More Than Among the Pleas for Their Rights: Exploring the Lived Experiences of Artisan Fisherfolks

Acknowledging that denudation of mangrove forest ecosystem had significant impact to the lives of artisan fisherfolks, thus this phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of the artisan fisherfolks in Barangay San Isidro, Babak District, Island Garden City of Samal. Phenomenological study was used to describe, elicit discussion, and analyze the lived experiences of the artisan fisherfolks. Further, a validated semi-structured guide question was used for the in-depth-interview (IDI) and focus group discussion (FGD) with the artisan fisherfolk living in denuded mangrove forest ecosystem. Furthermore, thematic analysis was used in analyzing the data. The result showed the following themes of the lived experiences of the artisan fisherfolks that; fish catch just enough for the family consumption, lost and shifted of livelihood and spent more to fish further, it also reveals that the coping mechanisms of the participants are seek help from authorities and self-strategized to provide the family sustenance; and, the insights shared regarding mangrove forest ecosystem denudation is the rehabilitation of mangrove forest, strict implementation of environmental laws and strengthening of fisherfolk organization.