BIBLIOGRAPHY DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. ...
BIBLIOGRAPHY
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012. Indigenous Climate Change
Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet. Benguet State University La Trinidad
Benguet.
Adviser: Constantino T. Sudaypan Sr. Ph.D.
ABSTRACT
The municipality of Buguias in the province of Benguet is vulnerable to climate
change. This resulted from the study that assessed the indigenous vulnerability indicators
observed by selected residents in Buguias relative to climate change. It also included the
problems brought about by the aforesaid indicators, and the mitigating measures
undertaken by the community residents.
Conducted in all the fourteen barangays of Buguias, the study involved 42 key
informants who have stayed in the community for at least 50 years. Administration of
questionnaires and conducted of interview among the respondents were undertaken in
October 2012. Data analysis started with the review and consolidation of the answers of
key informants. Percentage, frequency distribution and mean were integrated in the
descriptive presentation of data.
As to the findings of the study, the respondents are very much aware on climate
change. They learned about climate change through actual observation and documentation
of events; news/trivia on climate change from the radio; television and audio-visual
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
documentaries; seminars, trainings and workshops; family members; relative and friends;
and newspapers/magazines.
The respondents highly believe that their community is vulnerable to climate
change. This is so because of the following indicators: extreme variations in temperature,
which is characterized as too hot during the day and too cold during the night; prolonged
wet season; emergence of various pests/diseases; occurrence of stronger typhoons;
occurrence of heavy rains; unpredictable weather conditions; and occurrence of hailstorm.
Subsequently, the community residents encountered problems relative to the
observed indicators of climate change. Extreme variations in temperature resulted to
limited number of working hours in the farm; stunted growth of vegetable crops; reduced
water holding capacity of soil, and exposure of farmers to health hazards.
Another indicator of the vulnerability of the community to climate change is the
occurrence of prolonged wet season. Such problem led to flooding in the lower areas of
their community resulting to loss of crops; rotting of potato tubers and other root crops,
and leaching of soil nutrients. Furthermore, occurrence of heavy rains accordingly resulted
to soil erosion, and adverse effect on the growth of plants. Unpredictable weather
conditions in the community also resulted to unfinished/postponed works, abrupt change
in the work plan of farmers, increased number of pests and diseases, and decreased quality
of fruits and vegetables. The emergence of pests and diseases, as indicator of climate
change, eventually resulted to low yield of crops, and insufficient supply of food. It also
increased the dependence of farmers on pesticides.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Besides, occurrence of strong typhoons resulted to heavy crop loss, landslides, and
electricity breakdown (brownouts/blackouts). Lastly, hailstorms destroyed crops and even
livestock.
Relative to the climate change indicators and problems encountered, the residents
administered various adaptability measures. To evade from the extreme variations in
temperature, the respondents accordingly changed their work schedules, tried shifting to
other crops and/or varieties which are tolerant to the prevailing temperature in the area,
used of indigenous mulch to regulate evaporation of moisture from the soil; and shifted
into managing sari-sari stores.
The other mitigating measures include planting of waterlog-resistant crops,
constructing greenhouses, adjusting farm activities, rescheduling of planting season,
multiple cropping, programming alternative work schedules much more on land
preparation and planting, planting resistant varieties, multiple cropping, integrated pest
management, and organic farming. The farmers were accordingly helpless during
typhoons. Nevertheless, they accordingly planted trees to serve as windbreakers. They also
believed that the presence of trees helps control erosion. Only one respondent claimed that
hailstorm has been regularly occurring. As a mitigating measure, he accordingly built a
greenhouse to safeguard his crops. He also used nets, sacks and cellophane to appropriately
protect his crops.
As to the recommendations, the farmers should continuously observe and document
the indicators of climate change in their community for reference among future generation;
the community residents should remain vigilant over the ill-effects of climate change; the
indigenous climate change mitigating measures undertaken by the community residents
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
may be shared to neighboring communities for probable replication; and similar studies on
climate change, with more comprehensive tools and parameters, should be conducted to
verify the results of the study and to give clearer pictures on such phenomenon.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This section presents the profile of the respondents as to their personal information.
It also reflects their level of awareness on climate change and source of information as to
the indicators observed in the community on extreme variations in temperature, prolonged
wet season, occurrence of heavy rains, unpredictable weather condition, emergence of
various plant pest/diseases, occurrence of stronger typhoons and regular hailstorm.
Moreover, the problems encountered by the residents relative to the indicators and the
adaptability measures to counter the ill-effects of climate change are also included.
Profile of Respondents
The profile of the respondents as to age, civil status, gender, highest educational
attainment, households’ source of income and number of years in the community is shown
in Table 1.
The respondents have ages ranging from 50-75 years old. Their mean age is 51. This shows
that the people in the community are considerably old enough to have observed and/or
compared changes in the agriculture and environment.
As shown in the table, majority of the respondents are males and almost all are married.
Of the 42 respondents, fifteen are females, four are single and one is widowed. Results
imply that the respondent in the community are not dominated by males but when the study
was conducted almost all males are interested to answer the questions than the females.
All the respondents have gone to school but only five were able to finish college. According
to the respondents who did not finish college, they were constrained by financial problems.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 1. Profile of the respondents
PROFILE
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
a. Age
50-55
29
69.05
56-60
8
19.05
61-65
4
9.52
66-70
-
-
71-75
1
2.38
TOTAL
42
100.00
Mean Age = 51
b. Civil Status
Married
37
88.10
Single
4
9.52
Widowed
1
2.38
TOTAL
42
100.00
c. Gender
Male
27
64.29
Female
15
35.71
TOTAL
42
100.00
Table 1. Continued…
PROFILE
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
d. Educational Attainment
-
No schooling
-
8
Elementary Undergraduate
19.05
9
Elementary Graduate
21.43
7
High school Undergraduate
16.67
12
High school graduate
28.57
1
College Undergraduate
2.38
4
College Graduate
9.52
1
Post Graduate
2.38
42
TOTAL
100.00
e. Household main Source of Income
Pension/allotments
1
2.38
Remittance from abroad
-
-
Crop production
33
78.57
Livestock raising
1
2.38
Sari-sari store
1
2.38
Vegetable marketing
6
14.29
TOTAL
42
100.00
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 1. Continued…
PROFILE
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
f. No. of years Living in the
Community
50-60
37
88.10
61-70
4
9.52
71-80
1
2.38
TOTAL
42
100.00
The table also shows that almost 80% of the respondents derived their income from
crop production. Each of the three respondent lives through pension/allotments, livestock
raising and sari-sari store.
As to the number of years of living in the community, almost all of the respondents
lived in their respective communities from 50 to 60 years. Few respondents have been in
the community from 61-70 years. Only one respondent has been in the community for at
least 71 to 80 years.
Awareness on Climate Change
Table 2 shows the level of awareness of the respondents on climate change, and
their sources of information.
Regarding the level of awareness, almost all the respondents are very much aware on
climate change. There are four respondents who were moderately aware on climate change.
