By Kenneth Marcos 
In the fishing villages of Ilocos, early mornings begin with boats returning from the sea, carrying the day’s catch that many families rely on for income and food. But changing weather patterns and shifting ocean conditions are starting to reshape these long-standing livelihoods. A new assessment in the region reveals how climate change is affecting two coastal communities in different ways.
The first Climate Risk Vulnerability Assessment (CRVA) in the Ilocos Region found that tilapia production in Badoc, Ilocos Norte remains largely resilient despite facing frequent typhoons, periodic flooding, dry spells, and warming waters. According to researchers, tilapia growers in the municipality benefit from a combination of favorable local conditions and farming practices that help them adjust to environmental stress. These factors have kept production stable even as climate threats continue to rise.
In contrast, the municipality of Cabugao in Ilocos Sur is seeing more troubling signs in its marine sector. Over the past decade, the catch volume and average size of skipjack tuna have significantly declined. This trend mirrors larger national and global observations on how tuna stocks react to rising sea temperatures and shifting currents. While Cabugao is experiencing these challenges, the CRVA notes that the town is not considered highly vulnerable because its fishing sector shows moderate dependence on tuna and maintains a stable capacity to adapt.
The CRVA process included a series of focus group discussions held on November 3–7, 2025, followed by cost-benefit analysis surveys conducted on November 24–28. These engagements brought together fishers, local officials, and technical experts to identify risks, discuss local experiences, and evaluate possible strategies that could help the communities respond to climate impacts.
Findings from the study highlight the need for targeted interventions. In Badoc, the focus may be on strengthening existing systems that already help farmers cope with weather extremes. Meanwhile, Cabugao could benefit from programs that diversify livelihoods, enhance fisheries monitoring, and support more climate-responsive fishing practices. Both municipalities also require continued research and updated data to ensure decisions are based on accurate local conditions.
Fisheries across the Philippines are increasingly exposed to climate pressures, making assessments like the CRVA an important tool for building resilience. By understanding which areas are most at risk and which sectors can still adapt, local governments and communities can plan more effectively and secure the livelihoods of families who depend on coastal resources.
As climate threats intensify, the experience of Badoc and Cabugao serves as a reminder that the country’s coastal communities face different levels of challenge—and that timely, informed action can help protect both marine ecosystems and the people who rely on them.
Pwersa Balita – Your Trusted Source in Agri News