TEACHING SOCIAL STUDIES IN ELEMENTARY GRADES

LESSON 1: THE LOCATION OF THE To the south: It is south of Taiwan and west of
PHILIPPINES Guam.
 The Philippines is an archipelago located TYPES OF MAP:
in Southeast Asia. It lies in the western Philippine National Map: Often produced by
Pacific Ocean, to the east of Vietnam and the National Mapping and Resource Information
north of Indonesia. The country is Authority (NAMRIA), this map shows the entire
positioned between the Philippine Sea to country, including major islands, provinces,
the east and the South China Sea to the cities, and municipalities.
west. It's made up of about 7,641 islands Population Map: Shows the distribution and
grouped mainly into three major island density of the population across different regions
groups: Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. of the Philippines. This type of map helps in
SIZE OF THE PHILIPPINES understanding where people live, identifying
300,000 square kilometers densely populated areas, and planning for
The Philippines is an archipelago of 7,107 resources and infrastructure.
islands covering 300,000 square kilometers (30 Climate Map: Illustrates the various climate
million hectares) – 298,170 square kilometers of zones across the country. It can show
land and 1,830 square kilometers of water. temperature ranges, rainfall patterns, and other
 Luzon: About 109,965 square kilometers climatic conditions. This map is useful for
 Visayas: Roughly 57,088 square kilometers studying weather trends, agricultural planning,
 Mindanao: Approximately 97,530 square and disaster preparedness.
kilometers Topography Map: Details the physical
SHAPE OF THE PHILIPPINES landscape of the country, including elevation,
 The Philippines has a roughly irregular, landforms, and terrain features. It helps in
archipelagic shape. It consists of over understanding geographical features such as
7,600 islands, which are spread out in a mountains, valleys, and plains.
north-south alignment. The shape is often
described as resembling a “long and WEATHER AND CLIMATE
narrow” or “scattered” form due to its Weather – Is the conditioned of the atmosphere
elongated configuration with islands in a place in a short period of time.
stretching from the northern Luzon - METEOROLOGY is the study of the
region down to the southern Mindanao weather.
region. The overall shape is influenced by - METEOROLOGIST are the scientists
its geographic location in the western who study weather.
Pacific and the geological processes that
formed its islands.
ABSOLUTE LOCATION OF THE PHILIPPINES
The coordinates 12.8797° N latitude and
121.7740° E longitude are close to the
geographical center of the Philippines. These
coordinates point to a location in the central part
of the archipelago, reflecting the country’s
position in Southeast Asia.
RELATIVE LOCATION OF THE PHILIPPINES
To the north: The Philippines is north of
Indonesia and the southern part of Malaysia. Climate – Is the average weather patterns in a
To the west: It is west of the Pacific Ocean and certain area over a long time period.
east of Vietnam. - CLIMATOLOGY is the study of climate
To the east: The country is bordered by the and how it changes over time.
Philippine Sea.

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 TEACHING SOCIAL STUDIES IN ELEMENTARY GRADES
- CLIMATOLOGIST studies weather THE DIRECTIONS
patterns over a period of time. Their North:
work is similar to that of Direction: Points towards the North Pole.
meteorologists but focuses on a much Relative Position: In the Northern Hemisphere,
longer timescale, studying trends over north is typically up on maps.
months, years or even centuries. Landmarks: For the Philippines, north is the
FACTORS AFFECTING CLIMATE direction towards Taiwan and the northern part
- ALTITUDE of the Philippine archipelago.
- LATITUDE East:
- BODIES OF THE WATER Direction: Points towards the rising sun.
URBAN VS. RURAL Relative Position: On most maps, east is to the
 Urban: right.
 Characteristics: Urban areas are Landmarks: For the Philippines, east is towards
characterized by high population density the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea.
and significant infrastructure West:
development. They include cities and Direction: Points towards the setting sun.
large towns with extensive buildings, Relative Position: On most maps, west is to the
roads, public transportation, and other left.
amenities. Urban areas are often Landmarks: For the Philippines, west is towards
economic and cultural hubs with diverse the South China Sea and the western part of the
services, businesses, and institutions. Philippine archipelago.
