Consulting Services on theConsulting Services on theUpdating of the NationalUpdating of the National

Ecotourism Strategy (NES) andEcotourism Strategy (NES) and Action PlansAction Plans

NationalNationalEcotourism StrategyEcotourism Strategy

and Action Planand Action Plan2013-20222013-2022

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

Department of Tourism (DOT)

Quezon City 2012Quezon City 2012

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WHY ECOTOURISM?

“My soul can find no staircase to Heavenunless it be through Earth’s Loveliness”

-Michelangelo

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Message of DOT Secretary …………………………………………………………………4Message of DENR Secretary …………………………………………………………………6Executive Summary …………………………………………………………………8Acknowledgements ………………………………………………………………...11Acronyms and Abbreviations ………………………………………………………………...12

1. Background1.1. Ecotourism Background ……………………………………………………………..141.2. National Ecotourism Strategy 2002-2012 …………………………………………...151.3. National Ecotourism Strategy 2013-2022……………………………………………16

2. Situation Analysis2.1. Policy Context …………………………………………………………………192.2. Nature’s Custodian for Development ………………………………………………...242.3. The Ecotourism Market ………………………………………………………………27

2.3.1. World Market ………………………………………………………………….272.3.2. Domestic ………………………………………………………………….29

2.4. Assessment National Ecotourism Strategy 2002-2012 ………………………………322.4.1. National Assessment …………………………………………………………..322.4.2. Regional Assessment…………………………………………………………..34

2.5. Best Practices in other Countries ……………………………………………………..61

3. National Ecotourism Strategy 2013-20223.1. Strategic Framework ………………………………………………………………….643.2. Institutional Partnership ………………………………………………………………683.3. National Ecotourism Program 2013-2022 ……………………………………………71

3.3.1. Site Protection and Development………………………………………………723.3.2. Product Development ………………………………………………………….753.3.3. Marketing And Promotion …………………………………………………….793.3.4. Education And Advocacy ……………………………………………………..823.3.5. Ecotourism Finance ……………………………………………………………823.3.6. Infrastructure And Services Support Programs ……………………………......833.3.7. Human Resource Development ………………………………………………..833.3.8. Economic Development ……………………………………………………….843.3.9. Institutional Development ……………………………………………………..843.3.10. Monitoring And Evaluation ……………………………………………………85

3.4. List of Ecotourism Sites ……………………………………………………………….873.5. Action Plans 2013-2022 ………………………………………………………………104

3.5.1. National Action Plans ………………………………………………………….1053.5.2. Regional Action Plans ………………………………………………………….117

Bibliography …………………………………………………………………..253List of Annexes …………………………………………………………………A-1

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Message of DOT Secretary

One of the comparative advantages of the Philippines as a tourist destination is its good suite of attractive natural and cultural heritage assets and resources. This advantage, along with other positive attributes, guides stakeholders in developing an environmentally and socially responsible tourism program that delivers larger, more widely distributed income and employment opportunities.

In support of this goal, the Department of Tourism works in safeguarding the natural and cultural heritage and vulnerable groups. Priority is given to the design and implementation of product development programs targeting ecotourism at key natural heritage sites.

The partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (DENR – PAWB), through the formulation of the National Ecotourism Strategy (NES), galvanizes the DOT’s goal of ensuring sustainable tourism development in the country’s top cluster destinations.

The DOT has included in its list of priority tourism product portfolio the development and enhancement of nature-based tourism, where local communities and local entrepreneurs are given preference for wider distribution of economic benefits. Among the initiatives of the DOT in the development of community-based tourism projects and programs include the following:

Technical assistance in the development of self-sustaining businesses and micro enterprises; Organization and capability-building workshops for the local tour guides; Development of trekking and other eco-adventure products in the key ecotourism sites; and Establishment of Ecotourism Information Centers.

These projects contribute to the enhancement of the environmental sustainability of the tourism areas, as well as to the increase in income of the rural communities. More importantly, various community groups are able to operate viable and environmentally sustainable tourism enterprises in their respective areas.

The initiative to update the NES was laudable considering the necessary policy considerations and action plans identified after thorough consultations with the concerned stakeholders. The updated NES now has 10 key components to include: 1) site protection and development; 2) product development; 3) marketing and promotions; 4) education and advocacy; 5) ecotourism finance; 6) infrastructure and support programs; 7) monitoring and evaluation; 8) economic development; 9) human resource development; and 10) institutional development. These component aims to address the problems encountered in the past implementation of the NES.

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Hon. Ramon R. Jimenez Jr.Secretary

The department is one with DENR-PAWB in the goal of ensuring the preservation and conservation of our natural heritage, in order for our future generations to continue enjoying and experiencing the fun with nature and ecology.

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Message

Ecotourism is seen as a means to alleviate poverty that will hasten the fulfillment of the UN’s Millennium Development goals.

The updating of the National Ecotourism   Strategy (NES) is very timely as it responds to the recent call of the United Nations under a resolution entitled "Promotion of ecotourism for poverty eradication and environment protection", for member countries to include in its plans and programs the development of ecotourism. We have a major role to play in the implementation of this UN directive and we are committed and ready to do our share.

The new National Ecotourism Strategy will now be our bible in the country’s quest to get a big slice of the ECOTOURISM market.  This product will not only conserve our environment it will also help the local communities to have another source of income without getting involved in illegal natural resources extraction activities.

The participatory thrust of the new NES strongly supports the mandate of DENR and will be one of  the center points  of our critical work  in making sure our very own domestic  tourists will be the first to enjoy the fruits of our labor. The long-term viability of this program should be nurtured by all agencies concerned.  For our part, the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) has been designated as the lead agency of the DENR that will oversee this program.

We congratulate all those who collaborated in the work to update the National Ecotourism Strategy.

Mabuhay!

RAMON JP PAJESecretary, DENR

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

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The National Ecotourism Strategy (NES) 2002-2012 was formulated in 2002 to provide an integrated management plan for the development of ecotourism in the country.  Ten (10) full years have passed since the NES was formally presented to the Tourism Congress. It has become imperative for a reassessment of the NES in terms of its implementation and updating in view of the changes and factors that affected the NES. Recently the importance of ecotourism was highlighted after the UN has passed a resolution declaring ecotourism as one of the main tools for poverty alleviation. Starting 2013 it has enjoined all UN member countries to include ecotourism in their national plans and policies.

