Researches:

Article title: Species Account of Mangroves in the Coastal Zones of Naawan, Misamis Oriental
Authors: Jeanbee D.Gutierrez, Ramon Francisco Q. Padilla and Sonnie A. Vedra
Publication title: International Journal of Science and Management Studies (IJSMS) 6(2), 2023

Abstract:
Changes in the zonation pattern of mangroves can be a measure of natural and anthropogenic perturbations. As such, mangroves in the coastal zones of Naawan were surveyed usingthebelttransectmethod. There were a total of 8 species belonging to 4 families of mangroves, namely, Avicenniarhumpiana, Avicennia marina and Avicennia alba in Family Acanthacea; Sonneratia alba in Family Lythraceae; Rhizophoramucronata, Ceriopszippeliana, and Bruguieraparviflora in Family Rhizophoraceae; and lastly, Excoecariaagallocha in Family Euphorbiaceae. Families Acanthacea and Rhizophoraceae dominated the coastal zones and moving towards the foreshore riverine portion. Diversity and evenness indices indicated a relatively diverse and proportionally distributed mangrove species across the coastal zones of Naawan. This study could help some mangrove restoration initiatives to avoid introduction of certain species in the area based on site-specificity and sensitivity among mangrove species.
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Article title: Occurrence and Distribution of Dengue-Causing Mosquito in Iligan City and Its Implication to Environmental Management
Authors: Michael Mar L. Demecillo, Ramon Francisco Q. Padilla, Rodolfo B. Trinidad, Wesceslao A. Coronado, Aida D. Perpetua, Magdalena D. Dulay and Sonnie A. Vedra
Publication title: International Journal of Science and Management Studies (IJSMS) 6(2), 2023

Abstract:
The occurrence and geographic distribution of Aedesaegypti mosquito was assessed in different barangays of Iligan City. This mosquito species is known to be the carrier of dengue virus that cause deaths among the constituents of Iligan City. Standard collection and identification of mosquito larval specimens were done at Iligan City Sanitary Inspector’s laboratory. Results showed that majority of dengue-carrying mosquito species, Aedesaegypti were collected and identified apart from Aedesalbopictus, known as a secondary dengue virus carrier. Overall, larval specimens ofA.aegypti had the highest number with a total of 240 individuals per sample collected in the six sampling barangays, whereas A.albopictus had a total of 90 individuals. This number of individuals of dengue-carrying species of mosquitoes might put the barangays of Iligan City at potential risks of dengue occurrence and eventual adverse impacts to the constituents. Hence, it is imperative to increase the level of awareness among the constituents and do some preventive measures such as regular clean up and other concerted efforts of the health authorities, government, private sector, academe and other sectors.
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Article title: Macrobenthic Assemblages in the Riverine Systems in Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte, Philippines
Authors: Sonnie A. Vedra, Ramon Francisco Q. Padilla, Rafael J. Vicente
Publication title: Biodiversity Journal 14 (1):167–171, 2023

Abstract:
Received 01.08.2022; accepted 12.01.2023; published online 16.02.2023 Determining the composition of taxa and diversity of benthic macrobenthos could serve as reference in understanding the structure and function of riverine ecosystems. In this study, temporal and spatial variations in the distribution of macrobenthos were determined in dry and wet seasons in four sampling stations in the river and creek systems in Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte. A total of 272 specimens/m-2 benthic macrobenthos belonging to 6 taxa were identified , namely, Nematoda (42.28%), Oligochaeta (22.06%), Annelida (11.40%), Amphipoda (9.19%), Rotifera (8.46%), and Polychaeta (6.62%). Diversity index analyses indicated that Simpson index varied from 0.65 to 0.78, Shannon diversity values ranged from 1.21 to 1.62, while Dominance index ranged from 0.22 to 0.35, respectively, for all sampling stations during wet and dry seasons. Composition and diversity of taxa in all sampling stations for both wet and dry seasons were not significantly different (p>0.05). This means that macrobenthos population did not thoroughly changed through time and space. Thus, this study can be used in determining patterns and dynamics of biodiversity in ecosystems and try to manage their main aspects.
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Article title: Indigenous fishes inhabiting the Talabaan river system of Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Northern Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Sonnie A. Vedra, Ramon Francisco Q. Padilla and Rafael J. Vicente
Publication title: Turkish Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences 10(4):23-27, 2022