 Examples: Metro Manila, Cebu City, Davao South:
City. Direction: Points towards the South Pole.
 Key Features: High-rise buildings, Relative Position: In the Northern Hemisphere,
commercial centers, public services south is typically down on maps.
(hospitals, schools, etc.), diverse Landmarks: For the Philippines, south is towards
employment opportunities, and more Indonesia and the southern part of the Philippine
developed transportation networks. archipelago.
 Rural:
 Characteristics: Rural areas have lower LESSON 2: WONDERS OF THE PHILIPPINES
population density and less infrastructure THE GEOGRAPHICAL REGIONS
development compared to urban areas. LUZON
They include villages, towns, and Luzon, the largest island in the
countryside regions where agriculture or Philippines, is divided into various regions, each
natural landscapes are more common. with its own unique cultural, economic, and
Rural areas often have a more close-knit geographical significance. Below is a brief
community and may have fewer public overview of each region, along with examples of
services and amenities. what makes them important:
 Examples: Small towns in provinces like 1. Ilocos Region (Region I)
Palawan, rural areas in Mindanao,  Provinces: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La
agricultural communities in Luzon. Union, Pangasinan
 Key Features: Open spaces, farms, fewer  Significance:
buildings, limited public services, and a o Known for agriculture, particularly
focus on agriculture or natural resource- rice, corn, and tobacco.
based livelihoods. o Coastal tourism and heritage sites,
such as the historic town of Vigan,
a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
o Ilocos Norte is home to Bangui
Windmills, one of the largest

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 TEACHING SOCIAL STUDIES IN ELEMENTARY GRADES
renewable energy sources in the o The region is an industrial and
country. agricultural powerhouse, known
 Example: Vigan is famous for its for rice, sugar, and other crops.
preserved Spanish colonial architecture, o Also, a center for manufacturing
making it a key cultural and tourist and export processing, with the
destination. Subic Bay Freeport Zone playing
a key role.
2. Cagayan Valley (Region II) o Mount Pinatubo, which erupted
 Provinces: Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, in 1991, reshaped the geography
Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino and economy of the area.
 Significance:  Example: Pampanga is known as the
o The region is a major agricultural culinary capital of the Philippines, famous
producer, especially for rice, corn, for dishes like sisig.
and tobacco.
o Home to the Cagayan River, the 5. CALABARZON (Region IV-A)
longest river in the Philippines,  Provinces: Cavite, Laguna, Batangas,
important for irrigation and Rizal, Quezon
fishing.  Significance:
o The Batanes Islands are known o This region is a major industrial
for their unique culture, stone hub, particularly Cavite, Laguna,
houses, and scenic landscapes. and Batangas, which host many
 Example: Isabela is known as the rice factories and industrial parks.
and corn granary of the Philippines due to o Known for eco-tourism spots like
its vast farmlands. Tagaytay and Taal Volcano, and
historical landmarks such as Rizal
3. Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) Shrine.
 Provinces: Abra, Apayao, Benguet, o Agriculture remains important in
Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province areas like Quezon Province,
 Significance: known for coconut and banana
o Known for its mountainous terrain production.
and indigenous communities,  Example: Laguna is home to the
particularly the Igorot people. country’s largest freshwater lake, Laguna
o Agriculture, especially Benguet's de Bay, and the hot springs of Los Baños.
production of highland vegetables
and flowers. 6. MIMAROPA (Region IV-B)
o The Banaue Rice Terraces, a  Provinces: Mindoro, Marinduque,
UNESCO World Heritage Site, Romblon, Palawan
represent indigenous engineering  Significance:
marvels. o Known for its natural beauty and
 Example: Sagada, in Mountain Province, biodiversity, especially Palawan,
is famous for its hanging coffins and considered the last frontier of the
caves, which reflect the indigenous Philippines.
practices of the region. o Coron and El Nido in Palawan are
famous for their pristine beaches
and crystal-clear waters.
