992. The scenario beyond 1992 will involve the installation of a
sewerage collection and a marine outfall which will increase the total cost to U.S $236 8
million. It is expected that the river system will be fully rehabilitated and the entire
26 kilometer waterway will be capable of sustaining marine life.
Another component of the river revival program is the Manila Bay Clean Up Project. This
will focus on six major river network systems which empty their wastes into Manila Bay.
These are:
- Navotas-Malabon-Tenejerns-Tullahan river System,
- Pasig-San Juan-Marikina River System,
- Las Pinas-Zapote River System,
- Paranaque River,
- Laguna Lake Basin, and
- Meycauayan River.
The clean-up of Manila Bay will entail the clean-up of the individual sink systems.
Among the projects lined up for lowering the pollution load of each of these sources are:
- septic tank cleaning and sewerage collection and treatment for domestic sewage,
- individual or combined wastewater treatment plants for industrial firms,
- dredging of rivers to remove accumulated debris, and
- transfer of squatter families along the river banks.
The current efforts for air quality management in urban regions are particularly
addressed to the Metropolitan Manila area where most of vehicles and industrial firms are
located. Other urban growth centers, however, have already started and are stepping up the
air pollution control program.
Vehicle exhaust emission is the most pressing air pollution problem today. In the
short-term, activities being implemented to alleviate the situation are stepped up efforts
to enforce the anti-smoke belching law and educational campaigns to raise the level of
awareness and knowledge of motorists and the general public on the air pollution problem.
In addition to this, the air quality management program for Metro Manila proposes the
adoption of long-term policy options to minimize vehicular pollution. Such policy options
would cover a wide range of concerns such as:
- Incentives for low-pollutant vehicles and additional tax for pollutive vehicles.
- Promotion of "environment friendly" fuel additives and appropriate pollution
control devices.
- Regulation of importation of second hand cars.
- Development of an efficient mass transportation system.
Emissions from industries and power plants will also be a major concern as economic
development progresses. Major policy options being considered to minimize the air
pollution efforts from these sectors are the following:
- Providing disincentives for pollutive industries that are located in Metro Manila and
other urban centers.
- Strict implementation of land use plans and zoning regulations.
- Promotion of energy conservation and energy efficient production processes.
- Adoption of low or non-waste technologies.
For an effective air quality management program, it is imperative that the monitoring
and enforcement capabilities of the environmental agencies will also be t; beefed up.
Thus, acquisition of monitoring equipment and manpower training are major components of
the program.
The Solid Waste Management Plan for Metropolitan Manila as conceptualized by . the
Presidential Task Force on Solid Waste Management is in its initial stages of
implementation. Sites have been identified to serve as sanitary landfills in lieu of
operating open dumps. Engineering designs are now being prepared and reviewed based on the
Environmental Impact Assessment made.
Key Measures Needed
- Rational planning of urban centers (dispersal of industries)
- Provision of workable air monitoring networks
- Rationalization of current environmental and pollution policies
- Implementation of a pragmatic information and education campaign on the effects of air
and water pollution and solid waste disposal
- Stringent enforcement of laws, ordinance, rules and regulations
- Implementation of a sound monitoring system
Freshwater Ecosystems
Situationer. There are a total of 384 major river systems and 59 lakes and more
than 100,000 hectares of freshwater swamps in the Philippines. These are used either for
domestic, industrial, irrigation and power-generation purposes.
Agriculture continues to be the heaviest water user, accounting for 60% of total
withdrawals. The quality of water available for irrigation has been relatively good.
however, the increasing sedimentation of river systems have resulted in the reduced water
conveyance capability of irrigation systems and diversion facilities. The main cause of
this problem is the destruction of watersheds and consequent soil erosion. Sedimentation
caused by the dumping of mine tailings in the river systems is also a major contributory
factor.
Another environmental problem which is becoming a major concern is saltwater intrusion.
This problem is characterized by the movement of saline water into freshwater aquifers or
surface waters. The general mechanisms responsible for the intrusion are the reversal or
the reduction of natural barriers that prevent movement of saltwater, and the accidental
or inadvertent disposal of waste saline water.
Official reports of the MWSS and NWRB reveal that the total area affected by saltwater
intrusion (excluding Metro Manila) has reached 480,802 hectares. The most heavily affected
provinces are Cagayan, Bulacan, and Cebu.
