Activity 1: OBSERVATION

Common Environmental Problems

Group No. 2 Date:

Leader:

Sept 3,
16 Hernandez, Shiela May I.
Members:
08 Ebreo, Casey Ian A.

2024
19 Malaluan, Lex Anthony Dion L.
22 Matibag, Christina Marie B.
26 Nuesa, Cristina Louise P.
32 Reyes, John Benedict M.
34 Sasan, Miguel Benedit M.
36 Tenorio, Adrienne Lorraine C.
Subject: Course and Section:
BIO 202L – General Ecology (Laboratory) BS BIOLOGY - 2101

Objectives:
At the end of the activity, students should be able to:
(a) directly observe the community they are in,
(b) identify and define the prevailing environmental problems in their community, and
(c) craft ways on how to address such problems.

Materials:
(a) pen,
(b) paper,
(c) photos,
(d) computer, and
(e) immediate natural environment
 3 PREVAILING PROBLEMS

Calapan City, Batangas City, Ibaan, Lemery, Rosario, San Jose, San Pablo City, Taal,

Plastic waste
Water Pollution Household wastewater
Commercial waste

Poultry waste
Livestock Waste Disposal
Piggery waste

Tawilis (Sardinella tawilis) decline

Overexploitation Tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis) decline

Deforestation

WATER POLLUTION

❖ Plastic Waste

Fig 1. These photos were taken on August 25, 2024 at Sampaloc Lake, San
Pablo City, Batangas.

San Pablo City, located in the province of Laguna, is well-known for its seven lakes,
which offer vital opportunities for fishing and tourism to the local community. Of these lakes,
Lake Sampaloc stands out as the largest and is arguably the most frequented tourist spot due
to its close proximity to the city center. However, the presence of surrounding communities
and the daily influx of tourists contribute to issues on maintaining cleanliness. Despite the
availability of trash bins along the sidewalks, improperly disposed plastic waste is often seen
floating in its waters.

Most of the plastic wastes observed consisted of single-use plastics, including soft
drink bottles, junk food wrappers, doy packs, plastic cups, and plastic bags. In spite of the
accessibility of trash bins, this issue persists because of irresponsible disposal practices,
which may stem from a lack of awareness or indifference to the environmental impact of
these actions. Persistence of this issue poses a threat to the environment, specifically to the
local biodiversity of the lake. Plastic pollutants, according to De Frond and Rochman (2019),
contain chemical additives which leach into surrounding waters posing chemical threat to
marine life in addition to risks of ingestion and entanglement with animals. Although this
specific littering problem is directly related to people’s poor waste management practices,
the plastic pollution problem as a whole roots more deeply from plastic production of large
corporations and our lack of more sustainable practices. In a 2021 study by Blasiak et al., it
was found that greater action is needed by the private sector in order to significantly reduce
plastic pollution.

Fig 2. These photos were taken last March 31, 2024 at Lemery, Batangas

Lemery is a coastal municipality located in the province of Batangas. The said

municipality is famous for drying and salting fish and that most of the locals' source of living
is fishing because of its wide fishing ground. The Balayan Bay is part of the Verde Island
Passage and Batangas as a whole is its entire shore. The said municipality is also famous as
a tourist spot because of the resorts present in the area. The municipal official did not fail to
remind the tourists and the locals by providing signage, and trash bins in order to preserve
the coastal area but due to the lack of discipline of the locals, as well as the tourists in terms
of proper waste disposal in order to protect the shore in Lemery, Batangas, waste pollution
became a huge concern as an environmental problem.

Plastics were scattered on the beach side, and were seen mostly floating in the coast
of Lemery. The common waste found in the area were mostly single used plastics such as
sachets of shampoo, plastic utensils, cups, junk food wrappers, and etc. According to the
Macau Business article (2023), over 50 kg of waste debris was collected in the coastal clean-
up last September 16, 2023. These problems towards the waste disposal can be stopped but
due to irresponsibility and lack of knowledge about the environmental problems the country
is facing, the waste pollution is still present. People tend to ignore the acts they do resulting
in a bigger problem. Some locals and tourists tend to just throw everything they used
anywhere even though garbage bins are present in the place. The irresponsibility is one of
the major factors why the waste pollution in Lemery, Batangas.

