Silvicultural Management Strategies: A Determinant for a Successful NGP Plantation in Northern Isabela, Philippines

The National Greening Program is the most extensive reforestation program in the Philippines. It aimed for climate change mitigation, biodiversity conservation, and food security. This paper provides initial information on the performance of NGP in Northern Isabela, focusing on the general information of the plantation site, the participation of stakeholders, and the implementation of selected forestry management strategies. Three sites were considered, which are located in Delfin Albano, Cabagan, and San Pablo, Isabela. Findings revealed that the plantation sites were grasslands and previously were of corn plantations. Yemane is the common species planted in the three study sites because it is less susceptible to the effects of drought, fire, pests, diseases, and typhoons, according to the implementers. Other tree species planted in Delfin Albano are teak, kadamba, acacia, and mahogany. It was further validated during the field site visit and inspection that the above-mentioned tree species have 100% survival because the implementers were equipped with knowledge on some silvicultural strategies for maintaining the plantation. Implementers considered the period of planting, the ideal size of seedlings, the proper spacing, fertilization requirements, and intermediate treatments for sanitation. Nevertheless, it is recommended to all plantations that the implementers should integrate agroforestry crops in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture. Finally, since the DENR was tasked with the monitoring and validation of the performance of the program, the DENR should also partner with various research institutions, including academic institutions, to assess the progress of the NGP for enhancement.