In Metro Manila, the affected areas may be categorized according to sources of
contamination, namely: 1) seawater intrusion -- 10,244 hectares; 2) seawater intrusion and
connate water -- 513 hectares; and 3) connate water -- 5,674 hectares. The affected areas
total 19,611 hectares. It should be pointed out that majority of the affected areas are
urban and rural settlements, which is a real cause for alarm.
Hydrogeological investigation and economic analysis of the groundwater salinity
intrusion phenomenon indicate the following impacts on water supply and the affected
population:
- poor water quality
- corrosion of wells
- salinization of agricultural land due to inundation, subsequently reducing agricultural
yield
- reduced revenues in some industries due to additional cost of water supply
- revenue loss in public water utilities due to replacement costs where wells became too
saline to use
- additional cost for the acquisition of water from piped supply
Six particular areas in the Philippines, including the two major cities -- Metro Manila
and Cebu -- were found to be subjected to continuous degradation of the groundwater supply
due to saltwater intrusion.
Key Concerns
- Pollution due to domestic, commercial and industrial activities
- Agricultural run-offs from pesticides and fertilizers
- Siltation
- Saltwater intrusion
Current Efforts. The DENR, aside from its rivers revival program, is currently
undertaking its river classification project. Of the 384 major rivers in the country, 261
have been presently classified according to their use.
Key Measures Needed
- Enforcement of laws, rules and regulations.
- Implementation of an information and education campaign
- Setting up of waste water treatment plants
- Implementation of a sound rehabilitation program for affected freshwater ecosystems
Coastal Resources
Situationer. Because of
pressures from an increasing population and the drive towards industrial development,
coastal resources have been exploited indiscriminately and its conservation and protection
have been overlooked. Dynamite fishing, siltation and human encroachment have led to the
destruction of coastal resources. Pollution from industrial complexes continues to be a
growing problem.
A recent satellite study reveals that mangrove and coral
resources, two of the most important coastal habitats have been severely degraded. Of the
500,000 hectares of the original mangrove species vegetation in the 1920's, only 38,000
hectares are left today. However, satellite imagery shows some 149,000 hectares of
secondary growth mangrove vegetation.
The estimated coral cover of the country's coastal
resources is almost 33,036 square kilometer. Only 5 to 6 percent of this is classified as
in excellent condition.
The coastal areas are also the final destination of most of
the mine tailings generated by the mining industry. During the last 3 years, mine tailings
generated totaled over 2 billion DMT. In addition to land based pollution, pollution from
ship and oil spills are common.
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Key Concerns
- Overfishing of nearshore fishing areas due to expanding coastal population
- Continued widescale use of illegal fishing practices
- Degradation of coral reefs which is due to a combination of silt deposition and
destructive fishing methods (blast fishing and muro-ami)
- Disappearance and degradation of spawning areas, notably mangrove and mangrove areas,
due to conversion to fishponds and other uses
- Encroachment of commercial fishing vessels into nearshore areas reserved for small
(municipal) fishermen
- Ineffective administrative arrangements for regulating coastal and marine resources
Key Measures Needed
- Identification and quantification of point and non-point sources of pollution
- Setting up of centralized treatment plants for domestic wastes and wastes of similar
industry types
- Containment of oil slicks
- Control of siltation by reforestation
- Granting exclusive rights to small fishermen
- Conduct of hydraulic studies in aquifers
- Stepped-up enforcement of fishing laws and zoning rules
- Common property management arrangements, i.e., assigning common property rights to
coastal communities or fishermen organizations in the use and protection of coastal
fishing areas
- Preparation of site-specific fishery resources management plans based on inventory of
resources and assessment of sustainable fishing yields
- Rehabilitation of coastal resources (coral reefs and mangroves) to sustain fish yields,
including measures to enhance productivity through artificial means, e.g., artificial
reefs
- Provision of alternative livelihood opportunities for coastal communities to reduce
reliance on fishing as a source of income
- Intensification of environmental information and education
Land and Mineral Resources
Situationer. Pollution of land resources may be traced to three general sources:
solid wastes from domestic, commercial and industrial activities; agricultural pollution
from pesticides and fertilizers; and pollution from mining activities. The extensive use
of fertilizers and pesticides is continuously polluting the country's land resources and
is causing soil deterioration.
The land resources of the country are also vulnerable to soil erosion. Presently, at
least 21 provinces are known to have more than half of their areas eroded. About 9 million
hectares of alienable land are eroded in varying degrees and approximately 1 million
hectares of agricultural lands have an 8-15% slope making it susceptible to severe soil
erosion during the rainy season. Improper agricultural practices by farmers make these
lands unproductive.
