SGF and DENR CENRO-Guimbal Survey Forest Conditions in San Joaquin, Iloilo
Published May 9, 2025
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The Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR CENRO) – Guimbal recently spearheaded an SMP (Surveying, Mapping, Planning) effort in a forested area of San Joaquin, Iloilo. The Sulu Garden Foundation (SGF) participated for the second time, following their initial involvement on February 5 in Alimodian, Iloilo (Read Here) to pinpoint potential sites and assess plant species for upcoming reforestation initiatives.
SGF with DENR CENRO-Guimbal
The government agency focused on gathering soil samples to support rigorous analyses that will inform future environmental management strategies for the area. They routinely conduct soil sampling to assess conditions for reforestation and operate multiple nurseries across Iloilo.
Identified potential drone-assisted reforestation site
Building on their previous engagement, SGF surveyed locations with favorable conditions for reforestation, and assessed the viability of various plant species to support sustainable restoration efforts. In addition, SGF documented the transitional landscape between surrounding agricultural fields and forested zones in the site. Their work involved evaluating terrain challenges, and considered historical land-use patterns.
Preliminary observations indicate typical edge effects where farmlands merge with natural vegetation, alongside a challenging terrain that presents opportunities for carefully planned reforestation. Detailed insights from both the soil analyses and landscape assessments will be crucial in developing a strategic restoration plan.
From left to right: Stephania sp. (a climbing vine), Ginalloa arnottiana (a native parasitic mistletoe vine), Litsea sp., Semecarpus cuneiformis (“Anagas”), Flueggea virosa (“Botolan”), Ficus cf. botryocarpa, and Acalypha sp.
During the field survey, the team documented a diverse range of flora, many of which are being considered for the regreening program. Among the fruiting plants observed were Stephania sp. (a climbing vine), Ginalloa arnottiana (a native parasitic mistletoe vine), Litsea sp., Semecarpus cuneiformis (locally known as Anagas), Flueggea virosa (commonly referred to as Botolan), Ficus cf. botryocarpa, and Acalypha sp.
From left to right: Lygodium sp., Leucosyke sp., Antidesma ghaesembilla (“Inyam”), Adiantum cf. philippense, Lygodium circinnatum, Antidesma bunius (“Bignay”), Mussaenda philippica (“Kahoy-dalaga”), Neonauclea sp.
In addition, other species recorded included Lygodium sp., Leucosyke sp., Leea sp., Antidesma ghaesembilla (“Inyam”), Tectaria sp., Adiantum cf. philippense, and Lygodium circinnatum. Further enriching the survey, the team also identified Antidesma bunius (bignay), Albizia procera (payhud), and Philippine endemics Mussaenda philippica (kahoy-dalaga) and Artocarpus blancoi (antipolo), all of which contribute to the site’s botanical diversity and hold promise for future restoration efforts.
Both groups are committed to advancing sustainable land management and ecological restoration in the region. With CENRO-Guimbal’s analytical groundwork and SGF’s targeted field assessments, local authorities aim to integrate these findings into broader community-driven reforestation initiatives.
The “Re-Greening of Panay” program is envisioned as a five-year initiative that incorporates cutting-edge technologies such as drone-assisted monitoring and satellite imagery to track progress and ensure the success of reforestation efforts. SGF has already begun the research and development phase, including field trials and the production of seedballs using locally sourced clay and seeds. Read more
About SGF
Sulu Garden Foundation is named after the Sulu Sea – the largest inland sea in the Philippines. Our mission concentrates on this sea and the provinces that surround it. These provinces have diverse cultures and religions, yet, they all share history and traditions. The foundation has various programs and activities focused on history and heritage, the arts, nature conservation, research and development, and community.
About DENR CENRO – Guimbal
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (DENR CENRO) Guimbal is a government agency that plays a vital role in managing and conserving natural resources in the region. CENRO Guimbal is actively involved in environmental protection initiatives, including biodiversity conservation, wildlife monitoring, reforestation programs, and community engagement activities.
