THROUGH inclusive policies, the blue economy can combat multigenerational coastal poverty, alleviating the plight of Southeast Asian coastal residents who are vulnerable to low income and unpredictable climate change. It can integrate marginalized communities into its national and local development strategies. One essential requirement to facilitate this is interdisciplinary collaboration among many sectors in developing innovative solutions.
This was the highlight of the seminar conducted by the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA) on Aug. 20.
In her presentation, Ma. Carmen Ablan-Lagman from De La Salle University pointed out that Southeast Asia's oceans possess immense potential for sustainable growth that is both inclusive and equitable. The ocean economy in the Philippines alone has been expanding at nearly double the national growth rate of 9.9 percent. Yet its contribution to the country's gross domestic product remains alarmingly low at only 3.6 percent to 3.9 percent.
Meanwhile, "despite being situated next to rich marine resources, small-scale fishers and aquaculture workers remain largely excluded from the development process," said Ablan-Lagman. She also pointed out another obstacle by challenging the seminar participants — students, researchers and government officials alike — to embrace diverse viewpoints. "Critical thinking is very hard to develop in a room full of people from the same discipline," she said.
She emphasized that systemic challenges like economic marginalization and policy neglect can be addressed by a blue economy's actionable strategies that are reflective of local realities.
Her recommendations included enhancing value chain processes, implementing certifications to improve product quality and market access, and leveraging digital platforms to connect fishers directly with consumers, thereby reducing reliance on exploitative intermediaries.
To broaden market opportunities, Ablan-Lagman urged diversification of aquaculture and seaweed products. Reinforcing the importance of financial viability to successful development interventions, she said that "sustainable innovations must not only minimize environmental impact but also be appealing and profitable for coastal households."
The seminar ended with an inspiring call to action for young scholars and practitioners to leverage their expertise in reimagining the future of Southeast Asia's coastal communities.