Philippine Journal of Science

148 (2): 359-371, June 2019

ISSN 0031 - 7683
Date Received: 13 Dec 2018

Native Trees on Mount Lantoy Key Biodiversity

Areas (KBA), Argao, Cebu, Philippines

Edgardo P. Lillo1,3*, Archiebald B. Malaki1, Steve Michael T. Alcazar1,

Ritchie U. Nuevo1, and Raamah Rosales2

1Cebu Technological University – Argao Campus, Argao 6021 Cebu, Philippines

2Cebu Technological University – Main Campus, Cebu City 6000 Cebu, Philippines
3Forest Biological Sciences, College of Forestry and Natural Resources,

University of the Philippines Los Baños, College 4031 Laguna, Philippines

The forest cover of Cebu Island was now less than 1% of its total land area. The almost complete
deforestation of Cebu Island has apparently led to the extinction of many native trees, birds,
and other wildlife. Assessing native trees on Mount Lantoy key biodiversity areas (KBA)
was important in providing materials to support the human decision-making process in the
management of the area. Permanent plots with 20 m x 100 m dimension were established both
in lower and upper elevations of Mount Lantoy KBA. A total of four plots were established
in highly stratified vegetation to generate information in all vegetation classes. A total of 112
species, classified into 64 families and 84 genera, were recorded. Out of 112 species, 88 were
native trees, 10 shrubs, three ferns, three herbs, four vines, and four epiphytes. Majority of the
species were recorded in Plots 1, 2, and 4. Seventeen native trees were categorized as threatened
– with two species considered as critically endangered, three endangered, nine vulnerable, and
three other threatened species identified. Mount Lantoy KBA has high species diversity (‘H
= 3.5”), dominated by the species of Parishia malabog Merr. (15.287%) in terms of diameter,
richness, and density per hectare. Majority of the native trees have a diameter of 10–19 cm
(66%) and basal area of 8 m2/ha. Native trees of Mount Lantoy were threatened by illegal
cutting, hunting, and the rampant conversion of forests to agriculture, with disturbance index
value of moderately disturbed. All this information on native trees were essential for decision
making, particularly in the rehabilitation and conservation of Mount Lantoy KBA.

Keywords: Argao, Cebu Island, key biodiversity areas (KBA), Mount Lantoy, native trees

INTRODUCTION the Manila-Acapulco trade route during the seventeenth

and eighteenth centuries. American colonialists further
The island of Cebu is located in Central Visayas and developed forest extraction and engaged in the wanton
considered as the most denuded island in the central exportation of logs to their home country (Asia Magazine
Philippines (Collar et al. 1999). Rapid depletion of 1984). Bensel (2008) reiterated further that expansion of
Philippine forest resources began during the Spanish agriculture and fuel wood gathering is still increasing and
colonial period. During this period, the island of Cebu creating pressure on the last remaining forests on Cebu.
was completely stripped of its large hardwood trees to
provide lumber for building Spanish galleons plying The forest cover of Cebu Island is now less than 1% of
its total land area (Mallari et al. 2001). Several forest
*Corresponding author: lillo_edgardo@[Link]
species recorded in the late 1950s are now considered

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locally extinct (Rabor 1959, Magsalay et al. 1995, Brooks the diversity and structure of the native tree species in
et al.1995, Collar et al.1999). The almost complete KBA are essential in providing information on species
deforestation of Cebu Island has apparently led to the richness and for forest management purposes, as well as in
extinction of many native trees, birds, and other wildlife understanding forest ecology and ecosystem functioning
(Brooks et al. 1995). Bird Life International identified (Giriraj et al. 2008, Pappoe et al. 2010). Sustainable use
Cebu as an important bird area. It is one of the world’s and management of natural resource is intimately linked
most critical endemic bird areas in terms of both numbers to ecology, as each management system interferes with the
of threatened endemic species and degrees of threat forest structures and processes (Schmidt 1982).
(Dickinson et al. 1991, Stattersfield et al. 1998).
The study aimed to assess the native trees in Mount
Mount Lantoy is among the 117 terrestrial areas Lantoy KBA for protection and biodiversity conservation.
designated as KBA based on criteria of vulnerability and Specifically, the study aimed to describe the physical
irreplaceability, and is part of the 85 new sites (Mount description of the sites, composition, conservation status,
Lantoy and Nug-as KBA) with a total area of 10,457 phenology, clustering analysis, disturbance, and threat.
hectares. These sites have two critically endangered,
two endangered, four vulnerable, and 16 restricted-
range species (CI/DENR-PAWB/Haribon 2006).
Pelser and Barcelona (2017) recorded the critically METHODOLOGY
endangered Cynometra cebuensis species in Mount
Lantoy KBA. Native trees constitute the basic foundation Study Area
of the country’s forest ecosystems. Countless centuries The study was conducted in Argao (Mount Lantoy) Forest
of evolution through natural selection has given native (9°549 N, 123°329 E) at 100–800 m elevation (Figure 1).
trees adaptability to their respective local environments Mount Lantoy is part of the Argao-Dalaguete Watershed
(Lantican 2015). Forest Reserve declared by a Presidential Proclamation
Information on the diversity and structure of native trees (No. 414, 29 Jun 1994). Its peak has an area of 0.5 km2
in any of the KBA of the southern part of Cebu Island is and is surrounded by cultivation, coconut plantations, and
still inadequate and nowhere found in any of the published plantations of non-indigenous trees and scrubland, which
literature in a scientific journal. Evaluating and updating were also used by local communities for grazing their

