ResearchOnline@ND

Authors

Luz C. Stenberg, University of Notre Dame AustraliaFollow
Mahinda Siriwardana

Title

Deforestation in the Philippines: An economic assessment of government policy responses using a CGE model

Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

2008

Abstract

In the case of a land constraint economy such as the Philippines, the efficient allocation of land to its various uses is essential. This constraint is further intensified by the growing population and increased demand for commercial land. The process of land classification is only the first step in managing land resources. A computable general equilibrium (CGE) model based on ORANI, a multi-sectoral model belonging to the Johansen class of CGE models was employed to ascertain the economy-wide effects of the reduction in forestry production due to conservation efforts. The study evaluated some of the forestry policies recommended by the Philippine Master Plan for Forestry Development (1991-2015). In theory, the policies formulated would be viable and effective. The problem lies in the implementation especially of reforestation activities, which is the core of the Master Plan. The Philippine forests require intensive regeneration programs to revive the domestic logging industry and conservation programs to protect sensitive areas as well as the establishment of tree plantations. The study evaluated four policies from the Master Plan, namely the implementation of selective logging, imposition of stumpage tax on the forestry sector, lowering of forestry discount rates and the establishment of set-aside areas. The study found that moving into a selective logging regime and the establishment of set-aside areas would achieve forest conservation with little reduction in economic growth.

Comments

Due to copyright restrictions this book chapter is unavailable for download.

Deforestation Research Progress may be accessed from the National Library of Australia here

Deforestation Research Progress may be accessed from the publisher here

Recommended Citation

Stenberg, L. C., & Siriwardana, M. (2008). Deforestation in the Philippines: An economic assessment of government policy responses using a CGE model. In I. B. Sanchez & C. L. Alonso (Eds.), Deforestation research progress (pp. 175-202). New York, NY: NOVA Science Publishers.