Coastal Resource Management in the Philippines

Abstract

Major problems that beset the Philippines fisheries sector are degradation of coastal habitats and environmental damage; depleting of marine resources; poverty among municipal fisherfolks; low productivity of aquaculture; and limited utilization of the offshore waters by Philippines commercial fishermen. The Government as well as the academe, NGOs/POs and the local government units (LGUs) is implementing integrated Coastal Resource Management (CRM) programs to address the problems of the sector. Policies related to resource management have been instituted to assist the different agencies and organizations in carrying out their roles and responsibilities in CRM. There is no straight rule in implementing an integrated CRM program. Its success depends upon the infractions between and among the stakeholders of the coastal area. CRM components such as credit for alternative/supplemental livelihood and law enforcement do not fare well in some coastal communities, while components such as public education, capability building, habitat enhancement/rehabilitation and people s participation are carried out successfully. Experiences of the government sector, LGU, NGO/PO and the academe show success stories that inspire them to continue with CRM initiatives while failures encountered serve as reminders of the pitfalls to avoid when implementing an integrated management of coastal resources.