An Assessment of The Ecotourism Sector in The Munic

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CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM
Introduction
As an archipelago composed of 7,107 islands, the Philippines offers
countless attractions to see. There are many tourism activities that can be done
in the tourist spots in the Philippines such as kayaking, scuba diving, hiking,
sight-seeing, surfing, and many more.
Tourism is the temporary movement of people to destinations outside their
normal places of work and residence, the activities undertaken during their stay
in those destinations, and the facilities created to cater to their needs. According
to UNESCO, tourism is one of the world's fastest growing industries and an
important source of foreign exchange and employment for many developing
countries. Sustainable development is the development that meets the needs of
the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their
own needs. Tourism can be a contribution to the sustainable development of an
area. It contributes to the economic status of the area because of the wide range
of services it can provide to individuals such as work in the hotels, travel
agencies, and other establishments around the tourist spot. The tourism industry
provides job opportunities to the people.
The tourism industry that promotes environment protection is a big
contributor to the socio-economic profile of the country or the area. Tourism also
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has been responsible in maintaining the quality of the environment and to ensure
the provision of satisfying experiences for visiting tourists. Ecotourism is the
protection of the environment and the preservation of the natural resources. It is
also respecting the culture of the place and not exploiting its resources.
Ecotourism is a phenomenon wherein it will greatly affect the sustainable
development of the area because of the indicators it can bring about such as the
economic, social, and environmental aspects (Kiper, 2013).
Ecotourism is a form of tourism involving visiting fragile, pristine, and
relatively undisturbed natural areas, intended as a low-impact and often small
scale alternative to standard commercial (mass) tourism. Its purpose may be to
educate the traveler, to provide funds for ecological conservation, to directly
benefit the economic development and political empowerment of local
communities, or to foster respect for different cultures and for human rights.
Since the 1980s ecotourism has been considered a critical endeavour by
environmentalists, so that future generations may experience destinations
relatively untouched by human intervention. Several university programs use this
description as the working definition of ecotourism.
Generally, ecotourism deals with living parts of the natural environments.
Ecotourism focuses on socially responsible travel, personal growth, and
environmental sustainability. It typically involves travel to destinations where
flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions. It is intended to
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offer tourists insight into the impact of human beings on the environment, and to
foster a greater appreciation of our natural habitats.
According to Falafox (2017), Tourism is a perfect engine for economic
growth, especially in our nature-rich country. The Philippines is first in marine
biodiversity and second in geothermal energy. We have the third longest
coastline; we are fourth in gold reserves, and fifth in all other mineral resources.
We are also fifth in natural flora and fauna in the whole world. Thus, having
ecotourism in Philippines is just logical.
Ecotourism, according to the definition of The International Ecotourism
Society means “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the
environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves
interpretation and education”. Ecotourism is often seen as a kind of sustainable
tourism, and the difference between nature-based tourism and ecotourism is the
element of conservation and education. What makes it unique is the learning
experience tourists get to acquire after the tour. Sustainable development, on the
other hand, is development that meets the needs of the present without
compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs
In developing an area, it is important to include the local community to
forge a healthy relationship between the people and the tourism activities. We
have often noticed in most developed areas, despite being progressive, the local
community has no participation in this growth. Community-based ecotourism can

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even be a driver in alleviating poverty in the area. We can observe such
approaches applied in Aloguinsan, Cebu and Puerto Princesa, Palawan. The
locals were trained as tourist guides, and since they are most familiar with the
place, they are in a much better position to bridge tourists with the environment.
This generates job opportunities for the locals, at the same time; they can
provide manpower in protecting and conserving the environment. Locals are also
given livelihood opportunities like making handicrafts and other souvenir items,
contributing to the local economy.
Ecotourism is not for all. We should always consider to keep things in
moderation; too much of everything is not good. Some tourists just visit for a day
and pass by. They throw their trash and vandalize at our cost, yet they pay
nothing. There should be crowd control; what we want are tourists who will
respect our environment and our culture. While commercializing our resources is
much more profitable, and ensures fast return of investment, we can lose sight of
the character of the place. Furthermore, along with tourist influx is additional
waste and pollution. It is the local community and the natural environment that
creates the uniqueness and character of the place. Planning ahead where to put
developments and where it stops is very crucial. Developments should
encourage a holistic development, and this includes the natural, social, and
cultural integrity of the place.

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In view of the foregoing, it is very timely to make an assessment of the
ecotourism sector in the Municipality of Ocampo. Hence, this study.
Statement of the Problem
This study seeks to assess the status of the ecotourism sector in the
Municipality of Ocampo, Camarines Sur. Specifically, it aims to answer the
following questions:
1. What are the existing ecotourism sites in the Municipality of Ocampo,
Camarines Sur?
2. What is the profile of the ecotourism sector in the Municipality of Ocampo in
terms of:
a. tourists arrivals for the past three years
b. Types of tourists for the past three years
c. Origin of the tourists for the past three years
d. Income generated for the past three years
3. What are the existing programs in order to improve the ecotourism sector as
vital component of the tourism industry of the Municipality of Ocampo along:
a. Tourism Planning
b. Tourism Marketing
c. Environmental Protection
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4. What is the prevailing attitude of the local people of the Municipality of
Ocampo regarding the development of the ecotourism sector?
5. What Ecotourism Itinerary can be designed in order to boost the ecotourism
sector?
Assumptions
This study was premised on the following assumptions:
1. There are existing ecotourism sites in the Municipality of Ocampo,
Camarines Sur.
2.The profile of the ecotourism sector in the Municipality of Ocampo in
terms of: tourists arrivals; Types of tourists; Origin of the tourists for the; and
income generated for the past three years can be determined.
3.There are existing programs in order to improve the ecotourism sector
as vital component of the tourism industry of the Municipality of Ocampo along
Tourism Planning; Tourism Marketing; and Environmental Protection.
4. The prevailing attitude of the local people of the Municipality of Ocampo
regarding the development of the ecotourism sector varies.
5. There is an Ecotourism Itinerary can be designed in order to boost the
ecotourism sector.
Significance of the Study

