Reforestation Go!

: A Community-Based Action Research on Planting Trees in

Barangay Eastern, Hilongos, Leyte

A Research Paper Presented to the

Faculty of the Senior High School Department
Hilongos National Vocational School
Hilongos, Leyte

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the

Capstone Project of
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) Strand
Senior High School

Jessie Milano
Juniel Gatoc
Mark Francis Recreo
John Alfred Bucar
Winnie Niña Zamora
Aprille Joyce De Los Reyes
Martine Debbie Corre
Kassandra Lee
Reah Lynn Ruiz
Theresa Nerio

June 2022
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 APPROVAL SHEET
of research by

Jessie Milano
Juniel Gatoc
Mark Francis Recreo
John Alfred Bucar
Winnie Niña Zamora
Aprille Joyce De Los Reyes
Martine Debbie Corre
Kassandra Lee
Reah Lynn Ruiz
Theresa Nerio

This research has been read by each member of the research community and has
been found to be satisfactory regarding content, English usage, format, citation,
bibliographic style, and consistency, and is ready for submission to the Senior High
School Department.

Marjun P. Goron
Approved for Scientific Research

Dr. Aurora N. Paran, Ed. D.

Approved for Senior High School Department

Dr. Zosimo R. Cabug-os, Ph. D.

Approved for the Hilongos National Vocational School
Senior High School

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 ABSTRACT

Following the environmental devastation caused by Typhoon Odette, we set out to

replace the fallen trees as part of our efforts to address climate change challenges
on the planet. This research emphasizes the importance of post-disaster
reforestation in general, as long as the project ensures long-term tree restoration
success. The purpose of this study is to determine the positive effects of trees on the
environment and the community as a whole; tree roots stabilize the soil and reduce
erosion, which helps to prevent landslides. Individuals who live nearby benefit greatly
from trees because they improve mental health and well-being, reduce stress, and
encourage outdoor activity. The goal of this research is to determine the good
benefits of trees on the ecosystem and the community as a whole; tree roots hold
the soil in place and reduce erosion, which helps to prevent landslides. Nonetheless,
the typhoon's impact is not limited to the time of the storm; rather, the community's
battles with the storm's aftermath result in a protracted crisis. This study is
concerned with the environment and the restoration/planting of trees in Hilongos,
Leyte's Barangay Eastern. The "data collection" will take place in randomly selected
sections of Barangay Eastern, Hilongos, Leyte, depending on the situation of the
location where the Mahogany tree seedlings will be planted. Basing on our interview,
in which we discussed the experiences of Brgy residents who were chosen at
random. Furthermore, the restoration of trees done within perimeter of the barangay
hall serves as the starting point of our community to widely develop the tree
restoration programs implemented in our barangay and later on to other parts of our
municipality. Consequently, we have successfully planted twenty-two (22) living
Mahogany seedlings that will help our ecology in the near future.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The success of this study conducted by the student researchers of Group 9

would not have been possible without the help of the following people:
To Mr. Marjun P. Goron, our Capstone Project adviser, for his valuable
patience and guidance all throughout our research in every single step of the
process. Also, for his unwavering support and presence as we conduct our tree
planting activity.
To Hon. Cecilio Collen S. Perez, Brgy, Eastern’s Brgy. Captain, for his
unparalleled support and advice given to the student researchers. As well as his
profound belief in our abilities.
To Ms. Ave Marie Rio who extended a great amount of assistance and
comprehensive insights to the student researchers.
To Ms. Ruth U. Retulla, Ed D. for providing us Mahogany seedlings that was
from Hilongos South Central School’s mini forest.
To Eastern Barangay’s officials and staffs, for helping and facilitating the
conduct of our tree planting activity.
To the researcher’s respondents who granted us a chance to gain data and
insights from their own personal experiences.
To the researcher’s family and friends who never cease to provide us with
encouragement, patience, and support throughout the duration of this study.
Above all, to God Almighty for allowing the researchers to have the
opportunity to study this kind of issue that has been of great importance in our
environment. His enlightenment never ceases to give us a window of greater shot to
achieve the success of this research.

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page
TITLE PAGE…………………………………………………………………………………
FLY LEAF………………………..………………………………………………………..….i
APPROVAL SHEET...………………………………………………………………………ii
ABSTRACT……………………………………………………………………….…………iii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS………………………………….……………………...……….iv
TABLE OF CONTENTS……………………..……………………………………….……..v
LIST OF FIGURES……………………………………………………………………..…..vii

Chapter 1 - THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE

Introduction 1
Statement of the Problem 2
Objectives 2
Hypothesis 2
Importance and Significance of the Study 2
Scope and Limitation of the Study 3
Conceptual Framework 3
Definition of Terms 4

Chapter 2 - REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

Conceptual Literature 5
Benefits and Long-term Effect of Reforestation 6
Related Studies 7

Chapter 3 - METHODOLOGY
Research Design 9
Research Respondents 9
Research Locale 9

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 Research Instruments 9
Research Data Gathering 10

Chapter 4 - PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND

INTERPRETATION OF DATA 11

Chapter 5 - SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary 17
Conclusions 17
Recommendations 18

REFERENCES…………………………………………………………………………….viii
APPENDICES……………………………………………………………………………....ix

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LIST OF FIGURES

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 CHAPTER I
The Problem and Its Scope