The roots of ecotourism in the Philippines started in 1991 when the Philippine Tourism Master Plan positioned the Philippines as a world-class tourism destination under the guiding principle of sustainable tourism development. When the Philippines won the bid for the World Expo 2002, the National Tourism Congress took up its theme of “Ecotourism: Growing with Nature” and thus ecotourism was introduced in the Philippines.

The enactment of the NIPAS Act in 1992 with its recreational zones being permitted to become ecotourism sites reinforced the drive toward ecotourism development. In 1998 the DOT and DFA lobbied the UN to declare 2002 as the year of “Ecotourism” in support of the bid for the World Expo 2002.

Recognizing the increasing international trends in ecotourism and diverse natural and cultural resources of the country, the Philippine government subsequently issued Executive Order (EO) No. 111 on 17 June 1999 to upgrade and establish the guidelines for ecotourism development in the Philippines. Among others, the the EO called for the formulation of a National Ecotourism Strategy (NES) to provide an integrated management plan for the development of ecotourism in the country.

The first NES was formulated for the period 2002-2012. It identified 87 key sites as targets for its action plan made up of seven (7) components. It also defined the role of DOT and DENR in the NES implementation and the institutional arrangement with other agencies.

The planning context of the NES 2013-2022 was based from the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2011-2016 and the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2011-2016. Its policy context are based on Republic Act No. 9593 (Tourism Act of 2009), Executive Order 79, Executive Order 111 and Republic Act 7586 (NIPAS Act of 1992).

Ingrained in the Philippines system are nature’s custodian for development made up of government and non-government organizations which have long been involve in various aspects of ecotourism development and shall also play a role in the implementation of NES 2013-2022.

The world market for ecotourism is growing fast as world tourism arrivals increases in the coming years. Estimates abroad project sustainable tourism could grow to 25% of the world’s travel market by 2012. In the Philippines, regions expecting large regular tourism arrivals shall expect also more ecotourists since they already have accessibility and support mechanisms that

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enable them to welcome more ecotourists. The likely number of foreign ecotourists market in 2013-2016 shall be from 118,322 to 710,000 for low assumption and 1,183,216 to 2,000,000 for the high assumption. For domestic travelers, the likely market could be 1,132,971 to 1,278,000 for low assumption, and 10,794,696 to 12,176,500 for the high assumption. Overall the potential market size is in the range of 1.3 million to 14 million ecotourists.

The DOT was able to make substantial contributions to integrate images of Banner Sites into promotional campaigns and it provided professional skills training relevant to ecotourism and adventure operators such as local guiding, whitewater, and event management, among others, in order to improve the visitor experience. On the part of DENR, they have undertaken substantial efforts in the following: design and delivery of ecotourism and conservation awareness workshops; and providing short, practical training modules in ecotourism product development at key sites in order to further develop professional skills of local guides and protected area managers.

The framework of analysis of the NES implementation was the NES Action Plan (NAP) 2002-2012. The action plan according to the NES (2002-2012) should have been implemented across the ecotourism sites in all 17 regions of the country. The NES has identified 87 Key ecotourism sites of which 32 are banner ecotourism sites whose NES implementation should have taken place in the short-term (2002-2004). Twenty (20) sites were designated as emerging sites slated for implementation for 2002-2007 while 35 sites were designated as potential sites which were slated for implementation for 2002-2012. About 32 have reported activities relating to the action plan or just a mere 37% over the previous ten (10) year period.

Among the best practices of other countries that are recommended for this updated NES are: 1) Rapid Assessment Model from Australia; 2) Five basic steps to developing tourism sites: attitude, access, accommodations, attractions and advertising from Cambodia; 3) One-stop-shop to simplify government requirements from Indonesia; 4) Use of local and seasonal food and reusable utensils, use of public transportation, respect for local culture and reduce carbon emission from Taiwan; 5) Studies on zoning, carrying capacity, protection of the environment and culture, and monitoring; while the private sector provides the appropriate facilities from Thailand.

The NES 2013-2022 has the goal of developing and managing globally competitive ecotourism sites, products and markets that will contribute to inclusive growth and employment generation in the coubtry. The NES has identified ten (10) program components in support of its implementation. The program includes the following: 1) site protection and development; 2) product development; 3) marketing and promotions; 4) education and advocacy; 5) ecotourism finance; 6) infrastructure and support programs; 7) monitoring and evaluation; 8) economic development; 9) human resource development; and 10) institutional development.

This NES 2013-2022 is proposing a host of measures for each of the 10 program components. Many of them reiterate the sub-components not implemented or were only partially implemented in the original NES. Several of them are new set of measures that are deemed crucial in the smooth implementation of this Updated NES. Among them are:

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1. The mainstreaming of the Updated NES in the planning-programming-budgeting cycle in the national, regional and local level. At the national level, inclusion in the Philippine Medium Term Development Plan and National Development Investment Program. In the regional level, inclusion in the Regional Development Plan and Regional Development Investment Program. In the local level, inclusion in the local development plans and local development Investment program;

2. Each ecosite must have a master plan cum business plan to fully operationalize the ecotourism principles of conservation, site education and local community development;

3. Ecosite development must be site specific and follow the metaphysical approach in site analysis;

4. Institutionalization of annual NES review per region and only then the annual regional cluster review for proper monitoring of the NES implementation;

5. Holding of periodic investment fora to encourage diversified financing for the various aspects of ecosite development;

6. To respond to the commensurate potential increase in ecotourists in the Updated NES, the ecolodge development and homestay program shall be extensively encouraged across all regions;

7. The EO 111 should be amended to include other relevant stakeholders like DTI in the NESC and ecoguides in the national and regional bodies;

8. Prepare more vigorously the necessary skills training to support the NES implementation;

9. Have only one lead agency to efficiently implement and monitor the updated NES;

10. Adhere to approve guidelines in implementing NES recommendations.

The NES 2013-2022 has identified 272 ecotourism sites for development during the regional consultation in 2012. About 229 of them can be included in the Tourism Development Areas (TDA) of the DOT’s National Tourism Development Plan 2011-2016. Being in the TDAs means these sites shall be part of DOT prioritization.

The national and regional action plans for each of the ten (10) national ecotourism program components were also identified in the short term (2013–2016), medium term (2013 – 2019) and long term (2013 – 2022)1.