4. Central Luzon (Region III) o The region is also an agricultural
 Provinces: Aurora, Bataan, Bulacan, producer, with Mindoro known
Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, Zambales for its rice and mangoes.
 Significance:

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 TEACHING SOCIAL STUDIES IN ELEMENTARY GRADES
 Example: The Puerto Princesa American periods, with its ports being important
Subterranean River in Palawan is a trade and cultural exchange hubs. Today, it is
UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of known for its vibrant festivals, world-class
the New 7 Wonders of Nature. beaches, and contributions to agriculture and
tourism.
7. Bicol Region (Region V)
 Provinces: Albay, Camarines Norte, 1. Western Visayas (Region VI)
Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate,  Provinces: Aklan, Antique, Capiz,
Sorsogon Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental
 Significance:  Significance:
o Known for its active volcanoes, o Known for agriculture, particularly
including the iconic Mayon rice, sugarcane, and fishing.
Volcano, famous for its near- o Tourism is a major industry,
perfect cone shape. especially due to Boracay Island
o A rich agricultural region in Aklan, one of the world’s top
producing coconut, abaca (Manila beach destinations.
hemp), and pili nuts. o Iloilo City is a major center for
o The region also has a distinct education and commerce in the
cuisine, with Bicol Express and region.
laing as notable dishes.  Example: Boracay, famous for its white
 Example: Camarines Sur is home to the sand beaches, attracts both local and
Camsur Watersports Complex, a international tourists.
popular spot for wakeboarding.
2. Central Visayas (Region VII)
8. National Capital Region (NCR)  Provinces: Bohol, Cebu, Negros Oriental,
 Cities: Manila, Quezon City, Makati, Siquijor
Taguig, Pasig, and others  Significance:
 Significance: o Cebu is a key industrial and trade
o The political, economic, and hub, often referred to as the
cultural center of the Philippines. "Queen City of the South."
o Metro Manila is the country's most o Bohol is known for its natural
densely populated region, home to wonders, such as the Chocolate
major business districts like Hills and Tarsiers, some of the
Makati and Bonifacio Global City. smallest primates in the world.
o Historical sites like Intramuros o The region is also famous for its
and modern landmarks like Mall festivals, like the Sinulog Festival
of Asia are located here. in Cebu, celebrating its rich
 Example: Manila is the capital city of the cultural heritage.
Philippines and a hub for government,  Example: Cebu City is a major port city,
culture, and commerce. serving as a gateway to both local and
international trade.
VISAYAS
The Visayas is one of the three main 3. Eastern Visayas (Region VIII)
geographical divisions of the Philippines, located  Provinces: Biliran, Eastern Samar, Leyte,
at the center of the archipelago. It is composed of Northern Samar, Samar, Southern Leyte
several islands, known for its rich history,  Significance:
diverse cultures, and beautiful natural o This region has a history of
landscapes. The Visayas region played a resilience, especially after
significant role in the pre-colonial, Spanish, and Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) struck
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 TEACHING SOCIAL STUDIES IN ELEMENTARY GRADES
in 2013, with Leyte being one of  Provinces: Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao
the hardest-hit areas. del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis
o Known for agriculture and Oriental
fisheries, as well as historical  Significance:
landmarks like Leyte Landing o Known for agriculture, especially
Memorial in Palo, Bukidnon, which produces rice,
commemorating General Douglas corn, and pineapples.
MacArthur’s return in World War o Cagayan de Oro is a major urban
II. center and gateway to Northern
o The San Juanico Bridge, Mindanao, known for adventure
connecting the islands of Leyte and tourism like white-water rafting.
Samar, is the longest bridge in the  Example: Camiguin is famous for its
Philippines. numerous volcanoes and natural hot and
 Example: Tacloban City is the economic cold springs, as well as Lanzones
and political center of the region, Festival.
recovering and thriving post-Yolanda.
