Participatory Modelling: Companion Modelling in Puerto Princesa, Philippines

Abstract

"This paper describes the developments of an ongoing case study on the collaborative development of a Multi-Agent Systems (MAS) model for natural resource management (NRM) using the Companion Modelling (ComMod) approach involving three contiguous villages in Palawan, Philippines. In this study, the ComMod process was focused on the relationships between the institutions or rules for resource use and management, dynamics of resources in the uplands, lowlands and coastal areas and the livelihood activities of the community involving their shared natural resources. Through the modelling process, the stakeholders, which are composed of migrants and indigenous people, as well as government and nongovernment organizations, were immersed in collective learning activities and experiences leading to the development of role-playing games (RPGs) and computer simulation -- the articulations of a MAS model. These tools, the RPGs and simulation, were then used to initiate and facilitate discussion about natural resource management among the stakeholders. Moreover, the process revealed knowledge that was otherwise difficult to extract using traditional methods of data- gathering. With the knowledge and experiences the stakeholders have gained from the process and the tools that were used to facilitate the discussion, the stakeholders were able to lay-out initial plans for alternative livelihoods in the community together. With this said, ComMod has a high potential in facilitating multi-stakeholder processes towards attaining sustainable natural resource management."