2026 IJRSE – Volume 15 Issue 12
Available Online: 14 May 2026
Author/s:
Delloro, Mark*
Ateneo de Naga University, Philippines (mdelloro@gbox.adnu.edu.ph; mark.delloro@cbsua.edu.ph)
Eboña, Jennifer
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (jennifer.ebona@cbsua.edu.ph)
Mamangon, Nineveh
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (nineveh.mamangon@cbsua.edu.ph)
Bausa, Alvir
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (alvir.bausa@cbsua.edu.ph)
Parato, Maritess
Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Philippines (maritess.parato@cbsua.edu.ph)
Abstract:
Sinarapan (Mistichthys luzonensis), the smallest commercially harvested food fish in the world, is endemic to the Bicol Region, with Lakelet Manapao in Buhi, Camarines Sur, as its last natural habitat and sanctuary. Past research focused on its biology, population, and conservation, but little on its cultural and socioeconomic value. This study explored these values, providing information for sustainable management and policy. Using a descriptive case study, data from 12 local respondents via Likert-scale questionnaires were analyzed with descriptive statistics. Results showed that Sinarapan has high cultural importance, with a weighted mean of 4.43, is seen as a cultural symbol and a source of community pride, and is linked to social continuity. Despite high awareness of conservation efforts, the sanctuary isn’t fully integrated into local traditions. Socioeconomically, the weighted mean was 2.77, indicating neutrality; respondents reported limited economic benefits and did not perceive improvements in market activity, demand, or job creation due to fishing bans. Conservation has a limited traditional income without viable alternatives. The study highlights Sinarapan as a cultural asset with limited economic benefits. For conservation, strategies should balance ecological and cultural needs, developing sustainable livelihoods for the community.
Keywords: Sinarapan, cultural significance, socioeconomic values, conservation, ecological
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26178
Cite this article:
Delloro, M., Eboña, J., Mamangon, N., Bausa, A., & Parato, M. (2026). Cultural significance and socioeconomic values of Sinarapan (Mistchthys luzonensis) in Lakelet Manapao, Barangay San Ramos, Buhi, Camarines Sur. International Journal of Research Studies in Education, 15(12), 55-62. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrse.2026.26178
* Corresponding Author