Morphotectonic Characteristics of the Iponan River Watershed in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines

Abstract

 Using the Advanced Land Observing Satellite Phased Array type L-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (ALOS PALSAR) digital elevation model, morphometric parameters were derived and utilized in the morphotectonic analysis of the Iponan River Watershed. Morphometric analysis of the area revealed that the watershed is in the early maturity of geological stage. Its mountain front sinuosity index indicates that portions of the watershed area are slightly and tectonically active. Other parameters suggest that the area is experiencing rapid uplift and undergoing ground tilting that may be influenced by tectonic activity. The presence of a tectonic line running through the extent of the Iponan River could be a potential source of tectonic activity and influence morphological processes in the watershed area. Its channel concavity suggests that the watershed has rapidly rising slopes as may be caused by the uplift. Overall, the Iponan River Watershed area is generally tectonically active and that its morphotectonic processes may be moderately controlled by tectonic activity.