OVERALL INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION (OIEE) I. INTRODUCTION

Transcription

1 OVERALL INITIAL ENVIRONMENTAL EXAMINATION (OIEE) I. INTRODUCTION 1. Since 1993, the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) has adopted the Agrarian Reform Community (ARC) strategy in its effort to focus its development assistance to the critical mass of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARBs) upon completion of its land distribution and leasehold operation activities in CARPable areas. Through its Foreign Assisted Projects Office (FAPsO), the DAR was able to generate technical support and financial assistance from international funding organizations and since then has a continuing program in developing ARCs nationwide. To date, several foreign assisted projects are operating across the country s three (3) island groups of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. One of these is the Agrarian Reform Communities Project (ARCP) with assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). 2. The ARCP II is a follow-on project of the first ARCP which commenced in 1998 and is due for completion by December Based on the request of the Government of the Philippines (GOP), the ADB approved a Project Preparatory Technical Assistance (PPTA) to prepare an investment package for ARCP II. In order to carry out the PPTA, a multidisciplinary team of local and international specialists 1 from the SEAMEO Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) was engaged in 2005 to undertake the preparatory works for the proposed project. 3. The Philippine poverty situation shows that around three quarters of the rural poor reside in the large part of the Visayas and Mindanao regions with some in the southern part of Luzon. Given this and considering the poverty reduction concerns of the government and the strategic focus of ADB, the ARCP II gave priority assistance to the southern half of the Philippines. The identification of the project scope followed a process that clearly prioritized areas which have the highest poverty incidence in the country. The table below shows the provinces within the highest 50% poverty ranking in the country as of Table 1: Philippine Poverty Ranking (highest 50%) Poverty Rank by province Percentage of Poor household Eligible For ARCPII Philippines Poverty Rank by province Percentage of Poor households Eligible for ARCPII 1 Masbate Sorsogon 29 Eligible 2 Romblon 44.8 Eligible 22 Sultan Kudarat Ifugao Negros Occidental 27.9 Eligible 4 Sulu Misamis Occidental Agusan del Sur Surigao Del Norte 27-6 Zamboanga Norte 37.6 Eligible 26 Surigao Del Sur Lanao del Norte Biliran Maguindanao 36.1 Eligible 28 Agusan del Norte Saranggani Western Samar 25.3 Eligible 10 Catanduanes Davao del Norte Mt. Province Marinduque 24.7 Eligible 12 Northern Samar 34.8 Eligible 32 Davao Oriental Camarines Norte 34.6 Eligible 33 Camiguin Eastern Samar 34.1 Eligible 34 Lanao del Sur 23.5 Eligible 15 Bohol Leyte 23.3 Eligible 16 Abra Quezon 23-1 The PPTA Team included: Herman Ongkiko, Rural Development Specialist and Team Leader; Dorothy Lucks, Agrarian Reform Specialist; Clovis Ike J. Payumo, Rural Infrastructure Specialist; Lydia Martinez, Agriculture and Enterprise Specialist; Liberty Guinto, Financial Specialist; Raike R. Quiñones, Rural Finance Specialist; Virgilio R. de los Reyes, Land Tenure Improvement Specialist; and Jo Rowena D. Garcia, Environmental Specialist.

2 2 Poverty Rank by province Percentage of Poor household Eligible For ARCPII Poverty Rank by province Percentage of Poor households 17 Capiz Tawi-tawi 23 - Eligible for ARCPII 18 North Cotabato Zamboanga Sur 22.6 Eligible 19 Oriental Mindoro Zamboanga Sibugay 2 N/a Eligible 20 Camarines Sur 29.1 Eligible Source: FIES/NSO, From the table above, the spread of the poorest provinces across the country affirms the focus of poverty alleviation efforts of most development organizations, and particularly ADB in the southern half of the country. Of the 38 poorest provinces, 35 are in Mindanao, Visayas, and southern Luzon. The reasons for this are many but do relate to physical distance from the capital city, isolation as islands, a level of neglect from government programs over the years, and a consequent lower level of economic and social capital within those areas. 5. On the basis of ARCP II selection criteria which will consider only provinces with at least four (4) ARCs that have not received infrastructure type of assistance from DAR FAPs, about fifteen (15) provinces are eligible for assistance. This is to ensure equitable distribution of support and benefits to the huge number of ARCs awaiting for support from DAR. From these fifteen (15) provinces, a second level of selection criteria was developed to identify the ARCs that would be eligible for ARCP II assistance. This set of criteria included the factors on ARCs that have not availed of infrastructure type of assistance from DAR FAPs and those that demonstrate potential for income generation and a level of readiness for economic activities. This selection resulted to about 132 ARCs covering about 631 barangays spread over 117 municipalities and cities in the 15 provinces. It is estimated that direct and indirect benefits from the Project will yield positive results in improved quality of life through improved and increased access to services to about 200,000 rural community members. 6. A loan fact finding mission was fielded by ADB between 12 April and 18 May 2007, in order to reach understandings and agreements with the government regarding the objectives, impacts, outcomes and outputs of the project. The mission undertook detailed discussions with the DAR at all levels and the oversight agencies. The series of consultations and in the advent of a possible co-financing by the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) through the OPEC Fund for International Development (OFID) for ARCP II, the DAR management and ADB agreed to expand the coverage of ARCP II to the three (3) island provinces of ARMM namely Basilan, Sulu and Tawi Tawi. 7. The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is a special region created following the Final Peace Agreement of September 02, 1996 on the implementation of the 1976 Tripoli Agreement between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) with the participation of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) Ministerial Committee. Under Republic Act (R.A.) 6734 otherwise known as the Organic Act for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, ARMM was initially composed of the four (4) provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Sulu and Tawi Tawi. With the promulgation of R.A. 9054, an act strengthening and expanding the Organic Act for the ARMM, the Region is now covering the province of Basilan and Marawi City as well (see Figure 1 below). By virtue of Muslim Mindanao Autonomy Act (MMA) 201 of October 24, 2005, the fifth Regional Legislative Assembly (RLA) created the Province of Shariff Kabunsuan separating it from the mother province of Maguindanao hence, ARMM is now composed of the six (6) provinces of Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao, Shariff Kabunsuan, Basilan, Sulu and Tawi Tawi and the lone City of Marawi. 2 Zamboanga Sibuguy is a new province formed in 2003, annexed from Zamboanga Del Sur. The poverty level is expected to be in line with Zamboanga Del Sur.

3 3 Figure 1: Map of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) 8. The economy of ARMM is predominantly based on the agricultural and fishery sector. The productivity from these sectors however was hampered by military conflicts, cultural traditions and ethnic differences. As a manifestation of the national government support to the development of ARCs in the ARMM, the Project would now cover all the six (6) provinces with about five (5) ARCs per province for a total of thirty (30) ARCs regionwide. 9. Given these developments, ARCP II would now be assisting a total of 152 ARCs covering 731 barangays in 137 municipalities of 19 provinces in six (6) regions. Expected beneficiaries would likewise increase to more than 215,000 rural community members with the inclusion of the 3 island provinces of ARMM. 10. The development of an investment package for ARCP II was done in a highly participatory manner. DAR senior, regional and provincial staff members, ADB staff members and oversight government agencies were regularly consulted in the development of the selection criteria for the project sites, in the preparation of the studies relevant to the investment project and in formulation of key design aspects. The target agrarian reform communities and other key stakeholders were involved in various ways in the preparation process including workshops, feasibility and pre-feasibility study preparation, focus groups and field consultations. Reports, data, and other studies from previous and on-going projects such as the ARCP I, other DAR externally funded projects and other similar rural development projects were reviewed during the project preparation. 11. The DAR ARMM officials were also consulted during the fact finding mission with the inclusion of the additional 3 provinces and two (2) eligible municipalities were visited by the mission to discuss and reconfirm the concerns of the ARCs with the LGUs in their respective municipal jurisdiction. The visit was participated in by the LGU officials and technical staff, the MARO and representatives from DAR ARMM regional office. 12. This Initial Environmental Examination (IEE) is carried out as part of the study to assure that ARCP II will be environmentally feasible. The conduct of this IEE is basically to determine whether further study like EIA is necessary and required under the ADB and GOP environmental policies. It covers the general discussions on i) information about the general

4 4 environmental settings of the project area as baseline data; ii) information on potential impacts of the project and the characteristics of the impacts, magnitude, distribution, who will be the affected group and their duration; iii) information on potential mitigation measures to minimize the impact including mitigation cost; iv) assessment of the best alternative subprojects with most benefits at least costs in terms of financial, social and environmental aspects; and v) basic information for formulating environmental management and monitoring plan. 13. The Environmental Assessment was conducted through field visits to sample sites, consultations and focus group discussions (FGD) with the various project stakeholders like the Local Government Units (LGUs) at the provincial, municipal and barangay levels, the communities within the proposed project sites and relevant line agencies of the national government like the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), Department of Agriculture (DA), National Commission for Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) and National Irrigation Administration (NIA), among others. Secondary data on the socio-economic profiles of the sample sites as well as the rest of the eligible project sites were also generated as main sourcebook for the relevant information necessary in assessing the current environmental characteristics of barangays, municipalities and the provinces where ARCP II is expected to operate. II. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROJECT 14. ARCP II will support the efforts of DAR to address the key constraints in the development of the ARCs and the improvement in the living conditions of the rural households. The long term impact of the Project is to reduce poverty and contribute to improved sustainability of livelihoods of poor and vulnerable communities in selected ARCs and ARC clusters. In order to achieve these impacts, the Project is expected to have the following outcomes: (i) improved access to livelihood assets by the rural poor including the landless farm workers, (ii) development of sustainable livelihoods and long lasting improvements in the well being of poor and marginalized groups in the target communities. These outcomes will be pursued through the design and implementation of an integrated and complementary package of development investments involving (a) community driven development (b) support for social capital formation, (c) agri-enterprise support programs including technical support for developing access to rural finance (d) land survey and titling, (e) rural infrastructure, (f) capacity building programs and (g) mainstreaming project management in a sustainable manner. 15. The project package will advocate a demand driven approach, improved local governance and ownership by key stakeholders underscoring the active participation and direct involvement of the rural household in the development process. To achieve these outcomes and based on the assessment of the needs and demands in the ARCs, the Project will support the following outputs: 1) Community Driven Development (CDD), as a key component to build community capacity for self reliant development, support for social capital formation, strengthening of participatory planning processes, mobilization and organization of communities, improved governance and laying of a strong foundation for sustainability for project investments and long term improvements in livelihoods ; 2) Agriculture and Enterprise Development (AED), to facilitate improvements in agriculture and enterprise development, and support promotion of access to rural financial services including community based micro finance development, in order to increase productivity and profitability of income-generating activities; 3) Rural Infrastructure (RI), designed to provide a fillip to improved production and productivity and cropping intensification, through the improved access to markets, cost-effectiveness and access to services; and 4) Project Implementation Management (PIM) to support implementation, mainstreaming, good governance and accountability.

