Fishers’ well-being affected by anthropogenic stressors in Surigao del Sur, Philippines

Abstract The fishing industry is considered one of the essential industries in the Philippines, especially in Surigao del Sur, and provides food and employment. By investigating how fishers’ well-being can be affected by various anthropogenic stressors, a solution can be crafted to address the problem. Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was used to assess fisher’s well-being through the five dimensions such as social, economic, ecological, spiritual, and cultural. A total of N = 174 respondents participated in six FGDs conducted in the villages of Cortes, Lanuza, and Lianga and a separate focus group was used to validate the results of the study. Results showed variation in terms of social connectivity, Lanuza and Lianga scored medium high (3) but in terms of membership to cooperative, Cortes and Lanuza scored high (4). In the cultural dimension (governance and advocacy for marine conservation), Cortes scored high (4) and for values (communication and beliefs), all three sites scored highly (5). For economic dimension such as catch and cost of fishing trip, Cortes and Lanuza scored high (4). Finally, for the ecological dimension (protection of fish stocks and fishing practices), Cortes and Lanuza scored highly (5). Moreover, four major anthropogenic stressors mentioned in the area are on coral reef siltation (85%), climate change impacts (82%), improper garbage disposal (69%), and impacts of mining activities (67%). Responses of participants showed the need for the local and provincial governments to focus on immediate and practical priorities to effectively address long-term issues such as anthropogenic disturbances affecting fishers’ well-being.