Conflict and Security Vis-a-vis Sustainability of Marine Resources in Zamboanga Peninsula

Fishing is the primary source of income and economic activity in the Zamboanga Peninsula's coastal barangays. However, due to several conflict and security challenges, such as the presence of armed groups in certain coastal barangays and their management of marine resources, the sustainability and patterns of fishing as a critical economic activity have been severely harmed. Additionally, the Philippine government's annual closed fishing season, which runs from December 1 to March 1 every year, exacerbates the fishermen's difficulties. The purpose of this study is to examine how the presence of armed groups affects poverty and structural inequality in fishing communities affected by armed conflicts, as well as how their governance of maritime resources contributes to poverty and structural inequality. Conflict and security are critical components of this study. It illustrates the degree of violence experienced by individuals and households in their respective barangays. Quantitative and qualitative methodologies are utilized to elucidate the relationship between armed group governance of maritime resources and armed conflict. The findings of the study demonstrate the critical role of armed groups in resource management in the Zamboanga Peninsula's coastal barangays, as well as the impact of their presence on the economic activities of residents and households. Additionally, the findings of the study indicate that security and conflict are significant factors in the economic activities of individuals and households in barangays. Additionally, the presence of armed groups in barangays influences the economic activities of these individuals and households, implying that these armed groups wield power over the populace and barangays. Because the armed groups are composed of fishermen, adequate education should be provided to ensure their long-term viability. Additionally, it is recommended that these barangays receive basic services and facilities.