The Philippines is endowed with rich and varied mineral resources, much of which
remains to be explored and exploited. With such a vast mineral resource, the Philippine
mining industry has played a major role in the economic growth of the country. Concomitant
with mineral exploitation however, are the environmental problems generated by mining,
panning and milling activities. Huge quantities of waste and mine tailings have to be
dumped. These can cause pollution of rivers and marine ecosystems, and damage irrigation
canals and farmlands by siltation. Vegetative cover has to be removed to give way to an
open pit mining operation, and for sites of waste dumps and tailing ponds. Toxic chemicals
like mercury, used by thousands of small-scale miners, find their way to the river system
even in urban areas. Landslides and flashfloods occur at alarming rates in areas defaced
by unsystematic mining operations.
Key Concerns
- Unregulated importation, distribution and use of toxic and hazardous substances
- Incompatible land-use practices
- Unregulated mining activities and dumping of mine tailings and wastes
- Indiscriminate use of pesticides and fertilizers
- Lack of awareness and education on the part of the public regarding the ill effects of
pollution
Current Efforts. The DENR manages the mineral resources sector and is empowered
to oversee the activities concerning geology and mineral resources exploration,
development and conservation. The Environmental Management Bureau, a bureau under the
DENR, administers the Environmental Impact Assessment System which has regulatory control
over proposed mining projects. Pollution and other related problems generated by the
industry are regulated by the field offices of the DENR.
Key Measures Needed
- Formulation of a national land use plan
- Implementation of an effective information and education campaign on the causes and
effects of land pollution
- Stringent enforcement of environmental laws, local ordinances, rules and regulations
- Implementation of an efficient monitoring system to prevent or abate the degradation of
land resources
- Immediate enactment of a law for the sound management of toxic and hazardous substances
3.3 AGRICULTURE
Situationer. With the Filipino population nearing 60 million in 1989, and a
total land area of 30 million hectares, the land area per capita is about 0.5 hectare.
This per capita agricultural land is lower than the world average of about one hectare.
As of 1980, the Philippines has about 9.70 million hectares of agricultural land. An
estimated 3.7 million hectares of these lands are planted to pa y, 2.0 million hectares to
corn, and 2.8 million hectares to coconuts. The remaining 1.2 million hectares of
agricultural land are planted to crops like tobacco, sugarcane, citrus, vegetables, abaca
and others.
Until about 1960, agricultural growth was based primarily on land increase at the
extensive margin with little changes in cropping intensity, technology, and total
productivity. In 1979 and thereafter, there was a shift to increasing land productivity at
a very intensive margin.
The increasing demands by a growing population for higher agricultural production now
threatens the very sustainability o the country's natural resources. Socio-economic
factors such as Inequitable distribution or lack of access to land, aggravate further the
problem.
The problem of soil erosion in the Philippines is quite pronounced due to its
geographical and climatic conditions. For example, 31% of the country's total land area is
hilly and mountainous, and thus susceptible to erosion.
Soil erosion in many parts of the country has already caused irreparable loss of
precious topsoil, deterioration of arable lands, low crop yields, and reduced water
supply. Erosion has also contributed to the sedimentation of rivers as well as dams and
lakes, and increase incidence of floods.
In places where arable lands have become useless, farmers are shifting to marginal.
less productive areas. The proof is the increase number of clearings on even steep
mountain slopes.
Key Concerns
- Degradation of soil quality due to erosion and use of chemical fertilizers
- Reduced lifespan and effectiveness of irrigation infrastructure facilities due to rapid
siltation of reservoirs and conveyance systems
- Heavy use of chemical fertilizers resulting in pollution of receiving water bodies, and
reduction of soil fertility
- Slow implementation of CARP, which perpetuates inequitable land ownership patterns that
drive landless farmers toward the marginal uplands
- Settlement and farming of upland areas, and employment of ;)predominantly unsustainable
farming practices
- Indiscriminate conversion of agricultural land for residential and commercial uses
Current Efforts. The government is currently accelerating land transfer and
redistribution. In 1972, Presidential Decree No. 27 enacted a land reform program which
redistributed tenanted rice and corn lands. The latest effort in this direction is
Republic Act No. 6657, the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) which places under
agrarian reform all types of agricultural land regardless of crop and tenancy
arrangements.