1 NES, pp. 3-4

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

This report has been completed with the cooperation of people from a broad range of sectors of government to include, DENR; DOT; DILG; DTI; DFA; NEDA; TESDA; LGUs; PAWB; NGOs; Donor Agencies; and some private sector organizations and members of the International Ecotourism Society.

The DENR-PAWB would like to extend its sincere gratitude to the people in the regional offices of DENR and DOT; the LGUs; member of the academe and private groups who participated in the consultation/planning workshops in assessing and updating the action plans under the NES.

The updating of the NES and Action Plans, 2013-2022 was funded by the DENR-PAWB and prepared by the International School of Sustainable Tourism.

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ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

A S E A N Association of South East Asian NationsADB Asian Development BankAPEC Asia-Pacific Economic CooperationBLGU Bureau of Local Government UnitC R M P Coastal Resource Management Plan / ProjectCDP Comprehensive Development PlanCLUP Comprehensive Land Use ProgramD E N R Department of Environment and Natural ResourcesD I L G Department of the Interior and Local GovernmentD O T Department of TourismD T I Department of Trade and IndustryDBCC Development Budget Coordinating CouncilE O Executive OrderE T W G Ecotourism Technical Working GroupECNSA East Coast National Scenic AreasELA Enterprise License AgreementG A S T Green Alliance for Sustainable TourismGAA General Appropriations ActI P A F Integrated Protected Area FundICRMP Integrated Coastal Resources Management ProjectIEC Information and Education CampaignL G U Local Government UnitLDIP Land Development and Improvement ProgramNCIP National Commission on Indigenous PeoplesN E A P Nature and Ecotourism Accreditation ProgramN E D A National Economic and Development AuthorityN E D C National Ecotourism Development CouncilN E P O National Ecotourism Program OfficeN E S National Ecotourism StrategyN E S C National Ecotourism Steering CommitteeN G A National Government AgencyN G O Non Governmental OrganizationN I P A NGOs for Integrated Protected AreasN I P A S National Integrated Protected Area SystemN T O National Tourism OrganizationNAP NES Action PlanNTDP National Tourism Development PlanOPB Operations Plan and BudgetP A Protected Area

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P A M B Protected Area Management BoardP A W B Protected Areas and Wildlife BureauP C V C Philippine Convention and Visitor CenterPASU Protected Area SuperintendentPDP Philippine Development PlanPLS Protected Landscape SeascapePPP Public Private PartnershipPPUR Puerto Princesa Underground RiverR E C Regional Ecotourism CommitteeRDC Regional Development CouncilRDP Regional Development ProgramREWG Regional Ecotourism Working GroupSAPA Special Use Agreements in Protected AreasSWOT Strengths, Weakness, Opportunity, ThreatT A Technical AssistanceT E S D A Technical Education Skills and Development AuthorityT M P Tourism Master PlanTIEZA Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zoning AuthorityTRE Tourism Related EnterprisesTWG Technical Working GroupUNW T O United Nations World Tourism OrganizationUSAID United States Agency for International DevelopmentUWM Unit of Work MeasurementVFR Visiting Friends and RelativesWFP Work and Financial PlanWTTC World Travel and Tourism Council

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1. BACKGROUND

1.1. Ecotourism Background

A. Global Context

In the opening foreword by Costas Christ2 in the Authentic Ecolodge Book of Hitesh Mehta3, he briefly described the difficult journey of ecotourism, “while nature travel boomed in the 1980’s the tenets of ecotourism were slow to take the root. So in 1990, a dozen scientists, conservationist, and tour operators from around the world gathered in a farm house outside Washington D.C. for the inaugural meeting of the International Ecotourism Society (TIES)4 their first task was to define what exactly ecotourism was.”

The following definition was decided on during that gathering “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment and improves the well-being of local people. “None of us, however, knew of a real working model anywhere in the world”, Costas Christ continued, It was around this same time – an experimental period when ecotourism was long on promises but short on delivery- that he met a Kenyan-born architect and landscape architect named Hitesh Mehta. He was impressed by his genuine desire to make ecotourism really work. He understood what was at stake: a rapidly growing tourism industry that was expanding each year into the world’s last strongholds of wilderness, home to rare and endangered species and the make-or break world of basic survival for millions of people in Africa, Asia, and the Americas! “If we did not get tourism development right, it ran the risk of destroying the very cultural and natural attractions that visitors came to see. I am happy to report that trial and error has led to mounting success, with Hitesh Mehta playing a vital role in that process.” Costas concluded.

-Among the early ecotourism markets were the Galapagos Islands, Costa Rica, Kenya and

Nepal. In fact some of these places claim they were already using the basic ecotourism principles for 20-30 years before we even began to use the word ecotourism.-- B. Local context

- Connection of the NES and the succeeding topics- Importance of ecotourism

1.2. National Ecotourism Strategy 2002-2012

2 Costas Christ- He is a Wildlife Biologist and part of the Harvard University project that was studying the Velvet Monkeys in Kenya at Samburo National Reserved

3 Hitesh Mehta- Mr. Mehta is one of the world’s leading authorities, researchers and practitioners on sustainable tourism and ecotourism physical planning and both the landscape architectural and architectural aspects of ecolodges. In July2006, National Geographic identified Mr. Mehta as one of five Sustainable Tourism Pioneers in the world for his Ecotourism/ Protected Area planning work and for his knowledge dissemination through books, research papers, teaching, international conference key-note presentations and eco- landscape design and planning workshops. Mr. Mehta is also a Professional Photographer and Hall Of Fame Cricket player from Kenya.

4 ***The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) - World's oldest (1991) and largest international ecotourism association, TIES seeks to be the global source of knowledge and advocacy uniting communities, conservation and sustainable travel.

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In 1991, the Department of Tourism (DOT) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the World Tourism Organization (WTO) prepared the Philippine Tourism Master Plan (TMP). Among the objectives established by the TMP is the positioning of the Philippines as a world-class tourism destination under the guiding principle of sustainable tourism development.

In 1992, the Philippines bidded to host World Expo 2002 in the country. The inter-agencies involved in this project decided to adapt “Ecotourism: Growing with Nature” as the Philippine theme for the bid. It was the first time in one hundred years of World Expos that tourism was a subject of a theme for World Expo. In the same year, a National Tourism Congress took up this theme and the concept of ecotourism was introduced in the Philippines.