3. Davao Region (Region XI)
MINDANAO  Provinces: Davao de Oro, Davao del
Mindanao, the second-largest island in Norte, Davao del Sur, Davao Occidental,
the Philippines, is located in the southernmost Davao Oriental
part of the archipelago. It is known for its rich  Significance:
natural resources, diverse cultures, and vibrant o The region is known for its
history. Mindanao has a significant Muslim agriculture, particularly for being
population, and the region is often referred to as the country’s top producer of
the "Land of Promise" due to its agricultural bananas.
potential, mineral wealth, and strategic o Davao City is one of the largest
importance. The island has been a major cities in the world by land area and
contributor to the country's economic output, serves as a major economic and
particularly in agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. cultural hub in Mindanao.
o The region is home to Mount Apo,
1. Zamboanga Peninsula (Region IX) the highest peak in the Philippines.
 Provinces: Zamboanga del Norte,  Example: Durian, the "King of Fruits," is
Zamboanga del Sur, Zamboanga Sibugay a symbol of Davao, and the city is famous
 Significance: for Kadayawan Festival, celebrating the
o Zamboanga City is known as the region’s abundant harvest.
"Asia’s Latin City" because of its
deep Spanish influence and the use 4. SOCCSKSARGEN (Region XII)
of Chavacano, a Spanish-based  Provinces: Cotabato, Sarangani, South
Creole language. Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat
o This region is a major producer of  Significance:
seafood, particularly sardines, with o This region is a key agricultural
Zamboanga City being the sardine area, known for producing rice,
capital of the Philippines. corn, and pineapples.
 Example: The Fort Pilar in Zamboanga o General Santos City is known as
City is an iconic Spanish-era fortress and the "Tuna Capital of the
religious site. Philippines" due to its thriving
fishing industry.
2. Northern Mindanao (Region X) o Lake Sebu in South Cotabato is
both a natural and cultural
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heritage site, home to the T'boli Although it faced major destruction in
indigenous people and known for 2017, efforts for rehabilitation and
its scenic lakes and waterfalls. reconstruction are ongoing.
 Example: General Santos City is famous
for tuna exports, supplying both local and Landforms and Their Origins
international markets. A. Volcanoes
 Origin: Formed by volcanic activity due to
5. Caraga Region (Region XIII)
 Provinces: Agusan del Norte, Agusan del
the movement of tectonic plates. Magma
Sur, Dinagat Islands, Surigao del Norte, from beneath the Earth’s crust rises
Surigao del Sur through fissures, resulting in eruptions
 Significance: that build up the volcano’s structure.
o Known for its vast natural  Examples: Mount Mayon (Luzon): Known
resources, particularly minerals for its near-perfect cone shape, created by
like gold and nickel.
its symmetrical lava flows.
o Siargao Island in Surigao del
Norte is known as the "Surfing  Mount Pinatubo* (Luzon): Its massive
Capital of the Philippines" and 1991 eruption resulted in a caldera,
draws tourists for its world-class significantly altering the surrounding
waves. landscape.
o Forests, waterfalls, and caves are B. Mountain
abundant in the region, making it a  Origin: Mountains are formed by a variety
destination for eco-tourism.
of geological processes, typically involving
 Example: Enchanted River in Surigao
del Sur is a mystical, deep blue river that the movement and collision of tectonic
attracts visitors from all over the country. plates.
 Examples: Mount Everest. It's the highest
6. Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in mountain in the world, located in the
Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Himalayas on the border between Nepal
 Provinces: Basilan, Lanao del Sur,
and China (Tibet).
Maguindanao, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi
 Mountain in the Philippines is Mount Apo.
 Significance:
o The region is home to a It is the highest mountain in the country,
predominantly Muslim population standing at about 2,954 meters (9,692
and has a rich cultural and feet).
historical heritage. C. Plains
o Known for its vibrant cultural  Origin: Plains are large, flat, or gently
traditions, including the Okir rolling areas of land with little elevation
(traditional carving) and the
change. They form in several ways, often
Sarimanok (mythical bird), which
are integral to Maranao and as a result of long-term geological
Maguindanaon art. processes.
o Tawi-Tawi is known for its  Example: The Central Luzon Plain
beautiful and remote islands, while (Philippines): This is the largest lowland
Sulu is recognized for its rich area in the Philippines, located in the
marine biodiversity. island of Luzon.
