3 MIN READ

By SHERWIN DE VERA
www.nordis.net

VIGAN CITY—On May 31, various groups in the Ilocos region joined fishing communities to commemorate National Fisherfolk Day, calling for better protection, adequate support for small-scale fishers, and stronger conservation efforts for coastal ecosystems.

The assertion of exclusive rights for small fishers over the 15-kilometer municipal waters served as a rallying call, uniting photography enthusiasts, youth groups, and environmental advocates. 

The issue has gained traction following the Supreme Court’s affirmation of a decision by the Malabon Regional Trial Court regarding fishing rights in municipal waters. This ruling allows Mercidar Fishing Corporation to operate in areas traditionally reserved for small-scale fishers.

In a statement, street photography collective Sirpat La Union urged the return of exclusive access to municipal fishing grounds to small-scale fishers. “Let us not allow those who feed the nation to go hungry and live in poverty,” the group said.

The group participated in a coastal cleanup in Agoo, La Union, organized by the youth group Kalap (Kabataan ng La Union para sa Pagbabago), an Ilokano word which means ‘to fish’. They were joined by the women’s group Kababaihang LEONA and several Sangguniang Kabataan councils. The organizers emphasized the importance of a collective effort to protect marine resources and the livelihoods that rely on them.

National Fisherfolk Day is observed in the Philippines every May 31, following Presidential Proclamation No. 261 issued in 2000 under the Estrada administration. The day honors the contributions of fisherfolk to the sustainable development of fishing communities and their role in supporting the national economy.

Through the lens

Sirpat held a photowalk to document the daily life of local fisherfolk in the area. Group members said they used photography not only to capture images but also to listen to stories and amplify voices from the community.

A dialogue followed between youth participants and fishing community members, where fisherfolk shared their experiences and raised concerns over inadequate support, the effects of climate change, and threats to livelihood.

“We sat down with community leaders to hear their stories,” the group said. “Because their stories are for them to tell. We can only amplify their voices. Echo their calls. Document the movements.”

 “That is why our visuals are our solidarity,” Sirpat added, expressing support for the municipal fishing rights of small-scale fishers.

The activities are part of broader efforts to encourage young people to participate in social programs and support marginalized communities.

“This is a call to action to collectively defend fisherfolk’s rights and develop projects that bring meaningful change,” the Kalap stated.

Food security stewards

In a Facebook message, returning senator Francisco Pangilinan acknowledged the daily hardships and risks fishers face in securing food for the nation.

“We honor our fisherfolk this National Fisherfolk Day for their daily perseverance and even risking their lives just to feed us,” he said.

Upon returning to the Senate, he committed to continue legislative and programmatic support for fisherfolk.

“As we return to the Senate, we will continue pushing for programs that promote the welfare of our fisherfolk and uplift their livelihoods. Because we believe that to ensure food security, we must make sure our farmers and fisherfolk are not left behind,” Pangilinan added.

Protecting coastal ecosystems

Meanwhile, the Ilocos Norte environmental network SALUADAN expressed concern over large-scale development projects, which threaten coastal ecosystems and displace fishing communities.

The group cited the Buhawind Offshore Wind Project as one example. While framed as a development initiative, the group said such projects can result in “the destruction of livelihoods, denial of fisherfolk rights, and damage to marine ecosystems.”

The P360 billion investment is a joint venture between Danish renewable energy firm Copenhagen Energy A/S and PetroGreen Energy Corp. It will span the waters of Burgos, Bangui, and Pagudpud, but Saluadan said it will also affect the adjacent town of Pasuquin. The project, expected to be operational by 2028, involves developing turbines capable of producing 2,000 megawatts.

Fisherfolk in Bangui Bay staged a protest last April, expressing concern over possible disruptions to their livelihoods during construction.

Saluadan called on the public, civil society, and government agencies to protect coastal communities through increased support, fair and inclusive consultation processes, protection of fishing rights, and strengthened natural resource governance.

“It is important to recognize and support our fisherfolk. Real development must not come at the expense of people’s livelihoods and the environment,” the group said.# nordis.net