Overview

Original Research

COMMUNITY-BASED FOREST MANAGEMENT PROGRAM: WAY FORWARD TO SUSTAINABLE FOREST MANAGEMENT AT OPOL, MISAMIS ORIENTAL, PHILIPPINES

JORDAN B. LARANJO 1, AIDA D. PERPETUA 2, RAMON FRANCISCO Q. PADILLA 3, and SONNIE A. VEDRA 4.

Vol 19, No 04 ( 2024 )   |  DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.11091767   |   Author Affiliation: College of Agriculture, Forestry and Environmental Sciences, Mindanao State University at Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines 1,2,3,4.   |   Licensing: CC 4.0   |   Pg no: 819-828   |   Published on: 30-04-2024

Abstract

The Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) program in the Philippines aims to promote sustainable forestry, democratize forest resource access, and enhance upland community livelihoods. Despite widespread adoption since 1995, its effectiveness remains insufficiently documented. This study assessed the program's sustainability by surveying 80 People’s Organization (PO) members from three barangays in Opol, Misamis Oriental. Findings show participants are mainly middle-aged, married men with basic education, earning low incomes from small farms. The program has succeeded in sustainable forest management, securing tenurial rights, and gender inclusion. However, challenges such as limited government involvement, complex approval processes, and weak internal governance persist. Addressing these challenges is vital for the program's continued success in promoting forest conservation and community development.

Keywords

Tropical Forest, Sustainable Development, Conservation and Management.