5 5 16. Community Driven Development. This output is to mobilize, organize, and strengthen communities and local institutions throughout the project, for basing demand for project interventions and their implementation and usage, on the felt needs and capacity of the community. These are to be expressed through a process of prioritization and commitments to sustained and informed participation by the community and community contributions for sustainability. The output will consist of sub-components on: (i) orientation and social capital formation; (ii) participatory ARC planning; (iii) organizational development and iv) support to good governance at local level. 17. Agriculture and Enterprise Development. The purpose of this output is to provide strategic support services to participating ARCs in order to help generate sustainable increases in agricultural production, increase economic activities in the ARCs and pilot ARC connectivity strategies. Agricultural development and the development of ARCs can be viewed as the progression from traditional, subsistence farming to increased production for improved food security. The implementation of the agriculture and enterprise development activities will address the need for crop diversification, improved cropping intensity and production and marketing related concerns. This output is based on CARP Impact Assessment findings on the significant benefits to ARBs of promoting adoption of improved agricultural practices and the need for increased market focused development initiatives. The agriculture and enterprise development output will consist of four sub-components on (i) Technical Support, (ii) Enterprise Development, (iii) Land Tenure Improvement and (iv) Rural Finance including Community Based Micro-Finance. 18. Rural Infrastructure. The provision of rural infrastructure will be a major investment component to spur socio-economic activities and to contribute to improving the productivity and income of the rural households in the ARCs. Complementary to the rest of the Project components, the Rural Infrastructure output will aim to (i) reduce transport time and cost of farm inputs; (ii) enhance ability to grow and market crops; (iii) increase production diversity and growing options; (iv) increase cropping intensity and improve yields and productivity; (v) reduce post-harvest losses and transport damage improving quality of products; (vi) reduce incidence of water borne diseases; (vii) generate time savings for better productive use; (viii) generate savings in medical expenses; (ix) improve community hygiene and public health; and (x) reduce the vulnerability of rural poor to various types of crisis situations by improving access for emergency services. 19. Project Implementation Management. This output will ensure the effective integration and complementation of the interrelated development investment packages by providing resources to support the management structure which will be fully mainstreamed at national, regional, provincial and local levels. All project implementation and management structures will be established within existing government institutions in keeping with Government policy aimed at harmonization. It will include technical support services in project management, CDD, agricultural enterprise development, microfinance and rural credit promotion, infrastructure development, monitoring and evaluation, extension training, gender and development, Indigenous Peoples development, environment management, among others. 20. As a result of the selection criteria developed by the PPTA of 2005 and agreed upon by the DAR and ADB during the Fact Finding Mission, ARCP II will operate in 19 provinces within the southern half of the Philippines composed of five (5) provinces at the southern part of Luzon, five (5) in the eastern and western part of Visayas and nine (9) in western, central and southern Mindanao including all the six (6) provinces of ARMM (see Figure 2). There will be about 152 ARCs that will be covered by the Project in these 19 provinces. Figure 2: ARCP II Operational Map

6 6 21. While the other Project outputs will have practically no environmental consequences, the rural infrastructure component would require initial examination to determine the extent of impact to the immediate surroundings and environment. Under ARCP II, specific outputs of the component will include i) Rural Access Infrastructure to include rehabilitation and selective construction of highly critical Barangay or Farm to Market

7 7 roads and its appurtenant structures, single lane concrete bridges and low-level crossings, access trails, footpaths and hanging foot bridges in upland areas; ii) Small Scale Irrigation to include construction and rehabilitation of small flow communal irrigation schemes (CIP and CIS), Small Water Impounding Projects (SWIP), Small Farm Reservoirs (SFR), Shallow Tube Wells (STW) and drip irrigation schemes for high value crops; iii) Post-Production Facilities to include provision of warehouses and solar driers; and iv) Social Infrastructure Facilities to include Potable Water Supply (PWS - levels I and II), Multi-Purpose Buildings (MPB) in support to community organization strengthening, Tribal Centers for the IP communities and rainwater collectors where critically needed. To some extent, the project would also support environmentally critical and small scale flood protection works posing immediate danger to lives and properties, small fish landing facilities and solar drier on stilts for coastal ARCs with major marine production activities, Barangay Health Stations and School Building Classrooms where existing demand is apparent and Day Care Centers where women beneficiaries are engaged in entrepreneurial activities. 22. The discussions conducted during the ARMM field visit indicated that there is no significant difference between the needs of ARMM and non - ARMM ARCs as these are all agriculture based and usually located in interior barangays. The two (2) LGUs that were consulted provided an indication on the requirements of the ARCs to improve their current socio - economic condition. The need for an all weather access infrastructure like farm to market roads and connecting bridges still ranks first in their assessment followed by the need for post harvest facilities which include solar driers and warehouses. In terms of social services facilities, provision of a reliable and safe drinking water is still the most pressing concern of the ARMM ARC communities. 23. One of the needs that may be different from other ARCs nationwide is on infrastructure support to marine based production like fishing and seaweeds. These requirements are especially true in the island provinces of Sulu and Tawi Tawi. The ARBs in the coastal ARCs in these provinces are engaged in fishing and seaweed production and identify fish landing facilities and solar dries on stilt as their priority needs. 24. Individual rural access infrastructure sub-project would involve an average of 2 kilometers of farm to market roads and about 30 linear meters of single lane concrete bridges. Small scale irrigation schemes would commonly cover 50 to 100 hectares per subproject while building facilities would have a floor area ranging from 60 square meters for multi-purpose buildings to 100 square meters for warehouses. Location of these farm to market roads for rehabilitation and/or selective construction would be mostly within the agricultural production areas of ARCs as these are the missing links to the nearest all weather access roads to market sites while building facilities would also be appropriately sited in areas accessible to most of the farmer beneficiaries. Small fish landing facilities and seaweed solar driers on stilts will commonly be located along beach lines where the fishing community resides. 25. The basic geometric and design specifications of these types of rural infrastructures under ARCP II will be as follows: A. Access Infrastructure Sub-Project Type Barangay and Farm to Market Road, Trails and Foot Paths Basic Geometrical and Design Specifications o Standard gravel road (for traffic volume of 20 vehicles per day and above) 4.00 m. wide carriageway with 1.00 m. shoulder and trapezoidal drainage ditch on both sides; 15 cms. aggregate base course of Item 201 on top of 10 cms. sub-base course of Item 200

8 8 Sub-Project Type o Tire Tracks (for road gradients of 12% and above) Basic Geometrical and Design Specifications 2 60 cms wide x 20 cms thick 3,000 psi concrete tire tracks on 10 cms gravel base course with grass creeps along center gap of 0.90 meter o Sledge Trail (for tricycles, motorcycles, animal drawn sledge and occasional 4-wheeled traffic) 2.50 m wide carriageway with 0.50 m shoulder and triangular drainage ditch on both sides; 15 cms aggregate base course of Item 201 with no sub-base course and carriageway shall be overlaid with well compacted sand and gravel surface course (armouring) of Item 300; provisions for passing bays of 6.00 m road width at every 250 meters interval o Trails and foot paths 1.00 m wide carriageway with triangular drainage ditch on both sides; 10 cms aggregate base course of Item 201 with no subbase course; 0.60 m x.10 m un-reinforced concrete block pavement for steep slopes of 12% and above Single Lane Bridge, Low Level Crossings and Hanging Foot Bridges o RCDG type (for traffic volume of 20 vehicles per day or more up to meters span) 4.00 m. wide of 3,000 psi concrete pavement on Reinforced Concrete Deck Girder (RCDG) o Bailey type (for traffic volume of less than 20 vehicles per day or bridges of more than meters span) 4.00 m. wide with timber plank running boards on hardwood joists and bailey panels on Reinforced Concrete Piers Hardwood timbers used for construction works shall have appropriate permits from DENR o Rock Causeway and Spillways (where appropriate in lieu of bridge) 4.00 m wide concrete paved carriageway on piled boulders with provision of reinforced concrete pipe culverts (RCPC) with sufficient number and diameter; 15 cms concrete upstream and downstream aprons with energy dissipators and cut-of walls of sufficient design depths with temperature bars o Hanging foot bridges 1.20 m wide walkway with 50 mm x 150 mm floor planks or steel mats on 25 mm diameter cable suspensions and concrete abutments Small Fish Landing Facilities o Timber Ports 2.00 m wide walkway with 50 mm x 150 mm floor planks on hardwood sub-structural members; 4.00 m x 7.00 m pier head on 200 mm x 200 mm reinforced concrete pile columns Hardwood timbers taken from sites used for construction works shall have appropriate clearance from DENR o Jetty 2.00 m wide concrete paved walkway on piled boulders of side slope (SS) of 1:2 and minimum free board of 0.50 m B. Social Facilities Sub-Project Type Basic Geometrical and Design Specifications Potable Water Supply o Rainwater Collector (to be packaged with building facilities when necessary and if without source of water supply) Elevated stainless tanks or concrete reservoir with 1.50 m tower and made of 3,000 psi reinforced concrete mixed with water proofing compound Reservoir shall have a capacity of 7,500 liters with dimensions of 3.00 m x 3.00 m square x 1.20 m high

9 9 Sub-Project Type Basic Geometrical and Design Specifications o Level I artesian well and jetmatic pumps Located at least 25 m. from water source of pollution Farthest user is not more than 250 m. from point source Designed to deliver at least 20 liters per capita per day (lpcd) To serve an average of 15 households per unit Adopt 100 mm diameter of steel casing with 50 mm diameter of G.I. intake pipe with suction rod, 100 mm diameter of low carbon steel screen and 10 mm diameter gravel packing materials; all G.I. pipes shall have a minimum strength equivalent to schedule 40 o Level II Spring Development (note: design provisions for Level III to be incorporated if LGU or community decides to upgrade in the future) Farthest house shall not be more than 25 m. from the nearest communal faucet Designed to deliver at least 60 liters per capita per day Communal faucet to serve an average of 4 to 6 households Spring box shall be made of 3000 psi reinforced concrete mixed with water proofing compound Ground distribution reservoir shall be located on high ground and made of 3000 psi reinforced concrete mixed with water proofing compound Main pipeline shall be a combination of mm diameter GI, UPVC and polyethylene (P.E.) pipe of sufficient strength Intermediate distribution lines shall be of ½ ¾ diameter of P.E. pipe All pipes shall be rated for use of water at 23 o C and at a minimum working pressure of 1.10 Mpa or as dictated by actual hydrostatic head All pipes shall be embedded at a minimum of 50 cms. below natural ground Communal faucets shall be of heavy duty brass type provided with concrete apron and tub of appropriate size and design Building Facilities o School Buildings, Barangay Health Stations and Day Care Centers All floors shall be 10 cms. thick of 3000 psi concrete provided with temperature bars of 10 mm diameter spaced at 40 cms. on center both ways All walls shall be of 10 cms. thk. concrete hollow blocks Roofing shall be of ga. # 26 corrugated G.I. sheets while gutters shall be of ga. # 24 plain G.I. sheets o Tribal Centers Geometric design and schemes shall be determined by the Tribal Council of the proponent IP while technical specifications shall adopt those provided under other subproject types C. Communal Irrigation Schemes Category and SP Type Small Scale Communal Irrigation Schemes Geometrical and Design Specifications o Diversion Type for CIS or CIP (for areas of 50 has and above with streams or creeks of sufficient and dependable flow adopting NIA specifications) Diversion Works: Run-of-river type adopting ogee or trapezoidal sections and check gate or intake schemes as deemed appropriate by NIA design engineers. Main Canal, laterals and sub-laterals: Trapezoidal section with slide slopes (SS) of 1½:1 for most earth canals and 1:1 or 0:1 (rectangular) for lined canals Earth canals shall have a permissible velocity of not less than 0.30 m/sec. and not more than 1.00 m/sec. Canal freeboard shall be a minimum of 0.30 m or 40% of

