Waves of struggles: exploring the challenges encountered by fisherfolks association members / Thea Faye Aguirre [ and seven others ]

Includes bibliographic references.

Abstract

This study investigated the multifaceted challenges faced by members of the Bugasong Fisherfolk Association in Barangay Guija, Bugasong, Antique. Employing a qualitative, phenomenological approach, the research delved into the lived experiences of ten active association members through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The findings revealed five major themes of challenges: environmental vulnerability due to climate change and frequent typhoons; economic instability from fluctuating market prices and high operational costs; limited access to essential fishing equipment and infrastructure; internal organizational issues such as low participation and favoritism; and inadequate, inconsistent government support. Despite these hardships, the fisherfolk exhibited resilience through livelihood diversification, moral and financial support within the association, integration of traditional and modern fishing knowledge, and collaboration with external agencies like Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and Department of Labor and Employment. The study underscored the importance of strengthening institutional support, promoting inclusive governance, and enhancing adaptive strategies to sustain the livelihoods of small-scale fishing communities in the face of growing socio-environmental pressures.

Theses/Dissertations