Persistent fishing amidst depletion, environmental and socio-economic vulnerability in Iloilo Province, the Philippines

Abstract

This article is concerned with the impact of environmental pressures on coastal livelihoods in the municipality of Ajuy, Iloilo Province, central Philippines. The empirical research focuses on three issues: artificial reefs submerged to increase fish stocks, the search for alternative livelihoods options after Typhoon Yolanda (international name Haiyan), and relocation schemes. While the majority of the surveyed households find it hard to make ends meet and persist in fishing they are reluctant to relocate. The results of this investigation highlight that working towards the twin-goals of reducing overfishing and higher standards of living requires a holistic multi-sectoral approach. Future livelihood projects in coastal areas should better address government – NGO coordination; not only in terms of financing and implementation, but also in terms of monitoring and controlling vulnerable marine resources in the longer term. The challenge for international NGOs is to find a compromise between short-term expectations regarding aid effectiveness in donor countries and long-term environmental and socio-economic problematiques in recipient countries.