Volume 2 - Issue 3, May - June 2026

This qualitative study explores the lived experiences of child fishers in the coastal communities of Guiuan, Eastern Samar, focusing on their struggles, coping mechanisms, and the meanings they attach to fishing. Using a transcendental phenomenological design, fifteen (15) purposively selected child fishers from the barangays of Sulangan, Ngolos, Baras, Pagnamitan, Taytay, and Bungtod participated in semi-structured, in-depth interviews conducted in the local dialect. Data were analyzed using Moustakas' (1994) phenomenological steps to identify shared patterns and emergent themes. The findings revealed five central themes: (1) realities of children's. fishing experiences, (2) hardships and health issues, and emotional burdens at sea, (3) adaptation and survival mechanisms in the face of difficulties, (4) fishing as a responsibility and lifeline for survival, and (5) fishing as a barrier to academic aspirations. These results illuminate how child fishers balance their roles between education and livelihood amid poverty and cultural expectations. Despite the risks they face, these children exhibit resilience, strength, and a strong sense of duty to their families. The study recommends that local government units, educational institutions, and child protection agencies collaborate to create sustainable interventions that promote children's welfare and safeguard their rights.

Vina H. Araneta, Jeremiah O. Cabaguing, Efraim Joy V. Micono, Myrce Grace O. Cadizal, Mary Rose G. Bacud,"Beyond the Catch: Exploring the Lived Experience of Child Fishers in the Coastal Communities of Guiuan, Eastern Samar" International Journal of Advanced Multidisciplinary Research and Educational Development, V2(3): Page(932-937) May-June 2026. ISSN: 3107-6513. www.ijamred.com. Published by Scientific and Academic Research Publishing.