10 10 Category and SP Type Geometrical and Design Specifications designed water depth Canal top berm width shall be 0.40 m note : canal concrete lining shall not be allowed unless highly justified thru actual measurement of losses due to seepage or other valid reasons. Structures: Water level and distribution control devices as needed Thresher Crossing one (1) unit for every 500 m in the absence of road crossings along main canals, laterals and sub-laterals Road and Drainage Crossings as dictated by actual canal alignment and terrain o Small Water Impounding Project (SWIP) or Small Farm Reservoir (SFR) for areas with streams of insufficient flow and available natural basin adopting DA-BSWM specifications Earth dam with well compacted embankment and clay core of low permeability materials with 4.00 m crest width and minimum freeboard of 2.00 m The reservoir should have sufficient storage capacity with allowance for incoming flood flow Spillway, intake and outlet works and other irrigation facilities shall be of 3,000 psi concrete All other specifications shall conform to those adopted by DA- BSWM o Shallow Tube Wells (STW) for groundwater source of m or less Adoption of a Type III model: 10 Hp pump engine with 4 diameter perforated suction pipes and 8 casing o Drip or Sprinkler Irrigation (in upland areas for high value crops with spring sources of sufficient head over irrigable area) Spring intake box shall be of 3,000 psi concrete mixed with water proofing compound Polyethylene (PE) pipe main line of mm diameter provided with mesh or micron filters at the intake side Lateral and sub-lateral PE pipes of mm diameter with 1 mm orifice emitters May be used in combination with transferable sprinklers on poles attached to lateral PE pipes in lieu of orifice emitters Post Production Facilities o Warehouses and Solar Driers All floors (including land based solar driers) shall be 10 cms. thick of 3,000 psi concrete provided with gravel base and temperature bars of 10 mm diameter spaced at 40 cms. on center both ways All walls shall be of 10 cms. thk. concrete hollow blocks Roofing shall be of ga. # 26 corrugated G.I. sheets while gutters shall be of ga. # 24 plain G.I. sheets Solar drier on stilts (marine based) for seaweeds shall be made from hardwood and bamboo materials on 200 x 200 mm reinforced concrete pile columns Hardwood timbers taken from sites used for construction works shall have appropriate clearance from DENR 26. Given the fiscal difficulty of the LGUs to generate their equity contribution due to the rather high cost sharing arrangement, implementation of the rural infrastructure component of ARCs within a municipality would be spread over a period of four (4) years for the LGU to generate the required cash equity counterpart on an annual basis. Hence, about half of the target ARCs will start implementing within the second semester of year 1 and the other half needs to be on board by the start of the second year in time for completion within year 5 with some expected to spill over in the first semester of year 6.

11 Purely public infrastructures like access and social facilities like health stations, day care centers and school buildings will be turned over for operation and maintenance by the LGUs while community infrastructures like irrigation schemes, warehouses and solar driers will be operated and maintained by farmers organizations. III. DESCRIPTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT 28. Across the regions in the Philippines, Region IV B that comprise the island provinces in the southern portion of Luzon, has one of the most varied land forms in the country. The topographical characteristics of the region consist of flat coastal zones, upland interior areas of slightly moderate rolling or undulating plains, hills and mountains. The ARCP II identified provinces of Marinduque and Romblon have the highest poverty incidence in the region. These provinces have 13 ARCs in 10 municipalities that were selected for Project coverage. 29. Region V is popularly known as the Bicol region. It is situated at the southernmost tip of Luzon and is accessible from Metro Manila through the Maharlika highway, the national road network that links major cities and provinces in the island of Luzon. It is one of the poorest regions in the country and is frequently affected by typhoons and natural calamities. Three (3) of the poverty stricken provinces in the region were selected as Project coverage, namely Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur and Sorsogon with 21 ARCs in 18 municipalities identified for inclusion in the Project. 30. In the center of the Philippine archipelago lies the Western Visayas which comprise Region VI. It is a major sugar producing region whose output and by products are major sources of revenues to the national economy. Only the province of Negros Occidental was selected in view of its relative high poverty incidence. There are 11 ARCs in 11 municipalities identified as Project coverage in the province. 31. Eastern Visayas, which comprise Region VIII, is located in the eastern most border of the country. Its two-island group, Leyte and Samar is connected by the San Juanico Bridge, which is the longest bridge in the Philippines. The region has one of the highest poverty incidence by national statistics. Region VIII is also a typhoon prone area that is adversely affecting the major agricultural and fishing activities and the source of livelihood of the rural households. The four (4) provinces of Leyte, Eastern, Northern and Southern Samar were selected with 40 ARCs in 41 municipalities/cities. 32. Region IX covers the Zamboanga Peninsula, which is in the western part of Mindanao. The region is generally mountainous with rugged topography matched by relatively flat lands with undulating hills. Affected by civil strife and local conflicts, the provinces in the region have one of the highest poverty incidence in Mindanao. The three (3) provinces comprising the region, namely Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur and the newly created Zamboanga Sibugay were all selected as eligible for Project coverage with 37 ARCs in 26 municipalities. 33. The Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) is composed of three (3) provinces in the mainland of central Mindanao and three (3) island provinces composed of several islets. The economy of ARMM is predominantly based on the agricultural and fishery sector with substantial production of marine based crops like seaweeds in the island provinces. The Project will cover 5 ARCs each from the six (6) provinces or a total of 30 ARCs in the region with the advent of OPEC financing. 34. Topography of the specific sites i.e. ARCs, ranges from flat to gently rolling in Negros Occidental and upland interior areas of slightly moderate rolling or undulating plains to hilly terrain in the rest of the ARC areas. A few have coastal zones with ARBs supplementing

12 12 their income through fishing especially in ARMM. Of the 19 provinces, about six (6) are frequently visited by typhoons and natural calamities adversely affecting agricultural and fishing activities of the rural households. Low lying ARCs which are traversed by major river systems are prone to flooding during the wet season due to denuded watershed areas and lack of natural drainage outlets. This is especially true with one ARC in Marinduque where flooding of the Boac river is aggravated with the presence of mine tailings that was left by the once operational Marinduque Mining Corporation (MARCOPPER). Soil classification in these ARCs ranges from sandy loam to clay loam in most of the agricultural areas. 35. While a few of the provinces have protected areas like forest reserves with rare endemic wildlife species, there is no single ARC that is located within or near these high biodiversity areas. Sites that are of historical, archeological, paleontological or architectural significance are not also common locations of ARCs. ARCP II ARCs are also characterized with unpolluted air quality due to the absence of major industries or absence of natural sources of air pollution such as geothermal emissions. 36. All the ARCs eligible for financing under ARCP II have agricultural-based economy. Predominant crops in the ARCs are coconut, corn, rainfed rice, banana, root crops and fruit trees although the ARCs in Negros Occidental are predominantly planted to sugar cane being the main economy of the province. Mono-cropping is commonly practiced with only a few areas engaged into intercropping and only those within coconut plantations. Productivity is observed to be low and is most often at subsistence level. Causes of these are mainly due to lack of access to production capital, lack of knowledge on agricultural technology, absence of basic support infrastructure and in some cases, productivity is hampered by military conflicts, cultural traditions and ethnic differences in ARCs located in Mindanao. Given these constraints in agricultural productivity, the common denominator of ARCs under ARCP II is the high incidence of poverty compared to the rest of the provinces in the country. 37. The other factor that characterizes the ARCP II sites is the status of land ownership as provided for under CARP. In the candidate ARCs, more than 50% of distributed land are still under collective ownership which is said to have adverse effect to the farmers productivity knowing that they don t have their own title to the land that they till. 38. In almost all provinces, the provincial road serves to link the rural areas to the socioeconomic centers, services and facilities within each province. These roads are usually the arterial link of the municipality and barangays to the national highway. The city and municipal roads consist mainly of cemented streets located within the urban centers of the localities and are maintained by the local government units. On the other hand, barangay roads are mostly earth and gravel type that serve as access to the ARCs where the agricultural production areas are and in most cases, these are the roads that are impassable and currently need rehabilitation works. Hence, these ARCs are commonly inaccessible and unconnected to the nearest all weather road leading to urban centers within the locality. 39. While the main islands of the provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi Tawi in ARMM have internal road networks, the main mode of transportation to and from its components islets is through motorized boats and small banca (small wooden seacraft driven manually by paddles). Even then, the internal road networks in the main islands are also in a sad state of deterioration. 40. As these sites are of agriculture-based economy, there are substantial potential areas for irrigation development located in the eligible ARCs. It is estimated that about 18% of the total eligible ARC barangays will require development of its irrigation potential. 41. While majority of the provincial and municipal urban centers have existing potable water supply systems, the rural areas within the ARCs are still deriving their drinking needs from unreliable sources like open dug wells, rivers and creeks. However, many ARCs have

13 13 available natural springs that need to be developed to provide clean and reliable potable water supply to the AR communities. 42. Other concerns in the Project areas are inaccessibility to social infrastructure such as health and elementary education facilities and unavailability of electricity in the remote barangays of the identified ARCs. IV. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT A. Scale and Type of Sub-Projects 43. The rural infrastructure requirements in each ARC vary according to the local priorities. About 152 ARCs covering 731 barangays have been initially identified as eligible for assistance under ARCP II. This factor provided an opportunity to generate as much field data as possible for estimating purposes. 44. In coordination with the Provincial Offices of DAR, 56 ARCs covering about 253 barangays have been analyzed as sample size to determine the trend of rural infrastructure needs based on the submitted indicative list of rural infrastructure priorities incorporated in their respective ARC Development Plans. These lists were the results of the community consultation undertaken by each DAR PARO in the course of preparing the ARC Development Plans. It should be noted that this number is representing almost forty (40) percent of the initial list of eligible ARCs hence, a good representative of the total number of 152 ARCs. 45. Analysis done on these sample sites provided a fairly accurate trend of the rural infrastructure needs under ARCP II as well as estimating factors that can be adopted in extrapolating the requirement for the rest of the target Project areas. The resulting factors are as follows: Table 2: Trend of Rural Infrastructure Needs in ARCs Priority Infrastructure Type Road Rehabilitation Road Construction Bridges Small Scale Irrigation Rehabilitation Construction Potable Water Supply Level II PWS Level I PWS Warehouse Solar Drier Other eligible assistance Flood Protection Works Multi-Purpose Building School Building Brgy. Health Station Day Care Center Average Factors and Trend (from 56 ARCs and 253 Barangays) 90% estimated to require road rehabilitation ave. of 2 kms/brgy 60% estimated to require road construction ave. of 1.5 kms/brgy 10% estimated to require bridge ave. of 30 lm/brgy 9% estimated to require irrigation rehabilitation ave. of 60 ha/brgy 18% estimated to have potential irrigable ave. of 85 ha/brgy 40% estimated to have potential spring or deep well 1 system/brgy 3% estimated to require only Level ave. of 10 units/brgy 6% estimated to require 1 unit 100 sqm/brgy 9% estimated to require 1 unit solar 250 sqm/brgy 2% est'd to need crit. small scale fld protect n ave. of 300 lm/brgy 5% estimated to require 1 unit multi-purpose 60 sqm/brgy 12% estimated to require additional ave. of 2 cl/brgy 11.5% estimated to require 1 unit Barangay Health 64 sqm/brgy 11% estimated to require 1 unit Day Care 60 sqm/site 46. Extrapolating the requirement for the rural infrastructure using the factors above and adjusting it further to fit budgetary allocations, the following are the estimated global requirement for 152 ARCs under ARCP II. Table 3: Estimated ARCP II RI Global Requirement

