Impact of marine protected areas (MPAs) governance on fisheries stocks in Tayabas Bay: Basis for policy making

This study aimed to examine the governance of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in Tayabas Bay and its impact on fishery stocks, serving as a basis for policymaking. The research involved two variables: Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) governance factors (i.e., institutional capacity, stakeholder participation, policy effectiveness, and enforcement mechanisms) and fishery stock indicators (i.e., spawning potential, productivity, efficiency, and exploitation rate). Conducted from January to March 2025, the study hypothesized that no significant relationship exists between MPAs governance and fishery stocks. Statistical treatments such as the Weighted Mean, Standard Deviation, and Pearsons r correlation were utilized to test the hypothesis and answer the research questions. A quantitative, descriptive-correlational design was employed. Data were gathered using a validated, self-constructed survey questionnaire administered to 153 purposively selected respondents from Local Government Units (LGUs), Bantay Dagat members, and Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Councils (FARMCs) around Tayabas Bay. The general procedure involved securing permits, administering surveys, and statistically analyzing data to determine the governance status and its relationship with fisheries sustainability. Findings revealed that well-governed MPAs significantly enhance the sustainability of fisheries stocks, demonstrating positive correlations between governance quality and fisheries indicators hence, the null hypothesis was rejected. The study concludes that strengthening governance, particularly through institutional capacity-building, stakeholder participation, adaptive policies, and improved enforcement, is vital for sustainable fisheries management. It is recommended to institutionalize a multi-stakeholder governance framework and integrate policy harmonization across municipalities to ensure long-term ecological and socio-economic benefits.