Program Title: Declaration of Mt. AltutTuna as a Local Conservation Area of Brgy.

Colonsabac, Matanao, Davao del Sur, Philippines

Program Leader: Augie E. Fuentes, Ph.D

Co Program Leader: Kris Kristofferson T. Tan

Rationale:
The Philippines is one of the 18 mega-diverse countries of the world, containing two-thirds of
the earth’s biodiversity and between 70% and 80% of the world’s plant and animal species. This
unique biodiversity is supported by a large variety of ecosystems, landscapes and habitats, most of
which are greatly threatened by human activities (CBD, 2024).
Protected areas (PAs) are important tools for the conservation of biological diversity and are
cornerstones of sustainable development strategies (Djoghlaf, 2008; Pitchay&Torrentira Jr., 2022).
The Convention on Biological Diversity recognizes protected areas as a fundamental tool for
safeguarding biodiversity, and life itself. The intrinsic values of biodiversity are arguable reason
enough for safeguarding life through protected areas.
With the aim conserving the biodiversity, the Philippine government implemented and
strengthened the Republic Act 7586 which is known as the National Integrated Protected Areas
System (NIPAS) act of 1992 and the Republic Act 11038 which is known as the Expanded National
Integrated Protected Areas System (ENIPAS) Act of 2018. These acts encompass measures which
aim in declaring PAs in the country for conservation protection and management.
Currently, the Philippines covers about 35% of 128 identified Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs) in
the country with the remaining 65% lacking government protection. Because the NIPAS approach to
establishing a PA takes years –as influenced by the level of awareness of lawmakers and parochial
interest of some legislators, there is a need to expand and strengthen terrestrial PA system in the
Philippines by developing new conservation models and building capacity for effective management of
the system, supported by improved systemic and institutional capacities. Thus, the need for the
establishment of Local Government Unit (LGU) Managed Conservation Areas or Local Conservation
Areas (LCAs).

Program Objectives:
Thus, this project aims for the declaration of Mt.Altut Tuna as a Local Conservation Area of Matanao,
Davao del Sur, Philippines. Specifically, this project aims to:
1. conduct an exploratory assessment of key plant families in Altut Tuna, Matanao, Davao Del
Sur;
2. provide an inventory of the faunal species found in Altut Tunamountain range in Matanao,
Davao del Sur;
3. provide a comprehensive analysis the physical environment of Altut-tuna; and
4. conduct socio-economic assessment of community in and around Altut Tuna.

Program Site
The study will be conducted within Mt. Altut Tuna, located in Matanao, Davao Del Sur. This
area is a proposed Local Conservation Area (LCA), covering approximately 600 hectares of
timberland (DENR XI, Land Class Map 2015). The study site is critical due to its ecological
significance and the conservation potential it holds for key plant families.
Figure 1. Study Location

Methodology
This project will integrate field surveys, data analysis, and expert consultations to provide
recommendations for enhancing biodiversity practices and land management in Mt. Altut
Tuna, Brgy. Colonsabac, Matanao, Davao del Sur.

Total Budgetary Requirements Per Component Project

ITEM Proposed Budget
Component Project No. 1 128,650.00
Component Project No. 2 156,875.00
Component Project No. 3 100,000.00
Component Project No. 4 100,000.00
GRAND TOTAL 485,525.00
Project No. 1

Project Title: Assessment on the Diversity and Conservation of Key Plant Families of Mt. Altut
Tuna in the Municipality of Matanao, Davao del Sur

Project Leader: Jan Pauline Geyrozaga

Project Staff: Janny Sumilla
Jay Mark Plaza
Bhegie Buay
Lealain Acut
Christine Ramos

Project Summary
This project seeks to assess the diversity and abundance of key plant families in Mt. Altut
Tuna, Matanao, Davao Del Sur, with a particular focus on families like Actinidiaceae,
Ericaceae, Begoniaceae, Orchidaceae, Araceae, Urticaceae, Myrtaceae, Zingiberacae,
Rubiaceae, and Gesneriaceae. Studies in regions like Northern Sierra Madre, Ilocos Norte,
and Mt. Kitanglad have documented high endemism within Rubiaceae, underscoring its
ecological importance and vulnerability (Biag& Alejandro, 2021; Batuyong et al., 2021;
Amoroso et al., 2011).

