SRJS_ToC_PH_Palawan Partnerships for biodiversity, climate resilience, water and food security in the Philippines

Palawan’s forests and rich freshwater and marine resources are of key importance in its local economy that is heavily dependent on agriculture and fisheries, and the emerging and expanding tourism sector. Southern Palawan is typically projected as the agro-industrial zone of the Province in contrast to Northern Palawan, which has ecotourism as its priority. The island faces rapid changes in land-use and cover that result from pressure from the demands of the growing population, but also because of the rising investments from the private sector, notably on oil palm cultivation and mineral extraction. Large-scale mining projects, agri-plantations and energy development largely overlap with core- and restricted use zones, destroying key watersheds and natural forests and causing water stress and pollution that is also affecting the downstream coastal areas. While certain areas of the landscape have been established as protected areas under existing laws as those in Mt. Mantalingahan Protected Landscape (MMPL) and Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP), much is needed to protect and sustainably manage other, equally important areas like the Victoria Anepahan and Bulanjao Ranges to ensure that the key International Public Goods (IPGs) in Southern Palawan – water, food security, biodiversity, and the need for building resiliency against climate change impacts will be secured.