❖ Household Wastewater

Fig 3. These photos were taken on September 1, 2024 at Calapan River, Suqui,
Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.
 The City of Calapan, the capital of the province of Oriental Mindoro, Philippines, is
known as the "Gateway to the Golden Isle" due to its rich agricultural land and scenic coastal
views. Consequently, the City's economy heavily relies on agriculture and fishing. As a key
center for commerce and trade in the MIMAROPA region, Calapan has experienced
significant population growth, leading to the development of numerous subdivisions to
accommodate the increasing population. However, this rapid development has introduced a
pressing environmental concern. The lack of adequate canal systems in these subdivisions
has resulted in frequent sewage overflows and pollution of the rivers, which adversely affect
fishing practices in parts of Calapan City.

One of the environmental problems of water pollution in Calapan City is primarily

attributed to the sewage overflow from the Xevera Neo-Calapan Subdivision in Barangays
Sto. Nino, Bagumbayan and Bulusan. This subdivision, which lacks a sufficient canal system,
has led to the direct discharge of household wastes into local rivers. These wastes include
household wastewater from various water-using activities, which introduce harmful
chemicals into the waterways. This situation has caused a significant decline in water quality,
resulting in chemical contamination of the rivers. The effects of this pollution are severe:
local fishermen, particularly in Barangay Suqui, have reported that the river is too polluted
for swimming and fishing, and that the river fishes now have a foul taste.

Recently, the fishermen's organization in Suqui planned to conduct a rally at the

Calapan City Hall to address these issues. However, the reason why this rally did not occur
is currently unknown. The contamination in Calapan Rivers disrupts the local fishing
industry and poses health risks to the community that relies on these rivers. Urgent
measures are needed to address the pollution and restore the health of the waterways to
safeguard both the environment and the well-being of the residents.
 ❖ Commercial Waste

Fig 4. These photos were taken on August 30, 2024 at Calumpang River,
Batangas City, Batangas.

Batangas City is considered a Coastal City as it lies along the eastern coast of
Batangas Bay which opens to the Isla Verde Passage. The City’s coastline plays an important
role in its economy because of its busy port. The port serves as a major gateway for passenger
and product transport. With all of that being said, Batangas City still has it’s own fair share
of pollution. Water pollution to be specific. Most of Batangas City’s commercial waste goes
straight into the Calumpang River.

Commercial wastewater pollution is a significant environmental issue that comes

from the irresponsible discharge of wastewater from industrial and commercial facilities.
This kind of pollution releases harmful substances like chemicals, organic matter, and other
kinds of waste into water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and oceans. These harmful substances
can come from commercial businesses like manufacturing plants, food facilities,
pharmaceutical factories, and other commercial operations. In a city where industrialization
is rapidly expanding, the problem of commercial wastewater pollution is very concerning
because wastewater pollution often outpaces the development of wastewater treatment
infrastructure. Without proper regulation and cleaning, commercial facilities may release
contaminants straight into nearby water bodies which will lead to severe degradation of
water quality. This type of pollution does not only affect the environment but also has
consequences we do not even think of like impacting communities that rely on these water
sources for drinking water, agriculture, and recreation.
 Fig 5. These photos were taken on September 1, 2024 at Calapan River, San
Vicente North & West, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro.

The City of Calapan is a third-class component city in the first Congressional District
in the province of Oriental Mindoro. It is a thriving urban city characterized by rapid
development and diverse commercial activities. Calapan is known for its vibrant
atmosphere, blending modern infrastructure with the natural environment, and is home to
a variety of commercial establishments, including malls, retail stores, and fast food
restaurants. As a key center in the region, Calapan is experiencing significant urbanization
and economic growth. However, this expansion has introduced environmental concerns,
notably water pollution from wastewater produced by fast food restaurants, which has
impacted the Calapan River.

