Our Forests, Our Future
Palawan's forests are under threat from mining and commercial development. These activities not only destroy our natural environment but also jeopardize the lives of the indigenous communities who depend on these forests for their livelihoods.
To date, nickel mining companies have been permitted to conduct mineral exploration and development activities in seven municipalities across Southern Palawan. Government data indicates that these activities, including applications and issued mineral agreements, encompass over 10,000 hectares of natural old-growth and secondary forests.
We call on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and local government units to enforce stricter regulations against illegal logging and mining activities in Palawan. Immediate action is needed to ensure that our forests remain a sanctuary for biodiversity and a source of life for future generations.
Types of Forests Found in Palawan
- Mangrove Forest: Intertidal forests dominated by Rhizophora, Avicennia, Sonneratia, and other mangrove species along coastal mudflats and estuaries.
- Beach (Littoral) Forest: Coastal forests on sandy or rocky shorelines, featuring species such as Pemphis acidula, Barringtonia asiatica, and Casuarina equisetifolia.
- Lowland Dipterocarp Forest: The most extensive terrestrial forest type, characterized by tall dipterocarp trees (e.g., Shorea, Dipterocarpus, Hopea) up to about 500 m elevation.
- Freshwater Swamp Forest: Seasonally inundated forests along rivers and low-lying basins, with species like Pandanus, Alstonia, and Ficus adapted to standing freshwater.
- Peat Swamp Forest: Rare, waterlogged forests on thick organic peat soil, dominated by Nipa palm (Nypa fruticans), Pandanus, and assorted swamp shrubs.
- Riverine (Riparian) Forest: Narrow bands of vegetation lining rivers and streams, often containing a mix of dipterocarps, dipterocarp‐associated species, and riverine specialists (e.g., Ebenaceae, Moraceae).
- Limestone (Karst) Forest: Forests growing on rocky karst substrate, with many endemic and calciphilic species (e.g., Medinilla palawanensis, Begonia spp.) adapted to shallow soils and cliffs.
- Ultramafic (Serpentine) Forest: Forest patches on ultramafic soils high in heavy metals, featuring stunted or specialized vegetation including endemic orchids, myrmecophytic plants, and metal‐tolerant dipterocarps.
- Lower Montane Forest (ca. 500–1,000 m): Mixed broadleaf forests where dipterocarps give way to oaks (Lithocarpus), laurels (Cinnamomum), and other montane species.
- Upper Montane & Mossy Forest (above ~1,000 m): Cloud‐shrouded forests with abundant mosses, ferns, and stunted trees (e.g., Podocarpus, Rhododendron, Eugenia), typically on the highest peaks like Mount Mantalingahan.
- Secondary (Regenerating) Forest: Formerly cleared or logged areas undergoing natural or assisted regeneration, often dominated by pioneer species such as Macaranga, Trema, and pioneers of the genus Ficus.
- Forest Plantation & Agroforest (anthropogenic): Established stands of fast‐growing native or exotic species (e.g., Gmelina, Acacia) and mixed‐use agroforestry areas that supplement natural forest cover.
What's at Stake?
Palawan is home to some of the most diverse ecosystems in the Philippines, with numerous species of flora and fauna that are found nowhere else in the world. The forests of Palawan also play a crucial role in climate regulation, water purification, and soil conservation.
Despite these benefits, Palawan's forests are being threatened by unsustainable practices. The loss of these forests would not only mean the loss of biodiversity but also the displacement of indigenous peoples who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries.
Read: Environmental Laws in Palawan for List of significant environmental and cultural designations and declarations recognizing Palawan’s global and national importance.
How You Can Help
- Sign the petition to urge the DENR and local government to take immediate action.
- Spread the word about the campaign on social media using the hashtag #SavePalawanForests.
- Volunteer with local environmental organizations to support conservation efforts on the ground.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or want to get involved, please reach out to us at:
Email: elacpalawan@gmail.com
Join us in protecting the unique biodiversity and cultural heritage of Palawan. Your voice matters in this fight for environmental justice.