A GEOHISTORY OF THE ROLE OF AGUSAN RIVER TO THE LUMBER INDUSTRIES OF BUTUAN CITY, 1950s-1990s

Abstract

This research ventures into the geo-history of Butuan City from the 195os to the 199os. It highlights the roles of the Agusan River in the operation of lumber industries and traces its physical changes over time. Specifically, this research sought answers to the queries on the reasons for the location of timber and logging companies near the Agusan River, the social and economic impacts of the lumber industries on the people of Butuan, and the environmental impact of the lumber industries to Agusan River. Furthermore, this research is qualitative in design and utilizes the triangulation method. In addition, the researcher drew interpretations from the factual information observed in the location of lumber industries and confirmed by the majority of the key informants through in-depth interviews. Concerning the presentation of data, the researcher utilized the perspective and descriptive approach, in which the researcher studied the events that took place in Butuan City from the 1950s to 1990s in relation to the role of the Agusan River in the lumber industries. On the other hand, the researcher conducted archival research, personal interviews with the aid of an interview schedule, and documented personal observations during fieldwork. However, prior to the extraction of data, the researcher went through proper entry protocols, and ethical standards were ensured. This research reveals that the Agusan River has a significant role in the operation of lumber industries, which contributes to the economic development of Butuan City. It served as a means of transporting the logs, as a log pond of sawmills, and as a dumping area for lumber industry waste products. Moreover, the location of the timber and logging companies near the Agusan River in Butuan City was due to the easy and cheaper way of moving the logs from their source to the buyers. In addition, lumber industries in Butuan have contributed positively to the economic status of the people and the city's infrastructure. Unfortunately, these lumber industries have also polluted and contaminated the Agusan River.