Apart from sewage overflow as mentioned before, another pressing environmental

issue in Calapan City is the severe commercial waste pollution of the Calapan River in
Barangays Ibaba East and West, San Vicente North, and West. The river has turned brown
and emits a foul odor, reflecting significant contamination. This pollution primarily stems
from commercial wastes, such as wastewater and byproducts from various businesses, with
fast-food restaurants being major contributors. These establishments produced large
volumes of wastewater that contained grease, food residues, and cleaning agents. It disrupts
local aquatic life and poses health risks to residents who use the river for recreational
activities and as a potential water source. According to Virola and Cinco (2019), the
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has intervened by issuing cease
and desist orders against three fast food restaurants (two branches of Jollibee and one
branch of Chowking) responsible for this pollution. The DENR’s actions followed years of
monitoring, which showed that the river’s water quality, measured by biochemical oxygen
demand (BOD), had deteriorated significantly from the acceptable level of 7 milligrams per
liter to recent readings of 9 to 13 mg/L. The elevated pollution levels from these
establishments, which far exceeded EMB standards, highlight the urgent need for improved
waste management practices and stricter regulatory enforcement to address and mitigate
the ongoing environmental damage.

➢ Strategies to Mitigate Water Pollution

As young citizens and Biology students, we can contribute to addressing water

pollution through several proactive strategies. First, we can raise awareness within the
community about the importance of proper waste disposal and the harmful effects of plastic,
household, and commercial waste on our rivers. By organizing and participating in
community clean-up drives, we can help reduce waste entering our waterways. Additionally,
promoting reusable materials and advocating for recycling can minimize plastic waste.
According to Evode et al. (2021), recycling is essential for reducing plastic pollution,
conserving energy, and preserving natural resources, all contributing to environmental
sustainability and economic stability.

For household waste, we can encourage families to practice proper waste segregation
and composting, which helps reduce the amount of organic waste entering the river. In
addition, adopting scientific waste disposal methods and ensuring strict compliance with
environmental policies and regulations are essential steps in restoring and maintaining river
water quality. According to Chakraborty et al. (2021), applying scientific land-use models
and constructing waste disposal pits near riverbanks can greatly enhance waste
management practices and prevent further pollution. Furthermore, promoting
environmental and community awareness is crucial for effectively managing and conserving
river health.
 Regarding commercial waste, we can educate local businesses, especially fast-food
establishments, about the environmental impact of improper wastewater disposal and
encourage them to adopt more sustainable practices. According to Chan (2010), the sludge
generated from these establishments can be recycled as fertilizer and biofuel, offering an
environmentally friendly alternative to conventional waste disposal methods. This promotes
waste recycling and helps reduce costs associated with waste management. Moreover,
biodiesels produced from recycled waste are more environmentally friendly than petroleum
diesel, as they lower the emission levels of harmful gas pollutants such as CO, SO₂, gaseous
hydrocarbons, soot, and particulates. Therefore, effective waste treatment technologies,
combined with good management practices, are crucial for both environmental protection
and economic efficiency.

By collaborating with environmental groups and local authorities, we can also

advocate for stricter regulations and enforcement to ensure that businesses comply with
waste management standards. Through these collective efforts, we can make meaningful
progress in reducing water pollution and protecting our community’s natural resources.
IMPROPER LIVESTOCK WASTE DISPOSAL

❖ Ibaan Piggery and Poultry Wastes

Fig 6. These photos were taken on August 31, 2024 at Ibaan, Batangas

The location of Ibaan, Batangas is bounded by Lipa City and the Municipality of San
Jose to the north, the Municipalities of Rosario and Taysan to the east, Batangas City to the
south, and Batangas City and the Municipality of San Jose to the west geographically. The
municipality has a land area of 68.99 square kilometers or 26.64 square miles, and the area
of Ibaan constitutes 2.21% of Batangas's total area. Ibaan, a rising commercial town in the
province of Batangas, is home to a vibrant community of small business owners and
industrialists who take pride in contributing to the municipality's development.
Temperature is moderate in its rainy and dry seasons, conducive to farming, agricultural,
and livestock production, which are the most common occupations. However, all barangay
in Ibaan today have to contend with livestock waste pollution, which continues to cause
several issues like unpleasant odor, greenhouse gases, and water pollution.

The community started livestock agriculture as a part of their livelihood. The manure
waste from their livestock is disposed of in a small river that makes it like sewage. Nutrients
from manure, particularly phosphorus and nitrogen, can run off into lakes, rivers, and coastal
waters, causing eutrophication. It leads to harmful algal blooms, which can deplete oxygen
in the water, kill aquatic life, and disrupt local ecosystems. Moreover, livestock waste also
produces methane and nitrous oxide. Methane and nitrous oxide emissions from manure
contribute to climate change. Communities can experience indirect effects of climate change,
such as more extreme weather events and shifts in local ecosystems. This problem is caused
by the high demand for animal products in local markets. High stocking densities can strain
waste management systems that can lead to improper disposal and environmental
contamination.

