Small-Scale Fishers Urged to Defend Livelihoods

By Juliane Judilla

BUENAVISTA, Guimaras – Various fisherfolk associations, business owners, and local government officials gathered in Buenavista, Guimaras, on Monday, January 20, for a closed-door forum addressing challenges in the fisheries sector.

The event, organized by Inclusive Sustainable Development for Aquatic Fisheries (ISDA) Inc., aimed to discuss pressing issues and the current state of the local fisheries industry. It also provided a platform for stakeholders to share insights and explore solutions to improve the livelihoods of those dependent on the sector while amplifying their demands.

“It’s very important that we hold forums like these to show people that despite the challenges we face, we can unite and bring feasible solutions to sustain our livelihoods and uphold our rights,” said Cyrill Pallado, president of ISDA Inc.

Prominent fisherfolk leader and 2021 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee Roberto “Ka Dodoy” Ballon played a central role in the forum. Ballon, who chairs Kapunungan sa Gagmay’ng Mangingisda sa Concepcion in Zamboanga Sibugay, also leads several fisherfolk organizations, including the National Movement of Farmers Organizations (PAKISAMA) and the Confederation of Small Fishers Movements in the Philippines (KKAMPi).

Ballon emphasized the need to equip coastal communities with knowledge about the issues affecting the fisheries sector. He expressed his commitment to advancing the welfare of fisherfolk nationwide, advocating for sustainable practices and improved government support.

“This sector has always been the backbone of our coastal communities, and it’s high time we address the gaps that have long hindered its growth,” Ballon said. “Small-scale fishermen should not lose hope in fighting for and defending their livelihoods and rights.”

The forum addressed critical issues, including illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, environmental degradation, and a controversial Supreme Court ruling that declared the Fisheries Code’s preferential access provisions unconstitutional.

The decision allows commercial fishing in municipal waters following a petition by Mercidar Fishing Corp.

“Our oceans are facing severe degradation caused by government-favored projects and policies, which cost the lives and livelihoods of marginalized fisherfolk communities,” Ballon added.

Business leaders emphasized the economic importance of the fisheries sector and called for stronger collaboration between fisherfolk and businesses.

Local government officials highlighted the need for policy coordination and resource allocation to ensure the long-term sustainability of Guimaras’ fisheries. They expressed their support for initiatives that balance economic growth with environmental conservation.

The forum concluded with a commitment from all stakeholders to work collaboratively toward solutions that ensure the sustainable development of the fisheries sector, securing the future of small-scale fisherfolk and their communities.