Fragile Shores: Coastal Ecosystem Vulnerability in Barangay Bacong, Babatngon, Leyte, Philippines

Abstract:

Introduction: The Philippines, as an archipelagic nation, hosts a vast and dynamic coastal ecosystem that plays a critical role in the socio-economic activities of coastal communities. However, increasing development pressures, such as industrialization and population growth, contribute to the gradual degradation of these environments. This study investigates the vulnerability of the coastal ecosystem in Barangay Bacong, Babatngon, Leyte, a developing coastal barangay experiencing environmental stress amid growing industrial activities. Methods: The study employed the Coastal Vulnerability Index (CVI) to assess coastal geomorphology and vulnerability. Primary data were collected through a validated survey instrument adapted from Gan et al. (2022), which measured residents’ perceptions of coastal resilience. Secondary spatial data were obtained from the Municipal Planning and Development Office (MPDO) and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in shapefile format. The spatial analysis was conducted using Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) version 3.28.8. The CVI was classified into three vulnerability levels—low (1–2), moderate (3–4), and high (5)—based on the scale used by Husaini et al. (2021), which reflects the observed degree of environmental damage. Results: The assessment revealed that Barangay Bacong’s coastal areas exhibit a moderate level of vulnerability, indicating a pressing need for integrated management strategies. Interestingly, statistical analysis showed no significant correlation between demographic variables and ecological vulnerability, which may be attributed to the relatively low population density in the area. Discussion: The findings suggest that, despite exposure to coastal hazards, the area demonstrates a moderate level of adaptive capacity. The absence of significant demographic influence on perceived vulnerability underscores the need for ecosystem-based rather than solely population-focused approaches to coastal management. Conclusion: This study provides baseline data critical for future initiatives in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) in coastal areas. It advocates for the adoption of community-based and data-informed coastal management strategies to strengthen ecosystem resilience in the face of environmental change.

Keywords:

Vulnerability Assessment, Coastal Vulnerability Index, Adaptive Capacity, Coastal Ecosystem

Citation: Julia Anne L. De Guzman, Ace Peter D. Cinco, Rica D. Moron, Elpedio I P. Cuayzon, Jhories Eve L. Capili and Ma. Elvira A. Martija (2025). Fragile Shores: Coastal Ecosystem Vulnerability in Barangay Bacong, Babatngon, Leyte, Philippines. Horizon J. Hum. Soc. Sci. Res. 7 (S), 87–100. https://doi.org/10.37534/bp.jhssr.2025.v7.nS.id1296.p87-100