Heterospathe sibuyanensis

More than half of the Sibuyan island is covered in forests and known to be the densest forest cover ever recorded in the Philippines. However, some parts of the island are already highly degraded due to conversion into settlement areas, cultivated lands, and idle kaingin areas (DENR-MIMAROPA 2019) which inhibit the survival and population of Heterospathe sibuyanensis could be negatively affected. This is supported by the analysis of Global Forest Watch data (2019) which showed a tree cover loss of 1,085 hectares tree across the island from 2001 to 2018.

Being within the boundaries of the Mt. Guiting-Guiting Natural Park, the species is expected to be conserved in the area through the Proclamation no. 746, given that the site is already considered as a protected area where no subsequent utilization and degradation activities are permissible. But, the lack of strict protection mechanism as proven by the recent decline suggest continuous threat to the population. Additionally, it was included in the DAO 2017-11 or the Updated National List of Threatened Species in the Philippines assessed as Critically Endangered (DENR 2017). Through this administrative order pursuant to Republic Act no. 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act of 2001 illegal and excessive tampering of the species from its natural habitats together with other species specified therein are inhibited. Its unauthorized utilization, trade, and disturbances made in its natural habitats are punishable by the law. Aside from this, no other known conservation strategies directed for the species.