 Example: Marawi City is culturally
significant as the center of Islamic faith
and education in the Philippines.
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D. Mountain Ranges volcanic eruptions or as a result of
 Origin: Created through tectonic sediment accumulation in shallow seas.
processes such as the collision and folding  Examples: Palawan: Features diverse
of the Earth’s crust. This results in landscapes including mountains, karst
uplifted regions with complex geological formations, and coral reefs.
formations.  Batanes: Northernmost islands shaped by
 Examples: Cordillera Central (Luzon): volcanic and tectonic processes, with
Features rugged terrain and high peaks rugged and scenic terrain.
formed by tectonic uplift and faulting. H. Rivers and Valleys
 Sierra Madre (Luzon): Extends along the  Origin: Created by the erosion of the
eastern coast, formed by the collision of Earth’s surface through the
the Philippine Sea Plate with the Eurasian continuous flow of water. Rivers cut
Plate. through landscapes, forming valleys
and plains as they deposit sediments.
E. Hills  Examples: Cagayan River (Luzon): The
 Origin: A hill is a naturally raised area of longest river in the Philippines,
land that is typically lower and less steep shaped by erosion and sedimentation.
than a mountain. Hills are often formed  Agusan Marsh (Mindanao): A lowland
through geological processes like erosion, basin formed by sediment deposition
faulting, and the deposition of sediment. and water accumulation.
They vary in size and shape but generally
have rounded tops and gentle slopes.
Traditions and Landmarks
 Examples: Chocolate Hills (Bohol): A. Luzon
Characterized by conical hills formed Traditions:
through the dissolution of limestone.  Pahiyas Festival (Lucban, Quezon):
 Capitol Hill (Washington, D.C., USA) - A Celebrated on May 15th to honor San Isidro
political hub, Capitol Hill is also a notable Labrador with colorful home decorations
physical hill in the U.S. capital. made from agricultural products.
F. Coral Reefs  Panagbenga Festival (Baguio City): A
 Origin: Developed from the accumulation February "Flower Festival" featuring flower
of coral polyps and their calcareous floats and street dancing.
exoskeletons on submerged volcanic  Santacruzan: A May procession, typically held
formations or continental shelves. They in the last week of the month,
thrive in warm, shallow marine commemorating the search for the True
environments. Cross by Queen Helena.
 Examples: Tubbataha Reefs (Sulu Sea): A  Tuna Festival (General Santos City):
UNESCO World Heritage Site known for Celebrated in September, usually around the
its rich marine biodiversity and extensive second week, to honor the city’s tuna
coral reef system. industry.
G. Islands Landmarks:
 Origin: Formed through volcanic activity,  Banaue Rice Terraces (Ifugao): Ancient
tectonic uplift, or sediment deposition. terraces carved into the mountains by the
Islands can emerge from underwater Ifugao people.

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 Mayon Volcano (Albay): Known for its near-  Pamulinawen Festival (Laoag City, Ilocos
perfect conical shape. Norte): Held in February, often the first week,
 Intramuros (Manila): A historic walled city to celebrate Saint William the Hermit with
with Fort Santiago and San Agustin Church. cultural events.
 Taal Volcano (Batangas): An active volcano  Kalilangan Festival (General Santos City):
located within Taal Lake, known for its Celebrated in February, typically the first
unique landscape. week, featuring cultural performances and
exhibitions.
B. Visayas  Bai Naguian Festival (Butuan City): Held in
Traditions: August, typically around the 14th, to honor
 Sinulog Festival (Cebu City): Held on the third indigenous peoples' cultural heritage.
Sunday of January, featuring parades and Landmarks:
street dancing in honor of the Santo Niño
 Mount Apo: The highest peak in the
(Child Jesus).
Philippines, located in Davao, popular for
 Ati-Atihan Festival (Kalibo, Aklan):
trekking.
Celebrated in January, typically the third
 Maria Cristina Falls (Iligan City): A major
week, with participants painting their faces
hydroelectric power source and scenic
and dressing in traditional attire.
waterfall.
