Environmental Science

Research Assignment 1
Instructions:
1. Form a group with 5 members and provide a group name that is related to the subject.
2. Members of the group are expected to cooperate and collaborate in answering given
questions.
3. Answer all given questions and cite properly the book and online resources used in the
research assignment.
4. Submit the research assignment on or before the set deadline.

Group Name: TEAM HALAMAN

Members:
Alinsunurin, Hazel C.
Cantalejo, Charles Andrew G.
Cantalejo, Karla M.
Castillo, Erica Mae L.
Conejero, Jasmin R.

Answer the following:

1. Give two specific scenarios in the Philippines where the law of unintended consequences is
observed. Identify the unexpected effects and the resource depleted.

The law of unintended consequences is in effect at all times and in all places. Persons
who are incensed by high plywood costs in hurricane-ravaged places, for instance, may urge for
price limits to bring prices closer to normal levels. Plywood providers from outside the district,
who would have been interested in providing plywood promptly at a higher market price, are
less eager to do so at the government-controlled price. As a result, there is a scarcity of a good
in an area where it is desperately required.

Forbidden traditional plastic bags in an effort to minimize plastic waste, permitting only
the use and production of "biodegradable" bags. However, the presence of sound waste
management systems is just as important for so-called bio-degradable choices as it is for fossil
fuel-based plastics when it comes to limiting waste and environmental damage. Plastic objects
that are frequently labeled as "biodegradable." Such circumstances can be found in incineration
plants, but they are extremely unusual in the natural world. As a result, even bioplastics
originating from renewable sources do not breakdown naturally in the environment,
particularly in the sea. Solutions that are pollution free and appropriate for usage should have
the same or better attributes as the approved goods. Materials used in raw food containers, for
example, are frequently rigorously examined and designed to provide high-quality excellent
resistance to store food fresh. A strategy to eliminate over packaging of fresh food could have
unforeseen consequences, such as increased food losses and waste, if the appropriate
alternative does not give the same merits.
2. Give two specific scenarios in the Philippines where “tragedy of the commons” is observed.
Identify the “commons” that supposedly are shared and not owned.

The tragedy of the Commons in Grocery Stores

During this pandemic, we see examples of panic buying among us to ensure we have
enough food, bread, eggs, milk, oatmeal, vegetables, canned goods, etc. Alcohol as hand
sanitizer, toilet paper, Vitamin C were likewise becoming scarce. Very soon especially food and
health items started to be out of stock. Such resources were soon depleted, much like the
depleted grass on the grazing land where too many herds had been brought to graze. As a source
points out, “In an attempt to ensure their own comfort and safety, individuals quickly depleted
limited supplies of the resource.”

Public roads: Common property and shared by many people

Our public roads are an excellent example of a common property and shared by many
people. Especially in densely populated Manila, the vast number of people going to their
respective destinations make the same choice and which gives rise to the traffic jams. Vehicles
are idly in stand still. Each driver/passenger has his/her self-interest in mind — that is, “how to
get to work as quickly and easily as possible.” The daily traffic congestion despite the various
ways the Department of Transportation along with the Transport and Traffic Management has
failed to solve this, exemplifies the tragedy of the commons. As has been well-noted, this self-
interest in use of transport commons “along with the car deposit fumes and their environmental
harm breeds various societal problems.”

In the first scenario, food and other basic necessities can be identified as communal
resources. It is clearly evident that when it comes to food, everyone should only buy what is
requisite for their families and not panic buy all sorts of essentials to ensure their own comfort
and safety. During the first wave of the pandemic, when lockdowns are prevalent, stockpiling
food products and other essentials is crucial to survive these trying times. However, many
Filipinos tend to panic buy or, if not, hoard and resell at higher prices as they take advantage on
the situation. Public roads, on the other hand, are one of the most frequent issues here in the
Philippines; either the drivers are too self - centered, or nearly half of the roads are occupied by
public vendors. The latter is completely true, and we cannot deny that it contributes to the rise
of traffic congestion. Despite the fact that public roads are meant to be shared, Filipinos must be
accountable for their actions in order to gradually solve traffic problems or accidents in the
country.
3. a. List down national parks in the Philippines (not less than 5) and provide their location.

PHILIPPINE’S NATIONAL PARKS LOCATION

The Bataan National Park Bataan Province, Central Luzon Region
Mounts Iglit–Baco National Park Central Philippines, Occidental Mindoro
Mount Pulag National Park Luzon; encompassing Benguet, Ifugao and
Nueva Vizcaya provinces.
Naujan Lake National Park Northeastern Oriental Mindoro province in
Mindoro Island
Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Puerto Princesa, Palawan
Park
Guadalupe Mabugnao Mainit Hot Spring Carcar City, Cebu
National Park
Mount Arayat National Park Pampanga
Fuyot Springs National Park Lies at the foot of the Sierra Madre Mountain
Range, Isabela
Minalungao National Park Nueva Ecija
Hundred Islands National Park Pangasinan

3.b. Why are they considered as national parks?