Conservation is critical as many species are classified as threatened, according to the IUCN
and national standards (Biag& Alejandro, 2021). This research will also explore the influence
of altitude on plant diversity, as studies indicate that species richness tends to decrease with
increasing altitude, particularly in mossy forests (Amoroso et al., 2011). In line with findings
from Caimpugan’s peat swamp forest, where diverse but threatened species from these
families exist (Aribal& Fernando, 2014), this project emphasizes the urgent need for
continued biodiversity research and conservation efforts in underexplored regions like Mt.
Altut Tuna. These efforts are critical for protecting endemic species and maintaining
ecological balance.

Objectives:
This study aims to conduct an exploratory assessment of key plant families in Mt. Altut Tuna,
Matanao, Davao Del Sur, with the following specific objectives:
1. To list and identify species within the selected plant families.
2. To assess the endemism and conservation status of these species using established
conservation frameworks.
3. To evaluate species abundance and diversity through biodiversity indices.
4. Provide information to local communities about the existing flora in the area to
enhance local conservation efforts and management.

Methodology
Sampling and Data Collection
This study will utilize modified three 2-kilometer transect lines, subdivided into nine sampling
plots distance at 250 meters apart this method is based on the BMB Technical Bulletin No.
2016-05 & 2017-09 Guidelines. Each sampling plot will measure 20 x 20 meters, while
opportunistic sampling will be employed to document species outside the sampling plots to
note their presence. The study will involve the collection of several key data points to facilitate
a comprehensive assessment of plant diversity. Each sampled species will be documented
with both local and common names, as well as its scientific name, ensuring accurate
identification and taxonomy.
 Additionally, the abundance of each species will be quantified by recording the number of
individual plants present in each sampling plot. To enrich the ecological analysis, the study
will also collect environmental data, including altitude, soil type, and the characteristics of
surrounding vegetation. This multi-faceted data collection approach will provide a robust
foundation for understanding species distribution patterns, ecological interactions, and
conservation needs within Mt. Altut Tuna.

Identification and Data Assessment

Identification will utilize the Co’s Digital Flora of the Philippines, Flora Malesiana, and the
Checklist of Merrill. Assessment of endemism will use the IUCN Red List of Species, while
conservation status will be evaluated using DAO 2017-11 and the IUCN Red List 2023.

Data Analysis
The species diversity will be analyzed using the Paleontological Statistical Software Package
for Education and Data Analysis (PAST version 4.03). Interpretation will follow the Fernando
Biodiversity Scale (Table 1). Factors like endemism, conservation status, and distribution
records will be assessed. Important values such as individual counts, plot occurrence, and
dominance will also be analyzed.

Table 1. Fernando biodiversity scale (1998)

Relative Values Shannon Index Evenness Index
Very high 3.5 and above 0.75 – 100
High 3.0 – 3.49 0.5 – 0.74
Moderate 2.5 – 2.99 0.25 – 0.4
Low 2.0 – 2.49 0.15 – 0.24
Very Low 1.9 and below – 0.14

Target Output/s and Accomplishment/s

The study aims to produce several key outputs that contribute to the understanding of plant
diversity in Mt. Altut Tuna. These outputs include;
1. A comprehensive species inventory detailing both local and scientific names of
identified species.
2. Additionally, the research will provide an assessment of the conservation status of the
documented species, highlighting those that are threatened or endemic.
3. The study will also generate ecological insights into the distribution patterns and
abundance of key plant families, contributing valuable data for conservation efforts.
4. Furthermore, there is a possibility of discovering previously undescribed species,
which would enhance the scientific understanding of biodiversity in the region.
Lastly, the findings will offer evidence-based recommendations for conservation strategies
aimed at preserving biodiversity in the area.

