Analysis of the fishery benefits of biomass spillover from a community marine reserve in Northern Mindanao, Philippines

The potential of a community marine reserve in Baliangao, Misamis Occidental [Philippines] in enhancing the coastal fishery of Danao Bay through spillover of fish biomass was evaluated through an ecological assessment and an analysis of fisheries economics. Research results indicate a significant improvement in the ecological condition of the marine reserve and of the reefs outside through increase in mean live coral cover (36.9%-46.2%), species variety of corals (92 species) and finfish (325 species), and standing stock biomass of fish after more than a decade of protection and community-based management. Fish biomass, particularly of target food species inside the reserve, is more than twice the amount found on adjoining reefs. High biomass to density ratio inside the marine reserve (25:1), especially of target food fish (159:1) indicate that fish inside are significantly bigger than in surrounding reefs. Observed patterns of fish movement in and out of the protected area suggest that the potential of adult biomass spillover into adjacent fished areas is relatively high (approximately 12.43%). Analysis of economic costs and revenues from fishing indicates profitability of less capital- and manpower-intensive gears particularly those that incur small operating costs. Fish corrals and bamboo traps capture most of the rents from the Danao Bay fishery which amount to a net present value (NPV) of more than a million pesos that may be received in perpetuity under effective management. A simulation model was developed using the Stella Software (vder. 4.01) to predict systems behavior in possible future scenarios or approaches to marine protected area (MPA) and fisheries management. The management approach that combines increasing the size of the MPA, improved protection, regulation of fishing effort and environmental management brings about a sustainable coastal fishery and possibly higher economic benefits to fishers. The establishment of MPAs is no a "stand alone" strategy to achieve sustainable fisheries management but must be part of a broader framework of pragmatic but scientifically sound management. Critical factors in the successful implementation of this management framework are active participation of local government units, multisectoral cooperation and an empowered community.