Socio-demographic and Perception of Sea Cucumber Gatherers in Selected Areas in Mindanao, Philippines

Abstract

This work assesses the socio-demographic condition of sea cucumber gatherers in 11 selected areas in Mindanao, Philippines, to provide valuable insights into the contribution of the sea cucumber gathering to their daily lives. The data was obtained through focus group discussions and key informant interviews from August 2019 to January 2020. The results showed that the gatherers’ ages ranged from 19–90 years old, with the highest proportion at 37–42 (17%). Most gatherers are males (66.37%) and the head of the family, although females and children have a role in the fishery. The majority are married (97.54%), indicating that there are dependents who rely on their income. Half of the gatherers only finished elementary school (51.40%), resulting in few employment opportunities, thus increasing sea cucumber gathering dependency. Religious affiliations could also affect their time investments for this livelihood. The gatherers' average monthly household expenses are PHP 9,540.7 or 174.53 USD and are mostly spent on their food (PHP 6,714.9 or 122.84 USD). Sea cucumber gathering with supplemental livelihoods enhanced their economic condition, supported by their basic needs such as housing, lots, etc. Public transportation is difficult in most sampling areas, leading to having middlemen or traders that will process and consolidate the dried products, reducing their fare expenses. An increasing number of gatherers was observed, while policies were limited, site-specific, and not strictly implemented, making the sea cucumber resource vulnerable to over exploitation. The results emphasized the stakeholders' role in the fishery and are crucial for sea cucumber sustainability.