Rapid Assessment of Trees and Shrubs in Sifaran Watershed, Maguindanao Island, Philippines: Implications for Watershed Conservation

Authors

  • Jayric Fuentes Villareal College of Forestry and Environmental Studies, Mindanao State University-Maguindanao; College of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanjing Forestry University
  • Cindy Eyop Poclis College of Forestry and Environmental Studies, Mindanao State University-Maguindanao; College of Forestry and Grassland and College of Soil and Water Conservation, Nanjing Forestry University
  • Abdul Rasheed Nakan Sindatok Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, Mindanao State University-Maguindanao
  • Peter Jan Dayrit De Vera Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, Mindanao State University-Maguindanao; Natural Sciences Department, College of Arts and Sciences, Mindanao State University-Maguindanao
  • Raquel Doclis Santiago-Arenas Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Extension, Mindanao State University-Maguindanao
  • Bai Hejira Nefertiti Macalandong Limbona Office of the Chancellor, Mindanao State University-Maguindanao

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.23960/jsl.v14i1.1253

Abstract

The Sifaran Watershed is a vital resource for local communities, serving as a water source that flows through the Ligawasan marsh in the Philippines. Despite its critical role, the watershed remains severely understudied. This lack of baseline data has been a major constraint to enacting effective conservation, ensuring the region’s ecological and socio-economic stability. This study focuses on assessing the trees and shrubs thriving in the Sifaran Watershed, as well as their conservation and distribution status. A stratified sampling approach was employed, establishing quadrats across different streams. The study recorded 77 plant species (55 trees and 22 shrubs) across lower, middle, and upper streams, which were largely diverse, with most species categorized as native and of Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The presence of native species classified as Vulnerable species (Dracontomelon dao), Near Threatened (Ficus gigantifolia and Macaranga grandifolia), and Endangered (Mangifera odorata, Pterocarpus indicus, and Vitex parviflora) highlights the potential risks from habitat degradation and other threats. While most species exhibit stable populations, conservation efforts are necessary to protect those at risk and maintain the ecological balance of the watershed. The data gathered were utilized as baseline data to provide actionable recommendations for immediate conservation measures and sustainable management, protecting the invaluable natural heritage from threats such as deforestation, land conversion, and climate change. Moreover, initiatives such as habitat reforestation, responsible land use, and the conservation and protection of different species of trees and shrubs, particularly native species, are key to maintaining a balanced and sustainable watershed.

Keywords: conservation status, endemic species, least concern species, native species, watershed

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Published

22-10-2025

How to Cite

Villareal, J. F., Poclis, C. E., Sindatok, A. R. N., De Vera, P. J. D., Santiago-Arenas, R. D., & Limbona, B. H. N. M. (2025). Rapid Assessment of Trees and Shrubs in Sifaran Watershed, Maguindanao Island, Philippines: Implications for Watershed Conservation. Jurnal Sylva Lestari, 14(1), 1–15. https://doi.org/10.23960/jsl.v14i1.1253

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026): January

Section

Articles

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Copyright (c) 2025 Jayric Fuentes Villareal, Cindy Eyop Poclis, Abdul Rasheed Nakan Sindatok, Peter Jan Dayrit De Vera, Raquel Doclis Santiago-Arenas, Bai Hejira Nefertiti Macalandong Limbona

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