Significance and Impact of the Component Project

The proposed study on plant diversity in Mt. Altut Tuna holds significant ecological, scientific,
and conservation value. By providing a comprehensive assessment of key plant families, the
research contributes to the understanding of biodiversity in an underexplored region,
potentially identifying new species and enhancing knowledge of endemic flora. This
knowledge is crucial for informing conservation strategies and prioritizing efforts to protect
threatened species.

The study's findings will also have broader implications for ecological research, as they may
reveal patterns of species distribution and abundance in relation to environmental factors
 such as altitude and habitat type. This understanding can inform habitat management and
restoration initiatives, promoting sustainable practices that support local ecosystems.

Moreover, the research aims to engage local communities in conservation efforts, fostering
awareness and participation in biodiversity preservation. By highlighting the ecological
significance of Mt. Altut Tuna, the study can inspire collaborative efforts to protect this vital
area, ultimately contributing to regional and national conservation goals. Overall, the study is
poised to make meaningful contributions to both scientific literature and practical conservation
efforts.

Budgetary Requirements:
ITEM Proposed
Budget
I. Personal Services
Local Guides (3 PAX) @ 500/day x 10 days 15,000.00
Botanist/Taxonomist 25,000.00
II. Maintenance and Operating Expenses
Transportation 8,000.00
Communication Expenses 5,000.00
Representation Expenses (Food, refreshments, etc.) 92,400.00
Field Collection Tools (Plant Press, Prunning Shears, Trowel, 7,900.00
Ziplock Bags, Gloves, Measuring Tapes, Compass, Altimeter,
Hand Lens, Ruler, etc…)
Specimen Preservation and Documentation (Silica Gel, Alcohol, 1,350.00
Paper Bags, Labels or Tags, Notebooks, Pens, etc…)
Location and Identification (GPS, Field Guides, etc…) 13,000.00
Safety and Field Comfort (First Aid Kit) 1,000.00
Office supplies (Printer and Bond Papers) 10,000.00
Publication Fee 10,000.00
Other MOOE 25,000.00
Sub-Total 138,650.00
III. Equipment Outlay N/A
GRAND TOTAL 138,650.00
Project No. 2

Project Title: Fauna Inventory of Mt. Altut Tuna in Matanao, Davao del Sur, Philippines

Project Leader: Augie E. Fuentes, Ph.D

Project Staff: Larra Mae B. Testado
Faith Nicole Moncada
Shiela Mae Bolambot
Kenneth Vino

Project Summary
Locally, the mountain ranges of municipality of Matanao Davao del Sur include areas that
exhibit evidence of extensive biological diversity. One area is locally named as “Altut Tuna”
which is interpreted as puddle for buffalo. Numerous sightings and observations on interesting
fauna have been further shared by the local community. With the initiatives of the local
government of Matanao and collaborations from Davao del Sur State College and Provincial
Environmental and Natural Resources, Mt. Altut Tunais aimed to be declared as a Local
Conservation Area. A Local Conservation Area refers to a biodiversity area that is outside if
the NIPAS system and is established for management by the local government unit.

To support the declaration of “Altut Tuna” as a local conservation area, the assessment of
biodiversity is one of the necessary activities that are needed to be conducted. At present,
there have been no studies in faunal inventory and biodiversity assessments conducted in the
area. With these considerations, this study proposes to conduct an inventory of fauna in “Altut
Tuna”.

Objectives:
This proposal generally aims to provide an inventory of the faunal species found in “Altut
Tuna” mountain range in Matanao, Davao del Sur. Specifically, the following objectives are
targeted:
1. Record the four major vertebrate groups (reptiles, birds, amphibians and mammals)
and arthropods found in the study site
2. Determine the distribution and conservation status of the identified species in the
study site
3. Develop an Instructional Educational Material reflecting all the identified faunal
species

