Coastal Zone Management in Zamboanga City, Philippines: Experiences and Lessons Learned

This academic research explores the experiences and lessons learned from coastal zone management in Zamboanga City, Philippines. The study examines the effectiveness of various strategies and initiatives implemented by local government and stakeholders to address the complex challenges associated with coastal zone management. The research is based on an extensive analysis of primary data collected through interviews, surveys, and field observations, as well as secondary data from government reports and academic publications. The findings reveal that Zamboanga City has faced significant environmental, socio-economic, and governance challenges in managing its coastal zones. The study highlights the importance of integrated coastal zone management approaches that incorporate ecological, economic, and social dimensions. It identifies successful initiatives such as community-based resource management, zoning regulations, and public-private partnerships that have contributed to sustainable coastal development and resilience. However, the research also identifies several key challenges hindering effective coastal zone management in Zamboanga City, including inadequate resources, limited capacity, competing interests, and weak enforcement mechanisms. The study recommends policy interventions such as improved coordination among government agencies, enhanced stakeholder engagement, and the establishment of a dedicated coastal management authority. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge on coastal zone management by providing insights into the specific experiences and lessons learned in Zamboanga City, Philippines. The findings can inform policy decisions and guide the development of more effective strategies for coastal zone management in similar contexts globally.