Shiela (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
shiawasenajinsei) wrote2010-09-24 08:15 pm
shiawasenajinsei) wrote2010-09-24 08:15 pm
Entry tags:
Rediscovering Nature
I love nature. That is why I totally enjoyed our NatSci 5 field trip last September 4th. I originally planned to make my own post about it, but toxic period continues up to this day (and probably won't cease till the end of the semester) and since we were asked to make a collective reaction paper on it anyway, I've decided to just share the work we did here (with a few edits by me). I think this best describes the wonderful experience we had in San Juan, Batangas (I especially love the part about our experience at the Seascape). Just to show the beauty of the places we've visited, I inserted a few photos in between paragraphs and added some short descriptions (and commentaries, for some).
First, a disclaimer :) This work is a collective reaction paper, and in no way written by me alone. In fact, most of the paper was done by some of my group mates (AKA the people listed below), beta-ed by me :) The pictures are all taken by me, please don't take them without permission :D
Well then, here it is.
A Reaction Paper by: Group 1, PANDA (Dave Dada, Kriza Gengania, Joyce Oriel, Sandra Pondoyo, Shiela Se)
Section: TFD/ Subject: Natural Science 5: Biodiversity and Sustainable Development
Theme: Discovering the Biodiversity of San Juan, Batangas
Last September 4, 2010, we left Manila for our nature-appreciation trip at around 5:00 a.m. and arrived in San Juan, Batangas (our destination) at around 9:00 in the morning. As we were traveling, we slept to compensate for the early departure. Most of us actually have been to San Juan, Batangas once due to our courses in Humanities, but we found a fresh and new experience in the Natural Science 5 visit because of the various sites we visited there (e.g. Pinagbayanan, Laiya, etc).
Before we went to Batangas, we expected to see a wide range of biodiversity. And we were not disappointed. Truly, the place can be considered a suitable resting place, far from the congested ambience of cities in Metro Manila. The mere presence of lichens in the trees was a very excellent indication that the air was almost free from pollution.
The white marks on the bark of the tree are what you call "lichens", indicators that a place is still free from pollution.
When we arrived at the site, our attention was caught by a very small frog about the size of a one-peso coin! We tried to capture a shot of this amazing, minute specie. However, the frog exhibited a defensive mechanism known as camouflage or cryptic coloration. Thus, we had a hard time in capturing a perfect image of this frog. Besides, it was noticed to be frequently jumping away from our presence!
On our way to the site where we were supposed to witness different kinds of birds, we passed by a disturbed area of mangroves. We noticed some “stick-like” protuberances near the bank of the mangroves. Professor Lacdan taught us that these protuberances are called pneumatophores. Pnuematophores are special roots found in most mangroves.
Afterwards, we went to view different types of birds. Using our binoculars, we identified the following types of birds: the Gray Heron, the Philippine Duck, the White-collared Kingfisher, the Egret, the Coucal, the Oriole, the Zebra Dove, as well as the ever-abundant Eurasian Tree Sparrow, locally known as the Maya.
We also encountered/viewed a mother heron tending after her baby heron – which caused a poignant effect in our hearts. The scene reminded us that we ought to display a debt of gratitude to our parents’ unconditional love.
According to our tour guide, there is an apparent and tight competition between the local residents and the birds. The locals consider the birds as a threat or menace to their livelihood – which is primarily cultivating fish. Since the birds attempt to hunt for the fish they cultivate, the locals tend to wipe out their existing population.
On the way to our next destination, we passed by vast fields of different crops. Our tour guide pointed out different species of trees such as mulawin and narra. Also, we were able to observe the everyday life of the local residents and we can say that they are lucky because they are still able to live in an unpolluted environment. The air was very fresh – a good indicator that the people of San Juan had a somewhat deep-respect for the Mother Nature.
Vast fields surround homes in this area of San Juan, Batangas
After bird-watching in Pinagbayanan, we went to Laiya, the coastal area of San Juan. It is described as a hideaway and is exclusive to selected people only. That’s why we felt very privileged to be given a chance to gaze and enjoy such a paradise. Seascape was actually owned and protected by the government. Thus, we are mandated to be circumspect and aware of our behaviors.