 MassKara Festival (Bacolod City, Negros
 Lake Sebu (South Cotabato): Known for its
Occidental): Held in October, usually around
beautiful scenery and indigenous T'boli
the third week, known for colorful masks and
culture.
street dancing.
 Tinuy-an Falls (Bislig City, Surigao del Sur): A
 Pintados-Kasadyaan Festival (Tacloban City,
majestic multi-tiered waterfall, often called
Leyte): Celebrated in June, around the 29th,
the "Niagara Falls of the Philippines."
showcasing local history and culture with
body painting and parades. LESSON 3: NORTHERN AND CENTRAL LUZON
Landmarks: 1. Physical Environment
 Chocolate Hills (Bohol): Unique geological Mountain Ranges: Includes the Sierra Madre
formations consisting of over 1,200 hills. (the longest mountain range in the country), the
 Magellan's Cross (Cebu City): A historical Cordillera, and Caraballo mountains.
cross planted by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521. Plains: The Central Luzon Plain is the largest
 Boracay Island (Aklan): Renowned for its plain in the country, known for its fertile soil.
white sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. Rivers: Major rivers include the Cagayan River
 Lapu-Lapu Shrine (Mactan Island, Cebu): A (longest in the Philippines) and Pampanga River.
monument commemorating the local hero Climate: Tropical, with a wet and dry season.
who defeated Magellan’s forces. Northern Luzon often experiences typhoons due
C. Mindanao to its geographic location.
Traditions: Coastal Features: The coastline along the South
 Kadayawan Festival (Davao City): Celebrated China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.
in August, usually during the third week, 2. Economic Resources
showcasing Davao’s cultural heritage and Agriculture: Central Luzon is known as the “Rice
natural resources. Granary of the Philippines.” Other crops include
corn, sugarcane, and tobacco.
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Fishing: Coastal regions support fishing Tourism: Natural attractions like Taal Volcano,
industries. Tagaytay, and beaches in Batangas and Quezon.
Mining: There are significant mining activities, Industrial Areas: CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna,
particularly for gold and copper in the Cordillera Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon) is a major
region. industrial corridor.
Forestry: The Sierra Madre region provides 3) Cultural Aspects
timber and other forest products. Metro Manila: Melting pot of cultures from
3. Cultural Aspects different regions. Famous for historical
Indigenous Groups: Home to various landmarks such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, and
indigenous groups like the Ifugao, Kalinga, and Malacañang Palace. Diverse languages and
Aeta. Each has distinct cultural traditions, from dialects, with Tagalog/Filipino being dominant.
agricultural terracing (e.g., Banaue Rice Southern Luzon: Home to traditional practices
Terraces) to weaving and tattooing. like the “barako” coffee brewing in Batangas.
Festivals: Include the Panagbenga (Flower Festivals like the “Parada ng Lechon” in Batangas
Festival) in Baguio and the Pahiyas Festival in and the “Obando Fertility Rites” are celebrated.
Lucban, Quezon. Religious Practices: Predominantly Roman
Languages: Predominantly Ilocano, Catholic, with churches like San Agustin Church
Pangasinense, Kapampangan, and Tagalog. (Intramuros) and Pagsanjan Church.
Historic Sites: Vigan City, a UNESCO World
Heritage Site known for its preserved Spanish THEORIES OF ORIGIN OF THE PHILIPPINES
colonial architecture. 1. Land Bridge Theory
 This theory suggests that the
Philippines was once connected to
LESSON 4: METROPOLITAN MANILA AND
mainland Asia through land bridges.
SOUTHERN LUZON During the ice ages, sea levels
1) Physical Environment dropped, exposing these land bridges.
Metropolitan Manila: Mostly urbanized with The theory explains the presence of
limited natural landscapes. Situated near Manila similar flora and fauna between the
Bay. Philippines and neighboring Southeast
Southern Luzon: Includes mountainous regions Asian countries.
