Perceived Impact of FishCORAL-Related Coastal Resource Management Interventions in Ragay, Camarines Sur, Philippines

The paper presents the assessment study aimed to (a) determine the level of awareness of the fishers on the Coastal Resource Management initiatives of the FishCORAL project in Ragay, Camarines Sur, (b) document the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of the fishers on coastal resources management (hereafter referred as ‘CRM’), (c) identify the perceived socio-economic and ecological impacts of CRM initiatives, and (d) document the lessons to improve the implementation of fishery policies, programs, and plans for effective CRM initiatives. Using focus group discussion, key informant interview and observation methods, the present investigation depictede that respondents are extremely aware of the CRM interventions under the FishCORAL Project such as presence of markers in marine reserve and fish sanctuary, watch tower, Fishery Law Enforcement Team/bantay dagat operations, and patrol boat. Despite of significant increase in fish stock as observed by the respondents, no positive impact yet was felt by the fisherfolks in terms of fish catch and income. Respondents, however, perceived the importance and future benefits of these interventions in ensuring sustainable fishery and other coastal resources of Ragay Gulf including the other ecosystem services it may offer to the coastal communities.

The study further revealed that illegal fishing and other prohibited economic activities within and nearby the fish sanctuary were curtailed due to the presence of installed buoy markers, established watch tower and seaborne surveillance/ patrol works. The availability of patrol boats and watch tower, which serves as Fishery Law Enforcement Team (FLET) headquarter, coupled with the regular manning or 24/7 monitoring by the FLETconsiderably contributed in minimizing and/or gradual reduction of illegal fishing activities within the municipal waters of Ragay.