Figure 1. Cebu Island in the Philippine map, the study site (Mount Lantoy) in the map of Cebu, and plot locations
(GIS generated map; Landsat 8; [Link]; NAMRIA; Philippine GIS data).

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livestock. Seasonal crops like cabbage, corn, onion, and other plants below 1 m in height) was accounted for inside
carrot were planted in agricultural farms surrounding the the 1 m x 1 m quadrat for all the plots.
forests (Paguntalan and Jakosalem 2008).
Plant Species Identification and Conservation Status
Establishment of Sampling Plots Voucher specimens for every individual of plants within
Permanent plots were established in lower (less than 200 the plots were collected and tagged. The collected
m) and upper elevation (above 500 m) areas of Mount specimens were brought to the herbarium laboratory
Lantoy. The size of the plots was 20 m x 100m, and a of Cebu Technological University – Argao Campus for
total of four plots were established in highly stratified proper identification after oven-drying. Identification
vegetation to generate information in all vegetation of sample specimens were done through manual means
classes (Figure 2). A vegetation class is usually composed (Checklist of Species in Mount Makiling; Fernando
of different strata or layers such as tree canopies, shrub 2007), herbarium comparison (Philippine National
canopies, grass cover, and litter (Wang et al. 2001, Wu Museum file), digital database (Co’s Digital Flora of the
and Zhao 2001, Zhang et al. 2006). Coordinates of all the Philippines; [Link] online
established permanent plots were taken and recorded. The literature ([Link] and the expertise
number of established permanent plots depends upon on of Dr. Edwino S. Fernando and Dr. Pastor Malabrigo
the availability of stratified vegetation cover, as well as (plant taxonomist; CFNR, UPLB, Laguna, Philippines) as
on the accessibility of the site. project consultants. Conservation status of the species was
determined based on classifications by the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR 2017) and
the International Union for the Conservation of Nature
(IUCN 2017). The identified herbarium specimens were
deposited in the newly established mini-museum of the
institution. The mini-museum showcased the different
species collected from Mount Lantoy KBA for instruction
and research purposes.

Measurement of Trees
The data for forest structure includes DBH, TH, crown
diameter, and basal area. Native trees with diameters of
10 cm and above were measured. The measurement of
DBH was done with the use of diameter tape for larger
trees and tree caliper for smaller trees. For the total height
of the trees, the measurement was made by the use of
Abney hand level. For the crown height and width, their
measurements were done through estimation. TH and
DBH were categorized into different classes, namely:
10–19 cm, 20–29 cm, 30–39 cm, and 40 cm and above
(Lulekal et al. 2008). Basal area was calculated by using
Figure 2. Location of sampling plots in the study site (GIS generated the formula BA = 0.7854 (d)2, where d is the DBH in meter
map; Landsat 8; [Link]; NAMRIA; (DENR 1993). Plant density was a count of the numbers of
Philippine GIS data). individuals of species within the quadrant and computed
on hectare basis. Documentation of the vegetative and
reproductive structures of native trees were done with
Nested quadrat sampling technique was used to assess and high resolution camera. The phenology also of the native
characterize the structure and species composition of the trees inside the plot were recorded. Species and family
different plant communities. For large woody plants whose names followed the latest Angiosperm Phylogeny Group
diameter equal or greater than 10 cm, measurements of classification (APG 2016).
diameter at breast height (DBH), merchantable height
(MH), and total height (TH) were done inside the 20 m x Mapping of Native Tree Species
100 m quadrat. Frequency of shrubs, poles, and saplings The location and distribution of native trees in each site
was accounted for inside the 5 m x 5 m quadrat as were indicated in the map, as well as the location of each
intermediate species, while identification and percentage sample plot. The ground coordinates and elevation of each
cover of understory species (grasses, vines, ferns, and

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Vol. 148 No. 2, June 2019 Key Biodiversity Areas

plot were determined by using GPS. The plot was oriented fragmented forest like Mount Lantoy.
in the north-east direction to have an easy estimation on
the local coordinates of individual tree within plot. The Compilation of H’ values of all sample plots provide
local coordinates of each individual tree within the plot valuable information, particularly in explaining
was determined by adding the X and Y distances to plot relationship with diversity and the PRAB of anthropogenic
coordinates (Bantayan et al. 2015). or natural stress factors in the site.

