ABSTRACT
This study examined gender participation and support in environmental programs under DENR Region V, focusing on the buffer zones of three protected areas in the Bicol Region: Mayon Volcano Natural Park (MVNP), Mt. Isarog Natural Park (MINP), and Bulusan Volcano Natural Park (BVNP). It assessed gender roles and equality among male, female, and third-sex settlers in conservation efforts, particularly in project planning, implementation, and community management.
The study analyzed settlers’ profiles, attitudes, and perceptions using a descriptive-correlational method and survey questionnaires. This study was conducted in 2018 with a follow-up based on the findings in 2021 and 2023. Findings showed active involvement across all genders, including strong community acceptance of LGBTQ participants. Most settlers were middle-aged farmers, with women also running small businesses.
Kendall's Correlation and t-tests revealed highly significant similarities in gender perceptions across the three parks, confirming gender equality in participation and leadership roles. Major challenges identified included a lack of unity, job scarcity, income pressures on women, political interference, and illegal logging.
As a result, the study recommended integrating three key actions into the DENR’s Work and Financial Plan: (1) a solid waste management awareness campaign, (2) training on disaster risk reduction, and (3) orientation on environmental laws and regulations.
Keywords: Gender equality, Gender Role, Settlers, Natural Park
INTRODUCTION
The degradation of Earth's natural resources has accelerated with industrialization; as technological advancement increasingly disrupts ecological balance. Pollution, unsustainable exploitation, and overuse of natural resources have led to atmospheric damage, land erosion, rising sea levels, forest depletion, and declining biodiversity. Among the most pressing global issues are climate change and global warming, both of which pose critical threats to humanity.
In the article “Parks” by Kothari (2011), the case of Coron Island in Palawan—a protected area inhabited by the Tagbanwa tribe—was discussed to illustrate evolving conservation paradigms. The article predicted that growing public and community support would lead to reduced conflicts between people and protected areas, greater recognition of indigenous and community-led conservation, and a shift from exclusionary conservation models to more inclusive ones that integrate people and nature.
Despite progress, the Journal of Women’s Empowerment Development and Equality Plan (2013–2016) noted that women still face challenges in accessing and benefiting from natural resources. These challenges are often linked to unsustainable practices and a lack of representation in environmental programs, contributing to poverty in ecologically vulnerable communities.
This study examines gender equality in the conservation and management of natural resources within the buffer zones of selected natural parks in the Bicol Region. These buffer zones, governed by DAO 96-29, permit regulated activities such as agriculture and agroforestry to support sustainable development. The study highlights how inclusive participation—across men, women, and members of the third sex—can strengthen environmental protection and contribute to broader socio-economic and political progress.
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