The growing global demand for seafood as an affordable source of dietary protein has placed increasing pressure on wild fish stocks. Despite intensified efforts, capture fisheries continue to struggle in meeting the needs of a rapidly expanding population.

Marine aquaculture, or mariculture, has emerged as a vital sector in the fisheries industry, offering livelihood opportunities and income diversification for coastal communities. Fish cage operations were once a relatively minor coastal activity until the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) introduced the Mariculture Park Program in 2001. Since then, the sector has evolved into an economic driver in many coastal municipalities.

However, alongside this development come ecological, economic, and social challenges that require careful management to ensure long-term sustainability.

NFRDI leads the environmental impact assessment

To address these concerns, the Department of Agriculture–National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (DA–NFRDI), through its Freshwater Fisheries Research and Development Center (FFRDC) in Butong, Taal, Batangas, is conducting an environmental and socioeconomic impact assessment of eleven (11) mariculture parks across the country from 2023 to 2025.

This initiative supports the goals of the DA–BFAR Comprehensive National Fisheries Industry Development Plan (CNFIDP) 2021–2025, which seeks to optimize the benefits of mariculture while minimizing adverse effects.

The study includes household surveys and key informant interviews (KIIs) to assess mariculture’s role in community well-being and social dynamics. A cost-and-returns analysis evaluates the economic viability of fish cage operations, while ecological assessments monitor seasonal variations in water and sediment quality. Additionally, biodiversity assessments document reef fish species and categorize coral coverage in mariculture areas.

Environmental conditions and potential risks

Fish cage operations can affect marine environments through excessive feeding and waste accumulation, which degrade sediment and water quality. These impacts may result in longer culture periods and, in severe cases, fish kills. Poor aquaculture practices and improper waste disposal further increase the risk of ecosystem degradation, potentially reducing wild fish stocks and damaging benthic habitats.

While it remains challenging to determine whether these environmental stresses are caused directly by mariculture activities or by other human and natural factors, the assessment provides valuable baseline data for early detection of ecosystem changes and potential risks.

Socioeconomic contributions and opportunities

According to the BFAR–National Mariculture Center (NMC), national milkfish (Chanos chanos) production in both volume and value has increased significantly in recent years. The mariculture sector continues to generate employment opportunities, improving the livelihoods of many coastal residents.

Results of the socioeconomic assessment indicate that households involved in mariculture activities experienced an improved quality of life, with more stable sources of income and employment opportunities close to home. These jobs include roles such as supervisors, technicians, caretakers, feeders, divers, and harvesters, contributing to local income diversification.

Economic analysis also showed that fish cage operations remain viable, with gradual expansion and growing investor interest. However, the rising cost of feeds remains a major challenge, accounting for the majority of operational expenses.

Community perspectives and the role of women

Perceptions of mariculture benefits vary among communities. While participating households report significant socioeconomic improvements, others perceive that only operators and direct beneficiaries gain from mariculture activities. Surveys and interviews revealed that non-participating households tend to have more diversified income sources, yet mariculture-engaged families generally earn higher incomes overall.

Although mariculture employment remains predominantly male, women’s participation in related activities has been increasing. Their involvement underscores the sector’s potential to promote gender inclusivity and highlight the valuable contributions of women in fisheries and aquaculture.

Moving forward

The multidisciplinary assessment of mariculture parks provides an evidence-based understanding of both the opportunities and challenges surrounding the sector. It highlights the need to balance economic viability with environmental sustainability and social equity.

Findings from this study will serve as valuable inputs for decision-makers in developing inclusive and science-based programs and policies. As mariculture continues to serve as an economic driver in many coastal areas, its sustainability will ultimately depend on how well its benefits are maximized while mitigating environmental and social risks. ### (Myleen Magistrado)