Also in 1992, RA 7586 was passed providing for the establishment and management of a National Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS) w/c serve as cornerstone of biodiversity the country. The NIPAS law provides buffer zones and other multiple use zones where ecotourism can take place. It permits tourism activities. In particular, ecotourism, is part of its recreational zones. The law mandated the establishment of a Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) to plan and administer the protected areas, approved implementation proposals and work plans delineate boundaries, and promulgate rules and regulations for their conservation, protection and management.

The same is true with RA 9072 on National Caves and Caves Resources Management and Protection Act and RA 9147, the Wildlife Conservation and Protection Act. All these laws also support ecotourism development.

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In January, 1998, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) lobbied with the United Nations to declare 2002 as the year of Ecotourism in support of the World Expo to be held in the Philippines in that same year. As a result of this lobby, the United Nations declared 2002 as the Celebration of the International year of Ecotourism.

In view of this Declaration, the Department of Tourism, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) jointly issued Memorandum Order 98-2, enumerating the first guidelines on the planning and development of ecotourism sites. The Philippine government recognizing the increasing international trends in ecotourism and diverse natural and cultural resources of the country, subsequently issued Executive Order (EO) No. 111 on 17 June 1999 to upgrade and establish the guidelines for ecotourism development in the Philippines. The EO likewise created the National Ecotourism Development Council (NEDC) as policy making body, and the National Ecotourism Steering Committee (NESC) and Regional Ecotourism Committees (RECs) as operating arms. It also called for an Ecotourism Technical WorkingGroup (ETWG) to provide technical and administrative support to the NEDC and NESC all of these bodies were referred to collectively as the “EO 111 Bodies. In addition, the EO called for the formulation of a National Ecotourism Strategy (NES) to provide an integrated management plan for the

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development of ecotourism5. The New Zealand Agency for International Development (NZAID) together with the NESC spearheaded the preparation of the NES.

- NZAID as donor/funder- DOT and DENR thru NEDC spearheaded the NES preparation- format – no link with the other sections if bulletized (sub-topics)- continuous discussion

One of the operational tools of the said EO was the formulation of the National Ecotourism Strategy (NES). The NES is founded on the vision to advocate, foster, coordinate, monitor and mobilize support for ecotourism. It specifically aims to6:

1. Promote and mobilize support for ecotourism from all sectors-government, businesses and general populace;

2. Develop a culture of tourism among the local people;3. Institutionalize community participation in planning, development, implementation and

monitoring of ecotourism projects;4. Promote environmental education and ethics;5. Develop capability of LGUs and local entrepreneurs; facilitate domestic and foreign

investments to fill in facilities requirements; and 6. Develop globally competitive ecotourism products for quality visitor experience;7. Ensure benefits redound to the local community.

A National Ecotourism Program (NEP) was developed to compliment and support the NES. The Bohol Congress definition of ecotourism was used to jumpstart the NES.

The general approach to achieve the NES goals is to involve the establishment of network of sites and products through a “top-down and bottom-up” approach. The Top-down seeks to define flows from the national government by developing and marketing key ecotourism sites as well as setting the standards to regulate and monitor ecotourism projects. The bottom-up is envisioned to provide opportunity for host communities, local government units, local entrepreneurs, non-government organizations and other stakeholders to actively participate in the protection and management of their resources and other viable ecotourism projects7.

1.3. National Ecotourism Strategy 2013-2022

Ten (10) full years have passed since the NES was formally presented to the Tourism Congress. It became imperative therefore to review and assess the ten year NES, update the ecotourism sites, and the action plans for the next ten years.

1.3.1. Review and Assessment of 2002-2012 NES

An assessment and planning workshop was held by clusters in Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao and NCR.

5 NES, pp. 3-46 NES, pp. 3-47 NES, pp. 3-4

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The consultation workshop was held in: Subic Bay Freeport Zone (October 29-30, 2012)- Regions 1,2,3 and CAR Quezon City (November 15-16, 2012)- Regions 4A, 4B, 5 and NCR Bacolod City (October 22-24, 2012)- Regions 6,7 and 8 Cagayan de Oro City (Novemeber 20-21, 2012)- Regions 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, and

ARMM

During the consultations, the Strengths, Weakness, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) of the NES, have been identified since its adoption in 2002. As a strategy, the NES was supposed to have been adopted by concerned government agencies. The review devised recommendations to maximize its strengths/ opportunities and minimize the weakness/ threats.

1.3.2 . Review and Update the Ecotourism Sites-

In addition to the existing 87 (Cavite and Batangas counted as one only) ecosites (NES 2002-2012), the 189 additional ecosites were identified during the consultation workshop. However, only 229 matched the TDA listing of sites that will be prioritized for funding and development by DOT. The complete lists of ecosites are made an integral part of this report which can be used for reference as part of those areas where mining will not be allowed.

1.3.3. Update next 10 years Action Plans

The 2013-2022 Action Plans were presented during the National Consultation Workshop held at the Diamond Hotel, Manila.

The NES action plan has been prepared for the easy reference by members of the Steering Committee while Regional Action Plans were done for easy project implementation by the different regional offices.

The Action Plans contained 10 program components, namely: 1) site protection and development; 2) product development; 3) marketing and promotions; 4) education and advocacy; 5) ecotourism finance; 6) infrastructure and services support programs; 7) human resource development; 8) economic development; 9) institutional development; and 10) monitoring and evaluation.

Items (7), (8) and (9) of the above program components are new additions which was deemed necessary for the orderly and timely implementations of the NEP, especially when preparing the masterplans and business plans of each ecotourism site.

The NES action plan in the short-term (2013-2016), medium-term (2013- 2019) and long-term (2013-2022) has been prepared as a result of the consultative process initiated by the DENR/ PAWB and the DOT together with all relevant and key stakeholders interested or are involved in ecotourism development and activities.

1.3.4. Importance of Ecotourism

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The importance of ecotourism in the development of the Philippine economy coupled with the inherent task of protecting and conserving not only protected areas but other areas that aesthetically could be developed for this purpose, became even more important when issues related to mining began to appear in the media.  No less than President Benigno Aquino III announced in both print and television that his priority was ecotourism and he believed that in the long run tourism would be more lucrative than mining (EO 79, s2012). It was also important that areas designated or has the potential to be an ecosite must be identified so this could be excluded from places where mining would be allowed. Equally important, is the UN resolution urging all member countries, starting 2013, to include ecotourism in their country’s plans and policies as a means to alleviate poverty.

