The Fishing Industry in Ilocos Sur: An Occupation

Abstract

The study was conducted to determine the socio-demographic and socio economic characteristics of fishermen in llocos Sur. Likewise, it sought to evaluate the catches per fishing effort of the fishermen. Problems confronting the fishermen were also determined. Fishing methodologies, materials and equipment used by the fisher respondents
were assessed and the kind and source of assistance received by the fishermen were also determined. The study covered the municipalities of Ilocos Sur with coastal barangays namely: Sta. Maria, Narvacan, San Juan, Tagudin, Cabugao, Santa, San Esteban, Magsingal, Sinait, Sta. Lucia, San Vicente, Santiago, and Vigan. It was conducted from
April 2000 to March 2001. It utilized the descriptive method with the aid of a questionnaire, supplemented by personal interviews. Most of fisherfolks were male, married, belonged to ages 35-44, attained elementary or high school education, and their average number of dependents was four. Most of the respondents were earning below P5,000.00 monthly. Aside from fishing, 31.24% were engaged in farming. Majority of them bought and built their
houses, described as semi-permanent bungalow dwelling. Radio and electric iron were the most acquired appliance and facility. Most of the fishermen did not have helpers in fishing and claimed that their income was not enough for their family. Majority of the fishermen went fishing everyday. The most frequently caught fishes were buslugan, pusit, balaki, mataan, barangawan, barangan, burador, kabalias, oriles, and talakitok. As to the member of kilos caught per fishing effort, sapsap had the highest average, followed by barangawan, kurapo, tirong, burador, pusit, dorado, talakitok, talibuno, and mulmol. The most expensive fishes (pesos per kg) were the following: angrat, bulidaw, kapiged, kambaya, maya-maya, kabalias, pasayan, susay, barangawan, and dorado. Majority used bantak fishing rod because it was cheap and affordable. Motorized boat was the most expensive material and petromax was the cheapest. Out of 445 respondents only 10.11% received technical assistance and 6.52% received material assistance. A few catch was the most common problem met by the fishermen. Strict implementation of fishery laws was the first suggestion of the fisherflks to solve their problems.