14 14 Sub-Project Type Description Physical Target 152 ARCs Road Rehabilitation Standard FMR 1,295 kms Road Construction Standard FMR 630 kms Bridges Single Lane RCDG 2,160 lm Small Scale Irrigation Rehabilitation SWIP or Communal Type 3,775 has Construction SWIP or Communal Type 8,600 has Potable Water Supply Level II PWS Spring or Deep Well Dev t 285 units Level I PWS Artesian Well or Jetmatic Pump 215 units Warehouse 100 sq. m. 45 units Solar Drier (land & marine based) 250 sq. m./ 100 sq. m. 80 units Other eligible assistance Flood Protection Works Fish Landing Facilities for the islands 4,135 lm Multi-Purpose Building 60 sq. m. 33 units School Building Standard (7m x 9m) 278 Cl units Brgy. Health Station 64 sq. m. 79 units Day Care Center 60 sq. m. 79 units B. Screening and Categorization of Sub-Projects 47. It is not possible to categorize each of the proposed sub-projects for financing under ARCP II at this time as these are still subject to community identification and prioritization during the initial stage of Project implementation. Screening and categorization will therefore be based on the established trend of needs per ARC and the result of the initial environmental examination of the five (5) sample FS sites. 48. However, a detailed IEE (attached as Annex 1 to this document) for the core subprojects of one of the sample sites was prepared to demonstrate the process on how environmental assessment and management will be done as guide for the preparation of the environmental compliance requirement for the rest of the prospective proposals that will be identified by the proponent LGUs in the course of Project implementation. The specific subprojects in Annex 1 were initially identified by the local community members through the conduct of community consultation as an on-going process executed by the DAR field units in ARCs under the Program Beneficiaries Development (PBD). 49. In line with this, it is recommended that core sub-projects that will require an IEE would be governed by the following criteria: 1. road rehabilitation or construction of more than 2 kilometers length; 2. irrigation schemes of more than 100 hectares; 3. concrete bridges of more than 20 linear meters; 4. flood protection works of more than 50 linear meters; and 5. fish landing facilities of more than 10 linear meters Only one core sub-project 50. Nevertheless, the screening of the generic ARC sub-project type needs based on the parameters for Rapid Environmental Assessment (REA) and guided by the screening questions resulted to the following findings: a. on sub-project siting, only the following parameters were positively identified: - some sub-projects are located in areas frequently visited by typhoons - there are low lying areas that are prone to flooding by adjacent rivers and creeks - there are proposed sub-projects in areas with slopes of almost 50% - some existing roads proposed for rehabilitation and construction are within existing and potential irrigable areas

15 15 - some proposed fish landing facilities may be located in coral reefs the extent of live coral line of which is still to be determined b. in terms of potential environmental impact, majority (estimated to be about 95%) of the community proposed, identified and prioritized sub-projects are considered to have no significant issues under the Philippine EIS System. 51. While the latter may be outside the coverage of the Philippine EIS System (category D), ADB system considers majority of these to be under Category B (core sub-projects), i.e. sub-projects with potentially less degree and/or significance of environmental impacts hence requiring an IEE or EIA if warranted by IEE findings. 52. Under this consideration, the initial categorization of these sub-project types will therefore be according to the following: Table 4: initial ARCP II Sub-Project Type Categorization Sub-Project Types Category GOP-DENR ADB Remarks Road Rehabilitation D B - no expected increase in capacity, width and length - some may extend beyond the 2 km limit under the PEISS; Road Construction D & B B proposed roads within critical slopes will be avoided - no proposed bridge to extend beyond 80 linear meter Bridges D B limit; else have to be classified as B under the PEISS Small Scale Irrigation Rehabilitation D B - irrigable areas are way below the 300 hectare limit Construction D B - irrigable areas are way below the 300 hectare limit Potable Water Supply Level II PWS D C - project will not support level III; no significant impact Level I PWS D C - project will not support level III; no significant impact - only small warehouses at 100 sqm floor area; no Warehouse D C significant impact - only drying pavements at 250 sqm floor area or on stilts Solar Drier D C along beach lines; no significant impact Other eligible assistance Fish Landing Facilities C C/B - small wooden facilities along beach lines - only critical riverbank protection of 300 linear meters Flood Protection Works C C/B directly mitigating flood damages - only small buildings at 60 sqm floor area; no significant Multi-Purpose Building D C impact - only 2-classroom buildings at 162 sqm total floor area; no School Building D C significant impact - only small buildings at 64 sqm floor area; no significant Brgy. Health Station D C impact - only small buildings at 60 sqm floor area; no significant Day Care Center D C impact Note: proposed small fish landing facilities located in coral reefs with live coral lines will be outright rejected unless relocated to appropriate sites. 53. Regardless of PEISS or ADB categorization, an EIAMMP still needs to be developed for each sub-project to ensure that minor impacts are contained and would not lead to serious damage to the environment in the future. C. Potential Environmental Impacts, Mitigation Measures and Implementation Arrangement and Budget Source 54. The potential environmental impacts and mitigation measures with proposed implementing arrangements for these identified interventions would be classified according to the various stages of its development, specific activities and the type of infrastructure. These stages would involve four phases namely i) pre-construction phase, ii) construction phase, iii) operation phase and iv) abandonment phase.

16 16 1. Pre-Construction Phase 55. This phase would involve the social preparation (to include organizational strengthening, planning, identification and prioritization of community needs) of the community for the entry of ARCP II to the project site, conduct of pre-engineering activities covering detailed survey works to determine alignment of roads and canal systems, topographic surveying for small irrigation schemes, hydrographic survey and sounding works for sites of fish landing facilities, jetty and solar drier on stilts, segregation survey of lots for solar drier on land and building structures, preparation of the detailed engineering plans and programs of work, ROW negotiation, recruitment of work force and initial sourcing and procurement of construction materials. These activities will be conducted by the LGU and DAR technical staff, partner line agencies, NGO service providers, community beneficiaries and contractors. 56. The specific activities common to all sub-project types during the pre-construction phase that may have potential impacts to the environment with corresponding mitigation measures and implementation arrangement are as follows: Table 5: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures common to all sub-project types Specific Activities and Potential Impacts Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement and Budget conduct of planning, identification and prioritization of all sub-project types, route survey for water supply pipeline, road and canal alignment, topographic survey of irrigable area for small irrigation schemes, soundings for site locations of fish landing facilities, jetty and solar drier on stilts, segregation survey of sites for land based solar driers and other building structures, preparation of detailed engineering plans and programs of work for all sub-project types and ROW negotiation for road and canal construction - sub-project siting posing adverse impact to environment and immediate surroundings - lack of information and/or low participation of the community, particularly women, indigenous peoples and marginalized sectors - ROW conflict between and among land owners - sub-project sites validation - hold consultative meetings with equal representation of men and women of project beneficiaries and affected persons on the sub-project components and management plan - ensure Field Based Investigation (FBI) and Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) have been secured from the IP Communities encompassing the subproject site - PPIMO to conduct field validation of proposed sub project sites after community identification and prioritization - during the Project conceptualization and initial design stage and prior to finalization of design, the MLGU (MPDC, MSWD, ME) and DAR PPIMO shall invite representatives from all sectors of the community for the conduct of orientation and generate reactions and comments for integration into final Project design - NCIP shall be involved in case the area has IP community Budget: activities covered under DAR-GOP MOOE and MLGU equity counterpart; community orientation covered under CDD component recruitment of work force for all subproject types - entry of external workforce that may trigger interpersonal conflict - give hiring preference to qualified local community residents, particularly those who will be affected - give hiring preference to qualified Indigenous Peoples in sub-project sites located in IP domain or occupied by IP communities - limit entry of external workforce to highly specialized work items if not available within locality and ensure briefing on proper - during recruitment of construction workers, the MLGU Local Project Office (LPO) shall ensure that qualified community members are given priority in recruitment of workforce by the contractor; this will be stipulated in the Contract documents with LPO as member of recruitment screening panel - contractor have to conduct briefing to external workforce prior to entry into project area

17 17 conduct and behavior while in the locality Budget: activities covered under contractor s management cost and MLGU equity counterpart initial sourcing and procurement of construction materials for all subproject types - possible illegal or unauthorized sourcing of construction materials from private properties or prohibited areas - procure construction materials from sources with valid environmental clearances, i.e. for sand and gravel, from those with DENR-MGB/EMB permits; for timber resources, from those with valid DENR- FMB/EMB permit - prior to mobilization, the contractor shall coordinate with MLGU LPO and barangay officials on legal sources of construction materials within the area - the contractor may also apply for quarrying permit from the DENR and LGU Budget: activities covered under contractor s management cost 2. Construction Phase 57. This phase would involve the mobilization of construction equipment, construction workers and materials to the specific sub-project site after which the longer period of actual construction work will commence. The construction phase will end up with the demobilization of construction equipment, workers and other construction paraphernalia from the construction site. Majority of these activities will be undertaken by the contractors and community beneficiaries under the close supervision of the LGU and DAR technical staff. 58. The specific activities common to all as well as some sub-project types during construction phase that may have potential impacts to the environment with corresponding mitigation measures and implementation arrangement (please refer to Appendix 1 for safeguard provisions in contract) are discussed in the succeeding tables below: Table 6a: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (All Sub-project Types) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement mobilization of equipment, workers and materials for all subproject types - increase in suspended dust particulates along unpaved roads, obnoxious gas and particulate emissions and increased noise levels along the transport route of the heavy equipment - increased community hazards to vehicular accidents along the transport route - avoid night-time mobilization - wet areas of dust sources along vehicle route - cover cargoes with tarpaulin sheets or any equivalent - ensure compliance of equipment to manufacturers maintenance requirements and to government emission standards - set speed limit to 15 kph when passing through populated area - provide appropriate warning signs and lighting - ensure strict observance of traffic rules - Contract to stipulate measures for compliance by contractor - the contractor shall spray water on dusty routes along populated areas with a water truck during mobilization - contractor to mobilize only equipment that are compliant to manufacturers maintenance requirements and government emission standards - Barangay officials to coordinate with contractor in setting up warning signs and monitoring speed limits and compliance to traffic rules Budget: activities included in contractor s bid and contract construction of - provision of toilet facilities to - contractor to use portable

18 18 bunkhouses, motor pool and storage area for all sub-project types - increase in Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) load and debris in the water body due to improper disposal of sanitary and solid waste from the workers base camp - contamination by oil, grease and fuel spills from heavy equipment and storage areas workers - provision of trash bins for proper segregation and disposal of biodegradables from nonbiodegradables - provide concrete lined ring canals with grease traps or concrete catch basins around fuelling tanks, motor pool and maintenance areas - collect used oils in containers and sell to licensed recyclers bunkhouses with complete sanitary facilities if appropriate or provide temporary septic tanks within field office compound - trash bins to be brought in by contractor during mobilization and trash collection to be coordinated with barangay officials - construction of concrete lined ring canals and grease traps to be done by contractor during construction of motor pool Budget: activities included in contractor s bid and contract demobilization of equipment, workers and materials for all subproject types - increase in suspended dust particulates along unpaved roads, obnoxious gas and particulate emissions and increased noise levels along the transport route of the heavy equipment - increased community hazards of vehicular accidents along the transport route - improper disposal of waste causing garbage pile up and obnoxious odor - avoid night-time demobilization - wet areas of dust sources along vehicle route - cover cargoes with tarpaulin sheets or any equivalent - ensure compliance of equipment to manufacturers maintenance requirements and to government emission standards - set speed limit to 15 kph when passing through populated area - provide appropriate warning signs and lighting - ensure strict observance of traffic rules - conduct clearing and cleaning operation prior to demobilization - Contract to stipulate measures for compliance by contractor - the contractor shall spray water on dusty routes along populated areas with a water truck during demobilization - contractor to repair broken down equipment prior to demobilization or transport unserviceable ones by trailer - Barangay officials to coordinate with contractor in setting up warning signs and monitoring speed limits and compliance to traffic rules - contractor to seek clearance from barangay officials prior to demobilization Budget: activities included in contractor s bid and contract Table 6b: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Roads, Bridges and Irrigation Schemes) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement staking, ROW acquisition, clearing and grubbing along road and irrigation canal alignment - damages to standing crops and other structures - conflict and disagreements on ROW compensation - localized tree cutting or vegetation clearing and disturbance to wildlife - avoid indiscriminate cutting of vegetation - disclosure of ADB Involuntary Resettlement and Compensation guidelines, e.g. market value as basis for pricing of land or crops and other properties - prepare compensation package for land or ROW acquisition, and/or crop damage compensation, based on prior consultation with projectaffected persons - secure Deed of Donation or Quit Claim on land/other properties - payment of compensation prior to construction works - prior acquisition of Tree Cutting - contract to stipulate prohibition of indiscriminate cutting during clearing and grubbing operations - MLGU and DAR PPIMO to conduct orientation on compensation guidelines to affected community members during pre-implementation stage - MLGU to prepare and settle compensation prior to actual ground implementation - contractor to acquire tree cutting permit from DENR or MLGU prior to clearing and grubbing operations - community and contractor to implement tree planting in areas prone to erosion with MLGU

