Resource use conflicts in Mabini and Tingloy, the Philippines

This paper presents the results of an analysis of resource use conflicts in areas near marine protected areas in Mabini–Tingloy, the Philippines. The author found large differences between groups of stakeholders in terms of perceived benefits and costs of conservation and tourism, and these inequalities have led to conflicts between various stakeholder groups. Marked by unequal power relationships, the conflicts place subsistence fishers as the weakest stakeholders. Fishers also have the lowest rates of knowledge of and participation in conservation activities. The study concludes that in order for conservation programs to be effectively transitioned onto the social and legal fabric of Mabini–Tingloy, resource use conflicts need immediate attention.