Endemicity of the species were determined based on its Clustering of native tree species community. Clustering
biogeography. Biogeography of the native tree species analysis were implemented using XLSTAT Version
were determined through digital database (Co’s Digital 2016.02.28451 in the Microsoft Excel environment. The
Flora of the Philippines; [Link] general data analytical methods performed in the study
org), published/online literature, books (Lexicon of was modified from those of Andersen et al. (2009) and
Philippine Tree by Rojo 1999), and others [Merrill’s Legendre et al. (2008).
Enumeration of Philippine Flowering (1923), Leaflets Differences in native tree species composition between
of Philippine Botany (Elmer 1906–1939), and Flora sites were assessed with floristic dissimilarity matrices in
Malesiana volumes 1–14 (1948–2000)]. terms of presence/absence (PRAB) and species abundance
(ABU) data criteria. Clustering analysis of native tree
Disturbance and Threats community and composition were determined using the
The identification and quantification of anthropogenic Bray Curtis dissimilarity matrix, Jaccard’s matrix, and
threats against biodiversity were determined through Sorensen dissimilarity matrix through the MVSP software.
interview and direct observation. Direct question related
Disturbance and threats impact analysis. Disturbance
to threats and disturbance were asked to the randomly
and threats impact was determined using the Beynen and
selected 60 respondents that live within the vicinity of
Townsend (2006) disturbance index. The scoring system
Mount Lantoy KBA, or equivalent to 10% of the total
for the disturbance indicators utilized in this study was
individuals living in the study site for an occupancy of
similar to the model presented by the National Park
20 years and above. This is to ensure that respondents
Conservation Association in their annual assessment of
have the overview on the transformation of vegetation
the National Parks of the United States (Nations 2004).
on Mount Lantoy due to existing disturbance and threats.
Each indicator is assigned a score from 0 to 3 based on
These determined disturbance and threat serve as potential
the evaluator’s interpretation of the extent and severity
hindrance to the existence and survival of vulnerable
of the variable being considered. A score of 0 means
native tree species in Mount Lantoy KBA. All data
no human impact / karst disturbance. If disturbance is
collected were tabulated and analyzed based on frequency
apparent, then the evaluator must judge if the impact is
and its percentage equivalent.
catastrophic (rating = 3), severe and widespread (rating
= 2), or localized and not severe (rating = 1) (Beynen
Data Analysis and Townsend 2006). Once all the indicators have been
Plant species density, dominance, frequency, and scored, scores can be summed. This total is then divided
importance value. All the recorded data were stored in by the highest possible score to attain a value between 0
a Microsoft Excel database and analyzed quantitatively and 1. The higher the value i.e., the closer number is to 1,
by using Microsoft Excel statistics. Vegetation analysis the greater the degree of disturbance. Five categories have
was done using the formula of density, relative density, been created and range from 0.8–1.0 (highly disturbed),
dominance or basal area, relative dominance, frequency, 0.2–0.79 (moderately disturbed), and 0.0–0.19 (pristine)
relative frequency, and the Importance Value (IV) Index. (Beynen and Townsend 2006).
The ecological importance of each species in relation to
the total forest community was calculated by summing
its relative density, relative dominance, and relative
frequency (Curtis and Macintosh 1951). IV provides a RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
better index than density alone regarding the importance
or function of a species in its habitat. Alternatively, IV can Study Site Characterization
be used instead of density alone in computing the plot’s Mount Lantoy KBA in general is characterized as forest
Shannon diversity (H’) and evenness indices. over limestone habitat types, dominated by Carcar
Diversity of plant species. Native tree species diversity formation (Figure 3). It has a geological composition of
was computed and interpreted by using H’ through the mostly raised sedimentary and metamorphic rocks (Figure
Multivariant Statistical Package (MVSP) software. 3) – a considerable part of it being limestone (Audley-
Shannon diversity index was sensitive to areas with Charles et al. 1979). The habitat type is comparable

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Vol. 148 No. 2, June 2019 Key Biodiversity Areas

