Lived experience of the fish cage owners engaged in milkfish farming

Aim: This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of fish cage owners engaged in milkfish farming in Tangub City, particularly the problems they encountered, the coping mechanisms they employed, and the additional programs they wished to receive from the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).Methodology: This phenomenological qualitative study involved twenty-one (21) fish cage owners who were directly involved in the financial and operational management of their farms.A researcher-developed and expert-validated semi-structured interview guide was used to gather data.Participants were purposively selected, and interviews continued until data saturation was reached.Thematic analysis was employed to identify recurring themes related to challenges, coping mechanisms, and program needs.Results: The findings revealed ten major challenges: mussel infestation, adverse weather conditions, scarcity and high cost of milkfish feeds, fish theft, fish mortality, difficulty finding reliable buyers, financial challenges, unreliable caretakers, occurrence of diseases among milkfish, and low market prices.The coping mechanisms employed included techniques for preventing mussel overgrowth, use of water pumps, borrowing money to purchase fish feeds, consistent monitoring of fish cages, tenacity in managing operations, and coordination with legal authorities.The participants also identified four programs they wished to receive from BFAR: a mussel solution program, financial and fish feed assistance, a laboratory for milkfish disease management, and a milkfish buyer registration program.Conclusion: Fish cage owners in Tangub City face environmental, financial, market, and operational challenges that affect milkfish production and profitability.Despite these challenges, they demonstrate resourcefulness and resilience through various coping mechanisms.The findings highlight the importance of sustained technical, financial, diseasemanagement, and market-related support from BFAR to strengthen the sustainability and resilience of milkfish cage farming in the area.