Local Perspectives Matter: The Case of the Seasonal Fishery Closure in the Visayan Sea, Philippines

Abstract

This study examines the knowledge, perceptions, and compliance of fisheries stakeholders with the seasonal fishery closure implemented in the Visayan Sea, Philippines. We interviewed 235 municipal fisheries stakeholders composed of municipal fishers, fish dryers, fish traders/fish brokers (regulated group) and local government units, Philippine National Police-Maritime Group/Philippine Coast Guard, and fish wardens (regulator group) in 12 coastal towns surrounding the Visayan Sea. Data from interviews were complemented by focus group discussions. Overall, municipal fisheries stakeholders have a fair knowledge about the SFC. The regulated group in the municipalities within Panay Island are more knowledgeable about the SFC compared to their counterparts in other areas. There is a positive correlation between the regulated group’s knowledge and perceptions about, and compliance, with the SFC. The lack of alternative livelihoods, uneven implementation of the SFC and poverty also influence compliance. Given our findings, addressing these factors is crucial to effective fisheries management.

Keywords:

• Fisheries management
• knowledge
• perceptions and compliance
• seasonal fishery closure
• small-scale fisheries
• Visayan sea

Disclosure Statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Notes

1 Bañera is a bucket made of plastic or steel which fishers use to haul their fish catch. One bañera contains approximately 40 kg of fish.

Additional information

Funding

The authors wish to thank the Department of Coastal Studies-East Carolina University (DCS-ECU) for the funding support for this research. FUB was supported by the Fulbright Scholarship Program, DCS-ECU, and UP System Faculty, REPS, and Administrative Staff Development Program.