Enhancing Smallholder Aquaculture in Philippine Peatlands: Challenges, Opportunities, and Nature-Based Solutions in the Leyte Sab-a Basin

This study explores the status, challenges, and opportunities of smallholder aquaculture in the Leyte Sab-a Basin Peatland (LSBP), with a particular focus on the application of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) for sustainable management. Using a mixed-methods approach that combines a comprehensive literature review with a focus group discussion (FGD) involving 22 local practitioners, the study identifies both traditional practices—such as bamboo pond structures and the use of Kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica) and Azolla as fish feed—and key constraints to productivity. These include environmental vulnerabilities (e.g., declining water quality, climate variability), technical limitations (e.g., disease risks, lack of fingerlings), and socio-economic barriers (e.g., limited market access, financial insecurity, and gender inequality). While most smallholders are unfamiliar with formal NbS frameworks, their current practices already reflect ecological principles aligned with NbS. The study further highlights the socio-economic significance of aquaculture as both a livelihood resource and a contributor to food security in rural peatland communities. Linking traditional knowledge with scientifically guided NbS—such as Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA), aquaponics, and biofiltration systems—can enhance ecosystem resilience and livelihood security. In addition, strengthening gender-inclusive participation and providing equitable access to training and financial support are critical to improving resilience. This study concludes that targeted capacity-building, financial support mechanisms, and multi-stakeholder partnerships are needed to facilitate inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient aquaculture systems in peatland environments. Beyond addressing immediate livelihood changes, these strategies also contribute to biodiversity conservation, ecosystem restoration, and climate adaptation in fragile wetland landscapes.