Geographic Information System (GIS) for uplands in Matalom, Leyte [Philippines]

The development of research and extension plans for the heterogeneous uplands in Region 8 [Eastern Visayas, Philippines] will require a wide diversity and large volume of information. The authors capitalized on the capability of GIS to integrate, analyze, retrieve, and present data spatially or temporally to establish a Natural Resource Management Information System (NRMIS) for three pilot barangays [villages] in Matalom, Leyte, namely: San Salvador, Elevado, and Esperanza. The project "GIS: A tool in the establishment of a Natural Resource Management Information System for the acid uplands of Matalom, Leyte," was carried out in three major phases from 1992 to 1995. During the first phase, the research staff underwent a one-month training on the concepts and principles of GIS. They were also given a hands-on training on digitizing maps. During the second phase, collection of biophysical, economic, social, and demographic data on the three barangays [villages] was done. The major sources of information included secondary data from the municipal offices of Matalom, completed reports of researches conducted in the project area, and survey conducted by the research staff from 1992 to 1995. In the final phase, the data and information were organized, stored, and analyzed to come up with the NRMIS. Spatial data were digitized by using ARC/INFO software. The NRMIS was designed and developed using FoxPro 2.0 software. The system was installed in an IBM compatible computer at the GIS Laboratory of the Farm and Resource Management Institute (FARMI) at Leyte State University (LSU), Baybay, Leyte. Three databases were developed to comprise the NRMIS. Database on number of sitio, population, and other demographic characteristics, land area, soils, infrastructure, topography, and hydrology. Parcellary database on parcel owner and area, tenancy status, crops, cropping patterns, cultivated area, and land use. Database on rainfall distribution and amount, temperature, solar radiation, and wind speed. Six thematic maps on infrastructure, tenancy status, hydrology, soils, slope, and land use were generated by integrating the GIS mapping function with the databases. Through the NRMIS, the researchers came up with information that can readily be made available to researchers, development planners, farmers, and other users. Other information can be generated by the system for specific uses