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2. Situation Analysis

2.1. Policy Context

The planning context of the NES 2013-2022 is based on the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2011-2016 and the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2011-2016. Its policy context are based on Republic Act No. 9593 (Tourism Act of 2009), Executive Order 79 , Executive Order 111 and Republic Act 7586 (NIPAS Act of 1992). The PDP outlines the government’s strategy and agenda to make tourism globally competitive. The NTDP lays out the geographical tourism clusters and development areas where ecototurism can be developed. The EOs and the Tourism Act set out the cooperating framework between DOT and DENR in identifying and developing ecotourism sites.

a. The NES and the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016

In its aim to increase productivity and efficiency, the national government through its Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016 has identified tourism as one of the priority areas for development that have the highest growth potentials and can generate the most jobs. The share of tourism in the Gross Domestic Product averages 6% in 2004-2009 and its average share in total national employment was about 10% in the same period. Tourism is regarded as the fourth largest contributor to foreign exchange receipts.

Despite these potentials, the Philippines ranked only sixth in attracting foreign tourists vis-à-vis its ASEAN neighbors, whose market shares have rapidly grown, while that of the Philippines expanded modestly. Per the findings of the World Economic Forum (WEF) 2009 Report, the Philippines is the lowest among comparable ASEAN neighbors in terms of the number of airlines with scheduled flights originating in the country and in the availability of good air connections to overseas markets to provide access for more foreign visitors. It also lagged behind in terms of quality of roads and ground transportation network that offers efficient accessibility to major tourism centers and tourist attractions.

In this context the PDP has envisioned a ten (10) point agenda to make the country’s industry and services sector globally competitive and innovative that will contribute to inclusive growth and employment generation.

The first agenda is “Improve Governance,” and specifically for tourism it shall promote land use planning so that it will to provide a sound basis for the local tourism development, including the designation of tourism enterprise zones by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA). The agenda shall also call for the government to formulate industrial strategy that spells out opportunities, coordinates and promotes the growth of forward and backward linkages in priority areas like tourism as well as prepares it to attract investments and generate jobs. It would entail a regular review of national investment incentives to examine their thrust, adequacy, and consistency with local regulations pertaining to tourism. It also call for ecotourism to help disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation by charging payment for ecosystem services including

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collection of fees for water consumption by industries and fees from tour organizers, lodging and other tourist facilities.

The second agenda is “Strengthen Economic Zones” in which the government shall pursue the issuance and full implementation of the rules and regulations for the designation of tourism enterprise zones (TEZs), envisioned to expand the current room capacities and diversify products in tourist destinations.

The third agenda is “Strengthen National Brand/Identity Awareness” which calls for a new tourism marketing campaign/ branding shall be developed in consonance with the country’s international image and trade promotion thrust.

The fourth agenda is “Intensify the Culture of Competitiveness” which shall pursue the development of a positive, innovative, and creative mindset through training, paving avenues for enhancements, reinforcement of shared values, and emphasis on linkages of skills and development as contributor to economic growth.

The fifth agenda is “Focus Interventions to Increase Exports/ Investments/ Tourism” in which tourism development will be pursued in a sustainable manner to continuously create jobs and livelihood for local communities, and generate foreign exchange for the economy while ensuring a high level of visitor satisfaction. Sound and manageable environmental practices in the development and promotion of tourist destinations as well as enhancement of tourism products and services shall be adhered to serve as cornerstones for planning, product development, human resources development, and marketing. To make the Philippines a destination of choice for tourism in the Asia-Pacific region, the government shall undertake the following measures:

(1) Encourage the diversification of existing destinations, and creation of new tourism areas and products including the expansion in room capacities through the implementation of the rules and regulations for the designation of Tourism Enterprises Zones (TEZs);

(2) Mobilize the enormous capacity of the country’s LGUs at the provincial, city and municipal levels by strengthening their capacity to plan, regulate and guide tourism development so that it is environmentally and socially sustainable as well as economically inclusive and viable. Moreover, increase the competitiveness of the country’s tourism enterprises and products by implementing partnership with the LGUs and the private sector to implement a mandatory system for the accreditation of tourism enterprises, including the formulation of a national standards and certification program for tourism facilities and services to ensure the highest quality and international comparability of the country’s tourism products;

(3) Formulate a national tourism development plan (NTDP) as the framework for the identification of tourism destinations and products, domestic and international markets, marketing and promotion as well as prioritization of tourism infrastructure requirements by the Department of Public Works and Highways and the Department of Transportation and

19

Communications, and designation of TEZs by the TIEZA. This will also provide the basis for LGUs to subsequently formulate their local tourism development plans;

(4) Encourage LGUs to develop tourism related-products and services using the community based and ecotourism approaches as implemented by innovative and entrepreneurial local governments in Bohol, Palawan, and Bicol, and have contributed to poverty reduction, protection of the environment, and gender equality in local areas. To this end, LGUs can seek the assistance of capable public and private higher education institutions in their areas, whose academic, research and extension programs in tourism relevant disciplines and technical expertise can be tapped for local tourism/culture planning, tour guide services, standards-setting and quality assurance for the hospitality sector, site and institutional development, and the showcasing of cultural heritage;

(5) Undertake a focused and sustained international and domestic tourism promotion campaign and programs using both traditional and the new social networking media targeting existing and new markets as well as overseas Filipinos;

(6) Launch focused and sustained international and domestic tourism using the new media with the support of OFs. Likewise, the support and cooperation mechanism for private sector and nongovernment organizations participation shall be enhanced. Efficient intra-government coordination system shall be put into practice in tourism promotional and planning activities. These shall involve the Tourism Promotions Board (as mandated by the Tourism Act of 2009) and the respective tourism related promotional units of the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Department of Health (DOH), Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), BOI, DTI, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), and the various agencies and councils supporting culture and the arts;

(7) Develop and implement a new tourism marketing campaign/ branding in consonance with the country’s international image and trade promotion thrust;

(8) Promote public- private-sector partnerships both in infrastructure development and capacity expansion and modernization in the accommodation and recreation sectors, among others. The private sector will be engaged in extensive consultation to identify gaps, policy reforms and programs that will assist the tourism sector achieve its goals and objectives in the medium term. The Tourism Coordinating Council shall be the vehicle to strengthen such partnerships

The sixth agenda is “Provide Firm-Level Support To Potential, New, And Existing Micro, Small And Medium Enterprises” in which for tourism it shall call for collaboration between DTI and DOT so that community-based and ecotourism projects will be implemented to provide alternative and supplemental livelihood for local communities as well as help in poverty reduction, raise family income, and promote a better quality of life in the rural and far-flung areas, which are considered desirable tourism destinations. This will also motivate communities to protect their ecotourism areas like natural habitat and wildlife.