more stratified tree sizes; however, small size trees serve

as dominant in the plot. Tree diameter ranges 11–41cm
(Table 3, Figure 4). The plot is covered by vegetation
to almost 60%, canopy cover of 70%, and understory
of 50%. The high number of small size trees in the plot
signify for an infiltration of more light intensity. The plot
is dominated by the species of Planchonella duclitan,
Calophyllum blancoi, Syzygium simile, and Elaeocarpus
cumingii (Table 1).
Plot 3 (9.882666667 N, 123.509867 E) is found in
the summit of Mount Lantoy with an elevation range
of 560–700 m and characterized as mountainous
topography (Figure 2). The site is covered by smaller to
Figure 3. Geological map of the Municipality of Argao (GIS larger diameter trees. The tree diameter ranges 11–40cm
generated map).
(Table 3, Figure 4). The plot is covered by vegetation
to almost 50%, canopy cover of 80%, and understory
to the forest over limestone of the Philippine forest of 30%. The plot in general is characterized as closed
formation of Fernando et al. (2008), and similar to the canopy cover, allowing less amount of solar radiation
so-called ‘Molave’ (Vitex parviflora) forest as described infiltrating into the ground surface (Figure 4). The plot
by Whitford (1911). The forest is dominated by less dense is also covered by outcrop boulders or 80% of the plot is
vegetation, small size trees, and few large trees (Table 3). covered by rock outcrop. As a result, fewer of small size
The forest is also covered by large size of outcrop bedrocks trees regenerated on the surface. The plot is dominated
with shallow soil and undecomposed organic matters. by species of Parishia malabog, Goniothalamus elmeri,
Pometia pinnata, Elaeocarpus cumingii, and Dysoxylum
Plot 1 (9.904966667 N, 123.535983 E) is found in the pauciflorum (Table 1).
upper elevation of Barangay Cansuje, specifically in the
west side of Mount Lantoy KBA (Figure 2). The area has Plot 4 is found in the upper elevation of Barangay
an elevation of 500 m, with a topography categorized as Canbantug, or in the southern part of Mount Lantoy KBA
mountainous. The plot is covered by 70% vegetation, 80% with an elevation range of 500–600 m, and characterized
canopy cover, and 40% understory (Figure 4). This implies as having a mountainous topography (Figure 2). The site
that this plot covered by larger diameter classes (10–30 is covered by smaller size trees ranging 11–30 cm (Table
cm) of native trees and few understory species (Table 3, 3, Figure 4). The plot is covered by vegetation to almost
Figure 4). Larger trees could create an area close in canopy 60%, canopy cover of 70%, and understory of 50%. The
and minimize the penetration of solar energy, which result plot is covered by native trees with almost uniform height
to less pronounced species regeneration. Larger trees and non-stratified layering as compare to other plots. The
are dominated by Palaquium luzonienze, Elaeocarpus high number of small size trees in the plot signify for an
cumingii, and Gymnostoma rumphiana (Table 1) infiltration of more solar energy on the forest floor. The
plot is also dominated by the species similar to Plot 1
Plot 2 (9.902916667 N, 123.546183 E) is found in (Table 1).
the lower area or in the base of Mount Lantoy with an
elevation of 200 m (Figure 2). The plot is covered by

Table 1. Composition of native trees in Mount Lantoy KBA.

Plot Family Genera Species % Dominant species
Plot 1 28 27 38 43 Cinnamomum cebuense, Ficus benjamina, Elaeocarpus
cumingii, and Gymnostoma rumphiana
Plot2 26 35 40 45 Planchonella duclitan, Calophyllum blancoi, Syzygium
simile, and Elaeocarpus cumingii,
Plot 3 20 26 30 34 Parishia malabog, Goniothalamus elmeri, Pometia
pinnata, Elaeocarpus cumingii, and Dysoxylum
pauciflorum
Plot 4 25 36 42 48 Syzygium simile, Ficus benjamina, Planchonella
duclitan, and Gomphandra luzoniense
Total 39 67 88 100

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tree species in the Philippines. The country has 3000

endemic trees (Mongabay 2005). The result of the study
is slightly lower as compared to Hamiguitan Range
Wildlife Sanctuary in the Province of Davao Oriental in
Mindanao Island with 163 endemic species of vascular
plants (Amoroso et al. 2009, Madulid 1991), which
corresponds to 5% of the total number of endemic plants in
the Philippines. Fortunately, this value is higher compared
to the study of Alcazar et al. (2016) in Mount Lantoy KBA
with a total of 60 species categorized into 26 families.
The most represented families are Sapotaceae, Moraceae,
Anacardiaceae, Meliaceae, Elaeocarpaceae, and Rubiaceae.
The most recorded genera are Elaeocarpus, Palaquium,
Syzygium, and Cinnamomum. The dominant species
are Syzygium simile, Ficus benjamina, Planchonella
Figure 4. Structure and density of native trees on Mount Lantoy duclitan, Gomphandra luzoniense, Elaeocarpus cumingii,
KBAs. Gymnostoma rumphiana, and Calophyllum blancoi (Table
1). The result conformed to the study of Alcazar et al.
Composition of Native Trees (2016), who reiterated further that the dominant families are
Species. The KBA site registered a total of 112 species Moraceae, Euphorbiaceae, Anacardiaceae, and Sapotaceae.
classified into 64 families and 84 genera. Out of 112 species,
Vegetation structure. The vegetation structure of a forest
88 are native trees, 10 shrubs, three ferns, three herbs, four
served to give insight into its stand density (Podong and
vines, and four epiphytes. The result is highlighted with five
Poolsiri 2013). Vegetation structure would further describe
new record of native tree species (Table 2). The species
and give insight on the vertical stratification of the native
are compared from the record of Co’s Digital Flora of the
trees in the area. In this study, Mount Lantoy is covered by
Philippines ([Link]
517 individuals of native trees. Most of these native trees
html). Out of the five new record species, four are found
are recorded in Plots 1 and 4 (Table 3). The diameter of
to be endemic to the Philippines (Table 2), and two of the
the majority of native trees lies within 10–19 cm. (66%),
species are already threatened (DENR 2017). All of the
with basal area of 8 m2/ha mostly recorded in Plots 1 and
species are recorded in Plots 1, 2, and 3.
4; 31% having diameter of 20–39 cm with basal area of
Of the 112 species, 76 tree species are endemic to the 7m2/ha, and equally distributed in all four plots; and 3%
Philippines and eight are endemic to Cebu Island. This with diameter of 40 cm and above, with basal area of 3 m2/
correspond to 2.5% of the total number of endemic ha (Table 3, Figure 4), recorded mostly in Plots 1 and 2.