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The study is deemed significant for it would benefit the following sectors
and groups of persons:
Local Government Unit of the Municipality of Ocampo. The results of
the assessment of this study are very much significant because these can be
used as one of the basis and reference in crafting a local tourism development
plan which might include tourism plan, marketing and environmental protection.
Department of Tourism Region V (DOT-V).The result of this study could
serve as a reference to determine areas where the agency could give particular
attention and eventually extend their support for a more clear direction related
the promotion and protection of heritage sites as part of the tourism industry.
Tourists. This study could help tourists better understand the situation of
the ecotourism sector which the love to visit.
Future Researchers.The study will help them to widen their perspective
on their studies especially about ecotourism. Furthermore, this study will serve as
their reference for their related studies since updated information and data that
will be provided by the study.
Scope and Delimitation
The study focuses only on the ecotourism sector of the Municipality of
Ocampo as part of the tourism industry of the municipality. The ecotourism sites
which will be included in the conduct of the study are the following: Strawberry
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Farm, Consocep Resort, Hibiscus Camp and Deer Farm. The sectors which are
not covered by this study includes accommodation, heritage, sports and other
tourism related activities.
Definition of Terms
For a clearer understanding of the terms used in this research study, the
following terminologies were both contextual and operationally defined:
Assessment. The evaluation or estimation of the nature, quality, or ability
of someone or something
Ecotourism Sector. A sector of tourism involving visiting fragile, pristine,
and relatively undisturbed natural areas, intended as a low-impact and often
small scale alternative to standard commercial mass tourism.
www.ecotourism.org. As used in the study, this pertains to one of the segments
of the tourism industry in the Municipality of Ocampo.
Municipality of Ocampo. As used in the study, it refers to the is a 3rd
class municipality in the province of Camarines Sur, Philippines. It also refers to
the setting of the current study where the different ecotourism sites are located.
Existing Ecotourism Sites. As used in the study, it refers to the different
ecotourism attractions in the Municipality of Ocampo which includes Strawberry
Farm, Consocep Resort, Hibiscus Camp and Deer Farm.

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Existing Programs. As used in the study, this pertains to the current
planning and development efforts being undertaken by the Municipality of
Ocampo along Tourism Planning, Tourism Marketing and Environmental
Protection
Tourists Arrivals. The indicator which provides all the data of the actual
number of people visiting a particular place. As used in the study, it refers to the
recorded tourist arrivals in the Municipality of Camarines Sue for the past three
years.
Types of Tourists. As used in the study, it refers to the domestic and
foreign tourists who visited the Municipality of Ocampo.
Origin of the Tourists. As used in the study, it pertains to place of origin
of the domestic and foreign tourists.
Prevailing Attitude. As used in the study, it refers to the prevalent
opinions and feelings of the residents of the Municipality of Ocampo regarding
the development of ecotourism.
Local People. As used in the study, it refers to the residents of the
Municipality of Ocampo.
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NOTES
https://www.sciencedaily.com/terms/ecotourism.htm. Date of Access: July 10,
2018.
Ecotourism as an engine for development by Architect Felino A. P Alafox, Jr.

August 10, 2017. http://www.manilatimes.net/ecotourism-engine-
development/343469/. Date of Access: July 10, 2018.
https://www.google.com/search. Date of Access: July 10, 2018.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ocampo,_Camarines_Sur . Date of Access: July 10,

2018.
https://www.eea.europa.eu/data-and-maps/indicators/tourist-arrivals-outlook-
from-wto-model. Date of Access: July 10, 2018.
Kiper (2013). Role of Ecotourism in Sustainable Development. Retrieved

November 9, 2014 from: http://www.intechopen.com/books/advances-in-
landscape-architecture/role-of-ecotourism-in-sustainable-development
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CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
This chapter is the presentation of the review of related literature and
studies which has direct bearing of the present study. It includes the related
reading, related studies both foreign and local. And likewise this study contains
the synthesis state of the art, gap of the study and theoretical and conceptual
framework.
Foreign Literature
In an online article posted by Economy Watch (2010) emphasized that
ecotourism is a sector which is fast catching up with the other flourishing
industries of the world. Eco tourism industry is growing by leaps and bounds. Eco
tourism market makes up 6% of the GDP all over the world. The yearly growth
rate is 5%. Eco tourism refers to the practice in which the place one visits is not
harmed in any way, thereby maintaining the natural equilibrium of the place. This
includes aspects related to maintaining the flora as well as the fauna of the place.
Every effort is made to keep the place in it's original form. Eco refers to visiting
any natural place that protects the environment and also looks after the welfare
of the local people residing in that area. Eco tourism industry encompasses all
the activities directed towards the maintenance of the natural surrounding.
Besides, supporting recycling of objects,reuse of water, using energy efficiently