Abstract:
The species composition, abundance, diversity, evenness and similarity of the indigenous fish population inhabiting the upstream, midstream and downstream parts of Talabaan River system in Naawan, Misamis Oriental was determined. Specimens were collected using hand-held siene and cast nets. Total number of individuals of all fish species captured was 150, with 46 (30.66%), 57 (38.00%) and 47 (31.33%), respectively, recorded in the upstream, midstream, and downstream parts of the river. Eleven fish species were recorded in six families namely, Xiphophorus hellerii (44.67%), Sicyopterus lagocephalus (20.00%), Giuris margaritacea (8.00%), Glossogobius celebius (6.67%), Awaous melanocephalus (5.33%), Rhyacichthys aspro (5.33%), Glossogobius giuris (2.67%), Oreochromis niloticus (2.67%), Anguilla marmorata (2.00%), Gerres limbatus (1.33%), and Mesopristes cancellatus (1.33%). The 11 fish species might indicate that Talabaan River is a good freshwater ecosystem that could support their food and habitat requirements and other ecological needs. It is imperative therefore, that the river must be protected from overexploitation and pollution impacts. This is to sustain the economic and ecological benefits of this fishery resource for the present and future generations of Naawanons and nearby communities as well.
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Article title: Diversity and distribution of Avifauna in Mapawa Nature Park, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental
Authors: Clarise L. Parreno, Irene V. Sanchez, Angela A. Vasallo, Sonnie A. Vedra, Richel E. Relox
Publication title: Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences (JBES) 17(6):1-8, 2020

Abstract:
Bird population is an indicates the quality of habitat as they respond to threats and varying ecological conditions. Descriptive type of research was used in the study which aimed to assess the species composition, abundance, diversity, endemism, richness, conservation status and distribution of birds in the area. Birds were sampled using point-count method and mist netting methods. Geographic Information System (GIS) was used to determine the distribution of the avifauna species. It was found out that Mapawa Nature Park of Barangay Cugman, Cagayan De Oro City, Misamis Oriental harbors 47 avifauna species which belong to 10 Orders and 24 Families. In which, 16 species are endemic in the Philippines, 27 are resident birds, three are migratory and one is near endemic. Among the avifauna, Philippine Bulbul has the highest relative abundance (28.4%) while Zebra Dove, Mangrove KingFisher, Whiskered Tree Swift, Philippine Hawked Owl, Philippine Dwarf King Fisher, Red Bellied Pita and Blue Tailed Bee-Eater are the least abundant species (0.20%). The area has high diversity index (H=3.03) and evenness (E= 0.49) which means that it is diverse in terms of avifauna species. For species distribution, an omnivorous bird was the most abundant, Philippine Bulbul due to the availability of food in their habitat. Furthermore, Mapawa Nature Park is a home of abundant, rich and diverse birds in Northern Mindanao. Information and awareness strategies must be implemented inside the area for the protection and conservation of bird species.
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Article title: Bioremediation Potential Of Common Ricefield Plants And Animal Species for Heavy Metals: Cadmium, Chromium and Lead
Authors: Gaspar S. Cantere, Jr, Ma. Luisa B. Salingay, Rodolfo B. Trinidad and Sonnie A. Vedra
Publication title: World Journal of Environmental Sciences & Development Research 2(1):1-10, 2019

Abstract:
Bioremediation potential of Commelina benghalensis, Fimbristylis miliacea, Cyperus iria, Pomacea canaliculata and Hirudo medicinalis for bioremediation of heavy metals such as cadmium, chromium, and lead was conducted. The experiments were allowed for three (3) days of accumulation. Relative growths, bioaccumulation factors, bioaccumulation coefficients and translocation factors were determined to evaluate the bioremediation potential of the plant and animal species. Presence of heavy metals was quantified using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy. Results showed that relative growths of plants were generally affected with the increase of heavy metal concentrations. Cadmium concentrations at 100ppm and > 25 ppm demonstrated to be toxic to C. benghalensis and F. miliacea, respectively, while C. iria showed tolerance in 25-100ppm. The concentrations > 50 ppm and > 25ppm of chromium and lead respectively had demonstrated to be detrimental to the growth of the three species. Relative growths of P. canaliculata and H. medicinalis showed to be sensitive in cadmium, chromium and lead even in very minute amounts. Chromium and lead accumulation of the three species were not statistically significant. P. canaliculata and H. medicinalis showed to be capable of accumulating cadmium and lead even in minimal amounts (0.050-0.075 ppm). In chromium accumulation, the two species showed accumulation in 0.100 and 0.125 ppm. C. benghalensis, F. miliacea, and C. iria were classified heavy metal excluders. P. canaliculata and H. medicinalis are also excluders of the three heavy metals mentioned above. Heavy metal translocation factors classified C. 2 benghalensis as effective translocators of cadmium within the range of 25-75 ppm. C. benghalensis proved to be effective translocator of chromium at 50, 100, and 200 ppm. However, the other two species of plants had shown no potential in translocating lead.
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Article title: Assessing Macroinvertebrate Population Inhabiting the Talabaan River, Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
Authors: Michael James O. Baclayon, John Philip A. Viajedor, Cristobal C. Tanael, Juvelyn B. Lugatiman, Dinnes M. Cortes, Aldrin B. Librero, Jan Rey M. Flores, Florante G. Requina, Romersita D. Dadayan, QuiniGine W. Areola, Sotico P. Micabalo, Ruth S. Talingting, Geralyn D. Dela Peña, and Sonnie A. Vedra
Publication title: World Journal of Environmental Sciences & Development Research 2(1):1-5, 2017

