Local Community Assessment on the Economic, Environmental and Social Aspects of Ecotourism in Lobo, Philippines

This study assessed the economic, environmental and social aspects of ecotourism in Lobo, Batangas, Philippines. Lobo is situated in the Verde Island Passage, the “center of the center of marine biodiversity” in the world. Lobo is also home to scenic beaches with spectacular dive spots and fish sanctuaries; mountain ranges with the endangered tree specie, the Philippine teak or Tectona philippinensis; and the 120-year old Malabrigo Lighthouse, which is overlooking Verde Island. The assessment was made by 394 residents of 18 barangays or local communities within the ecotourism areas, who are selected through stratified-proportional random sampling. The study is descriptive in nature and a survey questionnaire was the instrument used in data gathering. Results show that ecotourism in Lobo is economically, viable, environmentally sound and socially acceptable. However, the local government of Lobo and the tourism industry should be constantly cautious in every aspect of ecotourism development to assure its sustainability in the long run. In addition, residents of the local communities should also be always vigilant on the protection of the Lobo environment and conservation of its natural resources outweighing whatever economic benefits they may be offered by industries, tourism or any else.

Keywords – community assessment, economic aspect, ecotourism, environmental aspect, Lobo, social aspect, sustainable development