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and simultaneously providing employment opportunities for the local people
residing in that areas also forms a part and parcel of the Eco tourism industry.
Morgan (2015) said that for ecotourism to be more than just a fad and to
play a pivotal role in the sustainable development of tourism world-wide, it is
suggested that there are six key challenges that the ecotourism industry needs to
address.
The first challenge is to deliver practical ecologically sustainable tourism.
There is considerable rhetoric in tourism and academic circles about ecological
sustainability within the tourism industry but not enough definitive advice and
guidance of how to convert the theory into practice. Ecotourism establishments
and tour operators need practical and economically viable recommendations
about up-to-date technologies, techniques and procedures which will enable
them to satisfy the principles of ecotourism and be at the forefront of best
practice ecotourism.
The second challenge is to effectively recognise, through appropriate
research, the previously discussed different styles of ecotourism. It is important
that the particular needs of each ecotourism style, in terms of facilities required,
extent of involvement, group sizes, level of interpretation, desired environmental
settings etc., are understood and delivered. As with any form of tourism it is
important to tailor the tourism product to the customer. This is particularly the
case for a specialist market like ecotourism where the customers are generally
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well educated and discerning. Any mis-matching of the eco-product and the
ecotourist could severely limit the capability to deliver on the key principles of
ecotourism.
Ensuring that there are real and long lasting economic contributions to
conservation is the third challenge for the ecotourism industry. As a high
proportion of ecotourism activity occurs in or around government controlled
protected areas (eg. national parks, state forests, marine parks, water supply
reservoirs and catchments etc.), there are moral, equity and sound business
reasons why the industry should contribute to the ongoing protection and
management of these areas. The moral imperative relates to the ecotourism
industry ‘putting their money where their stated principles are’ by contributing to
the sustainability of natural areas and assets. The equity argument revolves
around the premise that if private sector tourism operations are making
commercial gain from a public reserve, either directly through use or indirectly
through marketing or association, then there should be a financial return to the
public body managing that reserve. Finally, from a sound business perspective it
makes good sense for ecotourism operations to contribute to the protection of the
reserves they are operating in and which are a key basis of their business.
Challenge number four is concerned with ensuring that ecotourism
delivers effective interpretation of environmental, cultural and resource
management values. Interpretation must be more than just a one-way transfer of

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information, it should be about explanation, stimulation, provocation, revelation
and understanding in a manner that personally involves the ecotourist in an
interesting and enjoyable fashion. This is a difficult assignment, even in face to
face situations, but particularly so when interpreters have to rely on nonpersonal
techniques like signage and brochures. However this is the challenge of
interpretation, and a key goal for ecotourism, to enhance people’s attitudes and
actions towards their environment. In many instances this could be the major
contribution of ecotourism, by exposing a wider crosssection of the community to
the need to value and protect their natural and cultural areas, resources and
heritage.
The fifth challenge is to ensure genuine cultural and social sustainability.
There needs to be a real commitment by the ecotourism industry to cultural
understanding in terms of valuing and learning from the past and involving and
working in partnership with indigenous communities, respecting their cultures and
beliefs. In communities where western and traditional cultures coexist the
ecotourism industry has the potential to provide real leadership on issues of
cultural integrity and greater harmony and integration between cultures. From a
social perspective, ecotourism must be inclusive of local communities by
ensuring that their operations are reflective of community needs and aspirations,
and benefit those communities wherever possible in terms of economic
development and job creation. The final challenge concerns the role of
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governments in the ecotourism industry and the need to develop good working
relationships and partnerships between the public and private sectors.
As much of the resource base of the ecotourism industry is under some
form of government control (eg. national parks etc.) then so to is the future of
much of the industry in government hands. The bureaucratic nature of most
government agencies and their general lack of appreciation of contemporary
business practices, has traditionally lead to high levels of distrust and poor
communications between the public and private sectors. On the other hand there
is often a lack of understanding from the private sector of the constraints
imposed on the public sector by ever increasing levels of open and accountable
government. For the ecotourism industry in particular it is imperative that the
government and private industry sectors work together to ensure there is the
right policy framework and the most effective and efficient operational
environment if ecotourism is to reach its full potential for all sectors of the
community.
Narayan (2008) stated that Ecotourism was originally conceived in the
1960s in response to declining environmental and economic conditions
throughout the Developing World, ecotourism is described as tourism that has a
low-impact on the environment, contributes to the local economy, engenders
cross-cultural exchange, and fosters environmental education. Since its
conception, many governments within the Developing World have embraced and
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encouraged ecotourism as a means of attracting foreign investment and
exchange. Costa Rica, with its rich biodiversity and extensive ecosystem, is
inarguably one of the leaders in this type of tourism, which is rapidly becoming
the largest sector of that country’s tourism industry.
To be sure, the promotion of ecotourism in Costa Rica has led to several
desirable outcomes. For example, the continued expansion of ecotourism has
created opportunities for income generation and employment, at both the
national and local levels. Additionally, ecotourism has provided greater
incentives for natural resource conservation in the form of state-protected areas
and private lands. As a result, natural resource conservation is on the rise. With
nearly ½ million acres of land designated as protected areas, tourism to that
country has surged, with scientific and nature tourists from around the world
converging on this naturally endowed, tourists paradise. Finally, heightened
emphasis has been placed on environmental education.
While the Costa Rican government has successfully stimulated economic
growth and environmental preservation by marketing the countrys ecotourism
destinations, recent studies suggest that it has not invested adequate attention or
resources for the management of the natural assets which attract tourists or in
the infrastructure required to support ecotourism. As a result, fragile sites of
ecological or cultural significance have been exposed to the threat of degradation
by unregulated tourism development and over-visitation. In short, while the

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tourist explosion has attracted world attention and new funds to Costa Rica, it
has also put a strain on the countrys environment and population.
Clearly ecotourism is a multi-dimensional, complex practice that has
resulted in tradeoffs, in costs and benefits for Costa Rica. All the same, it is a
practice that is being promoted with increasing fervor by the Costa Rican
government and the tourism industry.
Local Literature
In order to further promote and enhance the ecotourism in the Philippines,
the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) implemented an
administrative order that states the principles of ecotourism and the guidelines of
planning, developing, and managing the ecotourism. This administrative order
was effective last August 2013. The objectives of this order are as follows: 1.) to
institutionalize ecotourism planning and management process in protected area
management 2.) to promote advocacy on the concept and principles of
ecotourism 3.) To introduce ecotourism businesses in protected areas both as a
conservation strategy and an economic development option through viable
business partnerships with the local government units or the private sector 4.) to
promote inclusive equity of socio-economic benefits to the local community and
indigenous cultural communities and encourage community participation 5.) to
ensure the participation of both women and men in the ecotourism planning and
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management and that gender-related issues are addressed in the ecotourism
management plan. The goal of the DENR was to achieve stronger ecotourism in
the Philippines by following the objectives they have set for the attraction sites
here in the Philippines. As mentioned earlier, tourism provides many
opportunities. It can provide jobs which will add to the manpower in providing
services to the tourists. This is similar to what Eagles, et. al (2002) mentioned –
that tourists will keep coming back if the service quality is great and it satisfies
their stay in the area. The objectives of the order that was made by the DENR
was aligned to a bigger goal with the concepts and principles of ecotourism. The
concepts and principles of ecotourism based on the order by the DENR are as
follows: 1.) Conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity. 2.) Ownership by
the local communities providing them business opportunities to sustain their well-
being. 3.) Gender responsiveness and adherence to inclusive growth that
considers women, children, indigenous peoples and informal sector activities. 4.)
Promotion of learning experience and conservation awareness. 5.) Responsible
action on the part of tourists and the tourism industry. 6.) Deliver to appropriate
number of participants and businesses that observe and follow ecotourism and
conservation concepts, ensuring appropriate development and visitor control.
Roxas (2014) posits that tourism in all its forms has become a very
important lynchpin of the strategy for economic growth. Right now, the economy
is service-based and it would be great if we could even approach the tourism

