Women: Pillars of Philippine Fisheries

As the Philippines celebrates National Women’s Month this March, it is crucial to recognize the indispensable role of women in industries like fisheries, where they are key contributors to economic growth and food security.

In Western Visayas alone, women make up a significant portion of registered fisherfolk, with Guimaras leading at 40%, followed by Capiz at 39% and Iloilo at 38%.

These women are not limited to post-harvest activities but are actively involved in aquaculture, fish processing, vending, gleaning, and even capture fishing—roles traditionally dominated by men.

Despite their vital contributions, women in fisheries face numerous challenges, including limited access to resources, insufficient representation in decision-making, and the dual burden of domestic responsibilities and economic labor.

Their struggles are compounded by systemic issues such as gender inequality, lack of financial support, and inadequate training opportunities tailored to their needs.

Yet, their resilience shines through, as evidenced by the 26,644 registered women fisherfolk in Iloilo and thousands more across Negros Occidental and Antique.

These women rise before dawn, manage households, and engage in physically demanding work, often under harsh conditions, to sustain their families and communities.

The Department of Agriculture Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Region 6 (DA-BFAR 6) has emphasized the need for capacity-building programs, gender-responsive policies, and improved access to resources to empower women fisherfolk.

This year’s National Women’s Month theme, “Babae sa Lahat ng Sektor, Aangat ang Bukas sa Bagong Pilipinas,” aligns with the Magna Carta of Women and underscores the need for inclusive governance and economic transformation.

Women’s contributions extend beyond fisheries, as they play critical roles in various industries, driving innovation, sustainability, and community resilience.

It is time to move beyond token recognition and implement tangible measures to uplift women, ensuring they have equal opportunities and access to resources in all sectors.

Empowering women is not just a moral imperative; it is an economic necessity that benefits entire communities and strengthens national development.

As we celebrate Women’s Month, let us honor the sacrifices and achievements of women in fisheries and other industries while committing to address the systemic challenges they face.

The future of the Philippines depends on recognizing women as equal partners in progress and providing them with the tools to thrive in every sector.