Abstract:
Water pollution is rampant due to uncontrolled human activities and using bioindicators could contribute some promising results. As such, this study tried to describe the Talabaan River in terms of the macroinvertebrate population, of which, could be used to assess the water quality condition of the River. Standard methods of specimen collection were done. Results showed that the water quality condition of the upstream until midstream portions of Talabaan River were relatively good, while relatively polluted water was observed at downstream, although it harboured all macroinvertebrate species. Dominance of pollution-sensitive macroinvertebrate was observed in the upstream, while the pollution-tolerant species were observed at downstream. The result of the study could provide preliminary information to be translated into some regulatory measures in a form of implementing the resolutions and ordinances enacted. This is to mitigate further degradation of the water quality conditions of Talabaan River, and in turn could be used for various socio-economic and ecological purposes, which to be undertaken by all possible stakeholders.
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Article title: Biodiversity and Habitat Assessment of Mount Malindawag Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines
Authors: Edgar D. Castañares, Sonnie A. Vedra, Jessie G. Gorospe
Publication title: International Letters of Natural Sciences 62:20-27, 2017

Abstract:
Habitat fragmentation results to displacement of inhabiting floral and faunal species. The resulting geographic isolation of various species affect regeneration, genetic flows and recruitment. Hence, a study was conducted in a forested area of Mt. Malindawag in Naawan, Misamis Oriental. Sampling stations were designated at the agro-forest, mid-forest and upper-forest habitat types. Species characterizations were based on DAO 2007-01 and IUCN Red List for conservation status. Results showed highest diversity index of flora at mid-forest while lowest diversity was observed in the agro-forest area. A tree species Canarium racemosum obtained highest Species Importance Value (SIV) at 38.6%, 42% and 30.8%, respectively in the three habitat types. The highest endemicity of flora was at mid-forest with 24% per DAO 2007-01 and 26% per IUCN conservation status. Majority of faunal species were birds that were mostly resident and common and were usually observed at upper-forest habitat. The relatively low diversity and endemicity of flora and fauna species could be due to the influx of human population. Various activities undertaken were threatening the inhabiting biodiversity, and therefore, demand immediate protection and conservation measures from formulating policies to increasing awareness of various stakeholders. Future related studies were recommended to increase scientific understanding on the interrelationships of socio-economic and ecological interactions of biodiversity to the inhabiting human population.
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Article title: Modelling Resource Extractions: Way Forward to Sustainable Development of Layawan River, Northern Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Geralyn D. Dela Peña, QuiniGine W. Areola, Cristobal C. Tanael, Florence C. Paler, Dinnes M. Cortez, Aldrin B. Librero, Jan Rey M. Flores, John Philip A. Viajedor, Juvelyn B. Lugatiman, Ruth S. Talingting and Sonnie A. Vedra
Publication title: American Journal of Social Sciences, Arts and Literature 4(1):1-5, 2017