Pathway to Seascape
(You will have to trek down this path before you get to the seashore.)
Upon entering the seascape, our professor gave us a brief overview pertaining to environmental etiquette. She said that the passageway we are trudging upon was a disturbed place. Therefore, we need to observe due silence, and avoid any forms of unduly loud noises.
When we arrived at the site proper, we were mesmerized by the sound of the waves emanating from the pristine, clear waters. The clarity of the water was best described by the healthy corals seen beneath it. We highly appreciated the exquisite beauty of the Seascape. Our expectations about the sea were completely satisfied.
After trekking down a steep path, the relaxing sound of the waves and the sight of the clear, blue waters of the sea welcome you. The Seascape is part of the Verde Island Passage, also known as the Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity in the world.
During the discussion with our tour guide, we learned that Seascape is a sacred place; this fact is strengthened by the sight of the cross erected at the top of a rock cliff. This cross symbolizes purity and restoration of the spirit. People apparently go to this place for spiritual healing especially after times of grief and deep anxiety; the sight of the sheer beauty of the place and nature in general is enough to calm one's mind.
This cross atop a rock formation and a small hut nearby prove that the place is mostly used for spiritual healing and similar activities.
As we are approaching the shore of the sea, we were allured by our fervent desire to be in touch with the waters of the sea. We were first reluctant to swim due to four reasons. First, we were apprehended that the intense heat of the sun (around 12:30pm) might cause skin burn. Second, our clothes were neither destined nor appropriate for an adventure/splash in the sea. Third, we were admonished by Prof. Lacdan to only make a damp of our feet on the waters because we have to go back immediately to the waiting van for our next destination. Fourth, it was high tide; the current of the water is moderately strong.
Nevertheless, the desire to swim in a place far from Manila surpassed the aforementioned reasoning. We are overwhelmed by the joy of having seen a place that is characterized as distinct and sublime. Thus, we allowed ourselves to be wet – ignoring the pricking heat of the sun, inappropriate clothes, the waiting van, and the moderately strong current of the water. This event was really memorable for us and will be remembered with great enthusiasm.
Who wouldn't be allured by the pristine blue waters of the sea? Definitely not us! =)
Before we left the shores of Seascape, our attention was caught by an enormous squid. The size of it was tantamount to approx. 2 ½ feet. We took pictures of and with this peculiar creature.
One of the proofs that the Seascape is rich in marine life is this large squid caught by the local fishermen.
Our final goal for our trip in Batangas was to meet some residents of the province – particularly the women. Our objective was to help them in their existing livelihood program, headed by our very own professor – Ma’am Natividad Lacdan. It was an excellent opportunity for us to know their pressing needs and concerns.
Most of the women are vendors of vegetables, while some are making jewelries/accessories as their means of living. We are surprised to note the disparity between how they priced their commodities against the pricing scheme in Metro Manila. There’s a great difference.
We ended our trip by contemplating all the activities we had accomplished during the whole day. We learned an experience that can never be gained within the four walls of a classroom. It extended not only our knowledge but most especially our concern to preserve and protect the environment. Quoting from Ma’am Lacdan, “The Philippines is rich in biodiversity; but human intrusions caused serious threats to the lives of many species.” Therefore, we need to do something to preclude the deleterious effects and self-defeating operations of such intrusions.
You can see that we really learned a lot in this trip. Not only that, it has awaken in us a new freshness of appreciation for nature. It's wonderful to know that there are still places in our country where the environment is still pure and undisturbed, and seeing them awakens in us a feeling that we definitely need to preserve places like this and work hard to save other natural resources that are slowly deteriorating.
We don't have to be environmental stewards for us to do our parts in saving nature, we can help in our own little ways (like putting trash in the proper trashcan, not littering, etc.). They may just be little things, but if you add them up they will surely come a long way. So, let us all do what we need to do in order to save nature, so that our children, grandchildren, and the many more generations to come will still be able to see just how beautiful nature is.