Results imply that everybody is aware of climate change.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 2.Level of awareness on climate change and source of information
AWARENESS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
a. Level of Awareness on Climate
Change
Very much aware
38
90.48
Moderately aware
4
9.52
Not aware
-
-
TOTAL
42
100.00
b. Source of information
Trough members of the family
1
2.38
Trough relatives and friends
1
2.38
By hearing news/trivia from the
radio
16
38.10
By watching the television and
audio-visual documentaries
9
21.43
By reading newspaper, magazines
1
2.38
By attending seminars, training,
workshops
6
14.29
Actual observation and
documentation of events
37
88.10
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
The findings relate to the claim of weber (2010) that raising climate change awareness
leads to knowledge, which increases the livelihood of action. In the United States, public
concern over the potential ramification of climate change has dipped in the past few years.
As to the sources of information, almost 90% of the respondents mentioned actual
observation and documentation of events. Some respondents revealed that they heard
news/trivia on climate change from the radio. The other sources of information, in a
descending order, are television and audio-visual documentaries; seminars, trainings and
workshops; family members; relatives and friends; and newspapers/magazines. Results
imply that climate change is not a strange phenomenon.
As cited by Morton (2011), issues arising in relation to how information is
transmitted to the public revolved primarily around the groups that present it; the media,
while being considered by all interviewees to play both a positive and negative role in
informing the public, was also associated with its own agenda, mainly pertaining to the
political learning’s of individual media entities.
Vulnerability to Climate Change
As shown in Table 3, almost all of the respondents highly believe that their
community is vulnerable to climate change; few respondents moderately believed.
According to these respondents, they are confused whether the changes they have observed
are due to climate change or it’s just a natural phenomenon. Regardless of what caused the
changes, all the respondents believed that their community is vulnerable since they have
observed the indicators.
Table 3.Perception on vulnerability of community to climate change
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
PERCEPTION
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
Highly believe that their
Community is vulnerable
35
83.33
Moderately believe that their
community is vulnerable
7
16.67
TOTAL
42
100.00
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability
Indicators in the Community
Table 4 shows the indicators of climate change observed by the respondents in the
community. Almost all of the respondents mentioned that the community has extreme
variations in temperature, which is characterized as too hot during the day and too cold
during the night. In a descending order of preference, the other indicators observed are as
follows: prolonged wet season (the usual number of dry months are shortened), emergence
of various plant pests/diseases, occurrence of stronger typhoons, occurrence of heavy rains
(when it rains, it pours heavily and with prolonged hours), unpredictable weather
conditions (instant occurrence of rains even during a sunny day) and regular hailstorm.
According to the respondents, the foregoing indicators prove that there is climate change;
and their community is vulnerable to such changes.
The findings relate to the claim of the Tebtebba Foundation (2009) that though
indigenous people have the least contribution to climate change as result of their
harmonious interaction with their environment, they would be one of the most affected
groups by climate change because they inhabit fragile environment.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 4. Indicators of climate change
INDICATORS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
Extreme variations in temperature
(too hot during the day and too cold
during the night)
38
90.48
Prolonged wet season (the usual
numbers of dry month are shortened)
26
61.90
Occurrence of heavy rains (when it
rains, it pours heavily and with
prolonged hours)
8
19.05
Unpredictable weather conditions
(instant occurrence of rains even during
a sunny day)
2
4.76
Emergence of various plant
pests/diseases
24
57.14
Occurrence of stronger typhoons
9
21.43
Regular hailstorm
1
2.38
Note: Multiple responses
Problems Encountered Relative to the
Indicators of Climate Change
The problems encountered by the residents relative to the indicators of climate change are
shown in Table 5. As to extreme variations in temperature, majority of the respondents
cited that it resulted to limited number of working hours in the farm. According to the
respondents, they work on their farms when the heat of the sun is still tolerable. The other
problems, in a descending order of gravity, are stunted growth of vegetable crops, reduced
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
water holding capacity of soil, and exposure of farmers to health hazards. The findings
support the claim of the Food and Agriculture Organization (2006) that climate change
would have various effects not only on the natural system but also on the communities that
depend on biodiversity for their existence.
Table 5. Problems encountered relative to the indicators of climate change
INDICATOR/PROBLEMS
NO.OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
a. Extreme variation in temperature
Limited working hours in the farm due
to extremely hot temperature
24
57.14
Stunted growth of vegetable crops
15
35.71
Reduced water holding capacity of soil
(soil easily dries)
10
23.81
Brings health hazard among farmers
1
2.38
b. Prolonged wet season
Rotting of potato tubers and other
root crops
14
33.33
Leaching of soil nutrients
6
14.29
Flooding resulting to loss of crops
22
52.38
c. Occurrence of heavy rains
Soil erosion (landslides/mudslides)
9
21.43
Adversely affect plant growth
1
2.38
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 5. Continued…
INDICATOR/PROBLEMS
NO.OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
d. Unpredictable weather conditions
Unfinished or re-scheduled works
2
4.76
Abrupt change of work plan
2
4.76
Increasing number of pest/diseases
2
4.76
Decreased quality of fruits and
vegetable (abnormal size)
2
4.76
e. Emergence of various plant pests
diseases
Low yield of crops
24
57.14
Insufficient supply of food for human
and livestock
3
7.14
increased dependence on pesticides to
control pest/disease
10
23.81
f. Occurrence of stronger typhoons
Mudslides and landslide
8
19.05
Heavy crop loss
9
21.43
Electricity breakdown
(Brownouts/blackout)
2
4.76
g. Regular hailstorm
Destroy leaves of vegetables
1
2.38
Destroy fruits/flowers of crops
1
2.38
Causes death of young livestock
1
2.38
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Another indicator of the vulnerability of the community to climate change is the occurrence
of prolonged wet season. According to the respondents, such problem leads to flooding in
the lower areas of their community resulting to loss of crops. There were some respondents
who cited rotting of potato tubers and other root crops, and leaching of soil nutrients as the
problems encountered from the foregoing indicator.
The occurrence of heavy rains accordingly resulted to soil erosion as claimed by nine
respondents. One respondent elaborated that the heavy rains adversely affected the growth
of his plants. On the other hand, there two respondents who claimed that the unpredictable
weather conditions in their community resulted to unfinished/postponed works, abrupt
change in their work plan, increased number of pests and diseases, and decreased quality
of fruits and vegetables.
Furthermore, the emergence of pests and diseases, as indicator of climate change
eventually resulted to low yield of crops, and insufficient supply of food. Accordingly, it
also increased the dependence of farmers on pesticides. As claimed by one of the
respondent in barangay Loo if he is going to compare his previous observation at present
in the emergence of pest and diseases, he observed that in the past years he was able to
maintain the quality of vegetables and produce more volume of crops even with the use of
fewer inputs of pesticide. But at present because of these ill-effects of climate change he
needed to use more inputs in spraying pesticide for him to produce and maintain the quality
and volume of vegetables that is needed to produce enough supply of food for human and
livestock.
Besides, few respondents stated that occurrence of strong typhoons resulted to heavy crop
loss, landslides, and electricity breakdown (brownouts/blackouts). Findings relate to the
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
statement of Jabines and Inventor (2007) that climate change is projected to exacerbate the
misery and predicament of the country’s already over-burdened populace and amplify the
different socioeconomic burdens already shouldered by Filipino families, such as hunger
and water scarcity.