Methodology
Transect walk method (at least 2 km transects will be established) will be used in surveying
the study site. Traps shall be initially established randomly along transect prior to the actual
transect walk sampling. Using the tools prepared, observations shall be recorded following
the methods detailed in the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)
Manual on Biodiversity Assessment and Monitoring System for Terrestrial Ecosystems. All
data gathered during transect walk survey shall be recorded completely in field notebooks.
1. For herpetofauna, individuals will be captured by hand, forceps or tongs and will be
placed in separate plastic containers and labelled accordingly. Individual searches will be
done at 1:30PM-3:00PM for day time recording and 7:00PM to 9:00PM for night time. For
amphibians and small lizards, traps will be used. The traps will be checked at regular
hourly intervals to ensure recovery of live captures. All captured individuals will be
released immediately after species identification.
 2. For small non-volant mammals, individuals will be captured using steel mesh cage traps.
Food baits made from coconut meat will be placed inside traps. Traps for ground surface
will be positioned 5 to 10 m apart in root tangles, burrow entrances, and beside or at the
top of fallen logs. Camera traps will be placed to capture photographs of larger cryptic
species. All captured individuals will be released immediately after species identification.
3. For birds, survey will be conducted using a simple line transect count. Five point stop will
be determined along the transect with a distance of at least 80 to 100 meters each. At
each point stop, species will be noted and abundance per species will be counted for 20
minutes. Digital camera with lens will be used for photo-documentation and the bird calls
will be recorded using a digital audio recorder. Mist nets made up of nylon material with
35 mm mesh size will be used. The mist nets to be laid out will measure 12 meters long
and will be checked periodically from 5:30Am to 8:00PM. Birds caught in nets will be
removed carefully and will be placed in cloth bags for identification. All captured
individuals will be released immediately after species identification.
4. For Volant mammals such as bats, they will be captured using the mist nets set up for
birds. The nets will be opened at a designated time and will be closed during rainy
weather. Three mist nets will be placed ad each transect. Nets will be checked at hourly
interval between 7:00AM to 8:00PM and then checked again at 5:00AM the next day.
Captured animal will be carefully removed from the net and placed individually in cloth
bags for identification. All captured individuals will be released immediately after species
identification.
5. For arthropods such as butterflies, simple survey and opportunistic sampling will be
conducted along the transect line. Photo-documentation and if possible measurements
will be conducted.
6. Established references and expert consultation will be utilized in identification of species.

Assessment of Fauna Diversity

The methods of survey for faunal diversity will be adapted from the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Manual on Biodiversity Assessment and
Monitoring System for Terrestrial Ecosystems and various relevant researches that are
conducted in terrestrial ecosystems in the country.

Target Output/s and Accomplishment/s

1. Inventory of faunal species in “Altut Tuna” Mountain Range
2. Checklist on fauna distribution and conservation status of identified species
3. Instructional Educational Material showing inventory of faunal species
4. Conduct of information session on the results of the study which shall be attended by men,
women, and youth of the local community.

Significance and Impact of the Proposed Study

With the aim of declaring Altut Tuna as a Local Conservation Area, this assessment study
shall provide one of the necessary technical information on the biodiversity assessment of the
site. Results of this study shall be used as one of the determining factors for the suitability of
the site to be declared as a Local Conservation Area. Furthermore, knowledge on the existing
fauna in the site can be a relevant tool in developing an effective biodiversity and
conservation management plan for the local government unit. This knowledge can also be
helpful for the awareness of the community to help in conserving their neighborhood
biodiversity rich forests and limit the traditional and various anthropogenic activities that may
cause a threat to the existing fauna.

Budgetary Requirements:
ITEM Proposed Budget
 I. Personal Services ***
II. Maintenance and Operating Expenses
Travel Expenses (Local)
Transport 25, 000.00
Field work 10, 000.00
Communication Expenses 5, 000.00
Representation Expenses 20, 000.00
Office/Fieldwork Supplies 95, 875.00
Other MOOE
1000.00
(Chemicals/Standards, Glass wares and apparatus)
III. Equipment Outlay (N/A)
GRAND TOTAL 156,875.00
Project No. 3

Project Title: Water Quality, Soil, and Sediment Assessment of Altut-Tuna, Brgy Colonsabac,
Matanao Davao del Sur. Basis for the Declaration of Altut-Tuna as Local
Conservation Area

Project Leader: Kris Kristofferson T. Tan

Project Staff: Marguelle Faye Placer
Renamarie Nacion
Astrid Gerongay
Daphne De Leon
Jakestar Talamisan
Jeffry Abubo

Project Summary:
The study will determine the various factors that affect the change in the water quality as well
as the status of the aquatic environment. Moreover, this assessment can also identify the
uses of the water bodies as a natural resource. The results of this assessment will then serve
as one of the basis for the declaration of Altut-tuna as a Local Conservation Area of the
Municipality of Matanao, with the development of recommendations for sustainable
management practices of the water resources.

