Community Perceptions and Attitudes toward Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): A Case Study at Macaas, Tubigon, Bohol

Abstract The increasing number of fishers and fishing fleets, coupled with degradation of marine habitat, resulted to low productivity of the marine fish stocks and a great loss in fishery production. The establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPA) has become a popular conservation initiative in addressing the problem on the declining state of fishery and other marine resources. Not all established MPAs were successful. There were also reported cases of failure MPAs. The perceptions and attitudes of the local community are two of the most important factors that have a great influence on MPA effectiveness and failing to understand these factors may weaken its chance to succeed. The study was conducted in Macaas, Tubigon, Bohol in order to understand the community perceptions and attitudes toward their marine sanctuary. Age, educational attainment, monthly income, source of income and awareness were also taken as influential factors of the people’s perceptions and attitudes toward MPAs. The results of the study appeared that people’s perception and attitudes vary depending on their age, education and income. Middle-aged and old-aged participants have high positive perceptions and attitudes toward MPA. Participants with masters and college degrees regarded MPAs more positively compared to those who have lower educational attainment. High income earners viewed MPA more positively than participants with lower income. The results showed that majority of the participants were aware on the establishment of their marine sanctuary, the benefits of MPAs, the implemented rules and regulations, effects of the condition of mangroves, seagrass beds and corals on your marine sanctuary and the programs and projects extended by the government for the preservation and conservation of marine resources. The high level of awareness had contributed to a positive perception and attitude toward MPAs. There is significant correlation between the participant’s perception and attitude and the sustainability of their marine protected area