Study on the Role of Women in Small-Scale Fisheries in the Philippines

Abstract

The fisheries sector is very important to the Philippines in terms of a source of livelihood, income, food, and nutrition. With the decline of fishery resources, the most vulnerable groups that are affected are women in the small-scale fisheries sector. A significant number of studies have focused on gender mainstreaming in fisheries. In this study, the women's role in the fisheries sector in the Philippines was studied using the secondary data provided by relevant government agencies and data from technical reports, journal articles, books, and case studies. Findings from this study show that a large percentage (25%) of women in the Philippines are involved in fish processing as compared to other fisheries activities. Out of the 1.9 million fisherfolks registered to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) National Program for Municipal Fisherfolk Registration (FishR) between 2011 and 2018, only 23% are women. The challenges faced by women, which limit their full participation in fisheries activities, are mostly related to cultural beliefs and social norms. For decision-making and participation in fisheries management, though in rare cases, women are taking initiatives such as conservation of the fisheries resources and ensuring that the rules and regulations are effectively enforced. It is recommended that there must be an improved and effective empowerment program to support women in small-scale fisheries. Further gender-based studies must be undertaken to prioritize gender-sensitive policies, approaches, and interventions.