Climate change vulnerability, adaptive strategies, and food security of small-scale fishers in marine protected areas (MPAs) of the Island Garden City of Samal

Currently, there are no updated assessments on the climate vulnerability and food security status of the communities located near or hosting marine protected areas in Samal. To address this question, we assessed the vulnerability and food security status of small-scale fishing communities located near or at the community-managed marine protected areas (MPAs) in the Island Garden City of Samal, Philippines. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were gathered from N = 90 fisher respondents in barangay Aundanao, Tagbaobo, and Tambo. Fishers were interviewed in community fish landing sites or in their residences. The data gathered from these interviews were validated using three focus groups from the fishing villages participated by 10–15 fishers ( N = 43) and additional key informants’ interviews. Results showed that most respondents were male, middle-aged, and long-term residents who relied heavily on fishing for livelihood. Overfishing, climate change, and illegal fishing (use of poison fishing and illegal fishing gears) were identified as the main causes of decline in fish catch. The most significant vulnerability factors included loss of fishing grounds due to MPA restrictions, unstable fish prices (supply is not guaranteed), and increasing operational costs (stemming from erratic weather patterns). Dietary patterns revealed adequate intake of basic staples but limited consumption of fruits, vegetables, and legumes, suggesting moderate food security with nutritional gaps. The findings highlight that while Samal may have established MPAs to help sustain marine ecosystems and livelihoods, this might not be adequate for fishers’ overall well-being. Strengthening adaptive capacity, additional livelihoods, and a more inclusive fisheries governance could be vital for enhancing resilience and ensuring sustainable food security among coastal communities.