ABSTRACT
The traditional fishing grounds of the Calamian Tagbanwa, an indigenous small-scale fishing community in Coron Island, Palawan are under increasing fishing pressure. The island was once host to a diverse and ecologically intact marine ecosystem. However, modern times have brought destruction to the coral reefs. In a move to stop the illegal and destructive fishing activities over their traditional fishing grounds, the Calamian Tagbanwa asserted their rights over their ancestral waters with the intention of reinstating their traditional fishing practices. Fish sanctuaries are restricted areas, while sacred marine areas are traditionally respected and avoided because of the spirit of a giant, human-like octopus believed to live there. Interviews and group discussions were used at the two villages of the island, Banwang Daan and Cabugao to assess the current fishing practices.