As discussed earlier, there was one respondent who claimed that one change in their
community is the occurrence of regular hailstorm (locally called dadal-lo). According to
the respondent, hailstorms destroy crops and even livestock. He narrated that one time; a
hailstorm caused death among his chicks and even puppies.
The foregoing findings imply that the indicators of climate change as observed by the
residents brought more adverse effects than favorable things. As claimed by the Food and
Agriculture (2010), the unpredictable and year round rains, landslides, and frost damage
forced farmers to use more inputs, which eventually increased production costs.
Figure 5 shows a farmer in Loo, Buguias spraying pesticides to control pests and/or
diseases.
Figures 5. A farmer in Loo, Buguias, Benguet sprays pesticide to counter the emergence
of pest and diseases
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Adaptability Measures to Counter the
Ill-Effects of Climate Change
Table 6 reflects the adaptability measures undertaken by the farmers to counter the ill-
effects of climate change in their community. As presented in the foregoing section, there
are several indicators of climate change enumerated by the respondents. The first indicator
is extreme variations in temperature. According to the respondents, this is characterized by
extremely cold temperature in the morning/evening and extremely hot during the day. To
evade from such problem, majority of the respondents accordingly changed their work
schedules. The respondents elaborated that they work in their farms early in the morning
and look for shelter at around 10 O’clock when the heat of the sun is extremely hot. They
resume their farm activities at around 2 O’clock when the heat from the sun is no longer
threatening.
On the other hand, some respondents claimed that they tried shifting to other crops and/or
varieties which are tolerant to the prevailing temperature in the area. Few respondents
revealed that they used indigenous mulch to regulate evaporation of moisture from the soil.
At least 3 respondents accepted to have shifted into managing sari-sari stores since they
can no longer maximize their farm production due to the extreme variations in temperature.
As to the problem on prolonged wet season due to extended number of rainy days, the
greatest number of respondents explained that they planted waterlog-resistant crops. Those
who are financially capable were able to construct greenhouses. These farmers, however,
claimed that the cost of the structure is an additional burden.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 6. Adaptability measures to counter the ill-effects of climate change
INDICATOR/MEASURES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
a. Extreme variation in temperature
Changes in work schedule
24
57.14
Shifting to other source of income
(like farming to sari-sari store)
3
7.14
Using new varieties of crop
resistance to prevailing temperature
15
35.71
Use of mulch on crops
7
16.67
b. Prolonged wet season
Planting of waterlogged- resistant
varieties
26
61.90
Planting of crops in green houses
12
28.57
c. Occurrence of heavy rains
Adjust schedule of planting
8
19.05
Multiple cropping
7
16.67
d. Unpredictable weather condition
Controlling the plant environment
using green houses
2
4.76
Alternative plans on work schedule
2
4.76
Planting weather resistant varieties
of crops
2
4.76
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 6. Continued…
INDICATOR/MEASURES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
e. Emergence of various plant/pests
Practices integrated pest
managements (IPM)
7
16.67
Change in cropping system (multi-
Cropping, zoning etc.)
24
57.14
Practice organic farming
3
7.14
Use nitrogen fertilizer and manure
3
7.14
f. Occurrence of strong typhoons
Plant more trees
9
21.43
Planting bamboos to control erosion
7
16.67
Planting coffee
1
2.38
g. Regular hailstorm
Planting crops in green houses
1
2.38
Using net to cover the crops
1
2.38
Using sacks to cover the crops
1
2.38
Using plastic cellophane on seedbed
1
2.38
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Another indicator of climate change, as claimed by at least eight respondents, is the
occurrence of heavy rains. According to these respondents, rains have higher intensity if
they were to compare it with previous observations. One respondent said “rains nowadays
are scary.” Since they cannot control the occurrence of heavy rains, the farmers merely
adjusted their farm activities. All the eight respondents claimed to have rescheduled their
planting season and the others accordingly integrated multiple cropping in their farm.
According to most of the farmers, such remedial measures did not really solve the problem
but at least it lessened.
Regarding the unpredictability of weather conditions, two respondents claimed to have
constructed greenhouses in order to control the environment of their crops. Few
respondents were also smart enough to have programmed alternative work schedules much
more on land preparation and planting. Another two respondents cited planting resistant
varieties.
Changes in the climate also resulted in the emergence of various plant pests and diseases.
As such, the greatest number of respondents claimed to have practiced multiple cropping.
Moreover, few respondents accordingly practiced Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and
organic farming.
The farmers were accordingly helpless during typhoons. Nevertheless, they accordingly
planted trees to serve as windbreakers. They also believed that the presence of trees helps
control erosion. Only one respondent claimed that hailstorm has been regularly occurring.
As a mitigating measure, he accordingly built a greenhouse to safeguard his crops. He also
used nets, sacks and cellophane to appropriately protect his crops. Figure 6 show sample
of net.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
The findings showed that in their own capacities, the farmers came up with some
indigenous measures that can mitigate the effects of climate change in their respective
communities. It may not be very effective and/or efficient, but at some instance it motivated
them to continue their agricultural activities despite the prevailing changes. Figures 7 and
8 show samples of greenhouse.
According to the United Nations acknowledged during the climate change conference in
Bali, Indonesia that among other things, there is a need for enhanced action on adaptation
and the provision of financial resource for it. This, in return, implies the need for financial
and technology transfer from the rich to the poor countries. In general, most developing in
Asia have the least capacity to adapt to climate change and are therefore in need of
whatever external support they can get to build their capacity (Francisco, 2008).
Figure 6. A net used by the farmers in Barangay Bangao to protect his crops from adverse
effects of climate change
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Figure 7. A sample of greenhouse used by the residents of Barangay Baculongan Norte
to protect their crops during the occurrence of heavy rains and hailstorm
Figure 8. A farmer in Barangay Baculongan Norte working inside his greenhouse
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Summary
The study assessed the indigenous vulnerability indicators observed by selected
residents in Buguias relative to climate change. It also included the problems brought about
by the aforesaid indicators, and the mitigating measures undertaken by the community
residents.
Conducted in all the fourteen barangays of Buguias, the study involved 42 key
informants who have stayed in the community for at least 50 years. Administration of
questionnaires and conducted of interview among the respondents were undertaken in
October 2012. Data analysis started with the review and consolidation of the answers of
key informants. Percentage, frequency distribution and mean were integrated in the
descriptive presentation of data.
As to the findings of the study, almost all of the respondents are very much aware
on climate change. Almost 90% of the respondents learned about climate change through
actual observation and documentation of events. Some respondents revealed that they
heard news/trivia on climate change from the radio. The other sources of information, in a
descending order, are television and audio-visual documentaries; seminars, trainings and
workshops; family members; relative and friends; and newspapers/magazines.
