Value Chain Analysis for Frigate Tuna (Auxis thazard) in Selected Aquatic and Agricultural Systems Communities along the Sogod Bay Area, Southern Leyte, Philippines

Abstract

The frigate tuna industry in the Sogod Bay area of Southern Leyte is constrained by various factors. The study aimed to look for effective pathways and linkages for upgrading the industry, transforming it to a highly competitive and profitable system for the poor and marginalized people of the Sogod Bay area. Examination of the value-creating flow of the industry from the input supply sector, production, trading until the finished goods are delivered to the end consumers was done. Participatory systems analysis was used to examine the profitability of an existing value chain, identify problems and areas for improvement for frigate tuna enterprise in Limasawa Island and selected communities in Sogod, Southern Leyte, Philippines. Value chain mapping showed fresh frigate tuna traded to local buyers, trader-assemblers and brokers in Pasil Fish Port, Cebu City. Downstream, retailers traded products directly to institutional buyers. Data revealed that at the current market situation, there is 48.83% excess demand of frigate tuna. Chain performance analysis also showed that traders in Limasawa generated higher net returns than the upstream players in Sogod, Southern Leyte. Moreover, upstream players across study sites are alarmingly facing declining catch per unit effort in their fishing activity. Logistic issues and external influences were evident in the area. The presence of large fishing vessels in a “no fishing” area aggravated the decline in the catch per unit effort of frigate tuna in the Sogod Bay area. Strategies to upgrade the chain are forwarded to bring back the frigate tuna enterprise, thus, generating more benefits and opportunities for high value adding products where the poor and marginalized sectors in the selected AAS communities can participate.