Table 2. New record of native tree species in Cebu Island (Mount Lantoy KBA).
Species Family Endemicity Conservation status (DENR 2017)
Alectryon fuscus Radlk. Sapindaceae PE Not assessed
Ardisia tayabensis Merr. Primulaceae PE Not assessed
Diospyros longiciliata Merr. Ebenaceae PE CR
Lithocarpus robinsonii Rehder. Fagaceae PE Not assessed
Podocarpus rumphii Blume. Podocarpaceae Non-endemic, indigenous sp. VU

Table 3. Diameter classes and frequency of native trees per plot.

Diameter classes (cm) Frequency Total % Average Basal
Area (m2/ha)
Plot 1 Plot 2 Plot 3 Plot 4
10–19 122 42 59 122 345 66 8
20–29 25 28 30 24 107 21 7
30–39 10 18 19 3 50 10 6
40 and above 6 7 2 0 15 3 3
Total 163 95 110 149 517 100 24

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The higher percentage in the number of smaller diameter those trees are classified as large trees (Table 4). IV
trees in Mount Lantoy (Figure 4) reflects the dominance of measures the degree of significance of tree species in
small-sized individuals in the forest and, in turn, suggests a given forest community and is derived from three
the high rate of regeneration (Bekele 1994, Senbeta and variables – namely density, cover, and frequency. In the
Denich 2006). The presence of small size trees in the site conservation of Mount Lantoy, dominant species play a
allows greater penetration of sunlight down to the forest vital role as priority species for reforestation since they
floor (Senbeta and Denich 2006). Tesfaye et al. (2013) are already adapted to the environment.
added that diameter class distribution of tree species
demonstrated various patterns of population structure, Diversity of native trees. Diversity is a community
implying different population dynamics among species. attribute related to stability, productivity, and trophic
structure (McIntosh 1967, McNaughton 1977, Tilman
Importance value. Based on computation, the most 1996) – as well as migration (Wisheu and Keddy 1996,
dominant species on Mount Lantoy KBA is Parishia Caley and Schluter 1997, Colwell and Lees 2000). An area
malabog Merr. (15.287%) (Table 4). The species is the with high species diversity results to a more stable and
most dominant in terms of diameter, richness, and density productive ecosystem. In this study, Mount Lantoy KBA
per hectare. Based on observation and record, the species has a computed species diversity value of H’ = 3.5 for
considered as the most dominant in terms of frequency and Shannon index of diversity. The result on the estimation of
diameter since their size is comparable to the species of species diversity by Shannon index signifies that species
Dipterocarpaceae. The distribution of the species is found diversities are high in Mount Lantoy (MacDonald 2003).
in all corners of the established permanent plots of the KBA. Plot 2 is more diverse as compared to Plots 1, 4, and 3
Wildlings and sapling of the species are scattered in the (Figure 5). However, among the plots, Plot 3 is the lowest
forest floor of Mount Lantoy KBA and even along roads. in species diversity. Fortunately, the result of the study is
higher in species diversity as compared to the study of
Other species found dominant in the study sites include Alcazar et al. (2016) in Mount Lantoy KBA with species
Elaeocarpus cumingii Turcz. (14%) – the species attaining diversity of 2.78 with a relative value of moderately
a maximum diameter of 30 cm based on the finding diverse (MacDonald 2003).
of the study, with their frequency also abundant in the
area. Wildlings and sapling of the species are scattered Based on structure, Plot 3 is covered or dominated by
in the forest floor in all plots. This was followed by larger size trees as compared to other plots (Table 3). The
Syzygium simile (Merr.) Merr. (12.4%), Ficus benjamina result implies that as tree increases its diameter, the forest
L. (10%), Gomphandra luzoniensis (Merr.) Merr. (9.4
%); species that are also dominant in the area include
Palaquium obovatum (Griff.) Engl. (9%), Planchonella
duclitan (Blanco) Bakh.f. (9%), Terminalia foetidissima
Griff. (9%), Goniothalamus elmeri Merr. (6%), and
Cinnamomum cebuense Kosterm (6%).
Majority of the dominant native tree species in Mount
Lantoy KBA belong to Anacardiaceae and Sapotaceae Figure 5. Diversity of native trees in different study plots of Mount
family. Based on the tree classification of Rojo (1999), Lantoy KBA.

Table 4. Dominant native trees with high IV.