Introduction
Trees play an important function in the environment, which helps to
understand the significance of reforestation. New forests aid in the prevention of soil
erosion and desertification, as well as the protection of homes and fields from the
effects of wind. The presence of trees along riverbanks or shorelines helps to
reinforce and stabilize the coastal environment. Natural habitats for rare and
endangered species, which in some cases cannot be found any place else, can be
found in wooded areas. As a result, it is critical not only to restore degraded or
destroyed regions, but also to plant new trees to replenish the forest cover.
Reforestation is also used to restore forests that have been destroyed by natural
disasters such as fires, floods, earthquakes, and other similar events. This strategy
is also used to rehabilitate forests that have been damaged by manmade
interventions such as mining, the placement of archeological sites, or development.
As a result, reforestation is a cost-effective means of combating deforestation and
improving environmental conditions.
The tropical cyclones, often known as typhoons or hurricanes, are some of
the most catastrophic meteorological events on the planet, causing enormous
financial and property damage in whatever region they strike. The Philippines is one
of the most typhoon-prone countries on the planet, with approximately 20 tropical
storms passing through its area of responsibility each year. Tropical storm Rai
(locally known as Odette) made landfall in the Philippines on December 16, 2021,
wreaking havoc on the Visayas and Mindanao Islands with torrential rainfall, severe
winds, floods, and storm surges (Philippines Super Typhoon, 2021). According to
studies, the frequency and intensity of violent cyclones, storms, and typhoons is
growing because of global warming and will continue to increase in the foreseeable
future. Rapid decarbonization of our economy and society, as well as the
implementation of local adaptation solutions, are necessary to prevent the escalation
of the most catastrophic natural disasters in our lifetimes.
The Municipality of Hilongos was then identified as one of the locations hit by
tropical cyclone Wind Signal No. 4, which was a typhoon-force wind that caused
several trees to fall in Hilongos, Leyte, and was severely destructive. Some
residences were damaged as a result, and our municipality's green ecosystem was
severely hurt as a result. Previously forested areas would become drier if the trees
were removed. If it starts to rain, flooding will be a major problem. Major erosion in
the oceans, as well as coral reef extinction and the loss of other marine habitats,
would be devastating. Photosynthesis is the process by which trees absorb carbon
dioxide from their surroundings and release oxygen into the atmosphere. Not only
can trees absorb rainwater, but they also act as a barrier for water flows during
floods or heavy downpours. As a result, they reduce the speed of currents and
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enhance water absorption. Reforestation mitigates damage and loss by preventing
floods.
Environmental benefits are numerous, and we will never be able to fully
compensate for them during the course of our lives. They are intertwined with the
forest, trees, animals, water, and the air around them. The forest and trees filter the
air and absorb dangerous gases that might otherwise enter the atmosphere. Plants
do a variety of activities, including filtering water, reducing flood risk, and maintaining
natural equilibrium. Furthermore, the environment keeps a watchful eye on the
environment and how it performs, as well as controlling the critical activities that are
required for the survival of the ecosystem. It also contributes to the preservation of
the world's culture and standard of living. We (Group 9) will conduct a Community-
Based Action Research project that will entail reforesting particular places in
Barangay Eastern in order to repair our Municipality's ravaged green ecosystem.
This will allow us to take action and bring back our green ecosystem.

Statement of the Problem

Super typhoon Odette was one of the most damaging disasters that
happened to Hilongos, Leyte last December of 2021. Due to its intensity, trees were
taken down left and right. This study aims to find the answer to the general problem:
How to restore multiple fallen trees caused by Typhoon Odette?
Specifically, the study seeks to answer the following:
i. How big was the damage or to what extent of fallen trees were caused by the
typhoon?
ii. As the trees were taken down by Odette, how does it affect the citizens of
Brgy. Eastern, Hilongos, Leyte?
iii. What are the advantages of having trees in the community?
Objectives
1. To determine what solution should be done to restore the fallen trees.
2. To identify whether or not there is a significant benefit on having trees in the
community.
3. To assess the importance of trees in a community.
Hypothesis
1. The best way to restore the fallen trees caused by Typhoon Odette is to
conduct a tree planting activity.
2. Through tree planting activity, trees will enable us to breathe fresh air, provide
habitat to wildlife, and avoid flash floods.

Importance and Significance of the Study

Eastern barangay is known for its clean and green environment. A diversity of
trees has grown in this area. Unfortunately, typhoon Odette have destroyed this
environment and as a result a large number of trees have fallen down after the
typhoon. Therefore, this community-based project intends to recover the nature and

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natural environment of Eastern barangay. This research would be beneficial to the
community/people of Barangay Eastern, Hilongos, Leyte because they will know the
importance of reforestation; how valuable trees are during natural calamities like
typhoon Odette. This research would also be beneficial to the environment because
the trees will bring back the fresh air; provide habitat for birds and other wildlife;
lessen/avoid flashflood in the community and will have a green environment. This
research would be a help to the people of Barangay Eastern to understand the
changes and positive impact of planting trees. The people knowing the risk of not
having trees can be a help to unite and plant more trees in the future for the
community to prepare for the unpredictable natural calamities. This study would be a
use to the community, environment, and to the future researchers owing to the fact
that they can get some information that might be needed in their research and some
of their procedures and questions may possibly be answered and can be explained
by this research.

Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study focuses on the environment on how to restore/plant trees to help
the Barangay Eastern of Hilongos, Leyte. The "data collection" will be conducted to
randomly selected areas of Barangay Eastern, Hilongos, Leyte depending on the
situation of the location where the seedlings of Mahogany tree would be planted. .
The main source of data will be conducted by an interview to randomly selected
residents currently living at Barangay Eastern.
This study will not cover other problems that are not related to the
reforestation research and will not cover other reforestation issues of the near
barangays of Barangay Eastern. The results of this study will be applicable only to
Barangay Eastern of Hilongos, Leyte and will not be used as a measure to the
positive and negative effects to its' near barangays. This research is designed to
restore the green environment of Barangay Eastern with the Mahogany seedlings
that will be planted on different areas in the barangay, which will be prepared by the
student researchers.

Conceptual Framework

PROCESS
INPUT Collection of data based on OUTPUT
community problem:

Effects of having an  Interview with the Rehabilitation of trees

environment with randomly selected in Brgy. Eastern,
lesser trees after residents currently Hilongos, Leyte.
typhoon Odette living at Brgy.
Eastern. Level of effectiveness
Benefits of of tree planting
reforestation Planning of efficiency and activity for
safety of the activity. Reforestation Action
Mission
Coordinate with the Brgy. in Brgy. Eastern
Vision Captain and present an Hilongos, Leyte.
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Action Plan to carry out the
project.
Preparation and
 Definition of Terms
Reforestation- It involves planting seedlings over an area of land where the forest
has been harvested or damaged by fire, disease, or human activity.
Significance- the quality of being worthy of attention; importance.
Desertification - the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically as a
result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture.
Presence- the state or fact of existing, occurring, or being present in a place or
thing.
Stabilize- make or become unlikely to change, fail, or decline.
Rehabilitate- restore someone to health or normal life by training and therapy after
imprisonment, addiction, or illness.
Combating- take action to reduce or prevent something bad or undesirable.
Catastrophic- involving or causing sudden great damage or suffering.
Replenish- restore a stock or supply to a former level or condition.
Metrological - relating to the branch of science concerned with the processes and
phenomena of the atmosphere, especially as a means of forecasting the weather.
Wreaking- causes a large amount of damage or harm.
Global warning- a gradual increase in the overall temperature of the earth's
atmosphere generally attributed to the greenhouse effect caused by increased levels
of carbon dioxide, chlorofluorocarbons, and other pollutants.
Foreseeable- able to be foreseen or predicted.
Decarbonation- the reduction of carbon. Precisely meant is the conversion to an
economic system that sustainably reduces and compensates for the emissions of
carbon dioxide.
Implementation- the process of putting a decision or plan into effect; execution.
Escalation- an increase in the intensity or seriousness of something; an
intensification.
Devastating- highly destructive or damaging.
Downpours- a heavy rainfall.
Mitigates- make less severe, serious, or painful.
Intertwined-connect or link two or more things closely.
Tree planting-Transplanting of a seedling or sapling tree into permanent position.
Calamities-an event causing great and often sudden damage or distress; a disaster.
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Restore- bring back a previous right, practice, custom, or situation; reinstate.
Rehabilitation- the action of restoring something that has been damaged to its
former condition.
CHAPTER II
Review of Related Literature

Trees play a key role in our community. It is essential to have trees in our
area, most especially that we live in a tropical country. Forests are vital due to the
numerous advantages they bring. Trees have lots of benefits and tree growing is an
essential way wherein numerous countries across the globe are doing to avert the
harsh impacts of climate change (DENR, 2020). We have seen the damage it
wrought upon us in the form of super typhoons, monsoon rains, landslides, and
erratic weather conditions (DENR, 2020).

CONCEPTUAL LITERATURE
Deforestation has large and widespread negative consequences for the
climate, hydrology, soils, and biodiversity, as well as societal and economic
consequences, according to the World Resources Institute (Meyfroidt and Lambin,
2011). In order to produce primary resources, a considerable portion of the
remaining natural wood has been severely damaged or destroyed. In their current
limited and degraded state, the surviving native forests are exposed to the potentially
rapid and harsh stress of climate change and increased climate variability, as well as
the threat of extinction (Dale et al., 2001). Over the past few years, a number of
important agreements have been achieved that indicate major reforestation would be
conducted to solve this issue (CBD, 2010, GPFLR, 2013, UN, 2014, UNEP, 2014).
To reduce the environmental impacts of global deforestation, a combination of
active (tree planting) and passive (regrowth after land abandonment) reforestation
must be used in conjunction with one another. We will focus on active reforestation,
which we define as the planting of trees on lands that were previously forested but
have since been converted to other uses, such as agricultural or residential
development (IPCC, 2007). This does not include the afforestation of historically
natural grasslands or shrublands, which is generally detrimental to biodiversity and
should be avoided (Bremer and Farley, 2010; Gerstner et al., 2014). Reforestation
has been carried out in several ways, including timber plantations, riparian plantings
to reduce pollutant runoff into streams, upland plantings to prevent soil erosion and
salinity, and habitat expansion for native species (Jackson et al., 2005). As a result
of reforestation, the links between existing remnant forest patches may be
strengthened, hence increasing native species migration, gene flow, and population
levels (Gilbert-Norton et al., 2010). Planting new trees can aid in the restoration of
biogeochemical carbon, oxygen, and nutrient cycles that circulate through the
atmosphere, biomass, pedosphere, and hydrosphere (Arneth et al., 2010).
Agricultural land reforestation can improve biodiversity, which can result in greater
primary output, reduced vulnerability to alien species invasion, and increased
ecological resistance to stressors such as climate change (Hooper et al., 2005).