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The seventh agenda is “Cluster Development” in which the government shall pursue an industry cluster program to foster inter-enterprise linkages among MSMEs and strengthen collaborative networks. For tourism, industry clusters provide benefits such as promoting product complementation that enables longer visitor stay and higher expenditure in tourism destinations.

The eighth agenda is “Increase Market Access through Global and Regional Integration” in which consistent with ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan and the Multilateral Agreement on Full Implementation of Passenger Air Services, greater collaboration will be undertaken to realize the potential of the ASEAN region as a source market for tourism. In addition, tour programs shall be developed through twinning and dual destination with other ASEAN countries, attracting more international tourists and foreign direct investments in tourism.

The ninth agenda is “Encourage Consumer Products and Services Satisfaction” in which for tourism the government shall encourage development of products and services standards.

The tenth agenda is “Improve Supply Chains of Basic and Prime Commodities” whereby for tourism the state shall develop an improved and efficient transport and distribution system to protect consumers.

b. The NES and the National Tourism Development Plan 20111-2016

The National Tourism Development Plan 2011-2016 has included ecotourism under its nature-based tourism products which is one of its nine (9) product portfolios. Nature-based tourism is a product which embraces both nature-based recreational and educational activities and land and marine-based adventure activities.

“Recreational and educational or ecotourism activities include visits to the Underground River in Puerto Princesa, viewing corals from a glass-bottom boat, bird watching, and wildlife encounter with the whale shark in Donsol. Adventure activities include climbing, caving, trekking, and zip-lining. Examples of new products being introduced to the market include ecotourism in northern Batanes, a safari experience in northern Palawan’s exotic African reserve, mountain biking in various parts of the country notably in the Cordilleras; the Donsol firefly watching tour; and diving seafarers, with an underwater macro-photography. Although found throughout the Philippines, nature-based tourism products are particularly concentrated in Palawan, Bicol, Eastern Visayas, Mindanao, and the Cordilleras. Key issues that remain to be addressed in raising the competitiveness of these products are improving and diversifying the existing product offering so that it is able to attract year round markets; ensuring that the existing product offering adheres to the highest quality standards in terms of facilities, equipment, service, safety and security, and environmental protection; ensuring that they are environmentally and socially responsible, inclusive in terms of benefiting the poorer sectors of local communities, and that they are economically and financially viable” .

The NTDP identified 78 existing and emerging tourism development areas (TDAs) that were grouped into 20 product-markets thematic tourism cluster destinations (CD), each of

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which is served by at least one or more air, sea, and road gateways. In these clusters, priority action should be given to designing and implementing a product development program targeting ecotourism at key 50 natural heritage sites. The top 9 cluster destinations in order of importance are: 1. Central Visayas, 2. Metro Manila and CALABARZON, 3. Central Luzon, 4. Palawan, 5. Western Visayas, 6. Davao Gulf and Coast, 7. Northern Mindanao, 8. Bicol, and 9. Laoag-Vigan.

c. Other Legislations

The National Tourism Policy Act states that the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) and the National Ecotourism Policy shall have the following provisions:

The NIPAS Act has different categories of zones to allow for flexibility in management especially for ecotourism purposes. Among the zones are “Recreational Zones” which are areas of high recreational, tourism, educational, or environmental awareness values where activities may be allowed as prescribed in the management plan of the protected site. The other zones are “Sustainable Use Zone” where park visitors may be allowed limited use. Multiple-use zones replaced the recreational and sustainable use zones. In the revised IRR, there are only strict protection and multiple use zones, with ecotourism activities allowed in the multiple use and buffer zone -

The DOT, in coordination with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), shall identify areas covered by the National Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) with ecotourism potentials and cultural heritage value, and prepare policies, plans and programs for their development, preservation, operation or conversion into TEZs;

The National Ecotourism Strategy (NES) 2002-2012 sets the framework for the DOT and the DENR to cooperate in the development of tourism in the country’s protected areas with a strong emphasis on community participation. To date, eight (8) ecotourism sites have been developed.

Executive Order 79 prohibits applications for mineral contracts, concessions and agreements shall not be allowed in tourism areas as identified in the national and local tourism development plans.

The National Ecotourism Steering Committee (NESC) shall formulate the appropriate development plans for the designation of ecotourism sites in the National Ecotourism Strategy pursuant to Executive Order No. 111 into TEZs. The NESC shall also be responsible for finding the appropriate TEZ Operator for the said sites;

The Department together with the DENR, the NESC and the TIEZA shall promulgate the rules and regulations for the conversion into TEZs of the identified areas under the NIPAS and the ecotourism sites in the National Ecotourism Strategy.

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-2.2. Nature’s Custodian For Development

In the country are various groups and organizations with varying levels and structures which in one way or another touches on the various aspects of project development for ecotourism. These groups have shown great interest to promote ecotourism as it is the belief ecotourism properly managed could act as an instrument to protect the environment while earning income for the communities and the country at large.

2.2.1. National Government

DOT is mandated by Republic Act 9593, also known as Tourism Act of 2009 to ensure that tourism’s economic benefits are dispersed to a wider segment of the population.

The DENR8 is mandated by EO 192 to conserve, manage and develop the Philippines’ environment and natural resources including its territorial waters and lands of public domain. The DENR oversees bureaus that ensure the sustainable management of natural areas. The PAWB is the bureau under the DENR concerned with the establishment and effective management of the Integrated Protected Areas System. The Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) is concerned with matters relating to environmental management and pollution control.

There are additional national government agencies whose support is essential to ecotourism, namely9:

Department of Education – to raise awareness of the need for environmental protection and cultural heritage protection, and to foster social cohesion and national unity among Filipinos.

Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) – to ensure that LGUs play a key role in developing ecotourism programs.

Department of Finance – to develop an incentive program for ecotourism to stimulate local communities and the private sector.

Department of Trade and Industry – to foster the development of indigenous products that can be promoted and marketed internationally.

National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP) – to help ensure the needs of local people is incorporated in ecotourism planning. - “to ensure that the culture and traditions of the local people are recognized, respected and protected in the ecotourism plan”

National Commission for Culture and the Ar ts (NCCA) – to support conservation of the cultural heritage resource base of ecotourism.

