| This policy brief explores the interdependencies between coastal tourism and fisheries in small Philippine islands like Boracay, Gigantes, and Guimaras. It highlights how these sectors, while distinct in their developmental goals (mass tourism vs. ecotourism), are intricately linked to the islands' social-ecological systems and their resilience. The brief identifies various challenges, including overfishing, habitat degradation from tourism development, climate change impacts, and socio-economic vulnerabilities of local communities. It proposes a framework for sustainable management, emphasizing the need for integrated planning, adaptive governance, community participation, and science-based decision-making. The authors advocate for policies that balance economic development with environmental protection, ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine resources and the livelihoods dependent on them. |