Harnessing Income Volatility for Market Sustainability among Fisher Communities in Surigao del Sur, Philippines

Abstract

Small-scale fisheries are vital to coastal livelihoods, food security, and local economies, yet fisherfolk continue to experience unstable income due to seasonal catch variation, climate-related disruptions, changing market prices, rising operational costs, and dependence on intermediaries. This study examined the relationship between income volatility and market sustainability among registered small-scale fisherfolk in the First District of Surigao del Sur, Philippines. Using a quantitative descriptive-correlational design, data were collected from 442 registered fisherfolk selected through stratified proportional random sampling from a population of 17,625. A researcher-made questionnaire, validated by experts and pilot-tested with excellent reliability, measured income volatility in terms of seasonality of fishing income, frequency of income fluctuations, variability of earnings, and exposure to climate-related and environmental risks. Market sustainability was measured in terms of access to stable and reliable markets, price stability and bargaining power, continuity of buyers and market channels, and stability to sustain fishing livelihood over time. Descriptive statistics, Pearson product-moment correlation, and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. Findings revealed that fisherfolk experienced income volatility while maintaining a moderate level of market sustainability. Income volatility was significantly and positively related to all dimensions of market sustainability, with variability of earnings showing the strongest association with price stability and bargaining power. Regression results further indicated that income volatility significantly predicted market sustainability. The study concludes that sustainable market participation requires integrated interventions that stabilize income, strengthen bargaining power, expand market linkages, improve post-harvest systems, and build climate-resilient livelihood capacities. The proposed Fisherfolk Income Resilience and Market Sustainability Framework may guide local government units, fisheries agencies, fisherfolk organizations, and development partners.