Analysis of the Socio-Economic Conditions of the Local Fisherfolks in Barangay Poloyagan, Pagadian City

This study explores the socio-economic conditions of the local fisherfolk in Barangay Poloyagan, Pagadian City, with the aim of identifying their primary livelihood challenges, assessing the level of government support, and formulating policy recommendations for sustainable development. Employing a mixed-method approach, the research involved structured interviews, surveys in the local dialect, and focus group discussions with 30 randomly selected household heads from the fishing community. The findings reveal that most fisherfolk operate on low daily incomes (₱200–₱300), lack access to modern fishing equipment, and face significant environmental and economic vulnerabilities, including seasonal fish scarcity, typhoons, high equipment costs, and the absence of relevant local ordinances. The study also notes the lack of alternative income sources for many respondents, inadequate institutional support, and a declining interest in fishing among younger generations. The theoretical frameworks of Fred Riggs’ Ecology of Public Administration and Mark Moore’s Public Value Theory are applied to analyze governance gaps and the misalignment between public policy and community needs. In conclusion, the study recommends organizing fisherfolk into cooperatives, improving access to financial and technical support, enhancing infrastructure, and enacting localized policies to protect and empower the fishing sector. These recommendations aim to strengthen local governance and promote socio-economic resilience in marginalized coastal communities.