Published Paper Details:

This research study focuses on the plight of fisherfolks in the Municipality of San Antonio, Zambales. It employs a phenomenological qualitative research design to investigate the challenges faced by fisherfolks and explore potential solutions. The study's objectives include determining the profile of fisherfolks, narrating their difficulties during the fiscal year 2020-2023, assessing the support programs provided by the local government unit, proposing measures to address prevailing problems, and identifying the implications of the study to public administration. The significant findings reveal that the majority of fisherfolks in San Antonio, Zambales are aged 51 and above, married, and have 4-5 children. They rely on fishing as their primary source of income but also engage in other occupations such as construction work. Weather conditions and seasonal variations greatly affect their fishing activities and catch quantities. While health status was reported as good, the fisherfolks face various challenges. The emerging themes from the study include environmental challenges, territorial disputes, depleted fish stocks, the call for government support, and the importance of sustainability. Environmental challenges encompass natural occurrences like typhoons, coral bleaching, and dwindling fish stocks due to warming ocean temperatures. The territorial dispute involving China in the South China Sea adds to the challenges faced by fisherfolks. Depleted fish stocks result from overfishing, destructive fishing practices, and illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities. The fisherfolks emphasize the need for government support and protection. They also highlight the importance of sustainable programs to ensure a secure livelihood and suggest improvements in fishing regulations, safety measures, and financial support. Based on the findings, several recommendations are proposed. These include implementing fishing regulations for sustainable practices, providing financial resources and support to fisherfolks, organizing training programs, improving fishing infrastructure, facilitating market access, implementing fishery management plans, providing social welfare programs, and investing in scientific research and data collection. This study contributes to the understanding of the challenges faced by fisherfolks in San Antonio, Zambales, and provides recommendations for the government and local authorities to improve their livelihoods and promote sustainable fishing practices. By implementing the suggested measures, it is possible to improve the livelihoods and well-being of fisherfolks and promote sustainable fishing practices in the region.