Indigenous knowledge and biodiversity conservation practices in Apayao rice terraces [Philippines]: a gender lens perspective

This study identified and described the indigenous knowledge and conservation practices of indigenous people in the rice terraces of Apayao Province. On forest resources, some portions of the forest where the indigenous people obtain wild fruits and vegetables have been converted into swidden farms for planting rice, bananas, legumes and fruit trees. Of the 43 species of wild food plants eaten by the indigenous people, only 19 species have been identified by the researchers. There are 50 species of medicinal plants. Fibers from wild Anonas comosus (pineapple) in the forest are also extracted by the indigenous women as thread for sewing clothes. Fibers of white Ficus minahassae (Agimit) are sewn into panties, while those of Abroma augusta (Anabo) and Musa textilis (abaca) are twined into ropes. In Kabugao and Calanasan, the barangay [village] officials serve as the forest watchers. Any intruder is fined. In Conner municipality, a joint program on environmental protection is being implemented by the LGU [local government unit], ASC [Apayao State College], NGO [non governmental organizations]. The members of the Save Apayao Peoples Organization are very vigilant in protesting against forest destroyers. There are 15 species of vegetables planted in between the 15 identified trees. These are fertilized with ashes from burned trees. Tributaries confluently flowing to the river are clean for indigenous people do not apply toxic chemicals in farming. These folks use trap net, hooks and fish cage in catching fish. Swidden farmers are prohibited from cutting trees within 100 meters of the watershed to protect the source of water. Indigenous farmers apply environment-friendly practices in farming such as green manuring to enrich the soil. The swidden farmers burn the forest for upland rice, bananas and legume plantations. They use the ashes as fertilizer. The common animals raised are carabaos, hogs, chicken and dogs. The indigenous people treat diseases by using plants and vinegar. Diverse medicinal plants have been used by old folks to cure illnesses. Four plants have been utilized as pesticides. Indigenous men and women help in conserving biodiversity in Apayao through the 'Lapat' system.