❖ Rosario Poultry and Piggery Wastes

Fig 7. These photos were taken on August 28, 2024 at Rosario, Batangas

Rosario, Batangas, being the agricultural field in the province, earns it the title of
"Rice Granary of Batangas." The economy of the town is predominantly based on agriculture.
Many farmers in residence are engaged in the cultivation of vast tracts of land growing not
only rice but also corn and coconuts. Aside from agriculture, Rosario also boasts of its
livestock industry, especially poultry and piggery farming, which engage a large chunk of the
population's livelihood. These are basically the backbone of the community, particularly
with regard to both local consumption and business. However, amid these economic
benefits, the town is currently facing some environmental challenges related to livestock
waste management.

One of these problems is the improper management of livestock waste coming from
the many poultry and piggery farms in Rosario, Batangas. This type of waste comprises
manure, urine, and bedding materials and produces numerous pollutants if not treated
accordingly. The very air that surrounds them is badly affected, hence impacting their quality
of life. Indeed, the waste is a common leach to the soils and source of local waters,
contaminating the environments with dangerous bacteria and nutrients like nitrogen and
phosphorus, leading to water pollution and the destruction of aquatic ecosystems. It
damages not only the health of communities but also agricultural activity locally through
damaged crops and losses in production caused by contaminated water. This is attributed to
insufficient waste treatment facilities and a lack of sustainable farming. According to a local
report, the poultry and piggery industries in Batangas, where Rosario belongs, have grown
so rapidly that there was more production of wastes.

❖ San Jose Poultry and Piggery Wastes

Fig 8. These photos were taken on August 30, 2024 at San Jose, Batangas

The Municipality of San Jose is nestled in the north and northeast by Lipa, east by
Ibaan, south by Batangas City and San Pascual, and west by Cuenca and Alitagtag. The name
of San Jose originates from its previous name as a barrio, “San José de Malaquing Tubig” or
“San José de Malaking Tubig”. The first part of the name comes from Spanish for its patron
saint, Saint Joseph, and the second part translates to “big river” or literally “big water” in
Tagalog, referring to the body of water that cuts through the area. This implies that even
though the Municipality of San Jose is situated between other cities and municipalities, river
systems still flow across this area, making it one of the only few natural resources of San Jose,
Batangas. However, due to the growing demand for livestock such as chicken meat, eggs, and
pork meat, and living to its name as “The Egg Basket of the Philippines”, people who own
farms no matter how vast or how modest it is, the wastes from their farms brought harm,
particularly on the nature itself; an issue that faces numerous waste management concerns
since the past decades.
 The poultry and piggery industries produce tremendous volumes of waste. Waste is
defined as something that must be discarded since it is no longer useful. Most of the waste
produced by such businesses is animal manure, which contains feces and urine that
contribute to environmental pollution. These wastes were mainly dumped on the nearby
gullies or canals that are connected to the river systems of San Jose. Consequently, this leads
to wider damage to the aquatic ecosystem and the nearby soils of its passage once it reaches
the main body of water connected to those systems. In addition, such industries have been
linked to various pollutants, including local disturbances such as foul odor, attracting flies,
and other pests capable of transmitting dangerous diseases. These problems are detrimental
to people’s well-being especially if such industries are established near residential areas.
Animal manure is a valuable resource if handled responsibly but a source of serious
challenges and public health concerns if managed inappropriately (Malomo et. al., 2018).
Although these problems arise from the poultry and piggery industries themselves, the
considerable concern about reducing the aforementioned environmental impacts is the lack
of awareness of the owners and their mindfulness of the consequences of their operations.

❖ Taal Poultry Wastes

Fig 9. These photos were taken on August 31, 2024 at Taal, Batangas.

Taal is a third class municipality in the province of Batangas. It has a total land area
of 29.76 square kilometers and is drained by the Pansipit River into Balayan Bay. The town
is known for its history, landmarks, and products, such as the balisong and barong Tagalog.
The town also flourished on agriculture, producing crops such as cotton, sugar, cacao, and
coffee. Today, the people of Taal made their livelihood from agricultural endeavors like
farming and livestock raising. However, these endeavors, especially backyard poultry
raising, are causing livestock waste pollution, which produces a putrid smell and affects
bodies of water.

