Knowledge, Awareness and Perception of the Coastal Communities along the Eastern Side of the Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape on the Impact of Climate Change

Climate change is an issue that has received significant attention in the past few years. Since the knowledge and perceptions of the people on climate change can affect the success of implemented adaptation and mitigation options, it is vital for societies to undertake regular assessments to gather this information. The study was conducted in the Eastern side of Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape. The study sought to determine the knowledge level of climate change among respondents, their perceptions on the impacts of climate change. Data was collected through administration of questionnaires and interviews. Respondents categorized into local decision makers and coastal communities. Coastal folks universally stated that they have heard about the term climate change. The study indicated that the knowledge level was high (67%).However, the perception varies among respondents.16% of the respondents mentioned that climate change means changes in scasonality, 11% stated that climate change means dangerous, while 8% interpreted climate change as calamity. It appears that people interpreted the term climate change according to the particular climatic event they normally face in the areas where they live. Analysis found that age, gender, education, media access and interpersonal communication are significant factors that determine the level of awareness. About 61% of respondents believed human beings are responsible for climate change while 26% believed that nature or God gives these changes. The results of interviews with key stakeholders show similar trend. The factors that limit the government’s ability to prepare their community for climate change However, there are massive investments on infrastructure projects designed to adapt to climate related hazards.