Abstract:
Unregulated extraction of resources might lead to degradation and unsustainability. Thus, it is imperative that projections of an economic value in the future might help resource-users for future sustainable development. Data were extracted from survey questionnaires, key informant interviews and focused group discussions. The values derived were analyzed using Stella model version 9.0.2. Results showed that economic value projections of 10 years for sand and gravel quarry would have an estimated value of PhP3,946,188,000,000, for fishery resources it would be PhP394,619,425,000.00, extraction of water for domestic use and other agricultural purpose is estimated at PhP394,350,000,000.00, for the two major recreation and ecotourism activities, swimming and zipline adventure were estimated at PhP394, 615,000,000.00, and lastly, for the existence and bequest values were estimated to be at PhP394, 675,000,000.00. These values were considered as economic reserves for future utilization of the resources, and yet might project utilization patterns that would make these resources sustainable. This would entail conservative efforts of various stakeholders to sustain the resources for the future generations.
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Article title: Adaptive measures to climate change among the Higaonon communities in Naawan and Initao,Misamis Oriental, Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Geralyn D. Dela Peña, QuiniGine W. Areola, Cristobal C. Tanael, Florence C. Paler, Dinnes M. Cortez, Aldrin B. Librero, Jan Rey M. Flores, John Philip A. Viajedor, Juvelyn B. Lugatiman, Ruth S. Talingting and Sonnie A. Vedra
Publication title: American Journal of Social Sciences, Arts and Literature 4(1):1-7, 2017

Abstract:
Traditional knowledge systems of indigenous peoples are now acknowledged globally as crucial in combatting climate change.Thus, this study was conducted to determine the adaptive measures to climate change undertaken by theHigaonon communities within the hinterlands of Initao and Naawan, Misamis Oriental, Philippines. Collections of data were done through Focused Group Discussion (FGD) and Key Informant Interview (KII) using semi-structured open-ended questionnaires. Results showed that the resiliencyto climate change among the Higaonon communities in Initao and Naawan was inhibited by the absence of land entitlement, although claimed customarily and within their ancestral lands. Logging concession in the last decades, arrivals of migrants and further encroachment to their ancestral lands exacerbate the impacts of climate change into their lives and survival. These impacts had adversely affected their cultural practices and rights, thus, adoption of the modern techniques in fishing, farming and hunting was the alternative solutions for their communities to survive. Massive information campaign on the ill-effects of climate change,resource conservation and sustainable development and exercise of indigenous 2 people's rights are highly recommended to be implemented. This is geared to understand better the present and future impacts of climate change to theseindigenous communities.
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Article title: Responses of fruit bats to habitat quantity and quality of selected forest patches in mt. kitanglad range, Bukidnon, Philippines
Authors: Richel E. Relox, Leonardo M. Florece, Enrique P. Pacardo, Nicomedes D. Briones
Publication title: Journal of Biodiversity and Environmental Sciences (JBES) 10(6):1-13, 2017

Abstract:
Mega chiropterans maintain high quality and quantity of the remaining forest ecosystem in Mt. Kitanglad Range. Hence, this study determined the different species of fruit bats in forest patches with varied quantity and quality influenced by human activities. Mist-netting technique was used comprising a total of 522 net-nights established in selected forest patches in Mt. Kitanglad Range. Results showed three Mindanao Faunal Region endemic species (Alionycteris paucidentata, Ptenochirus minor and Megaerops wetmorei), three Philippine endemic species (Haplonycteris fischeri, Ptenochirus jagori and Harpyionycteris whiteheadi), and three non-endemic species (Rousettus amplexicaudatus, Macroglossus minimus and Cynopterus brachyotis). There were nine species under Family Pteropodidae Order Chiroptera. Endemic species dominated the large, diverse forest areas with minimal human activities while non-endemic species inhabited the small forest areas with high level of human disturbances such as agricultural encroachment and growing population densities. The presence of highly tolerant species despite human disturbances in small forest areas would indicate a relatively degrading forest habitat that in turn, may affect the ecosystem services provided by the forest ecosystem of Mt. Kitanglad Range. Thus, endemic fruit bats were associated to large forested areas rendering high quality ecosystem services. This study suggested urgent reforestation of degraded areas to attain high forest quality and quantity and stable ecosystem services.
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Article title: Impacts of management programs to biophysical resources of Cagayan de Oro River, Northern Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Ramon Francisco Q. Padilla, Sonnie A. Vedra, Wenceslao A. Coronado, Rodolfo B. Trinidad, Richel E. Relox
Publication title: AES Bioflux 8(3), 2016