Taal has been confronted with an increasing environmental problem in backyard

poultry raising, a vital part of the local economy. This has brought along high levels of
pollution as a result of the inappropriate disposal of livestock waste, notwithstanding the
important economic activity that it has offered to many households. It has only been made
worse by the fact that the majority in the community lack the appropriate waste
management tools and a general lack of information on the best and proper ways of
disposing of such waste. The pollution is visible in various ways, but the most outstanding is
a very strong unpleasant smell that becomes very pronounced when it is raining as such
lowering the quality of life for the residents around it. Still, part of the waste ends up in the
local water bodies, such as the Pansipit River, rendering them unhealthy and further
diminishing this town's environmental sustainability. It not only risks the environment but
also the health and well-being of the community.

➢ Strategies to Mitigate Livestock Waste Pollution

Addressing livestock waste pollution is a critical issue that impacts both our
environment and community health. As young citizens and students, we have the
opportunity to make a meaningful difference through various strategies. By taking proactive
steps, we can contribute to effective waste management and promote sustainable practices
that benefit our environment.

First, to raise awareness about the health and environmental risks associated with
improper waste management, we should actively engage in social media campaigns and
attend community meetings. By educating residents on sustainable waste management
practices, including composting and constructing waste pits, we can promote better disposal
methods.

Next, we can advocate for and participate in community waste management

programs. Working with schools and local organizations will help increase awareness about
best disposal practices. Additionally, collaborating with local government officials to push
for enhanced waste management infrastructure and policies will lead to significant
improvements in waste management and environmental health.

Supporting the implementation of aerobic composting is crucial for converting

livestock waste into nutrient-dense organic fertilizer. This practice not only eliminates
harmful chemicals but also reduces odors and prevents nutrient leaching. We should
encourage both small and large-scale livestock farms to establish on-site composting
facilities or utilize off-site commercial composting services. Promoting composting manure
as an environmentally friendly method for waste disposal will aid in creating organic
fertilizers and reducing pollution.

We must also advocate for the development of concrete socioeconomic and

environmental programs to address the impacts of poultry and piggery industries. Ensuring
these programs include effective information dissemination and robust waste management
systems is essential. According to Mac-Safley, Boyd, and Schmidt (2011), a well-planned
waste management system enhances the quality of air, water, soil, plant, and animal
resources.

Encouraging innovative waste management methods, such as constructing mortality

pits to prevent disease outbreaks and promoting the sale and rendering of livestock manure,
will help other farmers create feed and fertilizers. Supporting composting programs that use
poultry waste to produce organic fertilizers will reduce pollution and provide valuable
resources for local farmers, promoting sustainable agriculture.

By taking these actions, we can significantly contribute to addressing livestock waste

pollution and fostering a healthier, more sustainable environment.
OVEREXPLOITATION

❖ Tawilis (Sardinella tawilis) decline

Fig 10. These pictures were gathered via the internet.

Taal Lake is a freshwater lake located in the province of Batangas, Luzon Island,
Philippines. It is unique in that it has a caldera that is part of a volcano. It is the third biggest
lake in the country and holds on its waters Volcano Island, which contains another crater
lake itself, making it one of the most interesting geological formations around the world. The
lake supports a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, such as Sardinella tawilis, the only
freshwater sardine in the world, and other varieties of fish, birds, and plant life.
Unfortunately, the population of this freshwater sardine is declining, as demonstrated by
catch records in recent years.

