Lived Realities of Coastal Fishing Communities in Negros Island: A Mixed Methods Study
Keywords:
small-scale fisherfolk, livelihood, adaptation strategies, resilience, socioeconomic challenges, marketing dynamics, environmental sustainability, mixed-methods, Negros Occidental, PhilippinesAbstract
This study employed a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design to examine the livelihood realities of small-scale fisherfolk in the coastal barangays of Tuyom, Linaon, Caliling, and Isio in the Municipality of Cauayan, Negros Occidental. The qualitative phase explored the lived experiences, adaptation strategies, and challenges faced by fisherfolk through in-depth interviews with eight purposively selected conversation partners. Thematic analysis (Braun & Clarke, 2006) revealed five major themes: adaptation strategies, resilience, socioeconomic challenges, marketing dynamics, and environmental and ecological considerations. These themes informed the development of a structured survey administered to 104 fisherfolk for the quantitative phase.
Findings from the survey confirmed that fisherfolk generally demonstrate moderate to very great levels of adaptation, resilience, and environmental awareness. However, they also face significant socioeconomic difficulties, particularly in relation to financial constraints and perceived burdens from government policies. The study highlighted variations in livelihood conditions based on age, educational attainment, income, and alternative livelihood sources. It concludes that while small-scale fisherfolk are resourceful and resilient, they remain vulnerable due to limited institutional support, policy misalignment, and fluctuating market access.
The study recommends the development of localized, participatory, and integrated livelihood programs that build on existing fisherfolk capacities while addressing structural limitations. Greater financial inclusion, cooperative strengthening, and responsive fisheries governance are necessary to sustain small-scale fishing communities in an increasingly vulnerable socio-ecological context.
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