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 The manner in which regeneration is carried out has long-term consequences,
resulting in compromises between the structure and function of the forest.
Considerations such as the number and types of trees planted (foreign vs. native,
mixed vs. single species), as well as the inclusion or exclusion of shrubs, are all
essential. Plantations of fast-growing production species can store carbon faster
than native mixed-species plantings, despite the fact that they often provide little in
the way of biodiversity benefits (Lindenmayer et al., 2003). Higher improvements in
biodiversity, but lower stream flow, can be achieved through riparian zone replanting
as opposed to upslope reforestation (Scott, 1999, Palmer and Bennett, 2006).
Compared to harvested plantations, permanent restorative plants have a greater
chance of having a beneficial impact on the environment (Kanowski et al., 2005).

In its most basic definition, reforestation is the process of replanting trees in

areas that have been affected by natural disturbances such as wildfires, drought,
insect, and disease infestations — as well as unnatural disturbances such as
logging, mining, clearing of agricultural land, and development. Restoration of forest
structure and biodiversity within an ecosystem is achieved through the planting of
trees in degraded or deforested areas. Reforestation benefits the environment by
guaranteeing, or expediting, the re-establishment of healthy forests structure through
the re-growth of forest canopy and the preservation of biodiversity within an
ecosystem (IPCC,2007). It is estimated that 500 million people reside in rural parts of
the humid tropics who rely on a combination of agricultural and forest resources to
support their families and maintain their way of life (Maginnis and Jackson, 2002). So
rural populations in tropical developing countries rely largely on the extraction of
timber and non-timber resources from forests, and in many cases on illegal logging
to support themselves.

BENEFITS AND LONG-TERM EFFECT OF REFORESTATION

When it comes to making the world a better place, tree planting is widely
regarded as one of the most enjoyable and environmentally friendly activities that
people can engage in. Trees provide a plethora of benefits, both long-term and
short-term, to humans. Along with their aesthetic appeal, they help to reduce carbon
dioxide emissions by absorbing and storing it in the atmosphere, slow down heavy
rain and thus reduce the risk of flooding, improve air quality, and reduce the effects
of the urban heat island effect by reflecting sunlight and providing shade.
Furthermore, a tree's physical weight contains around 50% carbon, and as a result,
when planted in sufficient quantities, trees have a significant impact on climate
change mitigation. Certain benefits, such as the reduction of the urban heat island
effect and the enhancement of air quality, are more localized and will accrue the
most value to those who live and work in the local region, as well as to those who
visit or otherwise spend their time there. Some of the other benefits, such as the
removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, will benefit the entire population,
rather than simply those who reside closest to the source of the pollution. Trees
provide significant benefits to the people who live in their immediate vicinity by
having a good impact on mental health and well-being, lowering stress, and
encouraging outdoor exercise and recreation. They will also reap the benefits of
enhanced environmental quality and increased amenity that come with the addition
of planted areas to their property.

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 The act of reforestation has a variety of beneficial consequences on the
environment. One of the most striking effects has been an increase in habitat for
millions of species, which has been one of the most dramatic effects. The addition of
trees allows the forest to increase its canopy, which helps to screen the sun's rays
during the day and retain heat during the evening. Agricultural land reforestation can
boost biodiversity, which can result in higher primary output, less vulnerability to
invasion by exotic species, and increased ecological resistance to stressors such as
climate change (Hooper et al., 2005).

According to (Ayesha, 2020), afforestation has a major impact on the

reduction of hazardous gases in the surrounding environment. Planned reforestation
has the potential to mitigate global warming. Forests act as a natural carbon sink,
removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere as they grow. Carbon dioxide
emissions from fossil fuels and automobiles are absorbed by the forest and trees,
which help to reduce global warming. Every year, forests remove around three billion
tons of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. As a result, reforestation has the
potential to reduce global warming. The impact on temperature is influenced by the
location of the forest. Planting forest trees in tropical climates has several
advantages to planting forest trees in northern climates. Tropical deforestation
results in the production of clouds, which, by reflecting sunlight, result in a reduction
in the temperature. Besides being utilized for forest recovery, afforestation is also
used by the wood products and paper industries in several countries, including
Finland, to manage forests that have been devastated by human activity. Stopping
soil erosion by reforestation is a crucial part of the solution. The construction of
terraces and swales aids in the retention of water, which is a critical component in
reforestation.