DPWH, DOTC.

8 NES 2002-20129 NES 2002-2012

23

National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA)– to provide the policy and enabling climate for ecotourism to develop in consonance with PA 21.

2.2.2. Local Government Units (LGUs )10

In accordance with the Local Government Code of 1991 (RA 7160) a number of LGUs have already linked up with DOT, DENR, NGOs and the private sector to under take community-based sustainable tourism projects. LGUs are universally recognized as potential key players in the successful development of ecotourism in the Philippines. Some LGUs have collaborated with media and outdoors clubs to promote greater consciousness to protect the environment and cultural heritage.

2.2.3. Non-Governmental Organizations11

Some NGOs involved in the development of ecotourism include, among others:

1. Philippine Rural Reconstruction Movement (PRRM);2. World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Philippines (Kabang Kalikasan ng Pilipinas - KKP);3. Conser vation International (CI);4. Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) Philippines;5. Accessing Support Ser vices and Entrepreneurial Technology (ASSET);6. Haribon Foundation Inc.;7. El Nido Foundation;8. International School for Sustainable Tourism9. Philippine Speleological Society Inc. 10. Phil. Native Plant Conservation Society Inc. (PNP CSI)-

2.2.4. Government Corporations12

The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) is attached to DOT as its implementing arm for physical development. The TIEZA shall set aside five percent (5%) of travel tax collections for the development of ecotourism sites in depressed provinces with strong tourism potentials.

The Philippine Tourism Promotions Board (PTPB), formerly Philippine Convention and Visitors Corp. is attached to DOT and is responsible for marketing and promoting the Philippines domestically and internationally as a major global tourism destination, highlighting the uniqueness and assisting the development of its tourism products and services, with the end in view of increasing tourist arrivals and tourism investment

2.2.5. International Organizations and Multilateral and Bilateral Agreements13

10 NES 2002-201211 NES 2002-201212 NES 2002-201213 NES 2002-2012

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Inter national agencies have launched various programs in the past to promote ecotourism as a means to save degrading natural resources. Among these international organizations are USAID, World Bank, , UNDP, European Union (EU), Unitted Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) from Spain and New Zealand.

2.2.6. Outdoor Associations14

Educational and outdoor recreational groups have actively supported ecotourism with a view to building greater awareness and commitment to environmental protection. Special interest activities such as bird, dolphin and whale watching have developed a niche market for local travelers.

Outdoors recreational programs such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, mountain climbing, mountain biking, canopy walk and caving or spelunking have gained popularity among domestic travelers, especially students and young professionals. These programs are supported by outdoor recreational organizations such as clubs and associations.

14 NES 2002-2012

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2.3. The Ecotourism Market

2.3.1. Global Market

The world market for ecotourism is growing fast. To get a magnitude of this market potential we need to take a look at the current tourism trend in general. Just recently, the total visitor arrivals in the world have reached 1 billion15.

International tourist arrivals grew by 4% in 2012 to reach 1.035 billion, 39 million more than last year. Emerging economies has the fastest growth +4.1% followed by advanced economies with +3.6%, with Asia and the Pacific showing the strongest results showing 7% growth. Growth is expected to continue in 2013 and in line with UNWTO long term forecast16. The number of international tourist arrivals worldwide is expected to increase by 3.3% a year on average from 2010 to 2030. This represents some 43 million more international tourist arrivals every year, reaching a total of 1.8 billion arrivals by 203017.

Travel for leisure, recreation and holidays accounted for just over half of all international tourist arrivals (51% or 505 million arrivals) in 2011. Some 15% of international tourists reported travelling for business and professional purposes and another 27% travelled for other purposes, such as visiting friends and relatives (VFR), religious reasons and pilgrimages, health treatment, etc. 18 Ecotourism belongs to the first category of purpose - leisure, recreation and holidays:

In 2011, international tourism receipts reached a record of US$ 1,030 billion, up from 927 billion in 2010. This represents a 3.9% growth in real terms (adjusted for exchange rate fluctuations and inflation).

Ecotourism is a nature based form of specialty travel. Its definition has been widely accepted, but does not serve as a functional definition for gathering statistics. No global initiative presently exists for the gathering of ecotourism data. Ecotourism should be considered a specialty segment of the larger nature of tourism market.

WTO in 1997 estimated that nature tourism generates 7% of all international travel expenditures and 20% of total international travel arrivals. This 7% and 20%, nature tourism based on the 2011-2012 figures, could mean US$70 billion plus in travel expenditures and 200 million plus travel arrivals19. According to Travel Weekly, sustainable tourism could grow to 25% of the world’s travel market by 2012, taking the value of the sector to approximately $473 billion a year.

Based on data collected by a survey of North American travel consumers (1994), TIES has constructed the following ecotourist market profile:

15 World Tourism Organization Press Release December 12, 201216 UNWTO World Tourism Barometer January 2013 17 Tourism Towards 2030, UNWTO18 UNWTO Tourism Highlights, 2012 Edition19 Ecotourism Statistical Fact Sheet

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Table 2.3-1 ECOTOURIST MARKET PROFILEPROFILE

TYPE PROFILE CHARACTERISTICS

Age:35 - 54 years old, although age varied with activity and other factors such as cost.

Gender50% female and 50% male, although clear differences by activity were found.

Education

82% were college graduates, a shift in interest in ecotourism from those who have high levels of education to those with less education was also found, indicating an expansion into mainstream markets.

Household composition:No major differences were found between general tourists and experienced ecotourists.

Party composition

A majority (60%) of experienced ecotourism respondents stated they prefer to travel as a couple, with only 15% stating they preferred to travel with their families, and 13% preferring to travel alone.

Trip durationThe largest group of experienced ecotourists (50%) preferred trips lasting 8-14 days.

Expenditure:

Experienced ecotourists were willing to spend more than general tourists, the largest group (26%) stating they were prepared to spend $1,001-$1,500 per trip.

Important elements of trip:

Experienced ecotourists top three responses were: (1) wilderness setting, (2) wildlife viewing, (3) hiking/trekking.

Motivations for taking next trip

Experienced ecotourists top two responses were (1) enjoy scenery/nature, (2) new experiences/places.

Source: from TIES ECOTOURISM STATISTICAL FACT SHEET

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2.3.2. Domestic Market

The Philippine tourism market has reached 3.9 million plus foreign arrivals in 2011. In the National Tourism Development Plan 2011-2016, the projected number of tourists for 2011-16 shall be 10 million20. On the other hand, domestic travelers are now numbering 25.1 million as of 2010 and shall be expected to be 35.5 million in 2016.