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numbers of some of the other ASEAN countries. Ecotourism seems to be the one
form which would require the least infrastructure investment, so in the short term
we definitely would like to look at being able to develop a supply chain of
ecotourism attractions for visitors.
In terms of the economy, we're looking to diversify sources of revenue.
Today, the economy is driven really by remittances from OFWs—overseas
Filipino workers—and the income derived from the BPO—business process
outsourcing—industry. Ecotourism allows us to highlight or to pour some money
or revenue into areas of the country which have otherwise been left unattended
and untouched. First, it does not require the kinds of investments that the
traditional tourist infrastructure demands. If you're talking about archipelagoes of
7,000 islands, there's really a lot to offer as far as ecotourism sites are
concerned. We see a huge potential, and we think that the development
strategies and the natural endowments we have make ecotourism a viable form
of tourism the Philippines can concentrate on. In Palawan, in the west side of the
country, we have several sites that have great potential. There are a group of
islands where there are some world-class resorts, but there are also a lot of
areas that have not yet been commercialized for traditional tourism. There are
also many sites in Central Visayas which would offer a lot of attractions to
ecotourism enthusiasts. Besides Palawan there's Bohol where the Chocolate
Hills are. They also hold the oldest churches in the Philippines. There are a lot of
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activities for marine leisure, whale watching, dolphin watching, backpacking, and
hiking. So I think there are two areas: Palawan and Central Visayas and some
portions in the north of Luzon that are well-positioned for ecotourism. There are
some areas in the Philippines which have some security problems and we're
trying to address that politically. We have had a Muslim secessionist problem for
so long but we're tackling that. We've looked at options for autonomy for these
areas. Of course, the basic required infrastructure as far as travel is not yet there.
But overall we feel confident that we will make a dent as far as ecotourism is
concerned.
According to ecotourismphilippines.net (2015), Ecotourism refers to a
form of sustainable tourism within a natural and cultural heritage area where
community participation, protection and management of natural resources,
culture and indigenous knowledge and practices, environmental education and
ethics as well as economic benefits are fostered and pursued for the enrichment
of host communities and satisfaction of visitors. Ecotourism is a concept that
provides a “win-win” situation especially in protected areas and natural
destinations that may be sensitive to human impacts. Over the years there has
been much confusion over the concept that several places are being
promoted for ecotourism despite that fact that they are not practicing or
demonstrating sustainable principles. Understanding these principles is part of

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the responsibility of proponents who wish to engage in ecotourism related
projects.
Peterson (2008) stated in his online article entitled “The Ecotourism in the
Philippines” that the Philippine Department of Tourism's hat has been thrown into
ecotourism game for awhile now. They've made it part of their plan for economic
development. The country's ecotourism program strives to install processes and
procedures that are economically beneficial, socially responsible, ecologically
sustainable and advantageous to the local communities by creating jobs and
improving living conditions overall. Palawan is the second biggest province in the
country in terms of land area and has been recommended by the tourism
department as the top eco-destination in the country. There are a variety of eco-
friendly activities available for the ecotourist to enjoy: Swimming with whale
sharks in the their natural environment or getting out the binoculars and watching
for the rare Philippine Eagle or 600 other varieties of birds. A traveler can also go
to a jungle environment survival training camp where he or she can be taught to
drink from a water vine, cook in a bamboo steamer and dine off a bamboo plate.
The Department of Tourism recommends The El Nido, Lagen and Miniloc Island
Resorts, Club Noah Isabelle and the Bohol Bee Farm. These hotels all carry out
environmentally friendly practices: Coastal clean ups, prohibiting the gathering of
shells and coral, eco-safe cleanser and many others.