RELATED STUDIES
In a world where deforestation and environmental devastation are on the rise,
tree-planting is a popular social activity to cure climate change. It is understood that
climate change is the shifts of weather patterns and temperature. It affects all living
organism that exists on Earth. The United Nations implied that the Earth is a system
in which everything is interconnected, changes in one region might have an impact
on all others. Climate change is presently causing severe droughts, water scarcity,
devastating fires, increasing sea levels, flooding, melting polar ice, catastrophic
storms, and dwindling biodiversity, among other things. Trees have a major part in
keeping the ecosystem habitable and safe for all organisms. Nature-based solutions
(NBSs), which are actions that harness natural and modified ecosystems to address
socio-environmental challenges, are becoming increasingly relevant and important to
environmental sustainability efforts (Teo et. al., 2021). Many solutions involve land
management efforts in rural regions; countless target forests, wetlands, grasslands,
and agricultural lands are subjected for preservation, management, and restoration,
and are widely spread across large geographic areas.
Coastal regions in Philippines are increasingly vulnerable to catastrophic
weather events, and risk-mitigation strategies are urgently needed to offset the
negative socioeconomic repercussions of such catastrophes. The day Typhoon
Odette ravaged the municipality of Hilongos, tons of trees were taken down. As it

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was stated how trees are important, it is vital to conduct reforestation. Post-disaster
rehabilitation should be taken in action to revive the green environment in the
community.
To support this idea, Rots (2019) pointed out the 2011 tsunami that caused a
widespread deforestation in the coastal areas of Tohoku, Japan. The disaster
displaced hundreds of thousands of others, destroyed local ecosystems and
livelihoods, and sent shockwaves throughout the country. The tsunami did not only
destroy most greenhouses in the region but also caused changes in the soil
composition, making it more saline, which had a negative effect on strawberry
harvests in subsequent years. Ironically, the tsunami provided an opportunity for the
organization to ‘restore’ this ‘original’ forest (Rots, 2019). The widespread
deforestation project has been a challenge. An effective and efficient forest
rehabilitation is crucial for a community that has been affected by the wrath of
disasters.
In relation to this, in the year 2013, Typhoon Haiyan, more commonly known
as Typhoon Yolanda, which happened mainly at Tacloban, Leyte distracted the
whole city. Loss and damage from floods and landslides are escalating in the
Philippines due to increasing frequency and intensity of typhoons (Acosta et.al.,
2016). In the study of Zhang (2018), the typhoon caused major damage to
vegetation as well as a disruption of catchment hydrological functioning. Post-Haiyan
effects have displayed a major destruction to their community. Reforesting degraded
land can increase soil hydraulic conductivity and the number of preferential flow
pathways, suggesting this may also change the dominant runoff generation
mechanisms (Zhang, 2018).
However, as stated by Israel (2016), forests in the Philippines are in serious
decline because of excessive exploitation and the lack of truly effective reforestation
programs to counter it. Reforestation is a challenging program to develop since it is a
long-term commitment. In the Philippines, forest rehabilitation showed mixed results.
A reforestation program will be a success if and only if it is thoroughly conducted. In
accordance with this, the study of Gregorio et.al. (2020) claims that the use of a
genuine participatory process at all levels of the project, and the integration of
evidence and learning from past forest landscape restoration (FLR) interventions and
research undertakings is also paramount. The pilot restoration project that took place
in Biliran, Leyte showed evidence of tree establishment and growth success, and
positive social and economic impacts, which are essential indicators for the long-
term forest restoration success (Gregorio et.al., 2020).
Given this unpredictability, reforestation efforts should have an emphasis on
species conservation, diversification, and a wider distribution of species, seed
sources, and family members. Planting programs may be required to use non-local
seed sources, such as those imported from further south or from lower elevations,
necessitating the establishment of a mechanism for preserving native gene pools in
seed banks or clone banks, among other things. It is important to plant a varied array
of species or seed sources in order to protect oneself from the uncertainty inherent in
present climate change projections. Genetic variety and the use of multi-progeny
mixes are already emphasized in most tree development efforts; nevertheless,
testing selections in a broader range of settings than is now the case may help trees
better adapt to climate change in the future.

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 CHAPTER III
Research Methodology

Research Design
This study is qualitative in nature, with a phenomenological method as a sort
of research focused on the investigation's topic and purpose. It is phenomenological
in nature, as it tries to gather the experiences of student-participants in a tree-
planting exercise, as well as the experiences of the respondents and their
perspectives on its importance in combating the consequences of climate change.
The participants in this study were asked to express how they felt about the goals or
advantages of tree planting.

Research Respondents
The research study focused on a targeted population that is currently residing
at Brgy. Eastern, Hilongos and experienced the typhoon Odette while staying at the
said barangay. The data collection used a stratified random sampling in which
individuals are randomly chosen in a specific category. A total of six (6) respondents
were chosen. All of them, both male & female, are from different age categories
namely, teenagers ranging from 15-17 y/o, young adults ranging from 18-24 y/o,
adults ranging from 25-59 y/o, and senior citizens ranging from 60 y/o and above.
The chosen interviewees constitute the total population of Brgy. Eastern, in as much
as they possess the grounds set by the student researchers.
The study participants that participated during the tree planting activity are
composed of 10 student researchers, the Group 9 of SHS STEM students from
Hilongos National Vocational School, together with their Capstone Project Adviser,
Mr. Marjun Goron, and Brgy. Eastern’s Brgy. Captain, Hon. Cecilio Collen Perez,
and his constituents.

Research Locale
The seedlings were collected from Brgy. Tambis, Hilongos, Leyte and from
Hilongos South Central School’s mini forest. The project was conducted inside the
perimeter of Barangay Hall of Brgy. Eastern. Based on the instructions given by the
Brgy. Captain.