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has designated these areas of
natural or historical relevance for conservation and long-term use. The 10 above-mentioned
places were classified as one because they have certain qualities eligible to be a national park.
They possess remarkable natural, cultural, or recreational resources that they were set aside by
the national government for preservation. They are established for the goal of public leisure and
enjoyment, or for historical or scientific value. The majority of the landscapes, as well as the
plants and animals that inhabit them, are preserved in their natural condition in these national
parks.

3.c. What is "National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992?

What is National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act of 1992?

National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) shall encompass "outstandingly remarkable
areas and biologically important public lands that are habitats of rare and endangered species of
plants and animals, biographic zones and related ecosystems, whether terrestrial, wetland, or
marine". In Section 3, it specifies the categories of protected areas: strict nature reserves, natural
parks, natural monuments, wildlife sanctuary, protected landscapes and seascapes, resources
reserves, natural biotic areas, and other categories established by Law. NIPAS means the
classification and administration of all such protected areas to maintain biodiversity, ensure
sustainable use of their resources, etc.
3.d. Give its importance.

The NIPAS Act serves as a legal basis to conserve biodiversity in the country in pursuit of
sustainable development through managing selected protected areas. It promotes and
strengthens the management of protected areas in the Philippines. It provides the legal
framework for the establishment and management of protected areas pursuant to NIPAS Act of
1992. Without it, conserving the biodiversity in the country can be neglected.
3.e. Give at least 5 examples of protected areas in the Philippines in their corresponding
locations.

PROTECTED AREAS IN THE PHILIPPINES LOCATION

Apo Reef Occidental Mindoro
Siargao Island Surigao del Norte
Hinulugang Taktak Rizal
Taal Volcano Batangas
Turtle Islands Tawi-Tawi

4. In chronological order, list down different environmental laws in the Philippines and describe
each.

• Philippine Environmental Impact Statement System (PEISS) was established by virtue of

Presidential Decree 1586 in 1978 which also mandated the National Environmental
Protection Council (merged with the National Pollution Control Commission to form
EMB) to review and evaluate Environmental Impact Statements.
• Fisheries Act of 1932, was enacted on December 5, 1932 authorizing the compilation
of all laws and regulations relating to fisheries and aquatic resources. It classified
public fisheries according to their government and disposition: national, municipal
and reserve fisheries.
• Philippine Environment Code. This Act makes provision for the protection of the
environment of a broad sense. Its provisions are divided into Titles, the major part
of them dealing with specific aspects of environment protection.
• Revised Forestry Code of the Philippines. This Act lays down the basic principles of forest
management and conservation, makes provision for the administration of forestry
• Pollution Control Law (Presidential Decree 1181; 1977) It is hereby declared a national
policy to prevent, abate and control pollution of water, air and land for the more
effective utilization of the resources of this country.
• Food Security Act of 1985. An Act to extend and revise agricultural price support and
related programs, to provide for agricultural export, resource conservation, farm
credit, and agricultural research and related programs, to continue food assistance
to low-income persons, to ensure consumers an abundance of food and fiber at
reasonable prices, and for other purposes
• Animal Welfare Act of 1998. It is the purpose of this Act to protect and promote the
welfare of all terrestrial, aquatic and marine animals in the Philippines by
 supervising and regulating the establishment and operations of all facilities utilized
for breeding, maintaining, keeping, treating or training of all animals either as
objects of trade.
• Clean Air Act of 1999. The Act provides for the creation of a national program of air
pollution management focusing primarily on pollution prevention; for the
promotion of mass media communication in order to create social awareness and
active participation in air quality planning and monitoring
• Philippine Ecological Waste and Solid Management Act of 2000. It provides the necessary
policy framework, institutional mechanisms and mandate to the local government
unites (LGUs) to achieve 25% waste reduction through establishing an integrated
solid waste management plans based on 3Rs (reduce, reuse and recycling).
• Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001. An Act providing for the
conservation and protection of wildlife resources and their habitats, appropriating
funds therefor and for other purposes.
• Philippine Plant Variety Protection Act of 2002. An Act to provide protection to new plant
varieties, establishing a National Plant Variety Protection Board and for other
purposes.
• Clean Water Act of 2004. An Act providing for a comprehensive water quality
management and for other purposes. This Act provides for the abatement and
control of pollution from land-based sources, and lays down water quality standards
and regulations.
• Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2008. It articulates that the state shall
promote national awareness of the role of natural resources in economic
growth and the importance of environmental conservation and ecological balance
towards sustained national development.
• Climate Change Act of 2009. This Act aims to integrate disaster risk reduction measures
into climate change adaptation plans, development and poverty reduction
programs.
5. For each of the member, what are your expectations on the following:

ALINSUNURIN HAZEL C

• Subject
- Step by step, I am aspiring to be even more effective future educator
someday through this subject. To blossom more in life as a result of the
lessons I will learn in this subject. It will also enable me with the chance to
learn and comprehend things that will allow me to develop and improve my
skills and abilities, so that I can utilize this understanding and enhance my
future learners.
• Group members
- I am expecting that my members will appreciate one another, and be kind
and adapting to the needs and matters of others. Share the responsibility for
the task at hand. Prepared to assist one another. Collaborate in a sensible
way. Without being hostile or harsh, be open to suggestions.
Offer suggestions for improvement. Remain positive, happy, and motivating.
• Teachers
- Keep class engaging and enjoyable. Someone excited about teaching and
showcasing a love for their subject can be an engaging effect for us as
students. Bringing out the best learners to reach and accomplish goals.
Continue to teach in order to instill enthusiasm in students as well as
pointing learners in the right directions.
-
CANTALEJO CHARLES ANDREW G

• Subject
- I expect that this subject is an enjoyable subject and difficult subject at the
same time.
• Group members
- I believe that they will cooperate with me as I cooperate with them.
• Teachers
- I am looking forward to a smooth discussion with the professor and a
creative way of teaching the subject.

CANTALEJO KARLA M

• Subject
- I anticipate it as a challenging subject since I am not really fond of science.
However, I believe there will be a lot of topics that could piqued my interest.
• Group members
- I expect them to cooperate and contribute their ideas and answers in the
activity given.
 • Teachers
- Aside from expecting a clear discussion from the professor, I am looking
forward that he will make our subject more enjoyable, engaging, and
relevant.

CASTILLO ERICA MAE L

• Subject
- For this subject, I anticipate that by the end of the semester, my knowledge of
environmental problems and issues will be supplement.
• Group members
- I expect that they will continue to be cooperative and productive in every
group task as well as in doing individual activities. Also, to help support one
another when we are confused about a task and need advice from one
another.
• Teachers
- I am looking forward that Sir. Sanguillosa will always be willing to answer our
queries and concerns regarding the subjects or even our grades. I would also
expect Sir to be transparent about the breakdown of grades from prelims to
finals.

CONEJERO JASMIN R

• Subject
- I expect that I gained more knowledge about this subject. Also, I expect that
this subject is quite interesting because it is about environment since I also
love the nature.
• Group members
- I am expecting my groupmates that we will help each other to accomplish
this activity. I also believe that they will cooperate and share their knowledge
about this activity.
• Teachers
- I am expecting to discuss the topis clearly and concisely. I also expecting to
deliver the class discuss in an engaging way and enjoyable way so that the
class is not boring.
Bonus: Is more land should be dedicated to national parks? Justify your answer.

ALINSUNURIN HAZEL

Yes, because national parks are useful to ensure that they aid in the preservation of a
sustainable environment. Because the number of trees and shrubs in national parks is always
increasing, they are effective in a variety. It is also the perfect area for people to unwind and
amuse themselves.

CANTALEJO CHARLES ANDREW G

Yes, depending on the situation and the location. I just thought of instead building more
factories and infrastructures that can affect our environment, national parks are a lot better. It
can also show the national treasure of the country and its historical events can be shared. Also,
by providing these national parks, it helps the ecosystem to preserved.

CANTALEJO KARLA M

I believe yes as long as the area has the qualities to be established as one. Having more
national parks will protect the country’s ecosystem as well as boost the economy by providing
tourists with opportunities to enjoy and relax in natural environments. Moreover, sustaining
biodiversity is critical to preserve our economy, cultural, spiritual, and aesthetic qualities, as well
as the inherent value of species and ecosystems. Trees, plants, and animals have a safe haven in
national parks. Overall, it would be a treasure that should be preserved for the benefit of current
and future generations.

CASTILLO ERICA MAE

Yes, because national parks can be a good benefit for our country' sake; not only it will
preserve natural environment, but it can also help to reduce the air pollution which is
continuously increasing around the globe. Another reason is that there is a strong possibility
that in a decade or two, climate change will become unpredictable, affecting all living things on
Earth; thus, will have a significant impact on people's health, animals, and natural resources.
Therefore, national parks are extremely important to me, particularly in the Philippines,
because otherwise, large corporations may exploit the available lands.

CONEJERO JASMIN R

I believe yes considering the fact that national parks are places for people to relax in and
enjoy. National parks are places for everybody to learn about native plants and animals and the
way they rely on each other. National parks provide a safe home for native plants and animals.
They help keep the air and water clean. In addition, ever since when I was a kid, I am looking
forward to parks to encounter some animals that I haven’t seen yet in personal.
REFERENCES:
https://ntrc.gov.ph/images/journal/2019/j20190910b1
https://www.fao.org/faolex/results/details/en/c/LEX-FAOC019796/
https://www.ph.undp.org/content/philippines/en/home/operations/projects/environment_an
d_energy/Project-NewCAPP.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_protected_areas_of_the_Philippines
https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/national-parks-of-the-philippines.html
https://theculturetrip.com/asia/philippines/articles/best-national-parks-philippines/
https://www.manilatimes.net/2021/01/07/campus-press/the-tragedy-of-the-
commons/823937