Almost all of the respondents highly believed that their community is vulnerable to
climate change. This is so because of the following indicators: extreme variations in
temperature, which is characterized as too hot during the day and too cold during the night;
prolonged wet season; emergence of various pests/diseases; occurrence of stronger
typhoons; occurrence of heavy rains; unpredictable weather conditions; and occurrence of
hailstorm.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Subsequently, the community residents encountered problems relative to the observed
indicators of climate change. As to extreme variations in temperature, majority of the
respondents cited that it resulted to limited number of working hours in the farm. According
to the respondents, they work on their farms when the heat of the sun is still tolerable. The
other problems, in a descending order of gravity, are stunted growth of vegetable crops,
reduced water holding capacity of soil, and exposure of farmers to health hazards.
Another indicator of the vulnerability of the community to climate change is the occurrence
of prolonged wet season. According to the respondents, such problem leads to flooding in
the lower areas of their community resulting to loss of crops. There were some respondents
who cited rotting of potato tubers and other root crops, and leaching of soil nutrients as the
problems encountered from the foregoing indicator.
The occurrence of heavy rains accordingly resulted to soil erosion as claimed by nine
respondents. One respondent elaborated that the heavy rains adversely affected the growth
of his plants. On the other hand, there two respondents who claimed that the unpredictable
weather conditions in their community resulted to unfinished/postponed works, abrupt
change in their work plan, increased number of pests and diseases, and decreased quality
of fruits and vegetables.
Furthermore, the emergence of pests and diseases, as indicator of climate change,
eventually resulted to low yield of crops, and insufficient supply of food. Accordingly, it
also increased the dependence of farmers on pesticides. Besides, few respondents stated
that occurrence of strong typhoons resulted to heavy crop loss, landslides, and electricity
breakdown (brownouts/blackouts). One respondent claimed that one change in their
community is the occurrence of regular hailstorm (locally called dadal-lo). According to
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
the respondent, hailstorms destroy crops and even livestock. He narrated that one time; a
hailstorm caused death among his chicks and even puppies.
Relative to the climate change indicators and problems encountered, the residents
administered various adaptability measures. To evade from the extreme variations in
temperature, majority of the respondents accordingly changed their work schedules. The
respondents elaborated that they work in their farms early in the morning and look for
shelter at around 10 O’clock when the heat of the sun is extremely hot. They resume their
farm activities at around 2 O’clock when the heat from the sun is no longer threatening.
On the other hand, some respondents claimed that they tried shifting to other crops and/or
varieties which are tolerant to the prevailing temperature in the area. Few respondents
revealed that they used indigenous mulch to regulate evaporation of moisture from the soil.
At least 3 respondents accepted to have shifted into managing sari-sari stores since they
can no longer maximize their farm production due to the extreme variations in temperature.
As to the problem on prolonged wet season due to extended number of rainy days, the
greatest number of respondents explained that they planted waterlog-resistant crops. Those
who are financially capable were able to construct greenhouses. These farmers, however,
claimed that the cost of the structure is an additional burden.
Another indicator of climate change, as claimed by at least eight respondents, is the
occurrence of heavy rains. According to these respondents, rains have higher intensity if
they were to compare it with previous observations. One respondent said “rains nowadays
are scary.” Since they cannot control the occurrence of heavy rains, the farmers merely
adjusted their farm activities. All the eight respondents claimed to have rescheduled their
planting season and the others accordingly integrated multiple cropping in their farm.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
According to most of the farmers, such remedial measures did not really solve the problem
but at least it lessened.
Regarding the unpredictability of weather conditions, two respondents claimed to have
constructed greenhouses in order to control the environment of their crops. Few
respondents were also smart enough to have programmed alternative work schedules much
more on land preparation and planting. Another two respondents cited planting resistant
varieties.
Changes in the climate also resulted in the emergence of various plant pests and diseases.
As such, the greatest number of respondents claimed to have practiced multiple cropping.
Moreover, few respondents accordingly practiced Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and
organic farming.
The farmers were accordingly helpless during typhoons. Nevertheless, they accordingly
planted trees to serve as windbreakers. They also believed that the presence of trees helps
control erosion. Only one respondent claimed that hailstorm has been regularly occurring.
As a mitigating measure, he accordingly built a greenhouse to safeguard his crops. He also
used nets, sacks and cellophane to appropriately protect his crops.
Conclusions
Based on the findings, the following conclusions are made:
1.
The level of awareness on climate change among people even in the
remote barangays of Buguias in the municipality of Benguet is high. This is because
they have access on various Information, Education and Communication (IEC)
materials;
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
2.
Their perception on the changes occurring in their community is
evidenced by the indicators they have been observing and recording. In other
words, these farmers have indigenous ways of assessing the vulnerability of their
community to climate change;
3.
The farmers perceived more ill-effects of climate change as
compared to favorable ones; and
4.
Mitigating climate change is instinctive. This means that even
before the sophisticated technologies of mitigating climate change, people in the
rural areas have their own ways and means of countering the ill-effects of climate
change.
Recommendations
The following recommendations are put forward:
1.
The farmers should continuously observe and document the
indicators of climate change in their community for reference among future
generation;
2.
The community residents should remain vigilant over the ill-effects
of climate change;
3.
The indigenous climate change mitigating measures undertaken by
the community residents may be shared to neighboring communities for probable
replication; and
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
4.
Similar studies on climate change, with more comprehensive tools
and parameters, should be conducted to verify the results of the study and to give
clearer pictures on such phenomenon.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
LITERATURE CITED
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Province of Benguet. Pp 16, 20.
BAY-AN, C. 1990. Buguias municipal planning team research. Municipality of Buguias,
Province of Benguet. Pp 32, 35.
BURGONIO, T. 2008. RP biggest victim of climate change-Filipino NASA physicist.
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………news/nation/view/20080912-160281/
RP-biggest
victim-of-climate-change-
………Filipino-NASA- pyhsicist.
FOOD AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION. 2006. Gender, The Missing Component of
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/docrep/010/i0170e/i0170e00.htm.
FOOD AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION. 2010. Climate Change and Health.
……...Retrieved September 12, 2012 from http:/www.greenpeace.org/raw/content/seasia
/en/press/reports/the Philippines-a-climate-hot.pdf.
FRANCISCO, H. A. 2008. Adaptation to climate change: Needs and Opportunities in
Southeast Asia. Asean economic bulletin. 25(1).
FRANCISCO, H. A. 2010. Strengthening the Philippines Institutional Capacity to
Adapt Climate Change. 2010. Project funded by Millennium Development
Goal Fund. Pp 34, 40.
FUSEL and KALVIN, 2004. Adaptation and Vulnerability Assessment. In southeast asia.
Pp 62, 65.
MCCARTHY J.; O. CANZIANI; N. LEARY; D. DOKKEN; and K. WHITE (Eds),
2001. Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability. Intergovernmental panel on
climate change Cambridge University Press. Cambridge. Pp 42, 60.
JABINES, A. and J. INVENTOR. 2007. The Philippines: A Climate Hotspot Climate
Change Impacts and the Philippines. Greenpeace Southeast Asia. Pp 64, 67.
LA-ONGAN, J. B. 2012. Coping Mechanism of Swamp Farmers Towards Climate
Change in La Trinidad. Unpublished Undergraduate Thesis. Pp 41, 44.