Research Instrument

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 This research utilized qualitative research methodology. The instrument used
to collect the data was an interview through questionnaires. To get the appropriate
data needed, the researchers will have questionnaires that contain three (3) parts.
Part I focuses on the profile of the respondents. The tool for the profile was made by
the researcher; it determined the name, age, and their gender.
Part II is the tool that determined Typhoon Odette's aftermath of the respondents'
surroundings. This evaluation tool that Grade 12 –STEM Group 9 Students used to
identify whether there is a significant benefit to having trees in the community.
Part III is the tool in which the respondents will give their suggestions related to our
research study.
The materials used in this research are at least 4 bolos, 22 Mahogany seedlings,
compost manure, bamboo sticks for the tree guard, nails, and straws.

Research Data Gathering

The research study focused on a targeted population that is currently residing
at Brgy. Eastern, Hilongos and experienced the typhoon Odette while staying at the
said barangay. The data collection used a stratified random sampling in which
individuals are randomly chosen in a specific category. In homestead planting, all
trees with breast girth of 15 m or more were enumerated. Measurement of girth at
breast height was carried out by semi-skilled enumerators. Since the trees were
concentrated in a small area, it was convenient to carry out total enumeration rather
than sampling.
The researchers gather data by means of a questionnaire, that served as a
guide for conducting an interview, that was given to the residents. The survey
includes the basic question that focuses on the knowledge of residence about the
importance of trees as part of their daily lives and in line with this the given
questionnaire holds the confidentiality of the respondents, it also included in the
questionnaires about their problem with their barangay. This data that has been
gathered contributes to the researchers

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 CHAPTER IV
Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data

This chapter will show the results and interpretation of the gathered data
using descriptive method. In this chapter, all the data being gathered will be shown
throughout the process.
The purpose of planting trees is to restore or recover the nature and natural
environment of Eastern Barangay that was destroyed by the Typhoon Odette last
December 2021. The purpose of having a Community-based Action Research which
is planting trees in the perimeter of the Eastern Barangay Hall was to gain
environmental benefits like; clean air, provide habitat for birds and other wildlife, to
keep the ground intact, lessen flashfloods, and having a green environment. As we
conducted an interview in Eastern Barangay, all the majority responses from
randomly selected respondents about what they can suggest to come up with an
effective and efficient solution to reduce the effects of climate change and restore the
once destructed environment due to Typhoon Odette was Tree Planting Activity.
The student researchers used a stratified random sampling for the data
collection. We are able to gather six (6) respondents who we interviewed through a
questionnaire. The interview took place at the barangay hall. The interviewees
gathered consisting of 1 teenager, 2 young adults, 2 adults, and 1 senior citizen are
all bona fide residents of Brgy. Eastern and experienced the typhoon at the said
barangay.
As we asked them about their experiences about the typhoon, we discovered
that several of their properties were damaged due to the trees that fell during the
wrath of Typhoon Odette. All of them has roofs and plants destroyed, 5 out of 6 of
them testified that their house was damaged after trees fell directly to it, 2 out of 6 of
them has damaged gates, 1 of them has a damaged vehicle, and lastly 1 of them
has damaged cage of chickens. This data may suggest that trees can have a
disadvantage towards our properties specially in times of typhoon. Five of them
agreed to cut down trees if a typhoon warning is issued in order to minimize the
damage. Nonetheless, all of them agrees that having trees in a community has a
significant benefit. The following chart shows their answers about the benefits of
trees in a community.

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Figure 1. A column chart showing the benefits of trees as stated by the respondents.

The Significant Benefits of Trees According

to the Respondents

7
6
5
Respondents

4
3
2
1
0
er ity er e od ut
y
ta
t ue er er er
vid ua
l at ad fo ea bi val uc s av s av
o rq
w sh s b a e d y y
pr ai or
m g id
e c e
h rty sr rg e
e n g st id
in
rov h eti d lif ope res ne on
yg in g v P t i l r t E M
Ox ov tin Pr
o es w p S
pr a an ng i ng
Im i tig in
g
vid
i
ea
s
M
a nc ro n cr
h P I
En
Benefits

After asking about their experiences after the typhoon, all six of them are still
firm to agree that trees are an advantage to a community. The following table below
shows a transcript of their justification on why trees give an advantage to the
community.
Figure 2. A table showing the answers of the respondents on why trees give an
advantage to the community.
Respondent #1 Because they are improving air quality.

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 Respondent #2 Trees enhances the anesthetic beauty
of nature here in the community of Brgy.
Eastern.

Respondent #3 Because they gave us oxygen.

Respondent #4 Because trees are a stress reducer

especially for people like me.

Respondent #5 Trees gives an advantage to our

community because trees give us
oxygen. It reduces heat because it gives
shade. It’s helpful because it mitigates
stormwater, it reduces the risk of
landslides. Me and the people in our
community are blessed to have trees.
These and all the significant benefits of
trees checked above (refer to the
questionnaire) is a reason why trees
give advantage to our community.
Respondent #6 Having trees have a big benefit in our
society, that’s why we need to prtect
them and save them.

