Seasonal change, fishing revenues, and nutrient intakes of fishers’ children in Davao Gulf, Philippines

Abstract

Monsoons affect the Philippines’ weather and climate in different regions during the year, which leads to significant changes to coastal ecosystems. Specifically, while the northeast monsoon (NEM) season brings less rainfall the succeeding dry summer season becomes relatively hotter and drier. Maintaining a healthy coastal habitat is critical because it is the main source of income, food, and nutrition for many households, especially children. Hence, this study examined 270 fishing households – including 315 children – to assess if there were significant changes in fish catch and revenues during the NEM and summer seasons and how these changes affected food consumption and nutrient intakes of children in a marine protected area (MPA) in Davao Gulf. The study found that catch per unit (CPUE) effort levels and fishing revenues were higher in the NEM as compared to the summer season. Moreover, food consumption and nutrient intakes of children were significantly reduced from NEM to the summer season and were also insufficient in both seasons, according to the Philippine Dietary Reference Intakes (PDRI) standards. Thus, while issues regarding micro and macronutrient deficiencies of children in the coastal areas should be addressed, more focused intervention is needed during the summer season. Furthermore, tourism-based services such as recreational and site-seeing activities can be an option to provide more livelihood and income opportunities for fishers. However, if possible, such activities should be intensified during the summer season because children are more vulnerable due to their relatively more inadequate food and nutrient intakes.