Physical Profile of the Major Rivers in Eastern Samar inside the Samar Island Natural Park (SINP)

Abstract

The study was conducted to illustrate the physical profile of the three major rivers of Eastern Samar inside the SINP to serve as a reference for the river landscape. Highlights of the profile are river width, depth, water velocity and water flow rate, potential source, river stretch, flood height and flood plain as inputs to development and disaster planning. Data presented here were based on field surveys supported and guided by reference maps. Based on the survey, a potential source of Oras and Ulot-Can-avid Rivers is San Jose de Buan, Samar while Suribao River flows from the closed-canopy forest from Borongan-Maydolong-Llorente (Eastern Samar). Flooding and erosion were observed in the three rivers, but the highest silt deposits and the widest flood plain were in Oras River, with the highest water flow rate in the upstream. Erosion and quarrying were observed in all rivers. Bamboo reforestation is conducted in Suribao River as river bank erosion control measures. Results of the survey revealed the high risk to our rivers and river villagers due to flooding and erosion, in addition to the loss of properties and livelihood, and the ecological conservation of the landscape. Collective rehabilitation measures should be crafted for a unified action to address environmental issues parallel to development plans to promote but sustainably manage our resources and protect our villagers.