Besides the written interview conducted, we also had a chance to have a

quick verbal interview with two of the respondents. We asked them how it felt after
trees fell due to the typhoon and what are the effects they have experienced. The
following table shows a non-verbatim transcript of the interview conducted by the
student researchers.
Figure 3. A table of non-verbatim transcript of a quick interview with two of the
respondents asking about the effects f having no trees.
Respondent #1 Hawan na kaayo among lugar dai.
Nangatumba man jud ang mga kahoy
sa palibot maong hayag kaayo unya
samot na basta udtong tutok arang inita
na. Wala namay kahoy musalipod,
diretso na ang adlaw ug igo sa among
bay. Nisamot ang ka-igang.

Translation: Our area was totally

cleared after all trees were taken down.
The sunlight is directly hitting us
because there are no more trees to
block the sun and give us shade

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 causing it to be more hot especially
during afternoon where the sun is at its
peak.
Respondent #2 Ang mga dagkong kahoy sa amo
nanga-lungkat jud tawn tungods ka
grabe sa hangin sa bagyo. Naa pa nuoy
nabilin pero nanga-opaw sad, wala nay
mga dahon ug sanga. Maong human sa
bagyo nga nawa na ang kahoy nisamot
na ang init nya adtong mga panahona
kay naa man gihapon magsigeg uwan,
nakabantay ko dali ra musaka ang tubig
kay mapundo ra man. Dili man nuon
grabe nga baha pero naa juy mulanap
tungods amo. Lisod gyud kaayo kung
wa na ang kahoy, unsaon nalaman
kung inganing kusog ang uwan. Kung
naa man gani bagyo, mas maayong
puongan nalaman daan para malikay
tas mga mangabali nga kahoy.

Translation: The towering trees in our

place was uprooted because of the
typhoon’s strong wind. There are still a
few trees left but it has no more
branches and leaves. And because of it,
after the typhoon, it got hotter and at
that time, it is still raining for days, I
noticed how light floods occur because
the water can’t drain well. Although it is
not a severe flood but still it builds up
rainwater. It is awfully hard if there will
be no more trees, it worries me if ever a
strong non-stop rain happens. If a
typhoon occurs someday, it would be
better to trim the trees to avoid
damages.

From the interview above, the respondents stated how it is different after trees
were taken down by the typhoon. They addressed how it became hotter and that
water easily builds up when there are no more trees. The main takeaway for this is
that although trees may lead to damage to properties during a calamity, having zero
trees in your area affects our daily lives more. If we have less to no trees, we will
suffer from extreme heat in our day-to-day life and on rainy days floods are more
likely to occur. This is how it is understood that trees are significant in our
community.
The final part of the interview asks for suggestions on what should the student
researchers do to have an effective and efficient solution to reduce the effects of

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climate change and to restore the once destroyed environment due to Typhoo
Odette. The following is the transcript of the suggestions made by the randomly
selected citizen of Brgy. Eastern.

Figure 4. A table of transcript showing the solutions and suggestions from the
respondents
Respondent #1 As a part of Brgy. Eastern community,
these students should be planting to
reduce the effects of climate change
and restore the once destructed
environment due to Typhoon Odette.

Respondent #2 I suggest that these students should

make a compost pit in the area where
it’s right for doing it to reduce the effects
of climate change, that’s all.

Respondent #3 Tree planting is what we can suggest to

the student researchers in order to
come up with an effective and efficient
solution to reduce the effects of climate
change and restore the once destructed
environment due to Typhoon Odette.

Respondent #4 I suggest they should tree-plant since a

lot of trees were destructed/struck down
by this Super Typhoon Odette.

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 Respondent #5 As a part of a community in Brgy.
Eastern, I suggest to the student
researchers in order to come up with an
effective and efficient solution to reduce
the effects of climate change and
restore the once destructed
environment due to Typhoon Odette is
to plant, plant, and plant. The more
plants to plant, the more efficient it is.

Respondent #6 As a part of a community, we must

cooperate and listen from the words of
others. We must work and be active at
the same time in every activities in our
community.

The answers of the respondents serve as the basis to our analysis wherein
majority of the respondents suggests that a tree-planting activity should take place in
our community. The student researchers successfully planted 23 Mahogany
seedlings around the Barangay hall’s perimeter. This solution should not only limit to
the researchers but also to the whole community of Brgy. Eastern. As the
researchers started this movement, it is expected to resonate throughout the citizens
of Brgy. Eastern and soon numerous trees will be visible to all parts and areas of
Brgy. Eastern, Hilongos, Leyte.
We suggest an assessment of repairing the green environment that Typhoon
Odette destroyed in Eastern Brgy. Hilongos, Leyte in this study. This study examines
the ecological and social effects of tree-planting efforts on residents of Brgy. Eastern.
The success (survival and growth) of new trees, as well as whether or not tree
planting boosts community capacity, are among the outcomes that chevaliers are
interested in. To manage tree planting and subsequent maintenance, tree-planting
project leaders employ a variety of tactics. For example, members/groupmates were
assigned to monitor and water the Mahogany seedlings twice a week, by pair. We
believe that differences in this method may explain differences in tree success. In
practice, we hope that our trees survive and grow, and that our tree-planting
programs increase community capacity to be resilient in the face of external shocks;
improve understanding of the benefits of tree-planting and greater awareness of an
individual's ecological surroundings; and initiate future instances of community
collective actions to improve social, public health, or environmental conditions. We
propose evaluating both the ecological and social consequences of tree-planting
programs at the neighborhood, person, and tree levels. In short, we want to know
how people influence trees and how trees influence people.

