Role of women and coastal livelihood in the small-scale fisheries (SSF) of Lupon and Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental

Abstract

In the small-scale fisheries, women have played a significant role, upending their traditional role of domestic activities. In this study, we shed light on various roles of women in their coastal communities in Lupon and Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental, and how their different activities revolve around the fisheries sector. A total of 88 women were randomly interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires in their homes and fish landing sites. Women participated in the fisheries between the ages of 35 and 55 years; in terms of educational attainment, they were primarily high school level and mostly were Cebuano. About 50% of them have access to credit, which they use for small businesses, purchasing fishing equipment, and the needs of their families. Women were involved in activities such as pre-fishing, fishing offshore, post-fishing, and fishing-related activities. Women were also engaged in collecting shells such as latticed top shells (Tectus fenestratus), little bear conch (Canarium urceus), singed cones (Conus consors), and blood clams (Anadara antiquata) at low tide. Their husbands were mainly engaged in fishing, where their common fish catch are flyingfish (Cheilopogon furcatus), roundscad (Decapterus macrosoma), dolphin fish (Coryphaena hippurus), skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis), yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares), bigeye scad (Selar crumenophthalmus), needlefish (Tylosurus crocodilus), and common squid (Sepioteuthis lessoniana). Overall, the women in the coastal communities played a significant role in the fisheries. Further, there is a need to empower them by providing loans and credit facilities, developing their capabilities, improving their livelihood, and enhancing their socioeconomic status.