Organized community groups and participatory approaches

The active participation of organized community groups like DECATPOA , a People's Organization (PO) from Caub village where the lagoon is, and BACAMA, a PO composed of fisherfolk is crucial in this community-based venture.  Both POs were registered with the Security and Exchange Commission, were trained and deputized by the LGU to do environmental management, particularly management of marine protected areas. SIKAT, a non-government organization with significant years of experience in community-based coastal resource management trained them on basic ecology and provided them training and support on Marine Protected Area Management. Both POs have clearly defined organizational set-up, system of rules, defined roles and clear objective on sustaining resource management.  

  • That the mayor of Del Carmen is a firm believer of capacitating the communities, has enabled the success of this building block.  He encouraged the creation of and strengthening of people’s organizations in every village.  
  • The members of the POs were willing to be volunteers. Their commitment is invaluable as they invested time and effort even if they were not sure they will earn from the venture. They believed not only in the economic benefits of tourism, but also in the importance of conserving and protecting their environment.

Having a leader who believes in empowering communities makes it easier for the community members to participate in and commit to  community-based ventures.  The spirit of volunteerism should be alive in the community for them to participate even if the economic benefits are not yet realized. 

Undergoing training  on basic ecology and marine protected area management, and being provided wth technical support by SIKAT, helped them gain better appreciation of the different strategies, as well as issues on marine protected area management.