Philippine E-Journals

Nabuswang Fisherfolks’ Vulnerability and Ways of Coping

Arlyn A. Abeto

Discipline: Social Science

 

Abstract:

This study considers Nabuswang fisherfolks’ management of vulnerabilities in life. Nabuswang is an island of agri–fishing community with a mangrove sanctuary. Though endowed with natural resources, residents still live in poverty. Thus, a study was conducted to find out how the residents, confronted with poor fish catch and natural and man-made hazards, survived. The research design was descriptive-analytic utilizing researcher-made questionnaires administered randomly to fisherfolks. The instrument was formulated based on the preliminary interview among fisherfolks. Responses to the survey questionnaires were validated through focus group discussion. The data show that poverty was due to poor fish catch despite the effort spent in raising their catch and was influenced by human-made hazards, more than nature. To cope, saving for the rainy days was on top of their list, but they ended up saving nothing. Some resorted to money lending, dietary adaptations, and alternative health care. Concretely, Illegal fishing practices, pollution, climate change resulted to loss of fish habitat and depletion of fishing grounds. In conclusion, Fishery Laws seem not fully implemented. Good thing, Nabuswang fisherfolks could still find ways to cope with poverty because of their positive outlook and trust in God which contributed to their sense of survival.