Socially constructing ‘climate change’ in fishing communities of Sarangani, Philippines

Authors

• Samantha Geraldine G. De los SantosFollow
• Ma. Larissa Lelu P. Gata

Abstract

The intensifying impacts of climate change have become more evident in recent years. While policies and programs have been implemented in the Philippines for decades, questions remain about how climate change is understood and experienced by fishing communities, the country’s poorest sector. By applying the Ecological-Symbolic Approach, this paper inquired into the fisherfolk’s social definition of climate change. A Qualitatively Driven Sequential Explanatory (QualDSE) mixed-methods design guided the study in developing an informed, substantiated, and context-based definition of climate change. This definition was also analyzed vis-a-vis the widely held definitions in national climate policy.

The terminology “climate change” remains unknown to the majority of the fisherfolk. Their observations, such as major changes in weather patterns, and lived experiences made them believe that the climate is “lahi na” (it is different already). Gender-wise, women who stay in their communities to perform caregiving roles, have better access to information through news and attendance at seminars. Relying solely on experience and observation is disadvantageous, particularly for men who are exposed to various climate risks during fishing. The fishers, who are highly vulnerable, need better climate information, education, and communication programs to assist in their adaptation efforts. The social definition of climate change, when incorporated into local planning, is likely to lead to informed action and increased climate resilience among fishing communities.

Recommended Citation

De los Santos, Samantha Geraldine G. and Gata, Ma. Larissa Lelu P. (2026) "Socially constructing ‘climate change’ in fishing communities of Sarangani, Philippines," Journal of Public Affairs and Development: Vol. 11: No. 1, Article 3.
Available at: https://www.ukdr.uplb.edu.ph/jpad/vol11/iss1/3