MCCARTHY J.; O. CANZIANI; N. LEARY; D. DOKKEN; and K. WHITE (Eds),
2001. Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability. Intergovernmental panel on
climate change Cambridge University Press. Cambridge. Pp 42, 60.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
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MORTON, T. 2011. The future that may (or may not) come how farming changes
responses
to
uncertainty
in
Climate
Change
Communication;
Global
Environmental Change, 21 (1), Pp 103, 109.
NATIONAL STATISTICS COORDINATION BOARD-CAR. 2005. Facts and figures:
Province of Benguet. Retrieved September 12, 2012 from www.nscb.gov.ph/
rucar/fnf_benguet.htm.
NGALES, M. 2001. International geographic biosphere program. The Economic of
Climate Change in Southeast Asia. A Regional Review. Report 41, 51.
PERES, R. Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment. 2009. Retrieved September 08,
2012 from business mirror. Com.ph on climate change.
RINCON, M.F.G and VIRTUCIO, F.K. Jr. 2008. Climate Change in the Philippines: A
Contribution to the Country Environment Analysis. Retrieved October 16, 2012.
http//www.climate change.com.
REGIONAL SOCIAL & ECONOMIC TRENDS. 2002. National Statistical Coordination
Board, CAR, Baguio City. Retrieved October 16, 2012 from http//www. car. ph.
com.
TEBTEBBA FOUNDATION. 2008. Guide of Climate Change and Indigenous Peoples.
Tebtebba Foundation, Philippines. Pp 56, 60.
VOGEL, T. 1997. Climate Change and Health. Commission on Climate Change and
Development. Pp 70, 75.
WEBER, E. 2010. What shapes perceptions of Climate Change. Wire’s Climate Change I
Pp 332-342.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012. Indigenous Climate Change
Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet. Benguet State University La Trinidad
Benguet.
Adviser: Constantino T. Sudaypan Sr. Ph.D.
ABSTRACT
The municipality of Buguias in the province of Benguet is vulnerable to climate
change. This resulted from the study that assessed the indigenous vulnerability indicators
observed by selected residents in Buguias relative to climate change. It also included the
problems brought about by the aforesaid indicators, and the mitigating measures
undertaken by the community residents.
Conducted in all the fourteen barangays of Buguias, the study involved 42 key
informants who have stayed in the community for at least 50 years. Administration of
questionnaires and conducted of interview among the respondents were undertaken in
October 2012. Data analysis started with the review and consolidation of the answers of
key informants. Percentage, frequency distribution and mean were integrated in the
descriptive presentation of data.
As to the findings of the study, the respondents are very much aware on climate
change. They learned about climate change through actual observation and documentation
of events; news/trivia on climate change from the radio; television and audio-visual
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
documentaries; seminars, trainings and workshops; family members; relative and friends;
and newspapers/magazines.
The respondents highly believe that their community is vulnerable to climate
change. This is so because of the following indicators: extreme variations in temperature,
which is characterized as too hot during the day and too cold during the night; prolonged
wet season; emergence of various pests/diseases; occurrence of stronger typhoons;
occurrence of heavy rains; unpredictable weather conditions; and occurrence of hailstorm.
Subsequently, the community residents encountered problems relative to the
observed indicators of climate change. Extreme variations in temperature resulted to
limited number of working hours in the farm; stunted growth of vegetable crops; reduced
water holding capacity of soil, and exposure of farmers to health hazards.
Another indicator of the vulnerability of the community to climate change is the
occurrence of prolonged wet season. Such problem led to flooding in the lower areas of
their community resulting to loss of crops; rotting of potato tubers and other root crops,
and leaching of soil nutrients. Furthermore, occurrence of heavy rains accordingly resulted
to soil erosion, and adverse effect on the growth of plants. Unpredictable weather
conditions in the community also resulted to unfinished/postponed works, abrupt change
in the work plan of farmers, increased number of pests and diseases, and decreased quality
of fruits and vegetables. The emergence of pests and diseases, as indicator of climate
change, eventually resulted to low yield of crops, and insufficient supply of food. It also
increased the dependence of farmers on pesticides.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Besides, occurrence of strong typhoons resulted to heavy crop loss, landslides, and
electricity breakdown (brownouts/blackouts). Lastly, hailstorms destroyed crops and even
livestock.
Relative to the climate change indicators and problems encountered, the residents
administered various adaptability measures. To evade from the extreme variations in
temperature, the respondents accordingly changed their work schedules, tried shifting to
other crops and/or varieties which are tolerant to the prevailing temperature in the area,
used of indigenous mulch to regulate evaporation of moisture from the soil; and shifted
into managing sari-sari stores.
The other mitigating measures include planting of waterlog-resistant crops,
constructing greenhouses, adjusting farm activities, rescheduling of planting season,
multiple cropping, programming alternative work schedules much more on land
preparation and planting, planting resistant varieties, multiple cropping, integrated pest
management, and organic farming. The farmers were accordingly helpless during
typhoons. Nevertheless, they accordingly planted trees to serve as windbreakers. They also
believed that the presence of trees helps control erosion. Only one respondent claimed that
hailstorm has been regularly occurring. As a mitigating measure, he accordingly built a
greenhouse to safeguard his crops. He also used nets, sacks and cellophane to appropriately
protect his crops.
As to the recommendations, the farmers should continuously observe and document
the indicators of climate change in their community for reference among future generation;
the community residents should remain vigilant over the ill-effects of climate change; the
indigenous climate change mitigating measures undertaken by the community residents
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
may be shared to neighboring communities for probable replication; and similar studies on
climate change, with more comprehensive tools and parameters, should be conducted to
verify the results of the study and to give clearer pictures on such phenomenon.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This section presents the profile of the respondents as to their personal information.
It also reflects their level of awareness on climate change and source of information as to
the indicators observed in the community on extreme variations in temperature, prolonged
wet season, occurrence of heavy rains, unpredictable weather condition, emergence of
various plant pest/diseases, occurrence of stronger typhoons and regular hailstorm.
Moreover, the problems encountered by the residents relative to the indicators and the
adaptability measures to counter the ill-effects of climate change are also included.
Profile of Respondents
The profile of the respondents as to age, civil status, gender, highest educational
attainment, households’ source of income and number of years in the community is shown
in Table 1.
The respondents have ages ranging from 50-75 years old. Their mean age is 51. This shows
that the people in the community are considerably old enough to have observed and/or
compared changes in the agriculture and environment.
As shown in the table, majority of the respondents are males and almost all are married.
Of the 42 respondents, fifteen are females, four are single and one is widowed. Results
imply that the respondent in the community are not dominated by males but when the study
was conducted almost all males are interested to answer the questions than the females.