Abstract:
The study was undertaken to determine the status of recent management programs implemented and initiated by various multi-sectoral organizations from the Local Government, NGAs, Academe, and National Agencies towards the Cagayan de Oro River resources and to its immediate community. Secondary data obtained on water quality revealed that domestic, socio-economic and cultural factors did not significantly influence on the water quality of the river, but that population growth magnifies the impact, it is also supported that Escherichia coli from domestic wastes is highest at downstream which is densely populated compared to upstream. Validation survey suggests that people are knowledgeable that river discharges runoff from upstream activities, and agrees that there are existing organizations and government agencies in the barangay that implement environmental programs. The river still hosts a lot of organisms, but the respondents would attest that the past conditions of the river and its resources are better compared to the present. Majority of the respondents agree that Cagayan de Oro River is already polluted. However, they have expressed intent to participate in management and conservation programs for the betterment of its resources. The benefits derived from the river are critical to the functioning of the life support system of the communities by which people are willing to pay minimum monetary value for its sustainability. Further it is recommended that management efforts must be narrowed down to the community level in order to elicit participation and because they are most knowledgeable on the status of the existing river resources. Thus, there is a need for scientific inputs for resource-based studies in order to update data and provide reliable baseline for the application of appropriate management programs, and considering reforestation efforts to also focused on riparian zones, with appropriate financial allocation and lastly, the need for inter-council agreements should be enhanced and clarified to address geographical contexts and jurisdiction on the implementation of programs.
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Article title: Assessment of flood risk and adaptation efforts of the communities of Jabonga, Agusan del Norte, Philippines 1
Authors: Emeline S. Crisologo, Richel E. Relox, Rodolfo B. Trinidad, Sonnie A. Vedra
Publication title: AES Bioflux 8(3), 2016

Abstract:
Lake Mainit is an important ecosystem shared by the provinces of Agusan del Norte and Surigao del Norte. It is the fourth largest lake in the Philippines. It plays a vital role in the lakeshore communities considering that it brings lots of beneficial uses to local people. Because of some anthropogenic activities within its headwaters, flooding incidents in Jabonga become frequent. These brought risks to people’s lives and properties. This study aimed to assess the awareness level of lakeshore communities in Jabonga and its adaptation efforts. The study reveals that the people in surveyed lakeshore communities are aware of the risks brought by frequent flooding to their lives and properties however, they still prefer to settle to this identified flood hazard areas. This entails that there is a need to enhance the existing flood risk management program to lessen the vulnerability of the people settling near the lake. This is to achieve sustainability on environmental and social developments. Key Words: Lake Mainit, flood, Jabonga, awareness, ecosystem, Kalinawan River.
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Article title: Sexual Dimorphism of Flathead Mullet (Mugil cephalus) from Northern Mindanao Rivers Using Geometric Morphometric Analysis
Authors: Rose Ann Silos, Brent Joy Hernando, Juzavil Juario, Sheryl Patiño, Princess Angelie Casas, Jazzie D’Zeim Arreza, Angelo Responte, Sonnie A. Vedra
Publication title: International Letters of Natural Sciences 45:34-48, 2015

Abstract:
Sexual dimorphism is biologically important for determining the morphological traits of marine species. Flathead mullet (Mugil cephalus) was examined based on the patterns of sexual dimorphism from the two rivers in Northern Mindanao. The samples were collected from Cagayan de Oro River and Mandulog River to investigate phenotypic divergence and sexual dimorphism in two different populations of wild-caught M. cephalus using geometric morphology based on landmark basis. A total of 17 landmarks were identified to describe the left and right body shapes of the specimen using the TpsRelw (version 1) to obtain the warp scores of each population. Results of the Relative Warp Analysis show no significant variation in the body shape within the sexes in the respective sampling sites. Results of the discriminant function analysis (DFA) show that in Cagayan de Oro River there is no significant variation in the body shape of mullets between sexes suggesting no sexual dimorphism in the flathead mullets in Cagayan de Oro River. In contrast , Discriminant Function Analysis show that there is significant variation in body shape between sexes in Mandulog River in Iligan City suggesting presence of sexual dimorphism in the area which can be due to the presence of abundant and highly diverse predator species in Mandulog River. Sexual dimorphosm can be used by fishes as an adaptive mechanism to maximize predator-escape performance and survival capacity. Furthermore, there is a significant shape variation between populations of mullets in Cagayan de Oro and Mandulog River which can be interpreted as due to geographic isolation which serves as physical barrier on the gene pool. In conclusion, many factors could account for variation in body shape of Mugil cephalus including predation and biogeographical barriers.
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Article title: The Fishery Potential of Freshwater Gobies in Mandulog River, Northern Mindanao, Philippines
Authors: Sonnie A. Vedra and Pablo Ocampo
Publication title: Asian Journal of Agriculture and Development (AJAD) 11(1):95-103, 2014

