Native orchids at nursery.

The project will be able to provide an updated inventory, assessment and taxonomic treatment of the orchidaceous species of Western Samar, Philippines. Currently, only 25 species are known which is unusual given the island’s large tract of forests and Orchidaceae’s large number. Through ecological and population studies, the effect of forest destruction to canopy structure change and its accompanying implications to orchid diversity will be identified. The possibility of discovering novel taxa will also be realized which will enhance the current scientific records for this family. This will serve as supplementary reference for future phylogenetic studies. Moreover, ecological study on this family will provide indicative niche adaptation of different species which will help bridge the past research gaps.

Seminar on conservation.

The subsequent Information and Education Campaign (IEC) will help local people appreciate and understand the importance of conserving the native orchids and its sustainable use. Conservation efforts will be more successful once the local community is in one with this goal since they are able to understand the long term significance of conserving resources and the aftermath of over-collection, thereby having their cooperation.

Lastly, a local orchid nursery will be established. This will not only ensure the survival and propagation of native orchids but will also provide an alternative source of livelihood to the community in the long run. It is envisioned that the local orchid nursery which will be established through this project will be able to supply the need for orchids for commercial trade and progenies for mass propagation. The local nursery will eventually be co-managed and operated by the local community together with a local orchid conservation group, and with the supervision of the Community Environment and Natural Resources staff thereby providing a sustainable source of orchids which will significantly reduce poaching in the wild. It will also help conserve the population of orchid species in their natural habitat.