All the respondents have gone to school but only five were able to finish college. According
to the respondents who did not finish college, they were constrained by financial problems.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
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Table 1. Profile of the respondents
PROFILE
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
a. Age
50-55
29
69.05
56-60
8
19.05
61-65
4
9.52
66-70
-
-
71-75
1
2.38
TOTAL
42
100.00
Mean Age = 51
b. Civil Status
Married
37
88.10
Single
4
9.52
Widowed
1
2.38
TOTAL
42
100.00
c. Gender
Male
27
64.29
Female
15
35.71
TOTAL
42
100.00
Table 1. Continued…
PROFILE
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
d. Educational Attainment
-
No schooling
-
8
Elementary Undergraduate
19.05
9
Elementary Graduate
21.43
7
High school Undergraduate
16.67
12
High school graduate
28.57
1
College Undergraduate
2.38
4
College Graduate
9.52
1
Post Graduate
2.38
42
TOTAL
100.00
e. Household main Source of Income
Pension/allotments
1
2.38
Remittance from abroad
-
-
Crop production
33
78.57
Livestock raising
1
2.38
Sari-sari store
1
2.38
Vegetable marketing
6
14.29
TOTAL
42
100.00
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
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Table 1. Continued…
PROFILE
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
f. No. of years Living in the
Community
50-60
37
88.10
61-70
4
9.52
71-80
1
2.38
TOTAL
42
100.00
The table also shows that almost 80% of the respondents derived their income from
crop production. Each of the three respondent lives through pension/allotments, livestock
raising and sari-sari store.
As to the number of years of living in the community, almost all of the respondents
lived in their respective communities from 50 to 60 years. Few respondents have been in
the community from 61-70 years. Only one respondent has been in the community for at
least 71 to 80 years.
Awareness on Climate Change
Table 2 shows the level of awareness of the respondents on climate change, and
their sources of information.
Regarding the level of awareness, almost all the respondents are very much aware on
climate change. There are four respondents who were moderately aware on climate change.
Results imply that everybody is aware of climate change.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
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Table 2.Level of awareness on climate change and source of information
AWARENESS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
a. Level of Awareness on Climate
Change
Very much aware
38
90.48
Moderately aware
4
9.52
Not aware
-
-
TOTAL
42
100.00
b. Source of information
Trough members of the family
1
2.38
Trough relatives and friends
1
2.38
By hearing news/trivia from the
radio
16
38.10
By watching the television and
audio-visual documentaries
9
21.43
By reading newspaper, magazines
1
2.38
By attending seminars, training,
workshops
6
14.29
Actual observation and
documentation of events
37
88.10
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
The findings relate to the claim of weber (2010) that raising climate change awareness
leads to knowledge, which increases the livelihood of action. In the United States, public
concern over the potential ramification of climate change has dipped in the past few years.
As to the sources of information, almost 90% of the respondents mentioned actual
observation and documentation of events. Some respondents revealed that they heard
news/trivia on climate change from the radio. The other sources of information, in a
descending order, are television and audio-visual documentaries; seminars, trainings and
workshops; family members; relatives and friends; and newspapers/magazines. Results
imply that climate change is not a strange phenomenon.
As cited by Morton (2011), issues arising in relation to how information is
transmitted to the public revolved primarily around the groups that present it; the media,
while being considered by all interviewees to play both a positive and negative role in
informing the public, was also associated with its own agenda, mainly pertaining to the
political learning’s of individual media entities.
Vulnerability to Climate Change
As shown in Table 3, almost all of the respondents highly believe that their
community is vulnerable to climate change; few respondents moderately believed.
According to these respondents, they are confused whether the changes they have observed
are due to climate change or it’s just a natural phenomenon. Regardless of what caused the
changes, all the respondents believed that their community is vulnerable since they have
observed the indicators.
Table 3.Perception on vulnerability of community to climate change
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
PERCEPTION
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
Highly believe that their
Community is vulnerable
35
83.33
Moderately believe that their
community is vulnerable
7
16.67
TOTAL
42
100.00
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability
Indicators in the Community
Table 4 shows the indicators of climate change observed by the respondents in the
community. Almost all of the respondents mentioned that the community has extreme
variations in temperature, which is characterized as too hot during the day and too cold
during the night. In a descending order of preference, the other indicators observed are as
follows: prolonged wet season (the usual number of dry months are shortened), emergence
of various plant pests/diseases, occurrence of stronger typhoons, occurrence of heavy rains
(when it rains, it pours heavily and with prolonged hours), unpredictable weather
conditions (instant occurrence of rains even during a sunny day) and regular hailstorm.
According to the respondents, the foregoing indicators prove that there is climate change;
and their community is vulnerable to such changes.
The findings relate to the claim of the Tebtebba Foundation (2009) that though
indigenous people have the least contribution to climate change as result of their
harmonious interaction with their environment, they would be one of the most affected
groups by climate change because they inhabit fragile environment.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
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Table 4. Indicators of climate change
INDICATORS
NO. OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
Extreme variations in temperature
(too hot during the day and too cold
during the night)
38
90.48
Prolonged wet season (the usual
numbers of dry month are shortened)
26
61.90
Occurrence of heavy rains (when it
rains, it pours heavily and with
prolonged hours)
8
19.05
Unpredictable weather conditions
(instant occurrence of rains even during
a sunny day)
2
4.76
Emergence of various plant
pests/diseases
24
57.14
Occurrence of stronger typhoons
9
21.43
Regular hailstorm
1
2.38
Note: Multiple responses
Problems Encountered Relative to the
Indicators of Climate Change
The problems encountered by the residents relative to the indicators of climate change are
shown in Table 5. As to extreme variations in temperature, majority of the respondents
cited that it resulted to limited number of working hours in the farm. According to the
respondents, they work on their farms when the heat of the sun is still tolerable. The other
problems, in a descending order of gravity, are stunted growth of vegetable crops, reduced
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
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water holding capacity of soil, and exposure of farmers to health hazards. The findings
support the claim of the Food and Agriculture Organization (2006) that climate change
would have various effects not only on the natural system but also on the communities that
depend on biodiversity for their existence.
Table 5. Problems encountered relative to the indicators of climate change
INDICATOR/PROBLEMS
NO.OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
a. Extreme variation in temperature
Limited working hours in the farm due
to extremely hot temperature
24
57.14
Stunted growth of vegetable crops
15
35.71
Reduced water holding capacity of soil
(soil easily dries)
10
23.81
Brings health hazard among farmers
1
2.38
b. Prolonged wet season
Rotting of potato tubers and other
root crops
14
33.33
Leaching of soil nutrients
6
14.29
Flooding resulting to loss of crops
22
52.38
c. Occurrence of heavy rains
Soil erosion (landslides/mudslides)
9
21.43
Adversely affect plant growth
1
2.38
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 5. Continued…
INDICATOR/PROBLEMS
NO.OF RESPONDENTS PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
d. Unpredictable weather conditions
Unfinished or re-scheduled works
2
4.76
Abrupt change of work plan
2
4.76
Increasing number of pest/diseases
2
4.76
Decreased quality of fruits and
vegetable (abnormal size)
2
4.76
e. Emergence of various plant pests
diseases
Low yield of crops
24
57.14
Insufficient supply of food for human
and livestock
3
7.14
increased dependence on pesticides to
control pest/disease
10
23.81
f. Occurrence of stronger typhoons
Mudslides and landslide
8
19.05
Heavy crop loss
9
21.43
Electricity breakdown
(Brownouts/blackout)
2
4.76
g. Regular hailstorm
Destroy leaves of vegetables
1
2.38
Destroy fruits/flowers of crops
1
2.38
Causes death of young livestock
1
2.38
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Another indicator of the vulnerability of the community to climate change is the occurrence
of prolonged wet season. According to the respondents, such problem leads to flooding in
the lower areas of their community resulting to loss of crops. There were some respondents
who cited rotting of potato tubers and other root crops, and leaching of soil nutrients as the
problems encountered from the foregoing indicator.