Species Family Rel. freq. Rel. density Relative dominance IV Rank
Parishia malabog Merr. Anacardiaceae 0.012 0.047 0.093 15.287 1
Elaeocarpus cumingii Turcz. Elaeocarpaceae 0.025 0.063 0.052 14.018 2
Syzygium simile (Merr.) Merr. Myrtaceae 0.019 0.045 0.060 12.383 3
Ficus benjamina L. Moraceae 0.025 0.042 0.035 10.125 4
Gomphandra luzoniensis (Merr.) Merr. Stemonuraceae 0.025 0.036 0.033 9.386 5
Palaquium obovatum (Griff.) Engl. Sapotaceae 0.019 0.038 0.037 9.323 6
Planchonella duclitan (Blanco) Bakh.f. Sapotaceae 0.019 0.038 0.037 9.282 7
Terminalia foetidissima Griff. Combretaceae 0.025 0.042 0.026 9.230 8
Goniothalamus elmeri Merr. Annonaceae 0.019 0.030 0.019 6.757 9
Cinnamomum cebuense Kosterm. Lauraceae 0.012 0.032 0.022 6.635 10

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Vol. 148 No. 2, June 2019 Key Biodiversity Areas

canopy cover tends to close and limit the regeneration of Both DENR and IUCN are two known authorities in listing
smaller size plants to grow on the forest floor. In addition threatened plant species. Both agencies provide information
– based on observation – among the plots, Plot 3 has closer on the flora and fauna that are in need of conservation action
canopy cover. The light energy enhances the regeneration (Villanueva and Buot 2015), particularly those species
of more species below the canopy through photosynthetic with high risk of extinction (Brooks et al. 2006). However,
process (Bekele 1994, Senbeta and Denich 2006). some species are categorized as already threatened under
the DENR classification but in IUCN record, the species
are declared as not yet been assessed. The contradiction of
Conservation Status of Native Trees
IUCN and DENR classification could be due to the scale
Conservation status of the native tree species in
of work. The IUCN classified species at the global scale
Mount Lantoy are determined based from DENR
and the probability of updating their record regularly is very
and IUCN Classification (Table 5). Using the Latest
low, whereas the DENR classified species at local scale of
DENR classification (2017), 17 native tree species are
work. Despite the existence of the IUCN list of endangered
categorized as threatened. Out of the 17 threatened
species, local government units, institutions, and researchers
species, two species were identified as critically
still need to have the local survey (DENR 2017) because
endangered (Diospyros longiciliata Merr, and Cynometra
local communities are the most knowledgeable concerning
cebuensis); three as endangered [Cinnamomum cebuense
the conservation status of species as they are the one on the
Kosterm, Vitex parviflora Juss., and Afzelia rhomboidea
ground. They know which species are still abundant, rare,
(Blanco) Vidal.]; nine as vulnerable; and three as
threatened, and facing risk of extinction. Localized survey
other threatened species (Table 5). Using the IUCN
could give regular update on the number of individuals on
classification, one species was considered as critically
a certain species, particularly those species that are already
endangered [Shorea polysperma (Blanco) Merr.] and
threatened because it requires only less budget (Sopsop
seven were categorized as vulnerable (Table 5).
and Buot 2009).

Table 5. Conservation status of native trees in Mount Lantoy KBA.

Conservation status
No. Scientific name Family Common
name IUCN (2017) DENR (2017) Endemicity

1 Diospyros longiciliata Merr. Ebenaceae ‘Itom-itom’ Not assessed CR PE (Mindanao)

2 Cynometra cebuensis Seidenschwarz, F. Fabaceae ‘Nipot-nipot’ CR CR PE (Cebu)
3 Cinnamomum cebuense Kosterm. Lauraceae ‘Kalingag’ Not assessed EN PE (Cebu)
4 Vitex parviflora Juss. Lamiaceae ‘Molave’ VU EN Java
5 Afzelia rhomboidea (Blanco) Vidal Fabaceae ‘Tindalo’ VU EN Sumatra
6 Intsia bijuga (Colebr.) Kuntze Fabaceae ‘Ipil’ Not assessed VU Madagascar
7 Tristaniopsis decorticata (Merr.) Wilson Myrtaceae ‘Malabayabas’ VU VU PE
& Waterhouse (Luzon)
8 Litchi chinensis Sonn. subsp. Sapindaceae ‘Alupag’ VU VU Philippines, SE
Philippinensis (Radlk.) Leenh. New Guinea
9 Diospyros pilosanthera Blanco Ebenaceae ‘Bolong-eta’ Not assessed VU Thailand
10 Diospyros pyrrhocarpa Miq. Ebenaceae ‘Anang’ LC VU India
11 Palaquium luzoniense (F. Vill.) Vidal Sapotaceae ‘Nato’ VU VU Sulawesi
12 Shorea polysperma (Blanco) Merr. Dipterocarpaceae ‘Tangile’ CR VU PE (Luzon)
13 Wallaceodendron celebicum Koord. Fabaceae ‘Banuyo’ Not assessed VU N. Sulawesi
14 Cryptocarya ampla Merr. Lauraceae ‘Bagarilau’ Not assessed VU PE (Luzon)
15 Gymnostoma rumphianum (Miq.) L. Casuarinaceae ‘Agoho del Not assessed OTS Philippines
Johnson Monte’ Sulawesi
16 Cinnamomum mercadoi [Link] Lauraceae ‘Mercadoi’ VU OTS PE (Luzon,
Mindanao)
17 Adenanthera intermedia Merr. Fabaceae ‘Tanglin’ VU OTS PE (Luzon,
Palawan,
Mindanao)
PE – Philippine endemic

