Bridging Policy and Practice: Assessing Aquaculture Governance, Stakeholder Participation, and Livelihood Outcomes in a Decentralized Coastal System in the Philippines

Abstract

Aquaculture plays a critical role in advancing sustainable food systems and coastal livelihoods, particularly in developing countries where decentralized governance structures shape resource management outcomes. Anchored on Sustainable Development Goal 14 (Life Below Water), this study examines aquaculture governance in Murcielagos Bay, Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines, focusing on policy awareness, institutional support, stakeholder participation, regulatory compliance, and livelihood outcomes. A descriptive-quantitative research design was employed, utilizing a structured survey questionnaire administered to key aquaculture stakeholders, including fish farmers, local government representatives, and community members. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, and weighted mean to determine level of stakeholders and operators’ engagement and participation on aquaculture regulations and policies. Findings reveal that stakeholders demonstrate generally high policy awareness and strong institutional support, particularly from local government units and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources. However, results indicate limited access to formal training and low levels of stakeholder participation in decision-making processes, suggesting a predominantly top-down governance structure. Despite these gaps, compliance with aquaculture regulations remains high, supported by strong monitoring mechanisms, while stakeholders report very high satisfaction in terms of environmental sustainability and livelihood improvements. The study highlights a critical gap between policy awareness and participatory governance, emphasizing the need to strengthen capacity-building systems, enhance inclusive decision-making, and improve transparency mechanisms. These findings contribute to the growing body of literature on decentralized fisheries governance and provide empirical evidence to inform policy refinement and sustainable aquaculture development in coastal communities.