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Foreign Studies
The study of Sahah (2014) in the ectourism of Bangladesh has made the
following recommendations: Firstly, In order to implement the sustainability and
ecotourism practice for Bangladesh, some factors are very necessary to
implement like, awareness of the local people, as well as the awareness of the
government, tourism related companies sustainable behavior and tour operators’
eco-friendly act to the nature and environment and tourist awareness about
nature especially when they visit a place. Nature and the environment somehow
have been affected by tourists and their activities so it is very important for the
tourists to know their responsibility and behavior are sustainable or not.
Secondly, when a tourist visits a place this benefits the local community socially
and economically. So having tourist attractions and receiving more tourists to the
community is beneficial. To get more tourists to Bangladesh the host community
should need to work together with the government and if there are any types of
hindrance taking place in developing the tourism sector then it must need a
proper steps are needed. Hindrance could be, inconsiderate behavior of the local
inhabitants, lack of government concern on tourism sector, inactiveness of the
tourism development organizations, lack of cooperation between the host
community, government policy and policy implementing organizations etc. For
this reason the government should be more active and aware in sustainable and
ecotourism issues. Thirdly, if we think about the future generations, then we must
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to make ourselves responsible and concerned. People need to behave ethically
to the nature. If needed then, local people as 63 well as the tourists need to be
educated about their contribution to global warming when they travel so that they
will assume more responsibility for the choices they make. Educating ourselves
for sustainable societies indicate to establish us in relation to the present global
systems, leaving a smooth and flexible trace reshaping our entity in this world.
Fourthly, from the respondents’ response it is clear that sustainable
transportation, building green environment and energy saving should be the goal
of tourism development strategy. Moreover, the government should develop
tourism spots and need to be concerned about protecting these. If the
Bangladesh government gives concern on these touristic sites and develop them
then it will be easy to catch the eye of new tourist’s arrival. For this purpose the
government and people should work together to help the environment to be more
ecological and sustainable. One example could be creating new forests and
preserving the existing one, we can behave in an ecological way to the nature.
Finally, tour operators, the tourism industry, tourism development organizations
and other tourism related companies should develop more sustainable products
and implement sustainable activities for the business. Bangladesh Parjatan
Corporation and other tourism development organizations should be more active
and make cooperation with the government to implement policies for improving
the tourism sector and the quality of service. Privat service organizations also
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need to come ahead and take the responsibility for sustainability development in
ecotourism. Considering the present scenario of current tourism profile the
government should pass new policies if necessary. More marketing and making
the information and service available for the foreign tourists online and websites
might help to attract new tourists. The government should also need to invest
more money in this sector; moreover, organizing exhibitions in other countries in
order to sell tourism products also plays an important role. Political unrest is also
a main hindrance for the tourism industry in Bangladesh, so this also needs to be
avoided. After all making a secured and safe environment for the tourist is also
considered a part of tourism development.
Local Studies
Green (2012) examines the potential of coastal ecotourism and its role in
community-based Coastal Resource Management Programs in Bohol,
Philippines. It focuses on case studies of tourism products operating in three
different coastal ecosystems: a coral reef sanctuary, deep-sea waters and a river
estuary. The case studies highlight a variety of issues and some successes
encountered with community-based tourism initiatives in Bohol's coastal
communities. The first case study looks at diving, Bohol's main tourism product. It
examines conflicts between village residents and dive operators over a
community-managed coral reef marine sanctuary on Cabilao Island, Loon. The
second case study is on dolphin and whale watching, an emerging tourism

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product. It looks at Pamilacan Island, Baclayon where a traditional whaling
community now run and manages community-based marine mammal tours. This
case study examines the changes in the last five years since a nationwide ban
on whale hunting. It looks at the impact of a WWF funded project designed to
assist the residents of Pamilacan and create a local whale and dolphin watching
industry. The third case study focuses on a community-run river cruise in the
village of Cambuhat, Buenavista. This case study focuses on the changes in the
community since the tour was introduced. The economic and resource
management benefits that have accrued to the community are then discussed.
Broad lessons learned from the three case studies are described and
recommendations are made on how to strengthen ecotourism development as a
strategy for community-based coastal resource management.
Olani (2012) studied the effects of ecotourism to the local community in
terms of livelihood generation and influx of people. This study likewise examines
the views of the local community on the impact of ecotourism and importance of
natural resource to the tourism industry. This paper presents results from the
systematically and randomly sampled surveyed householders and purposively
selected interviewed key informants from sitio Sabang. Sabang is the location of
the port where the tourists wait prior to being ferried to the Subterranean River.
The result of the study revealed that undoubtedly the tourism industry in the area
has been source of income for most of the householders. More establishments
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were recently established due to the growing number of visitors in the area.
Consequently, the development of the ecotourism industry in Sabang led to the
change of livelihood among local people due to higher compensation offered by
the tourism industry. In addition, it had caused high influx of people because of
work opportunity. The local people believed ecotourism in Sabang, Palawan is
beneficial. However, environmental protection was seen least of the enumerated
positive impacts against work opportunity and city development. Nevertheless,
residents of Sabang have a high level of awareness and involvement in the
protection of the environment. But because of too much dependence on tourism,
most of the respondents became oblivious that the tourism in Subterranean River
is a form of ecotourism and the environment is the key tourism resource. The
concept of ecotourism is very evident from the local government and park
coordinators but does not entirely transcend to all sectors in the community.
Golloran and Fe (2014) confirms the complexity and contentious nature
of ecotourism where achieving holistic environmental, social, and economic
benefits is difficult. In the cases, ecotourism is found to have resulted in both
positive and negative outcomes and ecotourism’s potential as a catalyst for
sustainable development is still problematic. The strengths and weaknesses of
ecotourism as a form of sustainable development are related to contextual needs
and realities, especially cultural and political, as well as stakeholder values and
relationships. Understanding the interrelationships among these factors is critical

