Stakeholders’ characteristics and the forest management issues addressed at Samar Island Natural Park, Philippines

This study generally tackles on the forest governance of the Samar Island Natural Park (SINP) primarily on the aspect of describing the people involved in decision – making process and the problems sought to be deliberated and resolved by the Protected Area Management Board members (PAMB), representing the various stakeholders of  SINP from the year 2017 to 2021.  Using a descriptive – single case study design, documented information and interviews of eighteen (18) stakeholders were solicited and analyzed qualitatively to discuss the forest management issues addressed at SINP management. Results of the investigation reveal that decision-makers are apt for the job and responsibilities required by the law; however, a disproportionate allocation of representation was observed which in some ways reduces the quality of shared solutions supposedly provided by well-represented body. Generally, the issues dealt at SINP can be classified into three categories: internal management issues, imposition and regulatory issues and policing-driven issues.  While it is acknowledged that there were minimal serious problems encountered by SINP management, anecdotal evidence and undocumented report shows that undue exploitations were still unregulated which means that SINP management is still far from realizing its conservation targets.  It is recommended that the management must elevate its degree of intervention to instill the principle of biodiversity conservation and protection permanently among the minds and actions of the local people with the collaboration of all concerned agencies.