Determination of coral reef health status using social indicators

Abstract

The Lamawan Pony Marine Protected Area (MPA) in San Jose de Buenavista, Antique, Philippines, was created to improve marine conservation and fisheries management. The socio-cultural component of this study deployed primarily Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), and face-to-face surveys in four fishing communities. Findings from the surveys revealed that the MPA status is poor due to anthropogenic impacts. The knowledge of MPA presence is high (86%); however, the local perception of MPA sustainability is low (26%), due to fishing challenges. Despite these conditions, results suggest that increasing the no-take zone area to at least 20% of the total MPA size is necessary to achieve the goals set for an MPA. The data in this study are imperative for improving sustainable fishery management in the future that balances the economic needs of its coastal populace.