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in assessing ecotourism in order to build on the strengths and overcome
weaknesses to address issues of sustainability. This study has contributed to
furthering knowledge about ecotourism and suggests important considerations
for its development in order to achieve sustainable development outcomes. Case
study 1 demonstrated that prescriptive approaches, while useful, may do more
harm than good as how to implement ecotourism differs according to context and
thus needs to be dynamic and adaptive to the realities in the area. This is
because prescriptive approaches assume similar capacities and does not take
into account the weak institutional frameworks that exist in developing countries,
as well as culture that is political and complex, often prioritising smooth
interpersonal relationships rather than good outcomes. Case study 2 exposed
the threats to sustainability of having a purely environmental conservation or
community-management bias in ecotourism development, and instead advocates
for more pragmatic definitions of ecotourism that emphasises inclusiveness,
where ecotourism practice can be manifested in softer forms while adhering to
core criteria. Case study 3 revealed the critical need for refocusing priorities in
ecotourism development to building lasting multi-stakeholder partnerships and
collaborative institutions that would enable mutuality in articulating ecotourism
development priorities consistent with the unique development contexts within
which stakeholders operate and ecotourism is implemented. This also allows for
the genuine independence and real empowerment and trust in allowing local
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stakeholders to decide their own futures. Overall, the cases taken collectively
suggest the shifting of ecotourism development priorities to building collaborative
institutions that fully integrate local complexities and diversity. As such, the
development of ecotourism should not be solely based on prescriptive
approaches. Ecotourism is about achieving a balance between often-conflicting
environmental, economic, social, cultural, and political concerns that reflect
changing values and priorities. Current realities show that this is difficult to
achieve and might require prioritisation of one over the other for sustainability. It
is essential that knowledge from ecotourism practice continue to inform the ways
in which sustainable development may be achieved.
Reyes (2013) studied the history, current development and problems of
the tourism industry. Second, it examines nature –related tourism on Luzon
Island. This study looks at nature-related tourism operations based on three
perspectives: the resource managers, the operators and the visitors. A model
developed by Bottrill and Pearce in British Columbia which focuses on these
three perspectives is applied to the six case study areas in this study. The
majority of the case study areas are popular tourist destinations on Luzon Island
and are within the priority sites for more tourism development. Four of the case
study areas are established national parks and the other two are on public land.
A variety of research methods were used in this research. Interviews were
conducted with resource managers. Questionnaire surveys were conducted with

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operators and visitors at each of the six case study areas. An archival search
was conducted to support the primary data collected through interviews and
questionnaire surveys. Resource managers interviewed in this study recognised
the benefits and costs of tourism in the Philippines. They also acknowledged the
problems and the opportunities for development of the tourism industry. Tourism
can bring many benefits, however, the resources on which it depends should be
protected in order to sustain it. With regard to nature-related tourism activities in
the six case study areas on Luzon Island, I found that they could not be classified
as ecotourism. The majority of the operations are undertaken within protected
areas and the majority of the operators practised sensitive management.
However, the operations lack an education component for them to be classified
as ecotourism. Education is an essential element of an ecotourism operation as
ecotourism is viewed to provide learning experiences to visitors while providing
benefits for the conservation of resources and the local people.
The 2009 Survey of Tourism Establishments in the Philippines
(STEP) for Transport Operators, Tour and Travel Agencies – Final Results –
summarizing the survey of tourism establishments in the Philippines (STEP) for
transport operators, tour and travel agencies, every tourists/guests are provided
with the services they need such as tour packages, online reservation/booking
and all transportation facilities. Overall, the tourists/guests were provided with the
necessary accommodations and services which were of delight to them. Eagles,

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et al. (2002) mentioned that tourists are demanding quality service from the
places where they stay in because for them it is their only time to relax and enjoy
the ambiance of the place where they are staying in. Also, providing quality
service to the tourists/guests will enhance and promote tourism in the area. It will
attract more tourists which will be advantageous to the attraction site.
The Case study of Almario et al.(2013) revaled that Tourism has also
seemed to have a negative effect on both natural and cultural resources.
Sagada’s untouched beauty doesn’t remain as “untouched” as it once was.
Vandalism and litter can be seen in some of tourist attractions. The conservative
culture of the locals also causes culture shock when visitors are for example,
rowdy and noisy, or overly intimate. Nevertheless, the culture and practices of
the townspeople are still very much alive and have survived alongside the
adoption of more modern activities
Synthesis of the State of the Art
Research Gap
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Theoretical Framework
This study was mainly anchored on the theory of

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Conceptual Framework
The conceptual framework of the study applied the concept of systems
approach which showed the relationship among the three imperative elements:
the input, process and output.
As shown in Figure 2, the input consists of the following: 1. The existing
ecotourism sites in the Municipality of Ocampo, Camarines Sur. 2. The profile of
the ecotourism sector in the Municipality of Ocampo in terms of: tourists arrivals
for the past three years; Types of tourists for the past three years; Origin of the
tourists for the past three yeas; Income generated for the past three years. 3.
The existing programs in order to improve the ecotourism sector as vital
component of the tourism industry of the Municipality of Ocampo along:Tourism
Planning, Tourism Marketing, and Environmental Protection. 4. The prevailing
attitude of the local people of the Municipality of Ocampo regarding the
development of the ecotourism sector.
The process includes the 1.Preparation, validation, distribution and
retrieval of questionnaires from the respondents; unstructured interview;
observation and documentary analysis; analysis and interpretation of the Data;
and preparation of Ecotourism Itinerary.
The proposed Ecotourism Itinerary for the Municipality of Ocampo,
Camarines Sur will serve as the output of the study. All these data will be sent
back to the respondents as feedback.

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INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT
1. The existing ecotourism

1.Preparation,
sites in the Municipality of validation,
Ocampo, Camarines Sur. distribution and
2. The profile of the retrieval of
ecotourism sector in the questionnaires from
Municipality of Ocampo in the respondents Ecotourism
terms of: tourists arrivals for
the past three years; Types Itinerary for
of tourists for the past three 2.Unstructured
years; Origin of the tourists Interview the
for the past three yeas; Municipality
Income generated for the
3. Observation and
past three years.
Documentary
of Ocampo,
3. The existing programs in Analysis Camarines
order to improve the
ecotourism sector as vital Sur
component of the tourism
4. Analysis and
industry of the Municipality of Interpretation of the
Ocampo along:Tourism Data Gathered
Planning, Tourism
Marketing, and
Environmental Protection. 5. Preparation of
Heritage Sites
4. The prevailing attitude of Protection Manual.
the local people of the
Municipality of Ocampo
regarding the development
of the ecotourism sector.
Feedback
Figure 2 Conceptual Paradigm

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NOTES
http://www.economywatch.com/world-industries/tourism/eco.html. Date of
Access: August 10, 2018.
David Morgan . https://www.bgci.org/education/article/0371/. Date of Access:

August 10, 2018.
Sujata Narayan. The Impacts of Ecotourism in Costa Rica

http://www.umich.edu/~csfound/545/1998/narayans/chap07.htm
Fernando Y. Roxas. Can Ecotourism Boost the Economy in the Philippines?