The freshwater sardine (Sardinella tawilis) is an endemic species crucial to Taal Lake,
symbolizing the ecological richness of the lake. The species' contribution is highly significant
to the balanced ecosystem of the lake and is a very important resource to the local fishing
community. Now, tawilis faces a serious environmental crisis because its population is
declining at an alarming rate. The major factor resulting in its declining population has been
directly associated with human activities; overfishing and illegal fishing through the years
exerted tremendous pressure on this species Moreover, the situation was exacerbated by the
proliferation of fish cages that kept on clogging the lake and deforming its natural flowing
pattern. This has also provided an increase in the pollution level of the lake with these
purposely built fish cages for fish production. Fish manure accumulation and excessive
antibiotic use in these cages degrade water quality, trigger harmful algal blooms, and cause
fish kills, affecting not only tawilis but other aquatic species as well (IUCN, 2020). The effect
of such environmental conditions goes past the ecology of the lake and directly affects the
nearby communities that are dependent on it. Fishing around Taal Lake is passed on from
one generation to another; it is considered a way of life by many around the lake and not just
an economic activity. The decreasing tawilis population has had fishermen reeling in
shrinking catches, threatening incomes and food security. As fish stocks deplete, fishermen
are pressed to work harder and put in more hours under most circumstances, yet with less
return. This economic pressure is compounded by environmental degradation within the
lake, which is jeopardizing long-term viability as a sustainable means of making a livelihood.
This situation is a powerful reminder of the need for sustainable practices to protect tawilis
and the wider Taal Lake ecosystem.

❖ Tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis) decline

Fig 11. Photo by the Tamaraw Gene Pool Farm; Photo by Gregg Yan, UNDP BIOFIN; Photo by
Gregg Yan, Nature World News; Photo by Gregg Yan, Inquirer.net; Photo by James Slade,
Rewild; Photo by James Slade, Global Wildlife Conservation

Mindoro, an island located in the western part of the Philippines, is known for its rich
natural beauty and diverse ecosystems, ranging from pristine beaches to lush mountains.
The island is home to various indigenous communities and is recognized for its unique
wildlife, including the critically endangered tamaraw, a species of wild buffalo found only in
Mindoro. The island's forests and grasslands provide a haven for this rare species and many
others, making it a vital area for biodiversity in the country. However, Mindoro today is
grappling with the alarming decline of the tamaraw population, a pressing environmental
issue that threatens the island's ecological balance.

The Tamaraw (Bubalus mindorensis) is the world’s rarest buffalo and is endemic in
the Island of Mindoro. Distinct from the more common water buffalo, the tamaraw is notably
smaller and possesses unique curved horns and a robust, stocky build. This animal is an
integral part of Mindoro's natural heritage, playing a crucial role in maintaining the
ecological balance of its grasslands and forests. Unfortunately, they were declared by the
International Union for the Conservation of Nature as “critically endangered,” hence the term
“rarest buffalo.” The tamaraw population has plummeted dramatically, from around 10,000
individuals in the past to fewer than 500 today (Dela Peña, 2022). This decline of the
tamaraw in Mindoro is a heartbreaking example of how quickly nature's delicate balance can
be disrupted. The loss of natural forest cover in Mindoro, which decreased by 511 hectares
from 2002 to 2021, has significantly impacted the tamaraw's habitat, pushing them into
smaller, fragmented areas where they are more vulnerable to poaching and disease (Global
Forest Watch, 2021). In these confined spaces, they are increasingly vulnerable to
poaching—a crime that, despite legal protections since 1936, continues to threaten their
survival. The situation worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, as movement restrictions
hindered conservation efforts, leading to a troubling rise in illegal hunting (Cinco, 2020).
Additionally, farming by resettled people, the practice of kaingin (slash-and-burn
agriculture), and the spread of diseases pose significant threats to the tamaraw population.
Resettled communities often clear land for farming, leading to habitat loss and
fragmentation. Kaingin further exacerbates this issue by destroying large areas of forest,
reducing the tamaraw's natural habitat. Diseases, which can spread more easily in
fragmented and confined populations, also threaten the health and survival of the remaining
tamaraw. The decline of the tamaraw is more than just a loss of a species; it jeopardizes the
very ecological balance of Mindoro, where they play a crucial role in maintaining the health
of our grasslands and forests. Immediate and sustained conservation efforts are essential to
prevent the extinction of this species and preserve Mindoro's unique biodiversity.
 ❖ Deforestation

Fig 12. These photos were taken on September 5, 2024 at San Jose, Batangas.

San Jose, Batangas, a first-class municipality in the Philippines, is widely known for
its thriving livestock farming industry, particularly poultry and egg production. However,
this economic success comes at an environmental cost, as the town faces significant
deforestation due to unsustainable land use practices. Forests are being cleared to make way
for livestock farms, resulting in habitat loss, soil degradation, and increased greenhouse gas
emissions. The rapid expansion of livestock farming threatens the area’s biodiversity and
disrupts natural ecosystems, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable farming practices
to balance economic growth with environmental conservation.