19 19 Permit - compliance with conditions in secured permits - implementation of tree planting around the facility support - community and barangay officials to monitor contractor compliance to conditions in contract and permits Budget: orientation covered under CDD component; ROW and crop damages compensation part of MLGU equity counterpart; permit acquisition included under contractor s bid and contract installation of scaffoldings and shorings for bridge works, cross drainage structures, dams and flood protection works - exposure of workers to hazard of flashfloods in construction works along rivers and creeks - obstruction of natural flow of water along rivers and creeks - obstruction of public access during bridge rehabilitation or cross drainage construction - schedule construction works during drier months - engage and instruct upstream brgy. residents to send warning calls (cellphone or other means of communication) during heavy rains for possible headwater flash floods - leave enough channel for unobstructed river flow - follow natural drainage paths when constructing road drainage canals and installing culverts - provide access thru site by proper scheduling of rehab works or assigning worker to handle traffic management - provide detour or alternate route - contractor to consult with local residents on climate and flooding behavior of waterways as basis for timing of implementation for these work items - contractor to coordinate with barangay officials in engaging upstream local residents for warning calls with appropriate compensation arrangement - contractor to properly locate scaffolding without obstructing the natural flow of waterway - contractor to construct or designate a temporary and safe alternate route before construction begins and assign a traffic marshal for as long as traffic is expected - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to monitor work progress on a daily basis Budget: activities included in contractor s bid and contract and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart concreting works on roads, drainage and irrigation structures - increase in suspended dust particulates, obnoxious gas and particulate emissions and noise levels from concrete mixers within the vicinity of the construction site - obstruction of public access through the road, bridge and structure during concreting works - avoid night-time concreting works - ensure proper concrete mixing procedures i.e. water first before aggregates and cement - ensure concrete mixers are in good operating condition with proper and functional mufflers - provide access thru site by proper scheduling of concreting works or assign worker to handle traffic management - provide detour or alternate route - contractor to comply with proper concrete mixing procedures i.e. water first, cement then aggregates - contractor to use only concrete mixers of good operating condition - contractor to construct or designate a temporary and safe alternate route before embankment work begins and assign a traffic marshal for as long as traffic is expected - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to monitor work progress on a daily basis Budget: activities included in contractor s bid and contract and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart Table 6c: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Roads and Bridges)

20 20 Specific Activities and Potential Impacts grading and excavation works during road rehabilitation and construction and bridge works - increase in suspended dust particulates, obnoxious gas and particulate emissions and increased noise levels during grading and excavation works - obstruction of public access through roads during grading operation and excavation works - destabilization of slopes and soil erosion during excavation works - obstruction of natural and redirected flow of water during excavation works along roads, irrigation canal, cross drainage structures and flood control works - increase in total suspended solids, browning and turbidity of the receiving water body due to soil erosion and increase in run-off from construction sites Mitigating Measures - avoid night-time construction works - wet areas of dust sources along grading route - ensure compliance of equipment to manufacturers maintenance requirements and to government emission standards - provide access thru site by proper scheduling of grading and excavation works or assign worker to handle traffic management - provide detour or alternate route - ensure temporary shorings along adjacent areas are in place during excavation works to prevent erosion and slope destabilization - designate a Spoils Storage Area of at least 25 meters away from water bodies for proper disposal of excavated materials - direct loading of excavated materials into hauling trucks for immediate disposal to designate spoils storage area - provide silt traps and canal interceptors along waterway embankments to prevent entry into water bodies Implementation Arrangement - the contractor shall spray water along grading routes with a water truck - contractor to use only equipment that are compliant to manufacturers maintenance requirements and government emission standards - contractor to construct or designate a temporary and safe alternate route before grading and excavation begins and assign a traffic marshal for as long as traffic is expected - contractor to provide protective shorings along adjacent areas where excavation is done - designated disposal areas shall be approved by the MLGU LPO with concurrence of the barangay officials - contractor to design and layout interceptor canals and silt traps for approval by MLGU LPO - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to monitor work progress on a daily basis Budget: activities included in contractor s bid and contract and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart Table 6d: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Road Works) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement hauling and embankment works during road rehabilitation and construction - obstruction of public access through roads during embankment works - increase in suspended dust particulates along unpaved roads, obnoxious gas and particulate emissions and noise levels from heavy equipment operations within the vicinity of the construction and along the transport route of the heavy equipment - increased community hazards of vehicular accidents along transport routes - erosion of unstable - provide access thru site by proper scheduling of hauling and embankment works or assign worker to handle traffic management - provide detour or alternate route - avoid night-time construction works - wet areas of dust sources along vehicle route during hauling - cover cargoes with tarpaulin sheets or any equivalent - ensure compliance of equipment to manufacturers maintenance requirements and to government emission standards - set speed limit to 15 kph when passing through populated area - provide appropriate warning signs and lighting - ensure strict observance of traffic rules - ensure proper compaction of embankment works - contractor to construct or designate a temporary and safe alternate route before embankment work begins and assign a traffic marshal for as long as traffic is expected - the contractor shall spray water on dusty routes along populated areas with a water truck during hauling operations - contractor to use only equipment that are compliant to manufacturers maintenance requirements and government emission standards - Barangay officials to coordinate with contractor in setting up warning signs and monitoring speed limits and compliance to traffic rules - contractor to comply with proper compaction procedures by layer and conduct compaction test for submission to MLGU LPO

21 21 embankment slopes - provide vegetation cover or coco net slope protection works when necessary - sub-project design to integrate bio-engineering practices (vegetation cover) or use of geotextiles or coco nets for slope protection on expected high embankment sections - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to monitor work progress on a daily basis Budget: activities included in contractor s bid and contract and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart Table 6e: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Potable Water Supply) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts Wash water and rainwater entering the dugwells polluting the ground water Mitigating Measures Construction should ensure sealed joints and a circular cemented barrier around dugwell to stormwater runoff and washwater run-off entering the dugwell. Implementation Arrangement Contractor with supervision from MLGU engineer. Table 6e: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Fish Landing Facilities, Jetty and Solar Drier on Stilts) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts establishment of foundation for small fish landing facilities, jetty and solar drier on stilts - damage to coral reefs and disturbance of marine life - possible illegal or unauthorized sourcing of construction materials from prohibited areas like mangrove and coral reefs Mitigating Measures - avoid siting of structures in coral reefs with live coral lines - drive foundation piles during low tide using drop hammers of appropriate capacity - prohibit the use of mangrove and corals as construction materials - coordinate with barangay officials on legal sources of construction materials within the area Implementation Arrangement - ARCP II to disapprove proposals located in coral reefs with live coral lines and marine sanctuaries - contractor to present plan of work including pile driving equipment to be used and identification of sources of construction materials for approval by MLGU LPO and DAR PPIMO - contractor to strictly comply with prohibitions stipulated in the contract - MLGU Project Engineer (PE) to monitor work progress on a daily basis Budget: cost of activities part of DAR review procedures and contractor s management cost and PE monitoring part of MLGU equity counterpart

22 22 3. Operation and Maintenance Phase 59. This phase would involve the actual operation of the completed facilities during its expected economic life. Operation and maintenance would be the main responsibility of the LGUs and community organizations. Likely impacts with mitigating measures would include the following: Table 7a: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures common to all sub-project types Specific Activities and Potential Impacts Mitigating Measures Implementation Arrangement conduct of O and M organizational and coordination meetings - lack of participation of indigenous peoples, women or other marginalized sectors in sub-project operation and maintenance - lack of knowledge on prohibitions and obligations of community members on the proper use of completed facilities - sustain involvement of IPs, women and marginalized sectors thru conduct of regular meetings on O and M concerns with O and M committees and organizations e.g. OMC, ISA, BAWASA - conduct O and M orientation to community in native dialect - establishment of O and M Committee (OMC), ISA and BAWASA by MLGU LPO is a precondition to sub-project approval; during initial subproject implementation, these organizations will be trained on O and M including the conduct of general assembly to its members hence officers will be responsible to sustain participation of all sectors within the community - MLGU to provide technical assistance to O and M organizations to sustain facilities - NCIP to assist in case the area has IP community Budget: establishment of O and M units part of LGU equity counterpart; trainings covered under CDD component Table 7b: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Roads) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts usage of completed road systems - obstruction of run-off along drainage canals causing run-off overflow leading to erosion of the road - increase in agricultural activity in previously inaccessible farm areas which may cause improper land preparations resulting to damage to road drainage and shoulder - increased community hazards to vehicular accidents along the completed roads Mitigating Measures - regular removal of debris, logs and other materials along drainage canals to avoid clogging - regular vegetation control along run-off area to ensure free flow - provide training to ARBs/farmers on proper land preparations and agricultural techniques, especially in sloping areas - set speed limit to 15 kph when passing through populated area - provide appropriate warning signs and lighting - ensure strict observance of traffic rules Implementation Arrangement - Capacity building on O and M procedures to be provided by the Project during implementation - LGU to ensure OMC is functional and regularly maintains access and road drainage facilities as part of LGU commitment under the Sub-Project Agreement (SPA) - LGU to coordinate with DAR/DA on training, in consultation with the agrarian reform organizations within the ARC - Barangay officials to set up warning signs and street lights along populated areas and monitor speed limits and compliance to traffic rules Budget: cost of activities to be taken out of O and M unit funds derived from users fee with support budget from MLGU as part of equity counterpart; trainings on O and M covered under CDD component

23 23 Table 7c: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Irrigation Systems) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts usage of completed irrigation facilities - obstruction of water flow due to aggregation of garbage at the head works or check and control gates of irrigation schemes Mitigating Measures - regular removal of debris, logs and other materials at diversion head works, checks and control gates to avoid clogging Implementation Arrangement - ISA to designate gatekeeper and watermasters from its members with proper compensation; this will be part of the capacity building on O and M procedures to be provided by the Project during implementation Budget: cost of activities to be taken out of Irrigators Service Fees (ISF) derived from ISA members; trainings on O and M covered under CDD component land preparation, planting and crop maintenance - increased use of agrochemicals (pesticides & fertilizers) due to more intensive cropping - leaching of soil nutrients and changes in soil characteristics due to excessive application of irrigation water or improper and excessive use of agro-chemicals - agro-chemical contamination of surface and groundwater - use only agro-chemicals allowed by Phil Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority (PFPA) - controlled and proper timing of agrochem application based on IPCM Program - farmers training on proper selection, dosage and timing of agro-chem applications - introduce and advocate the use of organic fertilizer - ISA to regulate use of irrigation water through watermaster and charge water usage fees (ISF), a deterrent to excessive use of water - analysis of irrigation water at downstream of service area prior to exit to natural waterways - groundwater analysis within the service area - periodic analysis of soil to preempt potential soil toxicity - LGU Municipal Agriculturist (MAO) to assist and coordinate with the DA on IPCM Training to ISA with PFPA as one of resource persons - ISA to regulate irrigation water distribution and ensure the imposition and collection of water usage fees (ISF) - soil and water analysis to be regularly undertaken by the LGU MAO with the assistance from DA and DENR Budget: cost of activities to be taken out of ISA funds derived from ISF with support budget from MLGU as part of equity counterpart; MAO services and trainings part of MLGU counterpart irrigation water supply distribution - reduction of downstream water supply, especially during peak season, resulting to disruption or deprivation of other water users downstream - renew NWRB clearance/water permits annually - ensure there is good upper watershed management thru coordination with the DENR or taking initiatives in forest cover protection - LGU MAO to remind and assist ISA to renew NWRB permits annually - LGU to initiate tree planting activities on watershed areas with assistance from DENR Budget: tree planting activities and MAO services part of MLGU counterpart and responsibility Table 7d: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Warehouses and Solar Driers) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts drying and warehousing of harvested crops Mitigating Measures - locate drying pavements away Implementation Arrangement - detailed design to include locational plan of post harvest facilities for approval by DAR