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 CHAPTER V
Summary, Conclusion, and Recommendation

This chapter includes the summary of findings that the researchers have
analyzed, documented conclusions and recommendations that will help in the
restoration of nature and green environment from a natural disaster and for the
future research.

Summary
The research study focuses on the restoration of trees that were destroyed by
a natural disaster which is Typhoon Odette. The primary aims of the study are to (1)
determine what solution should be done to restore the fallen trees, (2) to identify
whether there is a significant benefit to having trees in the community, and (3) to
assess the importance of having trees in the community.
In describing, evaluating, and classifying the data, the researchers employed
a descriptive method. In addition to using stratified random sampling for data
collection, the researchers recruited six (6) respondents who are all legitimate
Barangay Eastern residents.
The purpose of this study is to determine the positive effects of trees on the
environment and the community as a result; tree roots hold the soil in place and
prevent landslides by reducing erosion. It also absorbs and retains rainwater,
minimizing storm-related runoff and sedimentation. Having a beneficial effect on

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mental health and well-being, lowering stress, and promoting outdoor activity, trees
provide substantial benefits to the people who live nearby. This is in addition to the
benefits they will receive from improved environmental quality and enhanced
aesthetics resulting from the presence of planted areas.
This community-based action research is therefore successful and will
continue to benefit the Barangay Eastern, Hilongos, Leyte community. This research
can help future researchers acquire information that may be necessary for their own
research, and it is possible that some of their techniques or questions will be
answered and explained.

Conclusion
Reforestation leads to a low-cost means of combating the issues of
deforestation. This study highlights the value of post-disaster reforestation in
general, providing that the project imposed a long-term tree restoration success.
After the environmental destruction caused by Typhoon Odette, we aimed to restore
the fallen trees in participation of dealing with the Earth’s climate change issues. The
main solution for this is a tree restoration activity.
After, more or less, four months of research, we reached to a conclusion
wherein the absence of trees changes the lives of the citizens in a community. The
typhoon did not only destroy the greenery in our community but also caused
destruction to properties. Yet, nonetheless, the effect of the typhoon does not limit
during the typhoon but moreover the struggles of the citizens in the community
regarding its aftermath causes a longer crisis. This is based on our interview where
we have tackled the experiences of randomly chosen respondents that resides in
Brgy. Eastern found in figure 3. The aftermath of fallen trees caused issues like
experiencing hotter climate or being exposed to floods. Furthermore, the restoration
of trees done within perimeter of the barangay hall serves as the starting point of our
community to widely develop the tree restoration programs implemented in our
barangay and later on to other parts of our municipality. In result to this, we have
successfully planted twenty-two (22) living Mahogany seedlings that will soon give
benefits to our ecosystem.

Recommendation
The researchers believe that the results of this study could potentially make
significant contributions to the environment and other possible future local
researchers. The following recommendations are based on the study’s findings:
1. The researcher advises planting native trees. Native trees are ideal for providing
food and shelter for wildlife, as well as producing oxygen for both animals and
humans.
2. The researchers recommend that barangay and school communities produce
programs that will arouse resident’s and student’s interest in tree planting activity.

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APPENDICES

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ix | P a g e
 AUTOBIOGRAPHY

Name: John Alfred R. Bucar

Elementary Education
Hilongos South Central School
School Year Graduated: 2015-2016
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
School Year Graduated: 2019-2020
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

Name: Juniel F. Gatoc

Elementary Education
Hilongos South Central School
School Year Graduated: 2011-2012
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Saint Teresa School of Hilongos, Inc.
School Year Graduated: 2019-2020
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

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Name: Jessie C. Milano
Elementary Education
Concepcion Elementary School
School Year Graduated: 2014-2015
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
School Year Graduated: 2018-2019
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

Name: Mark Francis P. Recreo

Elementary Education
Hilongos South Central School
School Year Graduated: 2015-2016
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
School Year Graduated: 2019-2020
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

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Name: Martine Debbie Z. Corre
Elementary Education
Hilongos South Central School
School Year Graduated: 2015-2016
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
School Year Graduated: 2019-2020
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

Name: Aprille Joyce J. De Los Reyes

Elementary Education
Saint Teresa School of Hilongos,Inc.
School Year Graduated: 2015-2016
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Saint Teresa School of Hilongos, Inc.
School Year Graduated: 2019-2020
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

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Name: Kassandra F. Lee
Elementary Education
J. P. Olo Memorial Elementary School
School Year Graduated: 2015-2016
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Matalom National High School
School Year Graduated: 2019-2020
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

Name: Theresa L. Nerio

Elementary Education
Hilongos South Central School
School Year Graduated: 2015-2016
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
School Year Graduated: 2019-2020
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

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Name: Rhea Lynn L. Ruiz
Elementary Education
Hilongos South Central School
School Year Graduated: 2015-2016
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
School Year Graduated: 2019-2020
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

Name: Winnie Niña C. Zamora

Elementary Education
Hilongos South Central School
School Year Graduated: 2015-2016
Secondary Education
Junior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
School Year Graduated: 2019-2020
Senior High School
Hilongos National Vocational School
Expected School Year to Graduate: 2021-2022

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