Objectives:
The objective of this research/project is to provide a comprehensive analysis the physical
environment of Altut-tuna, specifically:
1. To identify and classify water bodies within Altut-tuna;
2. To assess water and sediment quality of freshwater bodies;
3. To develop recommendations for the conservation and management of the physical
environment of Altut-tuna as part of the LCAMP;
4. Determine the morphological, physical and chemical properties of soil in Altut-Tuna;
and
5. Assess the soil’s potential and identity appropriate soil management practices.

Methodology
Water Quality Assessment
Physical characteristics of freshwater bodies would be assessed through the survey of the
existing conditions, the selection of sampling points, and the measured depth and width of
river or streams. this will help the monitoring team gain an understanding of the type and
nature of the water body, the spatial and temporal variability within the water body, its existing
beneficial uses and factors that can possibly affect water quality.

Water samples will be collected from three strategic locations within the identified freshwater
body: Upstream, Midstream, and Downstream. Methods described in DENR-EMB’s Water
Quality Monitoring Vol. 1: Manual on Ambient Water Quality Monitoring will be used as a
guide for the sample collection and laboratory analysis.

The study will assess both physicochemical and microbiological parameters, including
Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Dissolved Oxygen, pH, temperature, turbidity, salinity,
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Total Suspended Solids (TSS), and color, alongside
microbiological indicators such as Total Coliform, Fecal Coliform, and E. coli, to
comprehensively evaluate water quality.
 Soil Quality Assessment
1. Soil Sampling and Profiling: Soil samples will be collected from representative sites. Soil
profiling will be done using the guidelines for soil description (FAO, 2006). Soil samples will
be collected at the different soil horizons identified.
2. Soil Sample Preparation and Analysis: The collected soil samples will be air-dried,
pulverized, and pass through a 2mm wire mesh sieve. After preparation, soil samples will
be sent to laboratory and analyzed for their physical and chemical properties, including soil
texture, bulk density, porosity, pH, organic matter content, and nutrient content.
3. Soil Management Recommendations: Based on the result of the analysis, appropriate soil
management practices will be recommended.

Target Output/s and Accomplishment/s

The expected results of the project will be a detailed assessment of the water quality of the
identified water bodies and a detailed assessment of the soils of Altut-tuna. This will include
information on the physico-chemical and microbiological characteristics of soil and water.

Significance and Impact of the Proposed Study

The result of this study will contribute to the development of sustainable practices of the
proposed local conservation area (LCA) and promote the optimal utilization of the water as a
natural resource.

Budgetary Requirements:

ITEM Proposed Budget

I. Personal Services ***
II. Maintenance and Operating Expenses
Travel Expenses (Local)
Transport 20,000.00
Field work 15,000.00
Representation Expenses 20,000.00
Office/Fieldwork/Laboratory Supplies 45,000.00
III. Equipment Outlay (N/A)
GRAND TOTAL 100,000.00
Project No. 4

Project Title: Proposing the Designation of "Altut Tuna" in Matanao, Davao del Sur as a Local
Conservation Area: A Socio-Economic Assessment

Project Leader: Jay Escabillas

Project Staff: Jake Aquino
Andrew Paul Palero
Mayalene Potente
Lemuel Antiporda
Nida Belono-ac
Xylah Lantaco

Project Summary
The proposal to designate Altut Tuna as a Local Conservation Area (LCA) stems from the
critical need to conserve its natural resources, while also ensuring the well-being of its local
community. A socio-economic assessment will be conducted to determine the community’s
current status, living conditions, and perceptions toward this initiative. The findings from this
study will serve as the basis for crafting a sustainable conservation plan that integrates
environmental protection with community development. Furthermore, this initiative aims to
integrate gender and development (GAD) principles into the socio-economic assessment to
promote inclusivity, equity, and gender responsiveness. By examining specific roles,
contributions, and needs of different gender groups, this project also seeks to craft a
sustainable conservation plan that balances environmental protection with inclusive
community development.

