Small-scale fishers, sometimes referred to as artisanal fishers, play an essential role in global food

security and coastal community livelihoods [1, 2]. Often operating with minimal capital and employing
traditional techniques passed down through generations, these fishers contribute significantly to the
seafood we consume [3, 4]. Despite their immense contribution, estimated to be nearly half of the
world's fish catch [2], small-scale fisheries are frequently overlooked in policy and public discourse [5].

These fisheries are typically family-run operations utilizing small boats and low-impact fishing gear,
operating close to shore for short durations [1]. Their deep understanding of local ecosystems, often
passed down through generations, allows them to fish sustainably [2]. This knowledge is increasingly
valuable as we grapple with the challenges of climate change and overfishing by large-scale commercial
operations [6, 7]. Furthermore, small-scale fisheries are a cornerstone of local economies, providing
vital sources of income and employment in developing nations [8, 9]. Women also play a crucial role
within these fisheries, often taking on essential tasks in post-harvest processing and marketing [10].

Small-scale fisheries are much more than just a source of fresh seafood. They represent a way of life, a
deep connection to the ocean, and a critical contributor to global food security and economic well-
being. Recognizing their importance and supporting their sustainable practices are essential steps
towards ensuring healthy oceans and thriving coastal communities.

While the global crab fishery faces challenges, there are promising examples of sustainable practices.
Certification programs like the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) scrutinize fisheries against strict
environmental standards [1]. These programs ensure crab populations are healthy and fishing methods
minimize bycatch and habitat damage [1]. Examples of MSC-certified crab fisheries include the snow
crab fishery off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, and the blue swimmer crab fishery in Australia
[2]. Additionally, some fisheries are adopting innovative techniques to promote sustainability. In
Madagascar, traditional fishers are using specially designed traps that allow undersized crabs to escape,
preventing them from being unnecessarily caught and discarded [3]. These efforts demonstrate that
crab fisheries can be a viable source of food and income, while also protecting the ocean's delicate
ecosystems.

Small-scale fishers, particularly those in coastal communities, often play a vital role in crab fisheries.
Their traditional practices and intimate knowledge of local ecosystems can be instrumental in
implementing sustainable fishing methods. Although the system may pose great deals for small scale
fishermen in Nasugbu, risks may also arise. This paper tackles the Challenges and Opportunities for
Small-Scale Fishers with a Focus on Sustainable Crab Fisheries in Nasugbu, Batangas.

References
[1] Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. (n.d.). Small-scale fisheries and aquaculture
& family farming https://www.fao.org/fishery/en/ssf

[2] The Role of Small-Scale Fisheries. (n.d.). Ocean Wise. https://ocean.org/overfishing/fisheries-

seafood/

[3] Supporting Small-Scale Fisheries. (n.d.). Sustainable Fisheries Partnership.

https://sustainablefish.org/

[4] About Small-scale Fisheries. (n.d.). SSF Hub. https://ssfhub.org/

[5] Small-scale fisheries | IPBES secretariat. (n.d.). https://www.ipbes.net/

[6] Levin, P. S., Fogarty, M. J., Hare, J. A., Rassmann, K., Nye, J. A., & Sameoto, D. (2009). Impact of
environmental change on planktonic marine ecosystems. Proceedings of the National Academy of
Sciences, 106(9), 3605-3610.

[7] Pauly, D., Zeller, D., Palomares, M. L., Liow, S. J., Watson, R., & Kitchener, D. (2002). Lack of recovery
in fish stocks and the consequent decline in ecosystem services. Marine Ecology Progress Series, 235,
255-265.

[8] World Bank. (2018). The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2018.
https://www.fao.org/3/i9540en/i9540en.pdf

[9] Allison, E. H., & Ellis, F. (2011). Livelihoods and resilience of small-scale fisheries in changing
environments: A review. Marine Policy, 35(1), 79-89.

[10] Weeratunge, N., Béné, C., Badjeck, M. C., Makino, M., Ekesi, S., & Ahmed, M. (2014). Gender in
aquaculture and fisheries value chains: A synthesis of socioeconomic studies. FAO Fisheries and
Aquaculture Technical Paper No. 580.
https://www.fao.org/fileadmin/user_upload/fisheries/docs/The_role_of_Women_in_the_fishery_value
_chain_Dr__De_Silva.doc

[1] Sustainable Crab | Marine Stewardship Council https://www.msc.org/species/crabs

[2] Foodies guide to crab - Marine Stewardship Council https://www.msc.org/species/crabs

[3] A sustainable crab fishery sector for the future of the mangroves of Manambolo Tsiribihina
https://wwf.panda.org/wwf_offices/madagascar/?uProjectID=MG0910