24 24 - increase in suspended dust particulates within the vicinity of the drying areas - proliferation of rats and other pests in warehouses from populated areas preferably within production area - fence off driers to prevent children from going near drying areas - keep warehouse clean and seal all openings with screen to prevent rat entry - provide enough space between stack piles to have clear view of rat dwellings - conduct regular pest control measures PPIMO - fencing of driers near populated areas and screening of warehouse openings to be incorporated on sub-project cost - FO or ISA to develop guidelines on stack piling of harvested crops in warehouse and the conduct and procedures for pest control measures Budget: design features part of DAR review process and included in POW; FO and ISA activities to be financed from ISF with support budget from MLGU as part of equity counterpart; MAO services and trainings part of MLGU counterpart Table 7e: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Potable Water Supply) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts potable water supply distribution - reduction of downstream water supply, especially during peak season, resulting to disruption or deprivation of other water users downstream Mitigating Measures - renew NWRB clearance/water permits annually - ensure there is good upper watershed management thru coordination with the DENR or taking initiatives in forest cover protection Implementation Arrangement - LGU to remind and assist BAWASA to renew NWRB permits annually - LGU to initiate tree planting activities on watershed areas with assistance from DENR Budget: tree planting activities part of MLGU counterpart and responsibility Table 7f: Potential Impacts and Mitigating Measures (Building Facilities) Specific Activities and Potential Impacts usage of completed social infrastructure facilities - accumulation of garbage as a result of constant usage of social infrastructure facilities Mitigating Measures - provision of trash bins for proper segregation and disposal of biodegradables from nonbiodegradables - assign janitorial staff from OMC membership Implementation Arrangement - LGU to ensure OMC is functional and regularly maintains facilities as part of LGU commitment under the Sub-Project Agreement (SPA) - responsible OMC to provide trash bins and engage a janitor to keep the areas clean at all times Budget: cost of activities to be taken out of O and M unit funds derived from users fee with support budget from MLGU as part of equity counterpart 4. Abandonment Phase 60. No abandonment of the sub-projects is expected since the Operations and Maintenance Phase is considered to sustain the life and utility of the sub-projects, unless natural catastrophic events such as anomalous magnitude of earthquake or flooding destroy the facility beyond use. In this case, the engineering and design of the replacement facilities will integrate and handle the demolition of the damaged structures.

25 To further ensure sustainability of the completed facilities, the following O and M arrangement is recommended: Table 8: ARCP II Operation and Maintenance Framework Type of Subproject O and M Responsibility Strategy and Support Mechanism Access Infrastructure (roads, bridges, fish landing facilities, footpaths) The Municipal and Barangay LGU and community thru the establishment of an O and M Committee (OMC) ARCP II, DAR and Municipal LGU/LPO to assist in organizing, training and operationalization of community O and M Committee Municipal LGU to provide regular annual routine maintenance fund Maintenance fund to be augmented thru the imposition of road users' fee if feasible OMC to formulate an annual maintenance program Municipal LGU to involve community thru commissioning of "pakyaw" groups to undertake maintenance adopting the "length man" system Periodic maintenance to make use of the "Bayanihan System" Potable Water Supply The Community thru the establishment of a Barangay Waterworks and Sanitation Association (BAWASA) ARCP II, DAR and Municipal LGU/LPO to organize, train and operationalize the BAWASA DILG to assist in organizing the BAWASA BAWASA to develop systems and procedures for levying water charges to cover maintenance and operating cost Local Water Districts to provide technical assistance to BAWASA through a MOA with the LGU School Buildings The Municipal LGU thru the School Board and PTCA Municipal LGU to provide regular annual operation and maintenance fund Municipal LGU to ensure the availability of teachers at all times Municipal LGU to seek assistance from National Line Agencies, i.e. DepEd, to sustain the operation and maintenance of the facility Barangay Health Stations The Municipal LGU thru the Municipal Health Office and Local Health Board Municipal LGU to provide regular annual operation and maintenance fund Municipal LGU to ensure availability of Barangay Health Workers or midwives at all times Municipal LGU to seek assistance from National Line Agencies, i.e. DOH, to sustain the operation and maintenance of the facility Day Care Centers The Municipal LGU thru the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office Municipal LGU to provide regular annual operation and maintenance fund Municipal LGU to ensure availability of social welfare officer at all times Municipal LGU to seek assistance from National Line Agencies, i.e. DSWD, to sustain the operation and maintenance of the facility Post-Harvest Facilities The identified proponent community PO Community PO to undertake regular maintenance of facilities through its members Community PO to develop systems and procedures for collecting users fee if facility is income generating to cover maintenance and operating cost

26 26 Tribal Centers The proponent Tribal Council Tribal Council to undertake regular maintenance of facilities through its members NCIP to provide technical assistance to Tribal Council to develop income generating skills Communal Farm Infrastructure The Farmers thru the establishment of Irrigators Service Association (ISA), Farmers Association (FA) or Small Water Impounding System Association (SWISA) Municipal LGU through a MOA with and under the technical guidance of NIA, DA or BSWM to organize, train and operationalize the ISA, FA or SWISA Municipal LGU with technical assistance from NIA, DA or BSWM to develop O and M manual to include the policies, systems and procedures to be adopted by the ISA, FA or SWISA in collecting irrigation service fees (ISF) from members for operation and maintenance use V. INSTITUTIONAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING PLAN 62. The implementation of mitigation measures would largely be the responsibility of contractors during actual construction procedures while sub-project siting and design would be by the LGUs. O and M environmental protection measures will be done by the respective O and M committees and organizations with some assistance from the LGU and relevant line agencies. The monitoring of compliance to these measures will be largely under the DAR Project offices at all levels with the full involvement of the LGUs. The DAR and LGUs will set up a mechanism to ensure that monitoring responsibilities are understood and accountabilities are clear. At the DAR management side, a safeguard specialist will be engaged at the central level to provide technical assistance to the DAR regional and provincial designated staff. The project would also ensure that capacity of DAR staff will be enhanced and technology transfer is effected. At the municipal LGU, the MPDC, MSWDO, ME and Municipal Community Officer (MCO) will be designated as the safeguards unit ( with a specific person like MPDC as focal contact person as designated by LGU Mayor) for all types of sub-projects. A unit head will be designated by the LGU Mayor amongst these LGU staff. Review of sub-project sitings and detailed engineering design will be done by DAR provincial, regional and central project offices. Actual ground implementation will be supervised daily by the MLGU LPO, with DAR PPIMO and RPO conducting periodic site visits. ADB supervision missions will be undertaken to review and assess the overall work progress as well as compliance to safeguard policies. The O and M phase will be largely monitored by the MLGU with periodic assistance from DAR and relevant government line and regulatory agencies. 63. Specific monitoring items and parameters, location and frequency, monitoring responsibilities and sources of budget are discussed in the table below. Table 9: Monitoring Items and Parameters Monitoring Items Location and Frequency Responsibilities and Parameters 1. Pre-Construction monitoring items common to all sub-project types Resources and Budget Siting of subproject (proper location and alignment) inclusiveness of community participation (% of marginalized - monitoring to be done after community identification and prioritization of subprojects - monitoring to be done during the conduct of community consultations at project preparation and pre- - DAR PPIMO to conduct field validation of sub-project sites and advise MLGU LPO to relocate sites posing adverse environmental impact that could not be mitigated - DAR PPIMO and MLGU through its MPDC, MSWDO, ME and community officer to invite representatives from all sectors of - budget for validation activities of PPIMO and attendance to consultations covered under MOOE

27 27 sector attending) implementation stages community to attend consultations as scheduled and monitor attendance resolution of ROW conflicts (# of complaints from affected persons) illegal sourcing of construction materials (use of prohibited materials) - monitoring to be done during the conduct of route and topographic survey along road, irrigation canal and water supply pipe alignment - monitoring to be done during procurement of construction materials by contractor - MLGU survey team to conduct dialogue with affected people and disclose GOP and ADB policy on ROW acquisition and compensation - MLGU LPO to ensure that contractor has the necessary permit to source materials from designated quarry sites and legal suppliers - MLGU monitoring, consultation and supervision activity part of its equity counterpart taken out of their own budget 2a. Construction monitoring items common to all sub-project types actual sub-project alignment, ROW acquisition and crop damages (encroachment of sub-project into environmentally sensitive areas and # of complaints from affected persons) nuisance caused by construction activities (dust particulates, noise level, obnoxious gases emissions, traffic congestions, vehicular accidents) overall construction method (compliance to contract, permits, safety of workers) - monitoring to be done during establishment of batterboards and conduct of staking activities - monitoring to be done during mobilization and demobilzation along transport routes especially in highly populated areas and work activities in construction sites using heavy equipment and power driven tools equipment - daily monitoring through observations at construction sites. The sediment and erosion control best management practices guidance and checklist is provided in appendix 2 of EARP. - - MLGU LPO to supervise contractors in staking and ensure that sub-project is located away from environmentally critical areas, ROW is properly compensated and crop damages are minimized if not totally avoided - MLGU LPO to require contractor to use water truck in water spraying of transport routes causing dust along populated areas, inspect vehicle registration compliance to emission tests, A1 status of heavy equipment and compliance to traffic rules - MLGU LPO to assign Project Engineer to report daily to construction site for supervision of work methods and progress - MLGU monitoring and supervision activity part of its equity counterpart taken out of their own budget including request for assistance from regulatory agencies 2b. Construction monitoring items common to roads, bridges and irrigation schemes soil erosion, destabilization of slopes (occurrence of landslides) - monitoring to be done during excavation works especially after heavy rains 2c. Construction monitoring items common to roads and bridges obstruction to public access (# of complaints - monitoring to be done daily along regular public routes while construction work is - MLGU LPO to inspect appropriateness of shorings before any excavation work starts - MLGU LPO to inspect sufficiency of alternative routes provided by contractor - contractor mitigating measures to be included in bids as part of POW