October 10, 2014. https://insights.som.yale.edu/insights/can-ecotourism-
boost-the-economy-in-the-philippines Date of Access: August 10, 2018.
www.ecotourismphilippines.net
Josh Peterson. December 6, 2008.

http://www.ecotourismphilippines.net/ecotourism.html Date of Access:
August 10, 2018.
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (2013). Guidelines on

Ecotourism Planning and Management in Protected Areas. Retrieved
November 8, 2014 from: http://server2.denr.gov.ph/uploads/rmdd/dao-
2013-19.pdf
Joyanta Kumar Saha SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN ECOTOURISM:

Perspective of Bangladesh.
Stuart James Green . Marine Ecotourism & Community Participation: Case

Studies From Bohol, Philippines January 2001.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/273452955_Marine_Ecotourism_
Community_Participation_Case_Studies_From_Bohol_Philippines]. Date of
Access: August 10, 2018.
Jeffrey O.Jalani. Local People's Perception on the Impacts and Importance of

Ecotourism in Sabang, Palawan, Philippines.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877042812046447.
Date of Access: August 10, 2018
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Rillorta-Goloran and Trishah Fe. Exploring ecotourism as a sustainable

development catalyst: case studies from the Philippines.
https://espace.library.uq.edu.au/view/UQ:318383
Reyes Miguela, M. Tourism in the Philippines: A case study of nature-related

tourism on Luzon Island
Philippine Statistics Authority (2012). 2009 Survey of Tourism Establishments in

the Philippines (STEP) for Transport Operators, Tour and Travel Agencies
– Final Results. Retrieved November 8, 2014 from:
http://web0.psa.gov.ph/content/2009-survey-tourism-establishments-
philippines-step-transport-operators-tour-and-travel.
Almario Montito, Hernando Miguel, Yee Ciara and Yu Keb. Promoting

Ecotourism: A Case Study on Sagada, Philippines
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Chapter 3
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
This chapter discusses the research design employed in the study. In
particular, the following elements of the research process are explained: the
research method, respondents, research instrument, procedure and statistical
treatment of data relative to the problem.
Research Method
The descriptive survey method will be used in this study. According to
Naval, Carey and Prieto, (2016), it is used to gather information on current
situations and conditions. It helps provide answer to the questions of who, what,
when, where, and the how of a particular research study. Descriptive research
studies provide accurate data after subjecting them to a rigorous procedure and
using a large amount of data from a large amount of samples. This design leads
to logical conclusions and pertinent recommendations. Specifically, survey
research design is used in securing opinions and trends through the use of
questionnaires and interviews.
Dannely (2007) defined descriptive research as a research that describes
something. This research approach is an attempt to provide an accurate
description or picture of a particular situation or phenomenon. It can be used at
the initial stage of investigation to identify the variables that exist in a given
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situation and to describe the relationship that exists between these variables. It
can also be used at the final stage of investigation to describe the effectiveness
of a proposed solution and to formulate additional hypotheses about how a more
effective solution can be reached.
This method is very appropriate in determining the status of the
ecotourism sector in the Municipality of Ocampo, Camarines Sur. After going
through the investigation process, an accurate and clear description of data on
the profile of the existing ecotourism sites; existing programs and the prevailing
attitude of the locals.
Sampling
This study will make use of the non-probability sampling procedure which
is the Purposive Sampling. According to Calmorin and Calmorin (2007), it is
based on selecting the individuals as samples according to the purposes of the
researcher as his controls. An individual is selected as part of the sample due to
good evidence that he/she is a representative of the total population. Since the
main respondents of this study are the owners, employees, and caretakers of
heritage sites, barangay officials and employees of Tourism Offices, it is
therefore justifiable that this sampling procedure should be applied since the
researchers strongly believe that these people are exposed and knowledgeable
about the study. As stated by Baraceros (2016), selected respondents in

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purposive sampling should have good background knowledge or with great
enthusiasm about the research
Respondents
The respondents of this study will be the Local Tourism Officer and Local
Tourism Planning Officer of the Municipality of Ocampo Camarines Sur in order
to get the documents needed in the determination of the a. tourists arrivals,
Types of tourists, Origin of the tourists and Income generated for the past three
years. For the investigation of the existing programs and prevailing attitude of the
local people of the Municipality of Ocampo regarding the development of the
ecotourism sector , the local people will be part of the respondents together with
the employees of the Local Government Unit of Ocampo.
Data Gathering Instruments
The researcher will use several methods in gathering the needed
information from the respondents. This will include questionnaire, observation,
documentary analysis and informal interview.
Questionnaire
This was considered by the researcher as the principal tool in gathering
the data from the respondents. Such tool will formulated based on initial
observation and ideas obtained by the researcher from the respondents

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themselves and from the different reading materials, related studies and on-line
resources.
Preparation of the Questionnaire. Since the respondents of this study
are coming from different sectors and with different educational attainments, the
researcher made it a point that the questionnaire would be understood well by
the respondents. Hence, this tool was strictly formulated based on the following
criteria, namely: clarity of language, specificity, singleness of purpose, linguistic
completeness, grammatical consistency, freedom from assumption, freedom
from suggestion, and time required to finish accomplishing the questionnaire.
Validation of the Questionnaire. The questionnaire will subjected to a
dry-run in order to improve its contents, validity and at the same time identify the
factors that might affect its validity. Selected respondents in Iriga City composed
of the employees of tourism office, local officials, residents and caretakers of
ecotourism sites will serve as dry-run respondents. The researcher will ask the
participants to identify item/s which are not clearly stated and/or not understood
well. The suggestions given by the trial respondents will carefully considered
before the researcher finalized the questionnaire.
Administration of the Questionnaire. A formal request to undertake the
study will be submitted to the Office of the Municipal Mayor and Barangay
Captain. The researchers will personally distribute the questionnaire in order to
immediately conduct the interview and observation. The assistance of the

