Status of National Greening Program (NGP) Implementation in Barangay San Antonio, Biri, Northern Samar

This descriptive study determined the status of the National Greening Program (NGP) implementation of mangrove reforestation in Barangay San Antonio, Biri, Northern Samar.

Self made questionnaire was the main tool in gathering information. The respondents were the randomly sampled residents, completely enumerated members of the Peoples Organization (PO), the barangay' officials, and the DENR personnel in charge in the implementation of the project. Focus group discussion was conducted to validate the responses to the questionnaire.

The implementation of the NGP mangrove reforestation was perceived as moderately implemented. Poor site selection, poor understanding and appreciation of mangroves, and conflicting interest/uses were the identified problems. Other problems include: illegal cutting of mangroves, illegal fishing, removing of newly planted propagules, and conflicts between members and officers.

It is recommended: to conduct a seminar to make the residents understand the uses and importance of mangroves and encourage the community to participate in the seminar or any awareness raising activity; for the DENR to have an accurate survey in finding suitable location for mangrove reforestation, intervene in the breakdown of the project payment to avoid conflict between officers and members with a clearer guidelines and policies; for the DENR and the local government unit to enforce the laws/ordinances on illegal fishing; to present the findings of this study to the DENR; and conduct similar studies in other areas in the province that implemented the NGP for comparison.