From Fishing to Tourism: A Livelihood Transition in San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines

Abstract

The decline of fish production is one of the economic and environmental issues in Palawan where many households are highly dependent on fishing. This condition resulted in a decline in household income which prompted the fishers to shift to other forms of livelihood. This study documented the shifting of the fishers’ livelihood from fishing to tourism-related activities, the reasons for the shift, the tourism-related activities that they engaged in, and the average household monthly income from fishing and tourism-related activities. Data were gathered from 291 fishers in Poblacion and Port Barton, San Vicente, Palawan, Philippines. Data gathering was conducted using household and key informant interviews. The participants who were owners or employees of fishing operations experienced a decline in fish production and income due to unfavorable weather. Fishing also consumed much of their time and money. These situations impelled them to shift to tourism-related activities. Results indicated that 139 (44.77%) participants shifted to tourism-related activities and earned a higher average monthly income compared to what they earned from fishing. These findings may provide information for concerned agencies in designing appropriate programs that may assist the fishers in coping with the challenges caused by a decline in fish production, thereby developing resilience and promoting sustainable development.