TITLE:
Local Ecological Knowledge and Climate Change Perceptions among Mangrove Fishers in Masinloc, Zambales, Philippines
AUTHORS:
Roann P. Alberto, Annie Melinda Paz-Alberto
KEYWORDS:
Local Ecological Knowledge, Climate Change, Mangrove Stocks, Flooding, Typhoon, Social Impact, Mangrove Fishers
JOURNAL NAME:
American Journal of Climate Change,
Vol.14 No.3,
August
12,
2025
ABSTRACT: Small-scale fisheries (SSFs) are increasingly vulnerable to climate change, particularly in data-limited regions where scientific monitoring is scarce. Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) offers valuable insights into environmental changes and adaptive practices. This study investigated the LEK of mangrove subsistence fishers in Masinloc, Zambales, Philippines, focusing on their perceptions of climate change impacts and the influence of demographic factors on LEK utilization. A structured survey was administered to 335 fishers across four barangays (villages), employing binary and open-ended questions to assess LEK related to climate indicators such as temperature fluctuations, rainfall patterns, typhoon occurrences, and flooding events. Quantitative data were analyzed using Pearson’s chi-square tests, Bonferroni-adjusted post-hoc pairwise comparisons, and Cramer’s V to identify specific associations between LEK and demographic variables. Findings revealed that while fishers possess substantial LEK pertinent to climate change, its application varies significantly with barangay, age, and educational attainment. Notably, these demographic factors influenced the depth and breadth of LEK used in predicting and responding to climate-related events. The study underscored the importance of integrating LEK into climate adaptation strategies, recognizing its potential to enhance resilience in SSFs. Although centered on a specific locale, the insights gleaned from this research contribute to the broader discourse on the role of indigenous knowledge systems in climate change resilience, offering a model for similar communities globally.