BIODIVERSITY IN THE PHILIPPINES:

A Rich but
Threatened
Treasure
Exploring the Flora and Fauna, Unique Species,
Challenges, and Conservation Efforts

Prepared by: Reygie L. Cardeno - BSGE II

Overview

Location: South East Asia

Archipelago with 7, 641
Rich Biodiversity: Flora and Fauna
Importance of preserving Biodiversity
The Earth is what we all
have in common.
WENDELL BERRY
Biodiversity in the
Philippines
THE PHILIPPINES
One of the world's 18 mega-biodiverse nations, harbors two-thirds of global
biodiversity, including 70%-80% of all plant and animal species. It ranks fifth in
plant diversity, preserving 10-15% of the world's flora. High endemism prevails,
encompassing 25 plant genera and 49% of land wildlife, with a fourth-place
ranking in bird endemism. As a biodiversity hotspot, it shelters around 1000
flowering plant threatened species, solidifying its status as a top global
conservation priority.
Flora of the Philippines

The Philippines is renowned for its exceptional

plant biodiversity, owing to its diverse range of
ecosystems, favorable tropical climate, and unique
geography. It is considered one of the world's
biodiversity hotspots. There are around 10,000 to
14,000 plant species found in the Philippines that
are currently on record. About half of these are
endemic to the country.
SPECIES RICHNESS
The Philippines is estimated to
host around 10-15% of the
world's known plant species,
making it one of the most
species-rich countries on Earth.

ENDEMIC SPECIES
RAFFLESIA MANILLANA The country is home to an astounding
World's largest number of endemic plant species, with some
flower and is one of
estimates suggesting that up to 50% of the
the endemic species
in the Philippines plant species found in the Philippines are not
found anywhere else in the world.
 THREATENED SPECIES
Unfortunately, a significant portion
of the Philippines' plant species is
under threat due to habitat loss,
deforestation, and illegal logging. It
is estimated that around 1,000
plant species are critically
endangered or endangered in the
country.

MEDINILLA DALICIANA BALANOPHORA CORALLIFORMIS

IMPORTANT SITES
The Philippines has several vital
biodiversity hotspots, such as the
Palawan rainforests, Mount Apo,
Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife
Sanctuary, and the Northern Sierra
Madre Natural Park, which
contribute significantly to the
country's plant diversity.
Fauna of the Philippines
The fauna of the Philippines is a vibrant
tapestry of biodiversity, comprising a
stunning array of species across various
ecosystems. In its lush rainforests and
diverse landscapes, you can find over 700
bird species. On land and in its surrounding
waters, a wide range of mammals thrive, from
the enigmatic tamaraws to marine mammals
like dugongs. Below the ocean's surface, the
Philippines boasts over 2,200 fish species,
making its coral reefs some of the most
biodiverse in the world.

ENDEMIC SPECIES
Endemic fauna in the Philippines consists
of unique and diverse animal species
exclusive to this Southeast Asian
archipelago. Notable examples include the
critically endangered Philippine eagle, the
tiny Philippine tarsier, and the vibrant
Palawan peacock-pheasant. These species
highlight the Philippines' exceptional
biodiversity but also face threats like
habitat loss and illegal trade, emphasizing
the need for conservation efforts.
PHILIPPINE TARSIER
It is found in the southeastern
part of the archipelago,
particularly on the islands of
Bohol, Samar and Leyte.
TAMARAW
A small hoofed mammal
belonging to the family
Bovidae. It is endemic to the
island of Mindoro, Philippines
PHILIPPINE EAGLE
Also known as the monkey-
eating eagle or great
Philippine eagle, which is
endemic to forests in the
Philippines.
 Marine Biodiversity
The marine biodiversity in the Philippines is
nothing short of spectacular. Nestled within the
heart of the Coral Triangle, the country's waters
teem with an astonishing diversity of marine life,
making it a global hotspot for underwater
diversity. With over 7,000 islands and a vast
coastline, the Philippines boasts an incredible
array of coral reefs, fishes, marine mammals, and
invertebrates. These waters are home to
charismatic megafauna like whale sharks,
dugongs, and dolphins, as well as a kaleidoscope
of colorful coral species.
The flora and fauna of the Philippines face a multitude of threats
that jeopardize their survival and biodiversity. Some of the
primary threats include:

HABITAT INVASIVE
DESTRUCTION SPECIES

ILLEGAL WILDLIFE INFRASTRUCTURE

TRADE DEVELOPMENT

OVERFISHING AGRICULTURAL
PRACTICES
POLLUTION
LACK OF
CLIMATE CHANGE CONSERVATION
AWARENESS
Legal Framework
Republic Act No. 9147 (Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act)
Aims to safeguard the country's rich biodiversity by regulating and protecting its
wildlife resources. The establishment of protected areas, the regulation of wildlife
trade, and the promotion of sustainable management practices. The law also
addresses the illegal collection and trafficking of endangered species, imposing
penalties to deter such activities.
Republic Act No. 7586 (National Integrated Protected Areas System Act)
Creates a system of protected areas to conserve the Philippines' diverse
ecosystems and biodiversity. It designates various protected area categories and
outlines management guidelines, involving government agencies, communities,
and stakeholders. This law is vital for preserving the nation's natural heritage and
supporting sustainable development within these areas.
Conservation Efforts
Biodiversity Conservation Priority Sites in the Philippines, chosen for their ecological
significance and unique species, are crucial for preserving the nation's biodiversity. They
serve as hubs for conserving ecosystems and endemic species, and combatting threats
like habitat destruction, illegal logging, and poaching. The goal is to secure the survival of
the Philippines' unique flora and fauna, encourage sustainable land use, and involve local
communities in conservation. Notable examples include Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and
Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary.
Endangered Species Conservation Programs in the Philippines focus on protecting
threatened flora and fauna through strategies like habitat restoration, captive breeding, and
community engagement. A standout initiative is the Philippine Eagle Conservation Program,
dedicated to safeguarding the critically endangered Philippine eagle. It combats
deforestation, illegal hunting, and habitat degradation, fostering community awareness and
cooperation to secure the future of this majestic bird.