Exploring the Interplay Between Food Provision and Habitat Quality Assessment for Sustainable Coexistence in the Bioproduction Systems of the Philippines

Balancing human activities and ecosystem health is critical amid increasing biodiversity concerns. This study explores the relationship between food provision and habitat quality in bioproduction systems in the Philippines, focusing on the Pagsanjan-Lumban Watershed (PLW) and the Baroro Watershed (BW). Using the TerrSet Land Change Modeler for LULC projections, the InVEST model for habitat quality assessment, and statistical analysis of disaggregated crop production data, this study evaluates the synergies and trade-offs between food provision and biodiversity conservation. The findings reveal that LULC changes—such as shifts in annual crops, built-up areas, forests, and agroforestry systems—impact ecosystem health. Habitat quality in the PLW shows temporal degradation, while the BW remains relatively stable. Food production trends indicate fluctuating yields in the PLW, with a decline in the BW. Correlation analysis highlights trade-offs between food provision and habitat quality in the PLW, whereas the BW exhibits a positive correlation, suggesting potential synergies. These findings emphasize the importance of place-based strategies to reconcile food production and biodiversity conservation, ensuring sustainable bioproduction systems that support both ecosystem health and food security.
Keywords:habitat conservation; correlation analysis; trade-offs and synergies; InVEST model; ecosystem services; ecosystem health