Seaweed Harvesting in Lapu-Lapu City: A Grueling Livelihood Supporting Agriculture
In the coastal community of Barangay Canjulao in Lapu-Lapu City, a dedicated group of residents, led by 46-year-old Julius Martinez, maintains a steady livelihood through the harvesting of laway-laway, a type of green seaweed or lumot. This natural resource, gathered from the waters near Toril Port Road, plays a crucial role as a raw material for the local agricultural industry, though it demands significant manual effort before reaching the market.
Weather-Dependent Processing and Economic Value
The transformation from raw seaweed to a sellable product is heavily influenced by the unpredictable Philippine weather. Under intense sunlight, the seaweeds can dry in approximately five hours, but during the rainy season, the process becomes far more labor-intensive, often stretching up to two days. Once properly dried, the laway-laway is sold for P10 per kilo to private businesses. These enterprises process the material into a key ingredient for livestock feed, providing essential nutrients for chickens and pigs, thereby supporting the agricultural sector.
Physical Challenges and Health Risks
This work is not without its physical costs, as the coastal environment harbors sea worms that cause uncomfortable skin irritations upon contact. To manage these health risks, Martinez relies on ointment to soothe the itching, allowing him to continue his labor despite the discomfort. The daily challenges include exposure to harsh elements and the risk of injury, yet Martinez perseveres to sustain his livelihood.
Family Support and Dedication
Despite the modest pay and demanding conditions, Martinez remains dedicated to seaweed harvesting to support his three children, who are still in school. He relies on this income to provide for their daily needs and secure their future, highlighting the resilience and commitment of coastal workers in the face of economic and environmental pressures. This story underscores the vital yet often overlooked contributions of small-scale harvesters to the agricultural supply chain.
