RUNNING through Iloilo City, the Iloilo River is a source of life, sustenance, and pride. It supports rich biodiversity, including various fish species like the bulgan (sea bass) and managat, while also providing a livelihood for fishermen who rely on the river’s bounty to feed their families. However, as the city government proposes a closed fishing season to allow fish populations to recover and to protect the river’s ecosystem, a question arises: How can we strike a delicate balance between conservation and the economic well-being of those who depend on the river?
City Agriculturist Iñigo Garingalao’s proposal to ban fishing from December to March is rooted in scientific evidence. A study by the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources reveals that during this period, many species are in their peak spawning phase, making it vital to give them time to reproduce without the pressure of fishing. The closed season, if implemented, could ensure that the Iloilo River remains a thriving, productive ecosystem.
Yet, the proposal raises understandable concerns. For many families, fishing in the river is a necessity for survival. Banning fishing for four months has potential socioeconomic impact. The city government must therefore proceed carefully, implementing measures to mitigate the economic fallout on affected communities.
One good move would be to offer alternative livelihood programs during the closed season, helping fishermen transition temporarily to other income-generating activities. Skills training, financial assistance, and support for small-scale aquaculture projects could go a long way in reducing the economic strain. But these should be designed with input from the communities themselves to ensure they are not just temporary fixes but part of a broader effort to build more resilient, diversified livelihoods.
Education and awareness campaigns are also important. It is essential that affected fishermen and their families understand the long-term benefits of a healthy river ecosystem. Conservation efforts are not meant to deprive them of their livelihoods but to ensure that the Iloilo River continues to be a sustainable resource. By fostering a sense of shared responsibility, the city government can help bridge the gap between conservation goals and the immediate needs of the community.
Enforcement, too, is pivotal. The closed season must be effectively monitored, with barangay officials, maritime police, and the coastguard actively involved in preventing illegal fishing activities during the ban. At the same time, a flexible approach should be adopted, taking into account specific circumstances of families who might face severe hardship without their usual source of income.
Conservation efforts like the proposed closed season are vital in maintaining the Iloilo River’s biodiversity, but they must be implemented thoughtfully, with the well-being of local communities at the forefront of planning. This will ensure the sustainability of the entire ecosystem, including the people who live along its banks.
A healthy Iloilo River benefits us all.