First, a disclaimer :) This work is a collective reaction paper, and in no way written by me alone. In fact, most of the paper was done by some of my group mates (AKA the people listed below), beta-ed by me :) The pictures are all taken by me, please don't take them without permission :D
Well then, here it is.
A Reaction Paper by: Group 1, PANDA (Dave Dada, Kriza Gengania, Joyce Oriel, Sandra Pondoyo, Shiela Se)
Section: TFD/ Subject: Natural Science 5: Biodiversity and Sustainable Development
Theme: Discovering the Biodiversity of San Juan, Batangas
Last September 4, 2010, we left Manila for our nature-appreciation trip at around 5:00 a.m. and arrived in San Juan, Batangas (our destination) at around 9:00 in the morning. As we were traveling, we slept to compensate for the early departure. Most of us actually have been to San Juan, Batangas once due to our courses in Humanities, but we found a fresh and new experience in the Natural Science 5 visit because of the various sites we visited there (e.g. Pinagbayanan, Laiya, etc).
Before we went to Batangas, we expected to see a wide range of biodiversity. And we were not disappointed. Truly, the place can be considered a suitable resting place, far from the congested ambience of cities in Metro Manila. The mere presence of lichens in the trees was a very excellent indication that the air was almost free from pollution.
The white marks on the bark of the tree are what you call "lichens", indicators that a place is still free from pollution.
When we arrived at the site, our attention was caught by a very small frog about the size of a one-peso coin! We tried to capture a shot of this amazing, minute specie. However, the frog exhibited a defensive mechanism known as camouflage or cryptic coloration. Thus, we had a hard time in capturing a perfect image of this frog. Besides, it was noticed to be frequently jumping away from our presence!
Coconut trees and the late morning sky at Brgy. Pinagbayanan
(Ok, I know I should be showing a photo of the frog described in the last paragraph, but frogs freak me out so I just decided to take a photo of the sky and the trees XD)
(Ok, I know I should be showing a photo of the frog described in the last paragraph, but frogs freak me out so I just decided to take a photo of the sky and the trees XD)
On our way to the site where we were supposed to witness different kinds of birds, we passed by a disturbed area of mangroves. We noticed some “stick-like” protuberances near the bank of the mangroves. Professor Lacdan taught us that these protuberances are called pneumatophores. Pnuematophores are special roots found in most mangroves.
These are what you call "pneumatophores", signs that a mangrove area is disturbed.
Afterwards, we went to view different types of birds. Using our binoculars, we identified the following types of birds: the Gray Heron, the Philippine Duck, the White-collared Kingfisher, the Egret, the Coucal, the Oriole, the Zebra Dove, as well as the ever-abundant Eurasian Tree Sparrow, locally known as the Maya.
It's a bit blurry but this was taken through a telescope, and if you look carefully at the bottom you can see a flock of Philippine wild ducks frolicking in the stream.
We also encountered/viewed a mother heron tending after her baby heron – which caused a poignant effect in our hearts. The scene reminded us that we ought to display a debt of gratitude to our parents’ unconditional love.
According to our tour guide, there is an apparent and tight competition between the local residents and the birds. The locals consider the birds as a threat or menace to their livelihood – which is primarily cultivating fish. Since the birds attempt to hunt for the fish they cultivate, the locals tend to wipe out their existing population.
On the way to our next destination, we passed by vast fields of different crops. Our tour guide pointed out different species of trees such as mulawin and narra. Also, we were able to observe the everyday life of the local residents and we can say that they are lucky because they are still able to live in an unpolluted environment. The air was very fresh – a good indicator that the people of San Juan had a somewhat deep-respect for the Mother Nature.
Vast fields surround homes in this area of San Juan, Batangas
After bird-watching in Pinagbayanan, we went to Laiya, the coastal area of San Juan. It is described as a hideaway and is exclusive to selected people only. That’s why we felt very privileged to be given a chance to gaze and enjoy such a paradise. Seascape was actually owned and protected by the government. Thus, we are mandated to be circumspect and aware of our behaviors.