2. Volcanic Origin Theory
like Mount Banahaw and Mount Makiling, and
 Proposes that the Philippines
lakes such as Laguna de Bay and Taal Lake (with originated from volcanic activity,
Taal Volcano). where underwater volcanic eruptions
Climate: Tropical with a pronounced wet and led to the formation of islands. This is
dry season. Typhoons affect the region, supported by the country’s numerous
especially during the wet season. active volcanoes, such as Mayon and
2) Economic Resources Taal.
3. Plate Tectonics Theory
Metro Manila: The center of commerce,
 Suggests that the Philippines was
industry, and government. Significant in financial formed through the movements of
services, trade, and manufacturing. tectonic plates, specifically the
Southern Luzon: convergence of the Eurasian Plate and
Agriculture: Major producers of coconut, the Pacific Plate. This theory is
pineapple, and coffee (e.g., Batangas coffee). supported by the country’s location
within the Pacific Ring of Fire, which

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is prone to earthquakes and volcanic Classifications of Natural Resources
eruptions.  Renewable Resources: These can
4. Wave Migration Theory regenerate naturally. An example is the
 Proposed by Dr. H. Otley Beyer, this
Ifugao Rice Terraces, which depend on
theory suggests that early Filipinos
arrived in waves: the first were the natural water systems and have been
Negritos, followed by the Indonesians, maintained for over 2,000 years.
and then the Malays. This theory  Non-renewable Resources: These are finite,
explains the diversity of ethnic groups like nickel, which is mined in Palawan.
and cultural practices in the  Human-made Resources: Examples include
Philippines. energy generated from hydropower dams
like Angat Dam in Bulacan, providing
LESSON 5: BASIC LAW ON NATURAL
electricity to Metro Manila.
RESOURCES
Water Resources
Basic Law on Natural Resources
Natural sources of water that can be used
 The Philippine Constitution (Article XII):
for human activities, including rivers, lakes,
The state owns all natural resources and
aquifers, oceans, and rainfall. They are essential
grants utilization rights to citizens or
for drinking, agriculture, industry, and energy
corporations with at least 60% Filipino
production.
ownership. For example, foreign entities must
Kinds of Water Resources
enter joint ventures, such as mining
 Freshwater: Includes rivers and lakes. The
partnerships in Mindanao.
Agno River in Pangasinan provides water for
 Republic Act No. 7942 (Philippine Mining
irrigation and hydropower.
Act of 1995): This governs the exploration,
 Saltwater: The Manila Bay, known for
development, and utilization of mineral
fishing and tourism.
resources, like the Tampakan Mining
 Brackish Water: The Laguna de Bay is a mix
Project in Mindanao, one of the largest
of freshwater and saltwater, supporting
copper-gold deposits in Southeast Asia.
aquaculture, especially for fish and shrimp.
 National Integrated Protected Areas
Uses of Water Resources
System (NIPAS) Act of 1992: Protects
 Domestic: Freshwater from the Angat Dam
ecologically important areas. For instance,
supplies water to Metro Manila for drinking
the Tubbataha Reefs in Palawan are
and household use.
protected under this law to conserve marine
 Agriculture: The Agno River irrigates rice
biodiversity.
fields in Central Luzon, known as the “Rice
Fundamental Law
Granary of the Philippines.”
 The 1987 Philippine Constitution ensures
 Industry: Freshwater is used in power
natural resource conservation and the
generation, such as the Pantabangan Dam in
prioritization of Filipino interests in resource
Nueva Ecija.
management. For example, the 1991 Local
 Hydropower: Dams like Magat Dam in
Government Code allows provinces like
Isabela generate electricity for nearby
Palawan to manage their coastal and marine
regions.
resources, ensuring sustainability.

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 TEACHING SOCIAL STUDIES IN ELEMENTARY GRADES
Soil Resources Forest Industry
The top layer of the earth where plants  The logging industry is prominent in
grow, composed of minerals, organic matter, areas like the Sierra Madre, although
water, and air. It supports agriculture and deforestation is a concern. In contrast,
vegetation and is a key component of eco-tourism in Subic promotes
ecosystems. sustainable forest use.
