International Journal of Research Studies in Management
United Tourism and Hospitality Professionals Special Issue
2024 Volume 12 Issue 14
Available Online: 2 October 2024
Author/s:
Ruiz, Merle U.*
Graduate School, Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas, Philippines (muruiz@mcl.edu.ph)
Apritado, Jennie Margaret
Lyceum of the Philippines University – Batangas, Philippines (jmapritado@lpubatangas.edu.ph)
Abstract:
The study aimed to propose a framework for sustainable ecotourism development plan in CALABARZON region. The researcher determined the key indicators of community engagement in protected areas and natural park in the region of CALABARZON. It tested the significant difference in the responses when grouped according to demographic profiles of the respondents and tested the significant relationship among the given variables. The researcher used quantitative method and descriptive research design. The respondents of the study were 312 residents staying adjacent and currently working in ecotourism sites. The instrument was adapted from a previous study. Further, the Statistical test used for the study was based on the Shapiro Wilk test, Kruskal Wallis Test, Mann Whitney U-test to test the significant differences while, Spearman Rho for the test of relationship to determine significant relationship among three variables. The study concluded that a large percentage of the respondents were male aged between 31-39 and high percentage of engagement was between 1-3 years. Community satisfaction on quality of life across four domains of well-being were the key factors and foundational elements that led to positive impact on the interactions between residents and tourists. In addition, when locals are satisfied, they are not just more open and tolerant to tourists but also more inclined to engage in ecotourism activities. Lastly, the research paper proposed a framework. The study recommends to incentivize long-term engagement of residents, ecotourism management may develop educational and training programs for residents to enhance their knowledge and skills in ecotourism and hospitality to increase their engagement with tourists and to equip with skills while empowering them to actively participate in local ecotourism industry.
Keywords: community engagement, protected areas, natural park, ecotourism
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2024.1291
Cite this article:
Ruiz, M. U., & Apritado, J. M. (2024). Exploring key indicators of community engagement in protected areas and natural park: Towards an ecotourism sustainable and development framework. International Journal of Research Studies in Management, 12(14), 29-42. https://doi.org/10.5861/ijrsm.2024.1291
* Corresponding Author