28 28 received) Water contamination (presence of grease, amount of suspended solids, BOD load) on progress - monitoring of contaminants to be done at 1 km interval within work area and downstream of rivers and creeks for at least once a month - MLGU LPO to seek assistance from DENR and DOH to conduct water sampling analysis and determine extent of contamination if within acceptable levels 3a. O and M monitoring items common to all sub-projects inclusiveness of community participation in O & M (% of membership of marginalized sector to O&M committees) - monitoring to be done during organizing at project preparation stage and conduct of meetings during operation stage 3b. O and M monitoring items specific to road systems proper usage of roads and overall compliance of LGU to O and M responsibilities under SPA (obstruction of canal and drainage facilities) - monitoring to be done along road canals and drainage facilities to determine extent of obstructions to flow of run-off water especially during rainy season 3c. O and M monitoring items specific to irrigation systems - DAR PPIMO and MLGU through its MPDC, MSWDO, ME and community officer to invite representatives from all sectors of community to attend consultations as scheduled and monitor attendance - DAR PPIMO and MLGU to conduct joint inspection of all facilities and submit monthly operational reports to DAR RPO - budget for DAR PPIMO monitoring activities part of MOOE and MLGU cost part of equity counterpart stipulated in the SPA use of agro chemicals and contamination of water bodies (dosage, timing and presence of contaminants) proper usage of facilities and overall compliance to O and M responsibilities of ISA (irrigation water supply distribution, reduction of water supply downstream, obstruction of canals and drainage facilities) - monitoring of agro chemical application to be done during crop maintenance stage on a weekly basis and for contaminants to be done at random interval within farmlands for groundwater and 1km downstream from farmlands of rivers and creeks for at least twice a year - monitoring to be done at farmlands for actual water distribution, 1km downstream of sources for reduction of water supply, along canals and gates for obstructions - MLGU to seek assistance from DENR and DOH to conduct groundwater and surface water sampling analysis and determine extent of contamination if within acceptable levels - DAR PPIMO and MLGU to conduct joint inspection of all facilities and submit monthly operational reports to DAR RPO budget for DAR PPIMO monitoring activities part of MOOE and MLGU cost part of equity counterpart stipulated in the SPA 3d. O and M monitoring items specific to potable water supply systems proper usage of facilities and overall compliance to O and M - monitoring to be done at tapstands for actual water distribution, 1km downstream of sources for - DAR PPIMO and MLGU to conduct joint inspection of all facilities and submit monthly operational reports to DAR RPO budget for DAR PPIMO monitoring activities part of MOOE and

29 29 responsibilities of BAWASA (potable water supply distribution, reduction of water supply downstream) reduction of water supply 3e. O and M monitoring items specific to building facilities proper usage of facilities and overall compliance of LGU to O and M responsibilities under SPA (accumulation of garbage, proliferation of pests in storage areas) - monitoring to be done at building surroundings for accumulation of garbage and warehouses for proliferation of pests on a monthly basis - DAR PPIMO and MLGU to conduct joint inspection of all facilities and submit monthly operational reports to DAR RPO MLGU cost part of equity counterpart stipulated in the SPA 64. Capacity Building Requirements. The capacity of the LGU, DAR Regional and Provincial Office staff and the ARC on environmental management is rated low since there historically there was no training on Environmental Impact Assessment, environmental inspection and monitoring including the environmental legal frameworks (both DENR and ADB) with which sub-projects should be complying with. Given this, a number of trainings to the LGU, the local community and the DAR are necessary to meet these needs for following the environmental assessment procedures and guidelines that are specified in this EARP. These training modules are listed as follows: (i) Philippine EIS System, focused on IEE and EMP preparation, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications (ii) Philippine Environmental Regulations and ADB Environmental and Social Safeguards, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications (iii) Philippine Watershed and Natural Resources Management, with group workshop on skill building/practical applications (iv) Requirements and Procedures for Monitoring & Evaluation of Sub-Projects (Training on EARP), with group workshop on skill building/practical applications (v) Understanding the Sub-Project Design & Operations (overview of sub-project descriptions: This is the first part of the IEE) 65. The estimated cost for these trainings would be about PhP8.80 million inclusive of the costs of food and venue, training supplies and materials, resource persons, organizing and facilitation. 66. Each training would involve two (2) representatives from each barangay, two (2) from the MLGU LPO (preferably the Project Engineer and the Environmental Officer), two (2) from DAR (one from the Region and one from the Province). Live-in training is estimated at PhP1,200 per pax per day while live-out training is PhP500 per pax per day. VI. PUBLIC CONSULTATION AND INFORMATION DISCLOSURE 67. The ADB s Public Communication Policy (PCP) of 2005 establishes the disclosure requirements for documents produced or required to be produced by the Bank. Such disclosure requirements must be consistent with the general principles set out in the Policy.

30 ADB works closely with its borrowers and private sector project sponsors to prepare and implement development activities. In doing so, it will inform borrowers and sponsors of its presumption in favor of disclosure of information about ADB-assisted operations. The documents shall be made publicly available according to the time period specified, after consultation with the respective borrower or private sector sponsor as appropriate, and subject to the section on exceptions to disclosure. 69. Under paragraph 77 of the PCP and in accordance with the requirements under the environment policy, ADB shall make a summary environmental impact assessment for a category A project or summary initial environmental examination for a category B project deemed environmentally sensitive, publicly available at least 120 calendar days i) before ADB's Board of Directors considers the loan, ii) before approval of a category A subproject, or a category B subproject deemed environmentally sensitive, or iii) in relevant cases before approval of a major change in a project's scope. In addition, ADB shall also make the full environmental impact assessment and initial environmental examination available to interested parties on request. 70. In compliance to this, ARCP II through DAR, DENR, LGU and other partner institutions shall make relevant information on the project's environmental issues available to affected people before or during the consultations with project-affected groups and local NGOs, as required under the environment policy. 71. Public consultation and disclosure is a continuing process in project development to ensure that the environmental and social safeguards are constantly in place and mitigating measures are complied for the preservation of a balance ecological system and prevention of further environmental degradation. The public consultation and disclosure that were done under ARCP II are summarized as follows: 72. From 15 August to 10 September 2005: field data gathering and conduct of briefing on the proposed Project, consultations and focus group discussions (FGD) with stakeholders at the field level composed of DAR field units and relevant line agencies, municipal and barangay officials and communities involving ARBs, IPs and farmers organizations. Relevant issues and problems were discussed and topics on environmental concerns included an overview of the local environmental status, pressing environmental issues confronting their area of jurisdiction, institutional arrangements for environmental monitoring and LGU capability on the environmental and social safeguards policies. Key informant interviews (KII) with some community members were also done to gather information and validate the local environmental setting of the proposed rural infrastructures as basis for the impact assessment. Brief presentation of municipal development plans, socio-economic profiles and ARC development plans and profiles provided an opportunity to validate the sites based on selection criteria. An exit conference with DAR field units to review findings, deepen understanding and discuss potential project designs was also done allowing the TA Team to further assess the capacity of the DAR Provincial Offices November 2005: conduct of a tripartite meeting with the Project Steering Committee (PSC) at DAR-FAPsO which was attended by representatives from ADB, DAR management officials and representatives from DAR Bureaus and offices and some members of the PSC from DA, and LBP. 74. Among others, the topics discussed on environmental concerns included the summary of the Safeguard Policies and Considerations, issues on Social Safeguards primarily on Resettlement Framework and the establishment of safeguards and grievance committees in the municipal and barangay levels. The discussion covered both ADB and the Philippine Government s Environmental Assessment Policies and Environmental Considerations to be implemented in the Project November 2005: conduct of stakeholders workshop as a follow-up from earlier workshop of 01 June 2005 where the selection criteria for Project coverage were discussed and the identification of sample FS sites. Attendance to the workshop included ADB and

31 31 DAR representatives from the Central Office, five (5) DAR regional offices including DAR ARMM and the PAROS of the fifteen (15) provinces. Discussions included topics on the Project providing a safeguard specialist for technical assistance, the need for NCIP to assist and ensure participation of the IPs in the planning process, the Project s adherence to the ADB and GOP environmental guidelines and the stakeholders role in the environmental assessment (EA) cycle. 76. Issues Raised. Common environmental issues raised are on the perennial flooding of low lying areas, after effect of mine tailings in at least two ARCs although the mining firms have already ceased to operate for the last 5-10 years and proposed farm to market roads traversing areas of critical slopes. Flooding of low lying areas can be prevented with the construction of flood dikes and provision of sufficient drainage outlets. However, these are expensive interventions and the Project may only be able to address a few isolated cases given the limited resources. These were then recommended to be sourced out from DPWH and provincial government who are mandated to address such issues. On the after effect of mine tailings, the proponents were advised to wait for recommendations form the DENR- Mines & Geosciences Bureau who has conducted soil sampling and site investigation in the area. For proposed FMRs traversing steep slopes, the proponents were advised to relocate the route to areas of non-critical slopes. Unless feasible mitigating measures are developed, other alternative way of transporting farm products like simple cable systems used in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) may be adopted. 77. The Pre-Appraisal Mission provided an opportunity to conduct additional consultation and information disclosure on the draft ARCP II EARP documents to the various stakeholders in the field Septembe 2007: Consultation meeting with LGU s, DAR Provincial officials, DENR CENRO s and an IP community in the Negros Occidental Province. The institutional arrangement for compliance with EARP and environmental management plan requirements were discussed during these meetings and no concerns were raised September 2007: consultation meeting with the DAR ARMM Secretary, Regional, Provincial and Municipal staff, ARCP I staff, the ARMM Regional Planning and Development Office (RPDO) Executive Director and a representative from DENR ARMM. Topics discussed were on the provisions of the EARP for ARCP II covering sub-topics on the roles and responsibilities of Project implementers in complying with GOP and ADB environmental safeguard policies as well as monitoring requirements. 80. Issues Raised.: there is usually no existing environmental safeguard specialist at all levels of the DAR bureaucracy as well as the LGUs. It was recommended that under ARCP II, there is a need to designated one from the existing staff at every level of DAR offices and for each participating LGU and a safeguard specialist will be engaged by the Project to assist and train the designated environmental point persons. While the DARPO designated staff would assist the LGU in complying with all the environmental safeguard requirements, the DAR Regional designated staff in coordination with DENR EMB technical staff and Project safeguard specialist will focus on the capacity building of those at the provincial and municipal levels. This was agreed upon by all concerned and committed to comply with Project requirements September 2007: the mission visited the municipalities of Parang, Shariff Kabunsuan and Ganassi, Lanao Sur. This was attended by the municipal officials, DARPO and DARMO officials and DA MAOs. Unlike most of the municipal LGUs, the municipality of Parang has an environmental focal person designated under the MPDO. Although the designated staff was intended for MRDP, the LGU could extend his designation to comply with ARCP II requirements. In addition, the LGU has also an existing municipal ordinance on policies regarding the protected areas under their jurisdiction. Trainings on environmental concerns have also been provided to the MPDO staff.

32 Discussions during the visit included the participants observations and perceptions on possible adverse environmental impacts of their identified priority sub-project on solar driers on stilts for seaweed production in Parang and the perennial flooding of the low lying area of Ganassi caused by the overflowing of the nearby Ganassi river traversing across the mid section of the municipality. 83. Issues Raised. the municipality of Parang was confident that there will be no issues regarding the development of their proposed seaweed solar driers as these will be located outside of their marine protected areas at a distance of about 1 to 2 kilometers away. It was observed however that farm to market roads in their area were easily damaged during rainy season due to inadequate drainage facilities hence were requesting to have these facilities paved. It was then explained that concreting of farm to market roads could not be justified due to minimal traffic volume and an all weather gravel road will suffice as long as proper drainage facilities are provided which is considered as critical features of ARCP II design specifications. The other concern relevant to environmental safeguard is on the availability of the CENRO to provide technical assistance as the office currently covers four (4) municipalities with and is based in Cotabato city. This could be addressed by ensuring that the municipality informs the CENRO in advance for any coordination activities that need to be undertaken during the course of implementation. 84. In the case of the municipality of Ganassi, their main concern is on the flooding of the low lying areas. The municipality has initiated to construct only about 35 linear meters of flood dikes due to funding constraints. Their request is to have this covered and included under ARCP II assistance of which they were informed that although flood protection works are included under the Project menu, it all depends on the scale of work as these are usually expensive to develop. However, given that the estimated cost of completing the flood dikes would be about PhP15 million, the proposal is worth considering as the cost is within the budgetary limits of ARCP II. 85. From the recent consultations, there were no substantial changes on environmental concerns that were observed from those of Besides, the Project design was basically unaltered hence consultations and information disclosure during the PPTA team field visits are considered valid and usable. 86. The Environmental Impact Assessment and Management and Monitoring Plan (EIAMMP) would involve the active participation of all identified project stakeholders at all levels hence future public consultation and disclosure on environmental concerns need to be conducted to ensure full understanding of the positive and negative consequences of interventions that will be provided by the Project. This would also clearly establish the responsibility centers on the safeguard requirements during the implementation and operation period. Implementing and monitoring arrangements would need to be confirmed taking into account the local conditions. The plan would include capacity building interventions to both the implementing and monitoring units especially the LGUs and the communities themselves. This is in view of the fact that environmental and social safeguards will have to be monitored continuously even after project life. VII. FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 87. Based on the findings of the IEE, while most of the individual sub-projects are generally classified under Category C under the Philippine EIS System, ARCP II will be classified under Category B under the ADB system hence sub-projects which are further classified as core sub-projects will be required an IEE for submission to DENR and ADB. However, environmental implications for all sub-projects regardless of categorization shall be reviewed and EIMMP shall be prepared to ensure insignificant impacts will not lead to

33 33 serious damages in the future. No EIA is expected to be required as there is no subproject that is likely to fall under Category A. 88. In conclusion, this IEE is therefore considered as the completed environmental assessment for ARCP II and no follow up EIA will be needed.

