| Abstrakt: |
The implementation of Integrated Social Forestry (ISF) program involved huge investments from the government and donor agencies. Considering these investments, is ISF program effective enough in attaining its objectives? In view of this question, an indepth analysis of the Panian ISFP model site was conducted. The study was conceptualized to assess the policy implementation status and socio-ecological impact of ISFP to the Certificate of Steward Contract (CSC) holders after 25 years from project implementation. The results of the study showed that CSC holders considered reforestation and agroforestry activities successful due to the increase in biomass and litter production that considerably enhances soil fertility. Likewise, the CSC holders had noticed that the water yield in the community significantly improved and there is a reduction of harvest losses because of reforestation and agroforestry interventions. However, site assessment revealed that most of the CSC holders have not planted 20% of the area with trees as required in the contract. In fact, it is common to find CSC areas fully planted with coconuts. This manifests that the government recognition of forest claims further enhance the conversion of forest land into agricultural plantations. On the other hand, the result indicated that policy concerning delegation of responsibilities within ISFP devolution was unclear and confusing since LGUs' responsibilities on forest land are still under the supervision, control, and review of DENR. The LGUs pointed out that financial problems, lack of capability, deficiency in the management and cooperation, and lack of personnel were the factors that deter them to continue the support for Panian ISFP model site. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
