Protected Areas’ Latent Functions and Social Consequences: A Case from Mount Hamiguitan, Philippines

Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary illustrates the complex interplay between conservation goals and social consequences. While its establishment aimed to protect biodiversity and ecological services, it also introduced latent functions with significant social impacts on local communities. Through in-depth interviews with community leaders, elders, and forest custodians, researchers found that the declaration of this protected area (PA) brought both unintended benefits and challenges. Some communities experienced positive outcomes, such as access to resources or recognition, while others faced limitations that hindered conservation efforts. This study highlights the need for a more integrative approach to PA management, one that accounts for social, cultural, and political dynamics to ensure long-term success in biodiversity protection.

Mendoza, E. N., Ponce, R. G., A. Soria, S. M., & Amoroso, V. B. (2020). Protected Areas’ Latent Functions and Social Consequences: A Case from Mount Hamiguitan, Philippines. Forest and Society. https://doi.org/10.24259/fs.v4i2.10485