Philippine Journal of Science
150 (3): 1027-1035, June 2021
ISSN 0031 – 7683
Date Received: 25 Nov 2020

Awareness and Knowledge on Forest Certification
in the Philippines: Foresters’ Perspectives

Noel L. Tolentino, Priscila C. Dolom, Aresna B. Palacpac, Ma. Cynthia S. Casin,
Leonida A. Bugayong, Ma. Magdalena B. Villanueva, Hanna Leen L. Capinpin,
Jean C. Nicmic, and Leonito A. Donoso

Forestry Development Center, College of Forestry and Natural Resources
University of the Philippines Los Baños, College, Laguna 4031 Philippines

*Corresponding author: nltolentino@up.edu.ph

ABSTRACT

Executive Order (EO) 23 provides for the strict implementation of a national forest certification (FC) system to steer the forestry sector into a sustainable path. Furthermore, EO 318 on sustainable forest management (SFM) also requires an FC system for the country to transition from a traditional forest management system to sustainable forestry. Foresters have a significant role in SFM. While they are expected to have a better understanding of FC, there is a need to determine their readiness for the proposed implementation of FC in the Philippines. A survey was made using a structured questionnaire to determine how attuned foresters are to current developments in FC. The respondents are generally aware and have heard about FC since they are all foresters by profession. However, their level of knowledge differs on specific aspects of FC. Knowledge scores of the respondents indicate a low level of knowledge, specifically on the aspect of what is being certified. Likewise, there is a low level of knowledge on who can certify since the respondents commonly think that the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) can certify or be a certifier. The respondents have moderate knowledge of what FC is and who can be certified. High knowledge scores were obtained on the processes involved in FC. The results show a positive perception among foresters towards FC, particularly on its contribution towards economics and market, socio-economic improvement, and policy. Despite this, gaps in knowledge and perceptions of foresters still need to be addressed. Recommendations include the development of information and education campaign (IEC) materials and programs, as well as curricular offerings on FC.