The occurrence of heavy rains accordingly resulted to soil erosion as claimed by nine
respondents. One respondent elaborated that the heavy rains adversely affected the growth
of his plants. On the other hand, there two respondents who claimed that the unpredictable
weather conditions in their community resulted to unfinished/postponed works, abrupt
change in their work plan, increased number of pests and diseases, and decreased quality
of fruits and vegetables.
Furthermore, the emergence of pests and diseases, as indicator of climate change
eventually resulted to low yield of crops, and insufficient supply of food. Accordingly, it
also increased the dependence of farmers on pesticides. As claimed by one of the
respondent in barangay Loo if he is going to compare his previous observation at present
in the emergence of pest and diseases, he observed that in the past years he was able to
maintain the quality of vegetables and produce more volume of crops even with the use of
fewer inputs of pesticide. But at present because of these ill-effects of climate change he
needed to use more inputs in spraying pesticide for him to produce and maintain the quality
and volume of vegetables that is needed to produce enough supply of food for human and
livestock.
Besides, few respondents stated that occurrence of strong typhoons resulted to heavy crop
loss, landslides, and electricity breakdown (brownouts/blackouts). Findings relate to the
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
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statement of Jabines and Inventor (2007) that climate change is projected to exacerbate the
misery and predicament of the country’s already over-burdened populace and amplify the
different socioeconomic burdens already shouldered by Filipino families, such as hunger
and water scarcity.
As discussed earlier, there was one respondent who claimed that one change in their
community is the occurrence of regular hailstorm (locally called dadal-lo). According to
the respondent, hailstorms destroy crops and even livestock. He narrated that one time; a
hailstorm caused death among his chicks and even puppies.
The foregoing findings imply that the indicators of climate change as observed by the
residents brought more adverse effects than favorable things. As claimed by the Food and
Agriculture (2010), the unpredictable and year round rains, landslides, and frost damage
forced farmers to use more inputs, which eventually increased production costs.
Figure 5 shows a farmer in Loo, Buguias spraying pesticides to control pests and/or
diseases.
Figures 5. A farmer in Loo, Buguias, Benguet sprays pesticide to counter the emergence
of pest and diseases
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Adaptability Measures to Counter the
Ill-Effects of Climate Change
Table 6 reflects the adaptability measures undertaken by the farmers to counter the ill-
effects of climate change in their community. As presented in the foregoing section, there
are several indicators of climate change enumerated by the respondents. The first indicator
is extreme variations in temperature. According to the respondents, this is characterized by
extremely cold temperature in the morning/evening and extremely hot during the day. To
evade from such problem, majority of the respondents accordingly changed their work
schedules. The respondents elaborated that they work in their farms early in the morning
and look for shelter at around 10 O’clock when the heat of the sun is extremely hot. They
resume their farm activities at around 2 O’clock when the heat from the sun is no longer
threatening.
On the other hand, some respondents claimed that they tried shifting to other crops and/or
varieties which are tolerant to the prevailing temperature in the area. Few respondents
revealed that they used indigenous mulch to regulate evaporation of moisture from the soil.
At least 3 respondents accepted to have shifted into managing sari-sari stores since they
can no longer maximize their farm production due to the extreme variations in temperature.
As to the problem on prolonged wet season due to extended number of rainy days, the
greatest number of respondents explained that they planted waterlog-resistant crops. Those
who are financially capable were able to construct greenhouses. These farmers, however,
claimed that the cost of the structure is an additional burden.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 6. Adaptability measures to counter the ill-effects of climate change
INDICATOR/MEASURES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
a. Extreme variation in temperature
Changes in work schedule
24
57.14
Shifting to other source of income
(like farming to sari-sari store)
3
7.14
Using new varieties of crop
resistance to prevailing temperature
15
35.71
Use of mulch on crops
7
16.67
b. Prolonged wet season
Planting of waterlogged- resistant
varieties
26
61.90
Planting of crops in green houses
12
28.57
c. Occurrence of heavy rains
Adjust schedule of planting
8
19.05
Multiple cropping
7
16.67
d. Unpredictable weather condition
Controlling the plant environment
using green houses
2
4.76
Alternative plans on work schedule
2
4.76
Planting weather resistant varieties
of crops
2
4.76
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Table 6. Continued…
INDICATOR/MEASURES
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
PERCENTAGE
(N=42)
(%)
e. Emergence of various plant/pests
Practices integrated pest
managements (IPM)
7
16.67
Change in cropping system (multi-
Cropping, zoning etc.)
24
57.14
Practice organic farming
3
7.14
Use nitrogen fertilizer and manure
3
7.14
f. Occurrence of strong typhoons
Plant more trees
9
21.43
Planting bamboos to control erosion
7
16.67
Planting coffee
1
2.38
g. Regular hailstorm
Planting crops in green houses
1
2.38
Using net to cover the crops
1
2.38
Using sacks to cover the crops
1
2.38
Using plastic cellophane on seedbed
1
2.38
Note: Multiple responses
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Another indicator of climate change, as claimed by at least eight respondents, is the
occurrence of heavy rains. According to these respondents, rains have higher intensity if
they were to compare it with previous observations. One respondent said “rains nowadays
are scary.” Since they cannot control the occurrence of heavy rains, the farmers merely
adjusted their farm activities. All the eight respondents claimed to have rescheduled their
planting season and the others accordingly integrated multiple cropping in their farm.
According to most of the farmers, such remedial measures did not really solve the problem
but at least it lessened.
Regarding the unpredictability of weather conditions, two respondents claimed to have
constructed greenhouses in order to control the environment of their crops. Few
respondents were also smart enough to have programmed alternative work schedules much
more on land preparation and planting. Another two respondents cited planting resistant
varieties.
Changes in the climate also resulted in the emergence of various plant pests and diseases.
As such, the greatest number of respondents claimed to have practiced multiple cropping.
Moreover, few respondents accordingly practiced Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and
organic farming.
The farmers were accordingly helpless during typhoons. Nevertheless, they accordingly
planted trees to serve as windbreakers. They also believed that the presence of trees helps
control erosion. Only one respondent claimed that hailstorm has been regularly occurring.
As a mitigating measure, he accordingly built a greenhouse to safeguard his crops. He also
used nets, sacks and cellophane to appropriately protect his crops. Figure 6 show sample
of net.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
The findings showed that in their own capacities, the farmers came up with some
indigenous measures that can mitigate the effects of climate change in their respective
communities. It may not be very effective and/or efficient, but at some instance it motivated
them to continue their agricultural activities despite the prevailing changes. Figures 7 and
8 show samples of greenhouse.
