This study has generated a number of important insights that probably explain the present status of forestry in the Philippines. The study results, however, contain gaps. Nevertheless, the first step towards sustainable management of forests, or any resource for that matter, starts with a confident appreciation of the resources at hand.

It is clear that a reporting system is in place, which is followed carefully and implemented strictly. The subsequent issue is whether these reports can provide an indication of current resources, i.e. forest cover.

Another issue is whether the DENR is organized and equipped to answer questions on current resources. Moreover, based on an appreciation of current resource plans for the future, is this capacity sufficient, especially in the light of global circumstances?

Institutionally, there have always been efforts to generate data. In this context, it would be unwise to suggest that estimates of forest cover have been made randomly. Every office or agency implements some kind of data generation exercise according to its needs. However, the results are much duplication and redundancy of data. For instance, the major activities of the ENR offices with regard to forest management, forest protection, CBFM, watershed management, and land evaluation among others, have significant overlaps. Forest management encompasses forest protection although forest management is concentrated on production activities; CBFM areas occur within critical watersheds. Likewise, there are forest management issues with regard to CBFM areas. To address this problem, a system must be created that will efficiently and effectively gather, store, analyze and display data.