Soil Formation
 Soils form from the weathering of rocks Fishery Resources
over time. The volcanic soils in Batangas Fish and other aquatic organisms that are
are a result of eruptions from Taal harvested from freshwater or marine
Volcano. environments for food, commercial, or
Soil Classification recreational purposes. This includes both wild
 Alluvial Soil: Found along river valleys fisheries and aquaculture (fish farming).
like the Cagayan Valley, ideal for growing Problems with the Fishing Industry
rice and corn.  Overfishing: In places like Manila Bay,
 Volcanic Soil: The fertile soils in areas overfishing depletes fish stocks, reducing
like Laguna and Cavite come from the livelihood of local fishermen.
volcanic deposits, ideal for crops such as  Illegal Fishing Methods: Practices like
pineapples and coffee. dynamite fishing in the Visayas damage
 Sandy Soil: Found along coastal areas like coral reefs.
Ilocos, supporting crops like tobacco.  Pollution: Coastal areas like Laguna de
 Clay Soil: In Nueva Ecija, clay soils help Bay suffer from industrial runoff, which
retain water, which is crucial for rice harms fish habitats.
farming.  Climate Change: Rising sea temperatures
affect fish migration patterns, particularly
Forest Resources in the Sulu Sea.
Forests provide a variety of products such
as timber, paper, and non-timber items (e.g., Mineral Resources
fruits, medicinal plants), as well as Naturally occurring substances like
environmental benefits like biodiversity metals (e.g., gold, copper), non-metals (e.g.,
conservation, carbon storage, and watershed limestone, clay), and energy materials (e.g., coal,
protection. oil) that are extracted from the earth and used
Forest Types for various economic activities.
 Dipterocarp Forests: Found in areas like Abundant Minerals in the Philippines
the Sierra Madre, these forests provide  Gold: Found in Benguet and Compostela
hardwoods such as narra. Valley, gold mining is a significant
 Mangrove Forests: Palawan’s industry.
mangroves protect coastal areas from  Copper: Cebu and Zamboanga del Norte
erosion and serve as breeding grounds for are known for copper mining.
fish.  Nickel: The Surigao del Norte region is
 Pine Forests: Found in Baguio and other rich in nickel, which is exported globally.
highland areas in the Cordilleras, known  Chromite: Zambales has substantial
for Benguet pine. chromite deposits.
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 TEACHING SOCIAL STUDIES IN ELEMENTARY GRADES
 Other Minerals: Coal is abundant in  Agricultural Tenancy: Previously, many
Semirara Island, a major source of farmers were tenants working on large
energy in the Philippines. estates, paying rent in crops or cash.
Reforms like Presidential Decree 27
Agricultural Resources under Ferdinand Marcos abolished
Resources used in farming and food sharecropping, aiming to give land to
production, including crops (e.g., rice, corn), farmers.
livestock (e.g., cattle, poultry), and farming  Issues with Reforms: In areas like
infrastructure (e.g., irrigation, machinery). They Negros Occidental, land redistribution
provide food, fiber, and other products essential remains contentious due to legal disputes
for human survival and economy. and slow implementation.
Top Crops Produced in the Philippines
 Rice: Central Luzon is known for rice
production, especially in the provinces of
Nueva Ecija and Tarlac.
 Corn: Isabela is a major producer of corn,
used for both food and animal feed.
 Coconut: Quezon Province and
Mindanao are major producers of
coconuts, used for oil and other products.
 Sugarcane: Negros Occidental is famous
for sugarcane production, which is
processed into sugar and ethanol.
 Bananas: Davao is the leading producer
of bananas, especially for export.
Livestock Industry
 Pigs and Poultry: The Visayas and
Mindanao are known for their hog and
chicken farms, supplying both local and
export markets.
 Cattle and Carabao: Regions like
Batangas and Cagayan Valley raise cattle
and carabao, used for both meat and
farming purposes.

Agricultural Tenancy and Reforms

 Agrarian Reform: The Comprehensive
Agrarian Reform Program (CARP)
provides land to landless farmers. For
instance, under CARP, rice farmers in
Central Luzon were granted land from
large haciendas.

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