According to the United Nations acknowledged during the climate change conference in
Bali, Indonesia that among other things, there is a need for enhanced action on adaptation
and the provision of financial resource for it. This, in return, implies the need for financial
and technology transfer from the rich to the poor countries. In general, most developing in
Asia have the least capacity to adapt to climate change and are therefore in need of
whatever external support they can get to build their capacity (Francisco, 2008).
Figure 6. A net used by the farmers in Barangay Bangao to protect his crops from adverse
effects of climate change
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Figure 7. A sample of greenhouse used by the residents of Barangay Baculongan Norte
to protect their crops during the occurrence of heavy rains and hailstorm
Figure 8. A farmer in Barangay Baculongan Norte working inside his greenhouse
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Summary
The study assessed the indigenous vulnerability indicators observed by selected
residents in Buguias relative to climate change. It also included the problems brought about
by the aforesaid indicators, and the mitigating measures undertaken by the community
residents.
Conducted in all the fourteen barangays of Buguias, the study involved 42 key
informants who have stayed in the community for at least 50 years. Administration of
questionnaires and conducted of interview among the respondents were undertaken in
October 2012. Data analysis started with the review and consolidation of the answers of
key informants. Percentage, frequency distribution and mean were integrated in the
descriptive presentation of data.
As to the findings of the study, almost all of the respondents are very much aware
on climate change. Almost 90% of the respondents learned about climate change through
actual observation and documentation of events. Some respondents revealed that they
heard news/trivia on climate change from the radio. The other sources of information, in a
descending order, are television and audio-visual documentaries; seminars, trainings and
workshops; family members; relative and friends; and newspapers/magazines.
Almost all of the respondents highly believed that their community is vulnerable to
climate change. This is so because of the following indicators: extreme variations in
temperature, which is characterized as too hot during the day and too cold during the night;
prolonged wet season; emergence of various pests/diseases; occurrence of stronger
typhoons; occurrence of heavy rains; unpredictable weather conditions; and occurrence of
hailstorm.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
Subsequently, the community residents encountered problems relative to the observed
indicators of climate change. As to extreme variations in temperature, majority of the
respondents cited that it resulted to limited number of working hours in the farm. According
to the respondents, they work on their farms when the heat of the sun is still tolerable. The
other problems, in a descending order of gravity, are stunted growth of vegetable crops,
reduced water holding capacity of soil, and exposure of farmers to health hazards.
Another indicator of the vulnerability of the community to climate change is the occurrence
of prolonged wet season. According to the respondents, such problem leads to flooding in
the lower areas of their community resulting to loss of crops. There were some respondents
who cited rotting of potato tubers and other root crops, and leaching of soil nutrients as the
problems encountered from the foregoing indicator.
The occurrence of heavy rains accordingly resulted to soil erosion as claimed by nine
respondents. One respondent elaborated that the heavy rains adversely affected the growth
of his plants. On the other hand, there two respondents who claimed that the unpredictable
weather conditions in their community resulted to unfinished/postponed works, abrupt
change in their work plan, increased number of pests and diseases, and decreased quality
of fruits and vegetables.
Furthermore, the emergence of pests and diseases, as indicator of climate change,
eventually resulted to low yield of crops, and insufficient supply of food. Accordingly, it
also increased the dependence of farmers on pesticides. Besides, few respondents stated
that occurrence of strong typhoons resulted to heavy crop loss, landslides, and electricity
breakdown (brownouts/blackouts). One respondent claimed that one change in their
community is the occurrence of regular hailstorm (locally called dadal-lo). According to
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
the respondent, hailstorms destroy crops and even livestock. He narrated that one time; a
hailstorm caused death among his chicks and even puppies.
Relative to the climate change indicators and problems encountered, the residents
administered various adaptability measures. To evade from the extreme variations in
temperature, majority of the respondents accordingly changed their work schedules. The
respondents elaborated that they work in their farms early in the morning and look for
shelter at around 10 O’clock when the heat of the sun is extremely hot. They resume their
farm activities at around 2 O’clock when the heat from the sun is no longer threatening.
On the other hand, some respondents claimed that they tried shifting to other crops and/or
varieties which are tolerant to the prevailing temperature in the area. Few respondents
revealed that they used indigenous mulch to regulate evaporation of moisture from the soil.
At least 3 respondents accepted to have shifted into managing sari-sari stores since they
can no longer maximize their farm production due to the extreme variations in temperature.
As to the problem on prolonged wet season due to extended number of rainy days, the
greatest number of respondents explained that they planted waterlog-resistant crops. Those
who are financially capable were able to construct greenhouses. These farmers, however,
claimed that the cost of the structure is an additional burden.
Another indicator of climate change, as claimed by at least eight respondents, is the
occurrence of heavy rains. According to these respondents, rains have higher intensity if
they were to compare it with previous observations. One respondent said “rains nowadays
are scary.” Since they cannot control the occurrence of heavy rains, the farmers merely
adjusted their farm activities. All the eight respondents claimed to have rescheduled their
planting season and the others accordingly integrated multiple cropping in their farm.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
According to most of the farmers, such remedial measures did not really solve the problem
but at least it lessened.
Regarding the unpredictability of weather conditions, two respondents claimed to have
constructed greenhouses in order to control the environment of their crops. Few
respondents were also smart enough to have programmed alternative work schedules much
more on land preparation and planting. Another two respondents cited planting resistant
varieties.
Changes in the climate also resulted in the emergence of various plant pests and diseases.
As such, the greatest number of respondents claimed to have practiced multiple cropping.
Moreover, few respondents accordingly practiced Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and
organic farming.
The farmers were accordingly helpless during typhoons. Nevertheless, they accordingly
planted trees to serve as windbreakers. They also believed that the presence of trees helps
control erosion. Only one respondent claimed that hailstorm has been regularly occurring.
As a mitigating measure, he accordingly built a greenhouse to safeguard his crops. He also
used nets, sacks and cellophane to appropriately protect his crops.
Conclusions
Based on the findings, the following conclusions are made:
1.
The level of awareness on climate change among people even in the
remote barangays of Buguias in the municipality of Benguet is high. This is because
they have access on various Information, Education and Communication (IEC)
materials;
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
2.
Their perception on the changes occurring in their community is
evidenced by the indicators they have been observing and recording. In other
words, these farmers have indigenous ways of assessing the vulnerability of their
community to climate change;
3.
The farmers perceived more ill-effects of climate change as
compared to favorable ones; and
4.
Mitigating climate change is instinctive. This means that even
before the sophisticated technologies of mitigating climate change, people in the
rural areas have their own ways and means of countering the ill-effects of climate
change.
Recommendations
The following recommendations are put forward:
1.
The farmers should continuously observe and document the
indicators of climate change in their community for reference among future
generation;
2.
The community residents should remain vigilant over the ill-effects
of climate change;
3.
The indigenous climate change mitigating measures undertaken by
the community residents may be shared to neighboring communities for probable
replication; and
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
4.
Similar studies on climate change, with more comprehensive tools
and parameters, should be conducted to verify the results of the study and to give
clearer pictures on such phenomenon.
Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012
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Indigenous Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment in Buguias, Benguet |
DACUS, NORBERT JR. A. APRIL, 2012