Abstract:
Freshwater gobies, particularly fry and some adult species, have been used as an alternative fishery resource. Mandulog River in Iligan City, northern Mindanao, Philippines, is one of the areas known for goby-fry fishery. This study described the potentials of the goby population in Mandulog River in terms of its fishery aspects. Households along the Mandulog River were the respondents of the survey. Results show that most of the freshwater gobies were caught as alternative food while goby-fry were sold in the market. Goby fishing was done five times a year using nets and traps. The maximum catch per fishing session was one to three kilograms and sold at more or less PHP 10 (Philippine Peso) (USD 0.23) per kilogram. Monthly income from goby fishing was from PHP 100 to PHP 200 (USD 2.35 to USD 4.71) only. Goby species such as Sicyopterus lagocephalus, Oxyeleotris lineolata, Awaous melanocephalus, A. ocellaris, Giuris margaritacea, and Rhyacichthys aspro were the preferred prey species. Findings suggest that goby fishing was not a major source of livelihood as fishers were not earning much from it. However, as a bycatch, the goby population is under threat, with their economic and ecological benefits not utilized. Destructive fishing methods such as cyanide fishing, electric fishing, and use of fine mesh nets might also adversely affect the goby population, despite being non-target species. Therefore, protection of target species from overexploitation would also benefit the goby species.
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Article title: Indigenous Goby Population in Mandulog River System and its Conservation by Communities in Iligan City, Philippines
Authors: Sonnie A. Vedra, Pablo P. Ocampo, Ayolani V. de Lara, Carmelita M. Rebancos, Enrique P. Pacardo and Nicomedes D. Briones
Publication title: Journal of Environmental Science and Management 16(2):11-18, 2013

Abstract:
Threats of water pollution, unregulated extraction of resources, and sprawling urbanization are some of the common issues of Mandulog River, a home for indigenous freshwater gobies. This study was conducted to assess the status of freshwater gobies and how the resident communities exert conservation efforts to the river and the inhabiting gobies. Standard method of collection of gobies was done. Interviews with semi-structured questionnaires were used to know the conservation measures of the residents. Ten goby species belonging to three families namely, Family Eleotridae (Belobranchus belobranchus), Giuris margaritacea, and Oxyeleotris lineolata, Family Gobiidae (Awaous melanocephalus), Awaous ocellaris, Glossogobius celebius, Glossogobius giuris, Periophthalmus barbarus and Sicyopterus lagocephalus, and Family Rhyacichthyidae (Rhyacichthys aspro), can be an alternative source of food and livelihood. They were caught by-catch, while employing some destructive fishing methods like cyanide fishing, electric fishing, and use of fine mesh nets. The awareness of the residents to the adverse impacts of water pollution, unregulated human activities, and destructive fishing had strengthened their conservation measures. A multi-stakeholder management approach is created through concerted proactive conservation measures like protection of the goby population, the river-riparian ecosystems, enhanced scientific information, and the legal intervention of the local government
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Article title: Utilization and management of electronic goods by different households in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines
Authors: Maricel V. Cultura, Edgardo C. Aranico, Sonnie A. Vedra, Ruben F. Amparado Jr.
Publication title: AES Bioflux 5(3), 2013

Abstract:
Electronic device purchases in the Philippines are increasing due to the thriving economic situation in the country. People are buying more electrical and electronic equipment (EEE) because these are made affordable and upgraded in a fast pace. Maximum utilization of EEE leads to the increasing number of e-wastes which contain hazardous materials that may occupy huge space in the landfills. Yet, there is no such specific law on e-waste available in our country today. This study was conducted in Cagayan de Oro which is considered as one of the most progressive cities in the Philippines. The objective of this paper was to determine the amount of e-wastes generated and the management practices by the households. Only households that were willing to be interviewed and participated were considered for the study. The information on knowledge level, attitude, practice on use, EEE disposal and the quantity of e-waste generated were collected using a survey questionnaire. To guarantee the high response rate, interviews were also employed. The finding shows that mobile phones and chargers were the most utilized equipment and the most e-waste generated among the EEE’s. The preferred methods of e-waste disposal by the households were the following: sell to scrap dealers, keep at home or repair. Most of the households do not know where and how to dispose in a proper manner. Moreover, there is no collection mechanism in the area. Therefore, public awareness and proper management of e-wastes are necessary to minimize disposal to landfills and prevent the adverse effects of these substances to human society and to the environment
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