Over 9,000 Fisherfolk Impacted by Abra River Dredging
More than 9,000 small fisherfolk in the coastal towns of Santa and Caoayan, Ilocos Sur, have been severely affected by ongoing dredging operations at the mouth of the Abra River. This dredging project has disrupted their fishing activities, threatening their primary source of income and food security.
The fishers’ group Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (PAMALAKAYA) reported that since early 2024, these communities have experienced significant declines in fish catch due to sediment disturbance and habitat destruction caused by the dredging.
Environmental and Economic Consequences
Local leaders noted that the dredging has altered the river’s natural flow, increasing turbidity and damaging critical breeding grounds for fish. “Napakasama ng epekto nito sa amin,” one fisher lamented, emphasizing the hardship faced by families dependent on fishing.
Officials reported that the disruption has not only reduced fish populations but also forced many fisherfolk to seek alternative livelihoods, which remain scarce in the area. The economic strain is compounded by the rising cost of living, leaving these communities vulnerable.
Calls for Sustainable Solutions and Support
Community members and advocacy groups urged government agencies to review the dredging operations and implement measures that protect the fisherfolk’s welfare. They stressed the need for environmental assessments and the adoption of sustainable fishing practices to preserve marine life.
Meanwhile, PAMALAKAYA called for immediate assistance programs, including livelihood support and compensation for affected families. They emphasized that protecting small fisherfolk is crucial for maintaining local food security and cultural heritage.
Moving Forward: Balancing Development and Livelihoods
As dredging continues, stakeholders face the challenge of balancing infrastructure development with environmental preservation and community welfare. Ensuring the voices of small fisherfolk are heard remains vital in crafting policies that safeguard both the ecosystem and livelihoods.
For more news and updates on Abra River dredging, visit Filipinokami.com.