Deforestation is the permanent removal of trees from a forest. According to Deroin

(2023), deforestation can include clearing the land for farming or livestock, or using the
timber for fuel, construction or manufacturing. In San Jose, Batangas, the primary driving
reason for deforestation is the unsustainable land use for livestock farming which involves
the large-scale clearing of forests to expand agricultural land. As this may boost the economic
and business growth of the municipality, it causes more harm to the environment as it
replaces natural habitats with livestock facilities, disrupting the ecological balance and
contributing to environmental degradation.

San Jose’s identity as a leading egg and poultry producer has driven aggressive
agricultural expansion, often at the expense of natural landscapes. The high demand for
poultry and livestock products has led to the clearing forests to create more space for farms.
Additionally, the lack of sustainable land management strategies has led to the overuse of
land and resources. The inadequate enforcement of environmental regulations and land-use
policies has allowed deforestation to continue unchecked, contributing to the uncontrolled
expansion of farming areas. Moreover, due to the economic benefits of livestock farming,
businessmen are eager to convert more land into pasture and facilities, often overlooking
long-term environmental impacts for short-term financial gain.

Considering these causes, challenges are being seen along the way as it further
spreads. Deforestation exposes soil to erosion, reducing its fertility and making the land less
productive over time. This can lead to increased vulnerability to landslides and floods.
However, being San Jose at a high-elevation area, flood is rare to be experienced. Meanwhile,
removing the trees that act as carbon sinks, contributes to higher carbon dioxide levels in
the atmosphere. This leads to a higher temperature environment that is broadly experienced
and drastically changed these past years. Moreover, the environmental degradation from
deforestation affects local communities, threatening livelihoods that depend on a cleaner
environment. In the end, this can also lead to health issues due to increased pollution and
reduced air quality.

❖ Strategies to Mitigate Overexploitation

As young citizens and Biology students, we play a vital role in addressing the decline
of tawilis, tamaraw, and the broader issue of deforestation through several key strategies.
To combat the overfishing of tawilis, we can work to raise awareness within our community
about the need for sustainable fishing practices. This includes educating local fishermen on
the importance of adhering to fishing regulations and advocating for the protection of Taal
Lake's delicate ecosystem. Additionally, participating in or initiating local campaigns to
promote sustainable fishing methods can help ensure the long-term survival of the tawilis
population.

For the conservation of tamaraws, we should actively engage in anti-poaching efforts

by supporting local conservation groups and promoting the enforcement of anti-poaching
laws. Educating our peers and the broader community about the critical importance of
tamaraws to Mindoro's ecosystem can also help build a strong, collective commitment to
their protection. Participating in habitat restoration projects and advocating for the
preservation of tamaraw habitats are crucial steps in addressing habitat loss and ensuring
that tamaraws have safe, suitable environments to thrive.

To address the issue of deforestation in San Jose, Batangas, requires a proactive and
community-focused approach. This includes raising awareness and educating people about
the impact of deforestation and the importance of sustainable land use. In addition,
advocate and participate in reforestation activities to replace the tree population from the
deforested areas. Aside from these, work with environmental groups to advocate for
stronger enforcement of environmental laws and regulations that protect forests and
promote sustainable land use, ensuring that environmental concerns are considered in land-
use planning. Overall, confronting issues regarding deforestation demands a shift towards
sustainable agricultural practices, stricter regulation enforcement, and community
awareness to protect the environment while maintaining economic productivity.

Overall, our efforts should focus on raising awareness, participating in conservation

activities, and advocating for stronger environmental protections to safeguard our
community’s natural resources. By taking these actions, we can contribute to the
preservation of our environment for future generations.
Conclusion

To wrap things up, the ecological complications are uncontrollable and irreparable
on our planet such as climate change, pollution, habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, and
scarcity of water. All these problems are interlinked with human activities that involve
industrialization, deforestation, overexploitation of natural resources, and the release of
pollutants into the environment. It will need the cooperation of nations, public awareness,
and adaptation of environmentally friendly practices from all sectors of society. It is through
international cooperation that change comes from within ourselves and we can begin from
our small steps to anticipate the preservation of the planet for our future generations. As Sir
Domeng said, the only thing we can do in our environment at this time is reserve, preserve,
and conserve.
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