By Kenneth Marcos 
On a warm morning in Quezon City, government scientists and foreign researchers sat around one table, united by a common worry: the fast disappearance of native species in Metro Manila’s shrinking green spaces. For many of them, the meeting felt urgent, as the capital continues to develop at a pace that threatens what remains of its natural environment.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources–National Capital Region met with representatives from Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University to discuss a new Urban Biodiversity Assessment Project for Metro Manila. The initiative is being carried out in partnership with the University of Santo Tomas – Institute for Collaborative Research in Advancing Biodiversity and Biotechnology.
During the meeting, the NTU research team presented their work on urban ecology across Southeast Asia, including past studies in Brunei, Singapore, and Malaysia. Leading the discussion were Dr. Ngai Lam Sor Weng, Insalina Syakirah Ikbal, and Ko Chung-Wing, who explained how their assessments measure ecosystem functions and the impact of losing native animals and microbes—losses that can push ecosystems toward collapse.
The proposed project will focus on three major areas: measuring carbon loss in urban areas, evaluating ecosystem functions that directly affect public health and daily living, and identifying biodiversity indicators, especially those related to microbe ecology. Researchers from UST ICOLABB, led by Anne Parojinog and supported by master’s students, also shared how their local expertise will complement NTU’s regional experience.
From the DENR-NCR, participants included technical staff from the Protected Area Management and Biodiversity Conservation Section, the Coastal Resource and Foreshore Management Section, and the Protected Area Management Office. These groups will help identify potential study sites among Metro Manila’s remaining urban green spaces and coordinate with local governments once the project begins next year.
Urban biodiversity assessments are becoming increasingly important as cities in Asia face rapid development, shrinking habitats, and growing climate risks. By understanding how native species and microorganisms support clean air, stable soil, and the wellbeing of communities, policymakers can design stronger environmental programs that match the realities of urban life.
The partnership also highlights expanding international cooperation to respond to biodiversity loss and climate change—issues that cut across borders and affect millions of people in Southeast Asia. Through shared research and coordinated policies, experts hope to help Metro Manila protect what remains of its natural ecosystems while planning for more sustainable growth.
As preparations begin for the project’s 2026 rollout, officials encouraged the public to stay informed and support efforts to preserve the city’s biodiversity, noting that healthy ecosystems are essential to building safer and more livable communities in the years ahead.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News