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Vol. 148 No. 2, June 2019 Key Biodiversity Areas

Of the threatened species, 44% are endemic to the collection are bearing flowers and fruits. Unfortunately,
Philippines and 56% are non-endemic and indigenous. The only one species coincides with the record of Co’s Digital
non-endemic indigenous tree species are also considered Flora of the Philippines (Elaeocarpus cumingii Turcz.)
as native trees because their appearance in the country are (Table 6). Fruiting and flowering native trees recorded
are attributed to natural process (Table 5). Native plants during the collection are either not yet recorded in
live or grow naturally in a particular region without direct the Co’s Digital Flora of the Philippines or having no
or indirect human intervention. Endemic species are native available data (Table 6).
species whose distributions are confined only within the
geographic area of reference. Thus, native species include
Clustering of Native Tree Community (Bray Curtis,
both endemic and non-endemic indigenous species whose
Jaccard’s, and Sorensen Dissimilarity Matrix)
natural geographic ranges extend beyond the geographic
Clustering analysis of native tree species community by Bray
area of reference (Coile 2002).
Curtis dissimilarity matrix shows that all the plots sampled
from Mount Lantoy KBA are forming into two clusters/
Phenology of Native Trees groups correspondingly, based on species compositions and
In plants, the timing of seasonal events – such as locations of forest habitat types (Figure 6). The four plots
flowering time – is highly sensitive to climate, making from Mount Lantoy proved to have distinctive native tree
phenology one of the most variable plant traits (Chuine species association, hence grouping them together into two
2010) that are useful for ex situ conservation. Evaluation distinct clumps – Plots 2 and 3 formed as one group while
on the phenology of the native trees in Mount Lantoy Plots 1 and 4 also formed another.
were done during the gathering of data. Gathering of data
in Mount Lantoy was conducted during the months of For both Jaccard’s and Sorensen dissimilarity matrix,
April and May 2018. During this period, the species of all the plots sampled are clustered into three groups
the families Primulaceae, Elaeocarpaceae, Sapotaceae,
Anacardiaceae, Moraceae, Rutaceae, Leeaceae,
Rubiaceae, Araliaceae, Burseraceae, Pittosporaceae,
Phyllanthaceae, and Euphorbiaceae were observed
bearing flowers and fruits (Table 6). The native tree
species observed bearing flowers and fruits are only the
species directly encountered in the study plot. Species not
encountered in the study plots could hardly be evaluated
for their phenology. Based from the result, 17% of Figure 6. Dendrogram of all plots based on Bray Curtis ‘dissimilarity’
the total native trees directly encountered during data (ABU) that correspond to two vegetation types.

Table 6. Fruiting and flowering native trees during the collection of data.
Scientific name Family Fruiting/flowering Date of collection Co’s Digital Flora
Rapanea philippinensis (A. DC.) Mez Primulaceae Fr April No data
Elaeocarpus cumingii Turcz. Elaeocarpaceae Fr April May – June
Mallotus cumingii Mü[Link]. Euphorbiaceae Fl April No data
Planchonella duclitan (Blanco) Bakh.f. Sapotaceae Fl April No data
Semecarpus cuneiformis Blanco Anacardiaceae Fl/Fr May No data
Ficus benjamina L. Moraceae Fl/Fr April No data
Ficus ampelas Burm.f Moraceae Fl/Fr May No data
Leea philippinensis Leeaceae Fl May No data
Severinia paniculata (Warb.) Swingle Rutaceae Fr May No data
Schefflera obtusifolia Merr. Araliaceae Fl/Fr May No data
Streblus glaber (Merr.) Corner Moraceae Fr May No data
Canarium denticulatum Blume Burseraceae Fl/Fr May No data
Pittosporum pentandrum Pittosporaceae Fl/Fr May No data
Phyllanthus albus Phyllanthaceae Fl/Fr May No data
Rhus taitensis Guill. Anacardiaceae Fl/Fr May No data

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Philippine Journal of Science Lillo et al.: Native Trees on Mt. Lantoy
Vol. 148 No. 2, June 2019 Key Biodiversity Areas

correspondingly, based on species compositions and Table 7). Slow expansion of farm areas were observed in
locations of forest habitat types (Figure 7 and 8). The four some portions of the forest. Based from the Beynen and
plots from Mount Lantoy proved to have distinctive native Townsend (2006) scoring system, Mount Lantoy KBA is
tree species association, hence grouping them together moderately disturbed (Table 7). The result implies that,
into three clusters – Plot 2 formed as one subgroup, Plot as for the moment, the recorded disturbance and threats
3 also as another subgroup, and Plots 1 and 4 as another are still in a minimal effect to species diversity (Figure 5).
subgroup (Figure 7 and 8). However, we could not deny that deterioration of native
trees alter the life of all biodiversity in the environment, as
well as of the people in the community within the vicinity
and surrounding of Mount Lantoy KBA. The result of the
study conformed to the findings of DENR, Conservation
International, and Haribon (2006).