Multi-cropping systems are being piloted all over of the country, particularly in areas
where there Is limited water supply. The International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), the
Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), the Philippine Rice Research Institute (PRRI) and other
related institutions are into research and development of technology of adaptable
multi-crops in areas not yet suitable for high-yielding varieties. There are also existing
programmes on irrigation such as water-impounding projects, both large and small, and
watershed rehabilitation of the DENR, DPWH and NIA.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is exerting effort to expand our foreign
markets in non-traditional commercial crops. Crops such as manqroves, coffee, garlic,
ginger and pineapples are potential export crops, in addition to the traditional demand
for bananas, fresh coconuts, and sugarcane.
The recent shift from use of chemical fertilizers to organic fertilizers is gaining
ground even among our farmers. The Integrated Pest Management program is similarly gaining
attention.
Key Measures Needed
- Preparation of site-specific agricultural resource inventories to assess sustainable
production potentials and population carrying capacities
- Efficient and intensive farming systems based on small-scale farm units and use of
organic farming, nutrient cycling techniques and integrated pest management
- Multi-purpose development of forest lands to provide livelihood opportunities through
sustainable upland farming
- Utilization of the agricultural development potential of the uplands through combination
of appropriate farming technologies, provision of infrastructure, and establishment of
institutional support (e.g., tenurial arrangements)
- Diversion of pressure away from the uplands through intensified distribution and
development of agricultural areas in the lowlands
- Policy and fiscal measures to encourage or direct a long-term shift of agriculture away
from reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides
- Intensification of environmental information and education
3.4 INDUSTRY
Situationer: Without doubt, industrialization must be pursued. It is the vehicle
through which we expect to solve problems of mass poverty and unemployment. However,
industry withdraw materials from the natural resource base and generates pollution.
Depending on the overall framework of the policy to be adopted, industrialization has the
power either to enhance or degrade the environment.
The industrial sector registered a positive gross value added (GVA) of 8.02% in 1987.
Growth was principally attributed to the renewed business confidence in the economy due to
the improved consumer spending and perceived political and economic stability.
The growth in the industrial value-added was accounted for by Improved performance in
manufacturing (7.12) and electricity, gas and water subsectors (10.74). A strong domestic
expenditure program, stable consumer prices and a demand for manufactured export products
in the world market enhanced the growth of manufacturing industries. Increases in the
growth level of the electricity, gas and water subsector can be attributed to the higher
consumption of power and water by commercial and industrial firms.
The construction industry recovered from last year's poor performance mainly because of
the availability of credit at low interest rates which fueled government and private
investments in the sector. The mining and quarrying subsector however, suffered from the
inability to respond to metal price increases in view of Increased production costs based
on rising oil prices and the low grade of mills in most mines.
Investments also showed a strong turnaround in 1987. The Board of Investments (BOI) -
approved equity Investments grew by 165.7 percent from P3.15 billion in 1986 to P 8.36
billion in 1987. This was brought about by the 217.7 percent increase in Filipino
investments amounting to P3.43 billion and the 115 percent growth in foreign investments
amounting to P3.43 billion. The U.S. Japan, and Hongkong were the Philippines' major
investors accounting for 55 percent of the total foreign investments for 1987.
In terms of regional capital investment, the National Capital Region and Southern
Tagalog registered a 95 percent increase in paid up capital stock of existing and new
domestic stock corporations.
The industrial sector is projected to continually grow with the thrust towards export
promotion and selective import substitution. The mining sector is expected to recover as a
result of the promotion of small-scale mining, increased production of non-metallic
minerals and expansion of foreign and local markets for mineral commodities. The growth of
domestic resource-based industries is likewise expected to enhance the growth of the
manufacturing subsector. Imports shall enjoy a steady increase and will come in terms of
payments for raw-materials and intermediate goods, capital goods and oil requirements of
large-scale industrial and other major infrastructure development projects. However, total
import value is expected to decrease due to the utilization of indigenous energy sources
and the adoption of energy conservation measures.
Key Concerns
- Build-up of industrial infrastructure resulting In necessary increases in energy and raw
material requirements from the natural resource base
- Pollution and waste resulting from industrial activities
- Concentration of industrial facilities in urban areas
- Environmental risks of new industrial technologies
- Relocation of pollutive heavy industries from industrial countries to developing
countries like the Philippines
Current efforts. In order to enhance continued growth in the industrial sector,
the government prepared a ten-year sectoral development program. In the program, ten (10)
industry sectors were identified for short and long-term action plans. These are:
agri-based industries, forest-based industries, wearables, chemicals, construction, toys,
gift, furniture and housewares, services, mining and other extractives, metals,
engineering, electronics and telecommunication industries.
