Fishers' preference for mobile traceability platform: challenges in achieving a digital tuna supply chain in Davao Region, Philippines

Purpose Current catch documentation and traceability practices in the Philippines are paper-based. However, with technological advancements, a shift toward electronic documentation has become a global trend to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. This study aims to determine the factors influencing fishers' preference for a mobile traceability platform and identify the challenges in achieving a digital tuna supply chain in Davao Region, Philippines. Design/methodology/approach A survey of 178 tuna fishers was conducted in select sites in Davao Region using a semi-structured questionnaire. Factors influencing fishers' preference for a mobile traceability platform were identified using logistic regression. Findings Results revealed that one-third of the fishers (34.5%) preferred a mobile traceability platform. Membership in organizations and higher educational attainment increased the preference for a mobile traceability platform. Meanwhile, respondents' knowledge was associated with a preference for paper-based traceability. This association between knowledge and preference was in the context of catch recording performed by government agencies and fisherfolk associations in landing sites. Intensified support aimed at increasing the fishers' literacy and access to technological devices, including the internet and smartphones, is emphasized to provide them with the basic requirements for participating in mobile traceability systems. Moreover, several challenges in implementing digital traceability beyond fisherfolk were identified. Originality/value This study amplifies the need for infrastructure and legislation to support the implementation of a digital tuna supply chain and eliminate IUU fishing.