Riparian Vegetation Assessment for Effective Management of Molawin River, Mt. Makiling, Philippines

Molawin River is experiencing water quality degradation over time. Efforts were made to help rehabilitate this river to maintain its ecology and biodiversity. The main objectives of this research are: to identify and document water filtering plants (riparian flora) both present in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in the Molawin River and to pinpoint the sources and community perception that defies the idea of riparian flora species as potential water filtering plants in the Molawin River. Documentation of dense riparian flora present in the Molawin River was conducted in order to study its phytoremediation potential for water purification. A total of 107 morpho-species belonging to 94 genera from 56 families was recorded. The most common flora species was Commelina diffusa, Cyperus flabelliformis and Costus speciosus. A household survey and key informant interview were employed. The idea of riparian flora as a potential water purifying plants is facing four main challenges. First, there is a low conservation interest with the water resource, as this is not the primary source of water for them. Secondly, the presence of anthropogenic factors severely affecting the area. Thirdly, the high rate of encroachment of the invasive plants aggravates the conditions of the river. Finally, the lack of institutional support that can integrate riparian flora species in watershed management and rehabilitation planning.