The government continues to promote the development of Cottage, Small and Medium
Enterprises (CSME's) through a package of assistance programs consisting of financing,
entrepreneurial development, research and marketing, and technical assistance. Support
activities were also provided In the form of projects on technology transfer, training,
productivity awareness seminars, technical and management information.
The government also created the Micro, Cottage, Small and Medium Enterprise Council
(MICSMEC) in 1987 to coordinate efforts In the subsector and in the agencies involved in
CSME development. Another effort to sustain industrial growth is the creation of 1,158
People's Economic Councils (PEC).
Another program implemented which aims to provide financial resources and technical
expertise for countryside development is the Agricultural, Small and Medium Industries
Lending Programs (A-SMILE) along with the Agora-industrial Technology Transfer Program
(AINP).
The regional dispersal of industries is being promoted to distribute the benefits of
industrialization to the countryside and encourage self-reliant and productive
communities. The sub-components of the program are the National Program for Industrial
Estate Development and the Livelihood Projects (e.g., KKI<, ICSS).
The government also granted fiscal incentives to deserving firms to make up for market
distortions. Incentives include outright tax exemption, tax credit and preferential tax
treatment.
Key Measures
- Establishment of environmental goals, policies and standards to regulate industry sector
decisions involving location, pollution control, waste management, occupational health and
safety of workers, energy and raw material usage, and disposal of toxic substances
- Support in terms of policy, research, economic instruments/market mechanisms for the
promotion of recycling or reuse of industrial raw material and by-products
- Rural infrastructure development to promote dispersal of industries to the countryside
- Fiscal measures (e.g. tax incentives, subsidies, pricing policies) to encourage adoption
of pollution control technologies by both large and small-scale Industries
- Adoption of the "polluter pays" principle
- Vigorous enforcement of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) System in making
decisions in industry planning
- Establishment of a tracking system and capability to deal with toxic and hazardous
chemicals and wastes
Among the projects needing priority attention in this sector are:
- Toxic Chemicals and Hazardous Wastes Management
- Environmental Carrying Capacity Profiles of Proposed Growth Centers Outside Metro Manila
- Intensification of Small-Scale Planning Operation for the Development of Ancillary
Industries
- Development of an Information Base on Land Use and Fiscal Planning for Urban and Other
Growth Centers in the Countryside
- Programs to Provide Technical Assistance on the Abatement of Air Pollution to DENR
Regional Offices
- Air and Water Quality Monitoring Network
3.5 ENERGY
Situationer. After the energy crisis of 1973-1974, energy development in the
Philippines led to the partial replacement of oil by indigenous sources such as coal,
hydroelectric power, geothermal, and other non-conventional sources. The non-conventional
sources include bagasse, agriwaste, and dendrothermal.
The country's total energy consumption in 1988 reached 110.53 million barrel of fuel
oil equivalent (MMBFOE), 10.3 percent higher than the 1987 consumption. Imported energy
accounted for 62.3 percent of the total percent from the level attained in 1987. The
increase in the total energy consumption is attributable to the efforts to sustain the
country's economic recovery momentum.
Indigenous energy production amounted to 41.70 MMBFOE, accounting for 37.7 percent of
the total consumption. Out of total indigenous energy consumption, geothermal accounted
7.6 percent, hydro - 9.8 percent, oil - 1.8 percent, coal -3.9 percent, and
non-conventional - 14.7 percent.
The 1988-1992 Medium Term Energy Plan outlined the sector's policy thrusts as follows:
- Promotion of energy self-reliance
- Rationalization of energy prices to reflect the true cost of production and distribution
- Encouragement of energy conservation measures to promote efficiency
- Participation of the private sector in energy projects
- Maintenance of environmental and safety measures for energy projects
Key Concerns
- Need for growth In energy supplies and power generating facilities to promote and
sustain economic development
- Potential adverse impacts of large-scale energy resources development
- Wasteful energy utilization due to old and inefficient generating facilities and
distribution system
- Reduced lifespans of hydro-electric systems due to rapid siltation and degradation of
watersheds
- The growing shortages of fuel wood in rural areas due to deforestation
- Several foreign exchange difficulties as a result of paying for imported oil
- Energy technologies have the potential to perturb critical environmental processes as
well as threaten human health
- No energy technologies arc free of environmental risk
Current Efforts: To assure the country of a stable supply of energy, the
following activities are being undertaken:
- Oil exploration and drilling both on-shore and off-shore are continuously pursued. A
total of seven wells were drilled in 1988. The oil discovery at North Masinloc, and Galoc
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