"SWAKI" (SEA URCHIN) FISHERIES IN PANGLAO, BOHOL

Sea Urchin collection is one of the traditional practices of the coastal villagers in the Philippines. Aside from subsistence, the collection is an essential livelihood and source of income for the coastal communities. Tripneustes gratilla, locally known in Bohol as “Swaki,” is the most preferred sea urchin species collected due to its gonad or roe. The gathering of “Swaki” is rarely documented in the country despite its substantial contribution to the socio-economic well-being of the coastal communities. This study explores the “Swaki” (Sea Urchin) fisheries in Panglao, Bohol, focusing on demographic profiles, fishing practices, indigenous local knowledge, size structures, and associated environmental concerns. A total of 60 collectors were surveyed, mostly from Barangay Doljo. Women constitute the majority of the respondents, actively contributing to the fisheries. The majority of the collectors are mostly of middle-aged (31 to 50 years old) individuals and a significant income source for married individuals. Educational levels vary, with most are high school graduates. Experienced collectors dominated the study, emphasizing the long-standing nature of the fisheries. Daily collection is common, with preferred areas having high seagrass cover. Post-harvest practices of the collectors include processing catch onshore, while others are synchronous with the collection. “Swaki” roe or gonads are bottled and sold at varying prices, contributing to a daily income of 300-1,000 pesos. Indigenous practices influence harvesting. Meanwhile, environmental concerns arise from potential overharvesting and shell disposal, impacting water quality, ecosystem dynamics, and public safety. This study highlights the complex dynamics of the “Swaki” fisheries, emphasizing the need for sustainable management practices.