Objectives
The socio-economic assessment aims to:
1. Assess the demographic, gender, and economic profile of the respondents, providing
a baseline understanding of the community’s diversity.
2. Evaluate the housing and infrastructure within the community, understanding its
current capacity for development.
3. Measure the level of access to basic services such as education, health, utilities, and
livelihood opportunities, with a focus on identifying gender gaps.
4. Analyze the community's perception towards the protection and conservation of Altut
Tuna as an LCA, emphasizing how gender influences perception and participation.
5. Develop recommendation for gender-sensitive and inclusive conservation efforts and
community development initiatives.

Methodology
The assessment will employ a mixed-method approach, utilizing both quantitative surveys
and qualitative interviews with community members. Stratified random sampling will be
applied to ensure all segments of the population are represented. Data collection tools will
include structured questionnaires, focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant
interviews (KIIs). Researchers will also be given gender-sensitive training before the conduct
of the study to ensure interviews will be conducted in a respectful and unbiased manner.

Key Areas of Assessment

Parameter
1. Demographic and Socio- Sex and gender identity
Economic Profile Civil status
 Educational attainment
Household size
Number of years of residency
Employment status (disaggregated by gender)
Number of working household members (by gender)
Monthly household income and expenses (analyzing
income contributions by gender)
Organizational memberships, with emphasis on women-
led and inclusive organizations
2. Housing and Infrastructure Home ownership and structure disaggregated by gender
and marital status of owners)
House ownership (owned, rented, etc.)
Lot ownership (titled, non-titled, etc.)
Type of housing structure (concrete, semi-concrete, etc.)
Ownership of household appliances and equipment (e.g.,
tools, supporting women’s work/livelihoods)
Gender-specific needs in housing (e.g. accessibility,
safety, privacy)
3. Access to Basic Social 3.1. Education. Access to schools, literary levels, and
Services enrollment rates.
3.2. Health and Sanitation. Availability of healthcare
services, hygiene services, sanitation facilities, waste
management practices.
3.3. Utilities. Access to electricity, potable water, and
internet connectivity.
3.4. Protective Services. Availability and accessibility of
police, fire, and disaster response services,
community safety and gender-based violence
prevention.
4. Community's perception 4.1. Perception of Conservation. Explore the
towards the protection and community’s awareness and attitudes toward
conservation environmental conservation (e.g. roles of women,
men, and other gender groups in conservation).
4.2. Participation in Conservation Efforts. Investigate
the community’s willingness to participate in the LCA
establishment.
4.3. Anticipated Impact of Conservation.
Understanding how the declaration of the LCA is
expected to affect their livelihoods, cultural practices,
and over-all well-being.

Target Outputs and Accomplishments

1. Comprehensive socio-economic and gender profile of the community, identifying key
opportunities for gender equity and inclusivity.
2. A detailed analysis of housing conditions, infrastructure, and access to social services.
3. A report on the community's perception towards the protection and conservation efforts.
4. Actionable recommendations for integrating community development with the establishment
of Altut Tuna as a Local Conservation Area.
5. Actionable, gender-sensitive recommendations for integrating community development with
the establishment of Altut Tuna as a Local Conservation Area.
Budgetary Requirements:
ITEM Proposed Budget
I. Personal Services ***
II. Maintenance and Operating Expenses
Travel Expenses (Local)
Transport 20, 000.00
Field work 30, 000.00
Communication Expenses 10, 000.00
Representation Expenses 20,000.00
Office/Fieldwork Supplies 20,000.00
III. Equipment Outlay (N/A)
GRAND TOTAL 100,000.00