UPLB, DOST-NRCP present impacts of GMAP-Marinduque rehabilitation project, urge sustained bioremediation efforts

Research shows rehabilitation efforts in mining-affected areas of Marinduque provide measurable environmental and social gains, prompting experts to push for wider implementation and stronger policy support.

The findings came from the project “Impact Assessment of Greening Mined Areas in the Philippines (GMAP) Program,” funded by the Department of Science and Technology – National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP) and implemented by the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB). The assessment evaluated the outcomes of GMAP-Marinduque Phase 1, a separate NRCP-funded project titled “Bioremediation Strategies for Rehabilitation of Abandoned Mined Areas in Mogpog.”

The assessment results were presented during a stakeholders’ forum organized by UPLB in partnership with DOST-NRCP at Marinduque State University (MarSU) on March 19, 2026.

Environmental, social, institutional, and economic gains documented

Presenting the findings, Dr. Evaristo Niño T. Cando of the UPLB College of Human Ecology and member of the NRCP Social Sciences Division reported improvements in vegetation cover, air quality, and soil stability in treated areas. These changes contributed to reduced soil erosion and signaled gradual ecosystem recovery.

On the social front, communities reported fewer cases of respiratory and skin diseases, along with reduced spread of airborne illnesses. Environmental awareness also increased among residents. However, awareness levels varied across municipalities, indicating the need for broader and more inclusive community engagement, particularly in remote and vulnerable areas.

 

Institutionally, the study identified gaps in coordination among national and local agencies. It recommended integrating rehabilitation strategies into local land use and development plans to ensure continuity and policy support.

In terms of economic impact, the assessment projected a return on investment of about 730 percent over a 20-year period. Researchers noted that products derived from the project present potential livelihood opportunities but require technical support and sustained funding to benefit communities effectively.

Despite these gains, the study found that improvements remain largely confined to pilot sites. Researchers recommended expanding site-specific interventions across other affected areas in the province. The research further noted other areas for improvement, including the development of viable livelihood models, continuous monitoring of soil and water quality, and further research on bioremediation technologies. Ensuring community ownership of the program after project turnover was also identified as crucial to long-term sustainability.