Evaluating the Environmental Impact of Lawin Forest and Biodiversity Protection System of Department of Environment and Natural Resources on Forest Management

In response to increasing environmental threats, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has implemented the LAWIN Forest and Biodiversity Protection System to enhance forest law enforcement in the Philippines. This study assessed the level of implementation and environmental impact of the LAWIN Patrol System in Region XII (SOCCSKSARGEN), focusing on forest conservation and biodiversity outcomes. Utilizing a quantitative, descriptive-correlational design, the study surveyed 79 stakeholders, including forest rangers, data managers, and community leaders. Results revealed a very high level of implementation, with Patrol Planning and Implementation rated the highest. Forest cover increased overall from 2015 to 2023, with Sarangani showing the largest gain. However, South Cotabato recorded a net forest loss. Trends in threatened species varied significantly, highlighting inconsistent biodiversity outcomes. ANOVA indicated no significant difference in implementation by role, but differences emerged by conservation area type. Regression analysis showed LAWIN components explained 31.5% of the variance in forest cover change, with Data Management as the only significant predictor (p = .0268). In contrast, no significant relationship was found between LAWIN implementation and the number of threatened species, suggesting external factors influence biodiversity protection. The findings underscore the effectiveness of data-driven monitoring in reducing deforestation but reveal limitations in biodiversity conservation efforts, emphasizing the need for stronger integration of ecological, technological, and socio-political dimensions in forest management strategies.