On the coast of Talisay in Cebu, a story of people power is unfolding, led by fisherfolk determined to defend their livelihoods, their coast, and their future.
Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA, in partnership with SENTRO (national union confederation) and MATAPA (Mananagat sa Talisay Pamo Association), has been standing alongside the Talisay fisherfolk as they organise against a wave of aggressive development projects threatening to erase their homes and destroy their fishing grounds.
For generations, the Talisay community has depended on healthy coastal ecosystems to live and to work. But in 2022, the expansion of the Cebu International Container Port began, putting 500 fisherfolk at risk of displacement and dozens of homes at risk of demolition.
Instead of accepting this as unavoidable, fisherfolk took action. With the support of unions federation, SENTRO, a strong coalition emerged, and MATAPA worked closely with local government to push back. Their organising paid off:
- The development was scaled back
- A protected docking area was secured, reserved for local fisherfolk
- Land tenure was won for affected residents
It was a victory built on strong community organising and movement-building.
A new threat, a stronger movement
Just as the community caught its breath, another challenge approached – a massive Filipino Australian-owned SEAOIL depot and jetty terminal proposed on nearly 47,000 square metres of coastal land, including more than two hectares of foreshore vital to local fishing.
This time, the fisherfolk were ready. SENTRO’s climate leadership training helped the community deepen its organising skills, expand its network, and power its advocacy. Research commissioned by SENTRO revealed widespread fears: environmental destruction, loss of docking areas, safety risks from flammable products, and long-term damage to marine ecosystems.
In response, SENTRO and MATAPA mounted a unified campaign that brought together nine fisherfolk organisations from two barangays (local villages). Youth leaders, motivated by climate justice organising, formed SENTRO’s first university-based chapters in Cebu and joined the struggle both online and on the streets.
From rallies at the Environmental Management Bureau to a “Christmas carol protest” outside the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the message was clear: the Talisay community will not be pushed aside.
For fisherfolk like Rico Nino, the fight is personal:
“I am here not only for me but for the future of my family. That project of SEAOIL will take away my only source of livelihood. It must be stopped.”
Youth activists have played a crucial role in supporting the fight against the Sea Oil Depot in Talisay City through online campaigns and joining mobilisations and rallies alongside fisherfolk, fish vendors, e-bike drivers, and other community members. Bernard Salvador, a student from Cebu Normal University and member of the YOUTH CLAIM climate movement, became the official documenter of MATAPA’s actions:
“It is so fulfilling to be part of their struggle. I am glad to lend my talent so more people understand what they are fighting for.”
Their solidarity sent a loud message: this fight is about livelihoods, dignity, and justice.
A major win
In October 2025, the fisherfolk celebrated a significant win: during a DENR-brokered conference, SEAOIL representatives formally agreed to withdraw their plan to construct the Jetty Port Terminal in Talisay.
But while the win is real, the struggle isn’t over. SENTRO and MATAPA continue to fight proposed legal changes that would open the Talisay coastline to commercial fishing – a move that threatens the sustainability of local fisheries and the livelihoods of small-scale fisherfolk. This issue now sits before the Supreme Court, and the community remains vigilant.
The victories in Talisay show what happens when workers organise, when communities lead, and when unions and people’s organisations stand together.
Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA is proud to stand in solidarity with the fisherfolk of Talisay as they continue their fight to protect their coastline, their community, and their right to work with dignity. To support workers organising for their livelihoods, join Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA today.