34 ANNEX 1 RECOMMENDED SAFEGUARD PROVISIONS IN EACH SUB-PROJECT CONTRACT A. General The contractor shall ensure that employees strictly adhere to the mitigation measures required to protect and minimize impact to the environment during construction works; Hiring of workforce by the contractor shall give preference to qualified local community residents and Indigenous Peoples particularly those who will be affected by the construction and limit entry of external workforce to highly specialized work items if not available within locality and ensure briefing on proper conduct and behavior while in the locality; Construction works shall be limited between 6am to 6pm especially if work items are within the vicinity of residential areas; The contractor shall ensure that only A1 condition equipment with functional mufflers are used and compliant to emission standards; The contractor shall avoid indiscriminate cutting of vegetation and limit clearing and grubbing operation within designated and approved ROW; Remedial actions which cannot be effectively carried out during construction shall be carried out immediately upon completion of each work item; No construction activity shall commence without prior payment of ROW and crop damages compensation to affected individuals B. Mobilization, Hauling and Demobilization No mobilization, Hauling and Demobilization shall be allowed during night time especially if transport route traverses residential areas; Transport routes shall be designated and approved by the MLGU and damages to these routes due to negligence of contractor shall be repaired charged to the contractor s account; Drivers and heavy equipment operators shall strictly observe traffic rules and regulations along the transport route at all times; The contractor shall wet areas of dust sources along vehicle route and cover cargoes with tarpaulin sheets or any equivalent; Workers camp sites shall be located in designated areas provided by the barangay officials and bunkhouses shall be provided with proper water and sanitation facilities like toilets, septic tanks and trash bins; Motor pool and equipment maintenance areas shall be located at least 500 meters away from water bodies and the area shall be provided with perimeter canals with grease traps or concrete catch basins; The contractor shall conduct clearing and cleaning operations and shall seek clearance from the barangay captain prior to demobilization C. Construction Materials Sources of construction materials shall be from sites with valid environmental clearances, i.e. for sand and gravel, from those with DENR-MGB/EMB permits; for timber resources, from those with valid DENR-FMB/EMB permit; The contractor shall strictly comply with the conditions in secured permits;

35 2 The contractor shall coordinate with barangay officials on exact location of legal sources of construction materials like quarry sites within the area; Quarry sites and borrow pits shall be left trim and tidy with stable side slopes and drained properly with no stagnant water for mosquito breeding; No quarrying shall be allowed within 1 kilometer upstream and downstream of bridge and dam sites; The use of mangrove and corals as construction materials in coastal zones shall be strictly prohibited D. Excavation and Embankment Works The contractor shall provide access thru excavation and embankment sites by proper scheduling of rehab works or providing detour or alternate route agreed with the MLGU and assigning worker to handle traffic management; The contractor shall ensure that temporary shorings along adjacent areas during excavation works are in place to prevent erosion and slope destabilization; The contractor shall maintain stable cut and fill slopes at all times and cause the least possible disturbance to areas outside the prescribed limits of the work; Excavation and embankment works shall leave enough channel for unobstructed river flow; Designated spoils storage area near sites for proper disposal of excavated materials shall be approved by the MLGU; Direct loading of excavated materials into hauling trucks for immediate disposal shall be adopted whenever possible; Careful disposal of debris and excavated materials shall be observed at all times to avoid damages to standing crops and private properties; The contractor shall provide silt traps and canal interceptors along waterway embankments to prevent entry of excavated materials into water bodies

36 3 CORE SUB-PROJECTS of RIZAL - POBLACION ARC Barangay Rizal, Sta. Elena, Camarines Norte, Region V ANNEX 2 I. INTRODUCTION 1. The ARCP II is a follow-on project of the first ARCP of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) which commenced in 1998 and is due for completion by December 2007 with funding support from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The project package will advocate a demand driven approach, improved local governance and ownership by key stakeholders underscoring the active participation and direct involvement of the rural household in the development process. It will support the efforts of DAR to address the key constraints in the development of the ARCs and the improvement in the living conditions of the rural households. The long term impact of the Project is to reduce poverty and contribute to improved sustainability of livelihoods of poor and vulnerable communities in selected ARCs and ARC clusters. 2. In order to achieve these impacts, the Project is expected to have the following outcomes: (i) improved access to livelihood assets by the rural poor including the landless farm workers, (ii) development of sustainable livelihoods and long lasting improvements in the well being of poor and marginalized groups in the target communities. These outcomes will be pursued through the design and implementation of an integrated and complementary package of development investments involving (a) community driven development (b) support for social capital formation, (c) agri-enterprise support programs including technical support for developing access to rural finance (d) land survey and titling, (e) rural infrastructure, (f) capacity building programs and (g) mainstreaming project management in a sustainable manner. 3. To achieve these outcomes and based on the assessment of the needs and demands in the ARCs, the Project will support the following outputs: 1) Community Driven Development (CDD), as a key component to build community capacity for self reliant development, support for social capital formation, strengthening of participatory planning processes, mobilization and organization of communities, improved governance and laying of a strong foundation for sustainability for project investments and long term improvements in livelihoods ; 2) Agriculture and Enterprise Development (AED), to facilitate improvements in agriculture and enterprise development, and support promotion of access to rural financial services including community based micro finance development, in order to increase productivity and profitability of income-generating activities; 3) Rural Infrastructure (RI), designed to provide a fillip to improved production and productivity and cropping intensification, through the improved access to markets, cost-effectiveness and access to services; and 4) Project Implementation Management (PIM) to support implementation, mainstreaming, good governance and accountability. 4. On the basis of ARCP II selection criteria which will consider only provinces with at least four (4) ARCs that have not received infrastructure type of assistance from DAR FAPs, about nineteen (19) provinces are eligible for assistance (see Figure 1 below). This is to ensure equitable distribution of support and benefits to the huge number of ARCs awaiting for support from DAR. From these nineteen (19) provinces, a second level of selection criteria was developed to identify the ARCs that would be eligible for ARCP II assistance. This set of criteria included the factors on ARCs that have not availed of infrastructure type of assistance from DAR FAPs and those that demonstrate potential for income generation and a level of readiness for economic activities. This selection resulted to about 152 ARCs

37 4 covering about 731 barangays spread over 137 municipalities and cities in the 19 provinces. This includes the additional ARCs and provinces of the ARMM with the possible co-financing from OPEC. It is estimated that direct and indirect benefits from the Project will yield positive results in improved quality of life through improved and increased access to services to more than 215,000 rural community members. Figure 1: Operational Map of ARCP II 5. The rural infrastructure requirement of ARCs eligible for ARCP II financing is varied. It ranges from the basic need for a Level I potable water supply system to access

38 5 infrastructure inclusive of a single lane connecting bridge as well as support to agricultural production such as small irrigation schemes, warehouse and drying pavements. 6. In this regard, not all types of infrastructure interventions will require an IEE under the Philippine EIS System. The ADB system would however classify majority of these as Category B equivalent to sub-projects with potentially less degree or significance of environmental impacts that would require an IEE or EIA if warranted by IEE findings. 7. Under ARCP II, these types of sub-projects will be further classified as core subprojects that will be recommended for an IEE preparation in compliance to the environmental requirement of ADB and these will have the following features: - road rehabilitation or construction of more than 2 kilometers length; - irrigation schemes of more than 100 hectares; - concrete bridges of more than 20 linear meters; - flood protection works of more than 50 linear meters; and - fish landing facilities of more than 10 linear meters 8. Not all eligible ARCs under ARCP II will be requiring a set of these core sub-projects hence preparation of an IEE would be dependent on what type and magnitude of infrastructure requirement will be identified and prioritized by the community during the initial Project implementation stage. 9. One of the selected ARCs for ARCP II inclusion is the Rizal-Poblacion ARC in the municipality of Sta. Elena, Province of Camarines Norte (see Figure 2 below). This ARC was likewise selected as one of the five (5) sample sites for a detailed Feasibility Study (FS) on the basis of being linked to the urban centers of southern Luzon and yet, has a high incidence of poverty. The other four (4) selected sample ARCs are located in the Visayas and Mindanao island groups of the country. 10. Of these five (5) sample sites, Rizal-Poblacion ARC has the first three (3) combinations that would qualify as core sub-projects. This was then the basis for selecting this site to demonstrate the process of detailed IEE preparation. 11. The conduct of this Initial Environmental Examinations (IEE) for the proposed core sub-projects of this ARC has the following main purposes: i) to undertake an evaluation of the nature and significance of potential impacts of the core sub-projects identified and prioritized by the community in an ARC; ii) to formulate the corresponding environmental management measures to prevent or mitigate such impacts; iii) to determine the budgetary estimates required to ensure that mitigating measures are complied and environmental monitoring are executed; iv) to demonstrate the process on how environmental assessment and management will be done as guide for the preparation of the environmental compliance requirement for the rest of the prospective proposals that will be identified by the proponent LGUs in the course of Project implementation; and v) to determine whether further study like EIA is necessary and required under the ADB and GOP environmental policies

39 Figure 2: Rizal-Poblacion ARC Location Map, Sta Elena, Camarines Norte 6

40 7 12. The development of an investment package for the Rizal Poblacion ARC was done in a highly participatory manner. The specific sub-projects were initially identified by the local community members through the conduct of community consultation as an on-going process executed by the DAR field units in ARCs under the Program Beneficiaries Development (PBD). DAR regional (Region V) and provincial (Camarines Norte) staff members and relevant line agencies like the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) were consulted and joined the team during the field visit to the ARC and in the conduct of focus group discussion (FGD) and field consultations with the target agrarian reform communities and the local government officials of the municipality of Sta. Elena. 13. The core sub-projects covered under this IEE are those that have been identified and prioritized by the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries (ARB) of Rizal-Poblacion ARC. These are composed of proposed construction and rehabilitation of farm to market roads within the ARC traversing along the periphery of the existing communal irrigation schemes which are also proposed for rehabilitation under the Project The construction of this farm to market roads would provide access to the farmer beneficiaries in bringing their harvest to the municipal center of Sta. Elena. In addition, connecting bridges are also proposed for construction as the existing wooden structures are no longer serviceable. The location of these proposed rural infrastructures are shown in Figure 3 in the succeeding page.

41 Figure 3: Location Map of Proposed Priority Sub-Projects, Rizal-Poblacion ARC 8