Table 7. Showing the causes of forest degradation in Mount Lantoy

KBA.
Figure 7. Dendrogram of all plots based on Jaccard’s coefficient Respondent’s perception F % Beynen and
‘dissimilarity’ (ABU) that correspond to three vegetation for the causes of forest Townsend 2006
types. degradation in Mount (scoring)
Lantoy KBA
Illegal hunting 17 37 3
Charcoal making 9 20 3
‘Kaingin’ activity 13 30 3
No idea 8 18 0
Illegal cutting 24 55 2
No permit, no cut policy 4 9 2
Total 75 0.722
Figure 8. Dendrogram of all plots based on Sorensen coefficient Disturbance value (Beynen Moderately
‘dissimilarity’ (ABU) that correspond to three vegetation and Townsend 2006) disturbed
types. Note: Respondents were required to answer more than one (60 respondents).

The Bray Curtis matrix considers Plot 2 and 3 as one SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
subgroup, while Jaccard’s and Sorensen matrix considers
Plot 2 and Plot 3 as distinct from each other and formed The study aimed to assess native trees on Mount Lantoy
separate subgroups. The two matrices find that the species KBA. A total of four permanent plots at 20 m x 100
composition and abundance of both Plots 2 and 3 are m dimension were established. Mount Lantoy KBA
different from each other, thus, making them distinct in general was characterized as forest over limestone
(Figure 7 and 8). However, Bray Curtis, Jaccard’s, and habitat types dominated by Carcar formation. It has a
Sorensen dissimilarity matrices declared that Plots 1 and 4 geological composition of mostly raised sedimentary and
are similar in terms of species composition and abundance metamorphic rocks. The KBA site registered a total of 112
and formed as one subgroup (Figure 6, 7, and 8). Jaccard’s species classified into 64 families and 84 genera – with
and Sorensen indices are considered as two of the most 88 species considered as native trees (76 endemic to the
often used similarity coefficients for binary data (Clifford Philippines, eight endemic to Cebu Island, and five new
and Stephenson 1975, Romesburg 1984). The cluster records) and 17 native tree species identified as threatened.
analysis using Jaccard’s and Sorensen indices reveals that The cluster analysis using Jaccard’s and Sorensen indices
Mount Lantoy are covered by different vegetation types reveals that Mount Lantoy was covered by different
with high species diversity (Figure 5). vegetation types with high species diversity. However, Mount
Lantoy experienced a rapid deterioration of its forest stocks
Disturbance and Threats caused by illegal cutting, hunting, and rampant conversion
Primarily as observed by and based from the respondents, of forests to agriculture – with a disturbance index value
Mount Lantoy experienced a rapid deterioration of its of moderately disturbed. All this information on native
forest stocks caused by illegal cutting, hunting, and with trees was essential for decision making, particularly in the
the rampant conversion of forests to agriculture (e.g., rehabilitation and conservation of Mount Lantoy KBA.

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Philippine Journal of Science Lillo et al.: Native Trees on Mt. Lantoy
Vol. 148 No. 2, June 2019 Key Biodiversity Areas

ACKNOWLEDGMENT APG IV. 2016. An update of the Angiosperm Phylogeny

Group classification for the orders and families of
The authors would like to acknowledge the Department flowering plants. The Linnean Society of London,
of Science and Technology (DOST) for considering Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society 181: 1–20.
and approving our research proposal and giving us the
budget for three years enough for the implementation of ASIA MAGAZINE. 1984. Timber, Vol. 22, No. Y-17, 20
the whole study, and declaring CTU as one of the DOST May. 1617p.
– Biodiversity Centers through the NICER program in AUDLEY-CHARLES MG, CARTER DJ, BARBER
Region 7. The Philippine Council for Agriculture and AJ, NORVICK MS, TJOKROSAPOETRO S. 1979.
Aquatic Resources Research Development (PCAARRD) Reinterpretation of the geology of Seram: Implications
for recommending our proposal to DOST for approval for the Banda Arc and northern Australia. Journal of
and guide us in the implementation of the study, assisted the Geological Society 136: 547–568.
us in the report preparation, and writing. The CTU
System for supporting the research team and allowing BANTAYAN CN, COMBALICER EA, TIBURAN CLJR,
the research staff to conduct the study. The Forestry and BARUA LD, DIDA JJA. 2015. GIS in the Philippines.
Agriculture Department of the College of Technology Principles and Application in Forestry and Natural
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