Pathway to Seascape
(You will have to trek down this path before you get to the seashore.)
Upon entering the seascape, our professor gave us a brief overview pertaining to environmental etiquette. She said that the passageway we are trudging upon was a disturbed place. Therefore, we need to observe due silence, and avoid any forms of unduly loud noises.
When we arrived at the site proper, we were mesmerized by the sound of the waves emanating from the pristine, clear waters. The clarity of the water was best described by the healthy corals seen beneath it. We highly appreciated the exquisite beauty of the Seascape. Our expectations about the sea were completely satisfied.
After trekking down a steep path, the relaxing sound of the waves and the sight of the clear, blue waters of the sea welcome you. The Seascape is part of the Verde Island Passage, also known as the Center of the Center of Marine Biodiversity in the world.
During the discussion with our tour guide, we learned that Seascape is a sacred place; this fact is strengthened by the sight of the cross erected at the top of a rock cliff. This cross symbolizes purity and restoration of the spirit. People apparently go to this place for spiritual healing especially after times of grief and deep anxiety; the sight of the sheer beauty of the place and nature in general is enough to calm one's mind.
This cross atop a rock formation and a small hut nearby prove that the place is mostly used for spiritual healing and similar activities.
As we are approaching the shore of the sea, we were allured by our fervent desire to be in touch with the waters of the sea. We were first reluctant to swim due to four reasons. First, we were apprehended that the intense heat of the sun (around 12:30pm) might cause skin burn. Second, our clothes were neither destined nor appropriate for an adventure/splash in the sea. Third, we were admonished by Prof. Lacdan to only make a damp of our feet on the waters because we have to go back immediately to the waiting van for our next destination. Fourth, it was high tide; the current of the water is moderately strong.
Nevertheless, the desire to swim in a place far from Manila surpassed the aforementioned reasoning. We are overwhelmed by the joy of having seen a place that is characterized as distinct and sublime. Thus, we allowed ourselves to be wet – ignoring the pricking heat of the sun, inappropriate clothes, the waiting van, and the moderately strong current of the water. This event was really memorable for us and will be remembered with great enthusiasm.
Who wouldn't be allured by the pristine blue waters of the sea? Definitely not us! =)
Before we left the shores of Seascape, our attention was caught by an enormous squid. The size of it was tantamount to approx. 2 ½ feet. We took pictures of and with this peculiar creature.
One of the proofs that the Seascape is rich in marine life is this large squid caught by the local fishermen.
Our final goal for our trip in Batangas was to meet some residents of the province – particularly the women. Our objective was to help them in their existing livelihood program, headed by our very own professor – Ma’am Natividad Lacdan. It was an excellent opportunity for us to know their pressing needs and concerns.
Most of the women are vendors of vegetables, while some are making jewelries/accessories as their means of living. We are surprised to note the disparity between how they priced their commodities against the pricing scheme in Metro Manila. There’s a great difference.
We ended our trip by contemplating all the activities we had accomplished during the whole day. We learned an experience that can never be gained within the four walls of a classroom. It extended not only our knowledge but most especially our concern to preserve and protect the environment. Quoting from Ma’am Lacdan, “The Philippines is rich in biodiversity; but human intrusions caused serious threats to the lives of many species.” Therefore, we need to do something to preclude the deleterious effects and self-defeating operations of such intrusions.
You can see that we really learned a lot in this trip. Not only that, it has awaken in us a new freshness of appreciation for nature. It's wonderful to know that there are still places in our country where the environment is still pure and undisturbed, and seeing them awakens in us a feeling that we definitely need to preserve places like this and work hard to save other natural resources that are slowly deteriorating.
We don't have to be environmental stewards for us to do our parts in saving nature, we can help in our own little ways (like putting trash in the proper trashcan, not littering, etc.). They may just be little things, but if you add them up they will surely come a long way. So, let us all do what we need to do in order to save nature, so that our children, grandchildren, and the many more generations to come will still be able to see just how beautiful nature is.