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barangay police will be sought by the researchers during the conduct of the
ocular inspection and questionnaire distribution.
Interview
In order to supplement and validate the data gathered in the
questionnaire, an informal interview will be conducted to the local people of the
community, owners, and owners of ecotourism sites.
Observation
In order have an actual validation the researchers will be conducting an
ocular inspection to the ecotourism sites. This will be done before and after the
distribution of the questionnaire to validate the answer of the respondents. This
method will help the researchers in assessing the place first hand and eventually
gaining sufficient information by any means possible.
Documentary Analysis. To generate the actual and authentic data about the
profile of existing ecotourism sites in the Municipality of Ocampo, documents will
be requested from the office of local tourism officer and municipal planning
officer.
Statistical Tools
The responses of the respondents will be classified and tabulated
systematically according to the different variables included in the study. All the
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data gathered will be presented quantitatively in graphical and tabular forms
indicating the frequency, percentage, ranking, weighted mean and the verbal
description of the results. The following statistical tools will be used in order to
determine the needed data for each of the problem considered in this research.
1. Percentage Technique was used to get the proportionate number of
respondents who responded on a particular item. Specifically, this will utilized to
determine the existing ecotourism sites.
The formula used was:
F
P X 100%
N
Where: P - Percentage
F - Frequency
N - Total Number of Respondents
Frequency count refers to the number of times the answer was given by
the respondents.
2. Weighted Mean refers to the value obtained by adding the frequency in
the distribution, multiplied by the weight of the scale and dividing the sum of the
total number of respondents. This tool will be used to determine the existing
programs and the prevailing attitude of the local people about ecotourism
development. This will be employed in order to quantify the data and make the
interpretation more objective.

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The formula used was:
WM = fw X 100
N
Where:
WM - Weighted Mean
f - Frequency of number of responses
w - Weight of category of responses
N - The total number of respondents
To make the research clearer in its presentation, the four-point Likert type
rating scale will be used. Thus, range scale and verbal interpretation were as
follows:
Scale Range Value Verbal Interpretation

4 3.40-4.00 Highly Implemented/Strongly Agree
3 2.60-3.39 Moderately Implemented/Agree
2 1.80-2.59 Implemented/Disagree
1 1.00-1.79 Not Implemented/Strongly Disagree
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NOTES
Carey, Terisita G., Naval, Victoria C., and Prieto, Nelia G. Practical Research II
for Senior High School. ( Quezon City: Lorimar Publishing Inc. 2016).
Calmorin, Laurentina P. and Calmorin, Melchor A. Research Methods and Thesis

Writing Second Edition. (Quezon City: Rex Printing Company Inc. 2007).
Baraceros, Esther L. Practical Research II First Edition. ( Manila: Rex Book

Store. 2016).

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sight-seeing, surfing, and many more.

Tourism is the temporary movement of people to destinations outside their

to UNESCO, tourism is one of the world's fastest growing industries and an

important source of foreign exchange and employment for many developing

countries. Sustainable development is the development that meets the needs of

own needs. Tourism can be a contribution to the sustainable development of an

of services it can provide to individuals such as work in the hotels, travel

provides job opportunities to the people.

The tourism industry that promotes environment protection is a big

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the provision of satisfying experiences for visiting tourists. Ecotourism is the

protection of the environment and the preservation of the natural resources. It is

Ecotourism is a phenomenon wherein it will greatly affect the sustainable

economic, social, and environmental aspects (Kiper, 2013).

Ecotourism is a form of tourism involving visiting fragile, pristine, and

relatively undisturbed natural areas, intended as a low-impact and often small

scale alternative to standard commercial (mass) tourism. Its purpose may be to

educate the traveler, to provide funds for ecological conservation, to directly

benefit the economic development and political empowerment of local

Since the 1980s ecotourism has been considered a critical endeavour by

environmentalists, so that future generations may experience destinations

relatively untouched by human intervention. Several university programs use this

description as the working definition of ecotourism.

Generally, ecotourism deals with living parts of the natural environments.

Ecotourism focuses on socially responsible travel, personal growth, and

environmental sustainability. It typically involves travel to destinations where

La Consolacion College of Rinconada

foster a greater appreciation of our natural habitats.

According to Falafox (2017), Tourism is a perfect engine for economic

growth, especially in our nature-rich country. The Philippines is first in marine

biodiversity and second in geothermal energy. We have the third longest

ecotourism in Philippines is just logical.

Ecotourism, according to the definition of The International Ecotourism

Society means “responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the

environment, sustains the well-being of the local people, and involves

interpretation and education”. Ecotourism is often seen as a kind of sustainable

element of conservation and education. What makes it unique is the learning

In developing an area, it is important to include the local community to

community has no participation in this growth. Community-based ecotourism can

La Consolacion College of Rinconada

even be a driver in alleviating poverty in the area. We can observe such

approaches applied in Aloguinsan, Cebu and Puerto Princesa, Palawan. The

contributing to the local economy.

Ecotourism is not for all. We should always consider to keep things in

developments and where it stops is very crucial. Developments should

cultural integrity of the place.

La Consolacion College of Rinconada

In view of the foregoing, it is very timely to make an assessment of the

ecotourism sector in the Municipality of Ocampo. Hence, this study.

Statement of the Problem

Municipality of Ocampo, Camarines Sur. Specifically, it aims to answer the

1. What are the existing ecotourism sites in the Municipality of Ocampo,

2. What is the profile of the ecotourism sector in the Municipality of Ocampo in

a. tourists arrivals for the past three years

b. Types of tourists for the past three years

c. Origin of the tourists for the past three years

d. Income generated for the past three years

vital component of the tourism industry of the Municipality of Ocampo along:

La Consolacion College of Rinconada

4. What is the prevailing attitude of the local people of the Municipality of

Ocampo regarding the development of the ecotourism sector?