Economic valuation and perceptions on mangrove resources: toward mangrove conservation and management in Nabago, Surigao City

Abstract

Despite their abundant services, mangroves are among the most threatened ecosystems in the world. Household interviews conducted in Nabago, Surigao City determined the direct use values (DUV) and indirect use values (IUV) of mangrove products and services using market price for DUV and Replacement Cost Method for IUV. Residents may also directly contribute to the alteration of ecosystems; hence, this study included the extent of local knowledge, attitudes, and training needs concerning Nabago’s mangrove resources. Mangrove aquatic biota provides an annual direct benefit of Php103,262.00/ha/year, while commercial aquaculture, PhP509,433.96/ha/year. Overall, the potential DUV of the entire mangrove ecosystem of Nabago is Php4,149,303.88/year. IUV for coastal protection, wind barrier, protection from extreme sunlight, protection from saltwater intrusion, and carbon sequestration has a total benefit value of PhP68,568,598.22/year. The total annual DUV and IUV of the mangrove ecosystem in Nabago is around Php 72.72 million, of which the IUV is 94% of the total benefit value. High awareness of the ecological functions of the mangrove ecosystem and a positive attitude toward mangrove protection implies that the locals see the intrinsic value (i.e., valuing the forest for its existence) and attach a bequest value to the mangroves to preserve these for future generations. Mangrove monitoring, conservation, management, restoration, and rehabilitation were the top training needs compared to aquaculture training. Dissemination of valuation results and economic empowerment is necessary to inform stakeholders of the value of their mangrove ecosystem and discourage possible conversion of the forests in favor of development in the area.