Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
Region IV – A (CALABARZON)
City Schools Division of Dasmariñas
Dasmariñas Integrated High School
Congressional South Avenue, Burol 1, City of Dasmariñas, Cavite
Case Study: "Rising Seas: Exploring the Impact of Sea Level Rise"
Sea level rise is one of the most imminent threats to coastal communities, it’s interaction with the
coastline defines it. The Philippines is vulnerable to climate change and sea level rise. The Philippines, an
archipelagic country located in Southeast Asia, is highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, including
rising sea levels. With thousands of kilometers of coastline and numerous low-lying coastal communities, the
country faces significant risks from coastal erosion, inundation, and saltwater intrusion due to sea level rise.
It is the Philippines and the waters to the east of the country that have had the highest increase of sea
level with 14.7mm/year. It is a widely documented fact, with numerous sources quoting the Philippines to have
3 or 5 times the global average. The warmer water correlated with more frequent and intense typhoons which
has all contributed to its vulnerability.
Causes of Rising Sea Levels:
a. Melting Ice Caps and Glaciers: Global warming leads to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers,
contributing to rising sea levels.
b. Thermal Expansion: As ocean temperatures increase due to climate change, seawater expands
thermally, causing sea levels to rise.
c. Land Subsidence: Human activities such as groundwater extraction, mining, and urbanization
contribute to land subsidence, which exacerbates the effects of rising sea levels.
Impact on Coastal Areas:
The Philippines is situated within the typhoon belt and experiences a tropical maritime climate characterized by
high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and frequent typhoons. Coastal communities rely heavily on marine
resources for livelihoods, including fishing and tourism, making them particularly susceptible to the adverse
effects of rising sea levels.
Rising sea levels exacerbate coastal erosion and inundation, threatening infrastructure, settlements, and
ecosystems along the coast. Low-lying areas, including coastal cities such as Manila and Cebu, face increased
risks of flooding during high tides and storm surges. Saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources jeopardizes
agriculture and potable water supplies, affecting livelihoods and food security in coastal communities.
Impact on Climate:
Sea level rise contributes to changes in climate patterns, including altered precipitation regimes and increased
frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. Coastal regions experience higher temperatures and
humidity levels due to reduced evaporation rates and increased heat absorption by seawater. These changes
exacerbate heat stress, water scarcity, and vector-borne diseases, posing significant health risks to coastal
populations.
GUIDE QUESTIONS:
1. What is the rate of sea level rise in the Philippines?
2. What is the main reason behind the ongoing rise in sea level?
3. What are the possible impacts of rising sea level in coastal communities? On climate?
4. What role can government agencies, NGOs, and local communities play in adapting to and mitigating
the effects of sea level rise?
5. As a student, what are the ways that you can do to lessen the effects of sea level rise?