Just like world tourism, there is no established statistics for ecotourism in the Philippines. At most, we can derive certain estimates based on existing data gathered. One of these data is the “Main Motivation in Choosing the Philippines by Country Market” conducted during January to December 2011. Three motivation categories referred directly to ecotourism: 1) Natural beauty/Scenic attractions; 2) Attractive beaches; and 3) Opportunities for sports/recreation/adventure. In these three categories around 2% of the respondents said these are their main motivation in visiting the Philippines. For purposes of future ecotourists estimation, we may use this percentage as the low or minimum assumption of foreign ecotourists arrival in the Philippines for 2013 to 2016 – the planning period of the current Philippine government. On the other hand, we may use the 20% of total international travel as ecotourists per estimates by the UNWTO in 1997 as the high or maximum assumption. Thus, we are estimating future foreign ecotourists in the range of 2% to 20% of total future foreign arrivals in the Philippines from 2013 to 2016 using projections of the National Tourism Development Plan (2011-2016). The NTDP projects total foreign arrivals reaching 5.92M in 2013, 7.05M in 2014, 8.39M in 2015 and 10M in 2016. The estimated potential foreign ecotourists is indicated in Table 2-1.

For domestic-based ecotourists who are more in number, the basis of the estimation was the “Number and Percent Distribution of Domestic Travelers by Sex and Main Purpose of Trip, Philippines: 2009” conducted by NSO-DOT in 2009 entitled “Household Survey on Domestic Visitors.” For the low estimate we use the purpose category of “Study/Training/Exchange Program” since many studies are being conducted in ecotourism sites in the Philippines. These are about 3.6%. For the high estimates, we use the purpose category of “Pleasure/Vacation” since as we know many domestic travelers do go to natural attractions for vaction which include the ecotourism sites. These are about 34.3%. Thus, we are estimating future domestic ecotourists in the range of 3.6% to 34.3% of total future domestic tourists in the Philippines from 2013 to 2016 using projections of the National Tourism Development Plan (2011-2016). The NTDP projects total domestic tourists reaching 31.47M in 2013, 32.76M in 2014, 34.1M in 2015 and 35.5M in 2016. The estimated potential domestic ecotourists is indicated in Table 2-2.

The above projections do not necessarily mean they shall be the likely arrivals in the ecotourist sites but these are merely estimates of the proximate size of the potential market for ecotourism sites in the Philippines which this updated NES shall be recommending to be explored, developed and sustained. These estimates of potential visitor arrivals are dependent on the current trends in the Philippine tourism market in general. Thus, regions expecting large regular tourism arrivals shall expect also more ecotourists since they already

20 National Tourism Development Plan 2011-2016

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have accessibility and support mechanisms that enable them to welcome more ecotourists. Given the findings in the above table, the likely number of foreign ecotourists market in 2013-2016 shall be from 118,322 to 710,000 for low assumption and 1,183,216 to 2,000,000 for the high assumption. For domestic ecotourists, the likely market could be 1,132,971 to 1,278,000 for low assumption, and 10,794,696 to 12,176,500 for the high assumption. Overall the potential market size for ecotourism in the Philippines is in the range of 1,251,293 to 14,176,500 ecotourists.

Financially, given the NTDP’s foreign tourist’s profile of average length of stay of 8.21 nights and average expenditure per day of $83.5921, the potential gross earnings from foreign ecotourism shall be from US$81.2M to US$1.4B during 2013 to 2016. On the other hand, the NTDP’s domestic tourist’s profile of average length of stay per trip of 4.0 nights and average expenditure per trip of PhP 8,357 means that potential earnings from domestic ecotourists could be from PhP9.5B to PhP102B. Overall the potential maximum earnings in peso terms from ecotourism could reach PhP157B by 2016.

In all, opportunities exist and growing in ecotourism as arrivals continue to increase and its income base enlarges that will benefit the whole Philippine economy.

21 National Tourism Development Plan 2011-2016

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- Table 2.3-2 Projected Foreign Ecotourists

Note: Distribution based from “REPORT ON THE REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF TRAVELERS” of DOT. NCR data suggests these tourists are likely to visit neighboring regions of CALABARZON and CENTRAL Luzon

Table 2.3-3Projected Domestic Ecotourists

Note: Distribution based from “REPORT ON THE REGIONAL DISTRIBUTION OF TRAVELERS” of DOT

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2.4. ASSESSMENT OF IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NATIONAL ECOTOURISM STRATEGY ACTION PLAN 2002-2012

The two (2) national agencies mainly tasked to implement the NES 2002-2012 were the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources. The two agencies alternate the chairmanship of the NEDC (National Ecotourism Development Council), NESC (National Ecotourism Steering Committee) and the REC (Regional Ecotourism Committee) in the regions.

For the short-term (2002-2004) period of NES implementation, the DOT and the DENR were able to promote several of the ecotourism sites such as whale watching in Pamilacan Island, Bohol. It was able to collaborate with the RECs the LGUs, and the private sector to focus its product development on enhancing current attractions at some sites like Tubbataha Reef. A few linkages were made to strengthen packaging of key ecotourism sites in partnership with the private sector. Some ecotourism products were integrated into domestic promotional campaigns in order to encourage Filipinos to explore and appreciate their natural attractions. On a few sites able to develop and strengthen local ecotourism products in order to effectively involve local communities in tourism such as in Mount Pinatubo tour guiding involving Aetas serving visitors like Koreans. During the period the DENR was able to work with DOT on the design and delivery of ecotourism and conservation awareness workshops on some sites. Its guidelines on visitors’ management and selection and management of recreational zones in protected areas are underway to being formulated for the updated NES.

On the medium-term (2002-2007) period of implementation, DOT has undertaken some ecotourism product development and marketing program in some sites such as the Association of Tours Information System in Banawe Rice Terraces. It was able to promulgate “RULES AND REGULATIONS TO GOVERN THE ACCREDITATION OF ECOGUIDES, ECOTOURS, ECOLODGES AND ECOTOUR FACILITIES”. Together with DENR it has also provided some professional skills training relevant to ecotourism and adventure operators such as local guiding and interpretation.

On the long-term (2002-2012) period of implementation, the DOT is continuing process of establishing partnerships with private sector operators to attract the Western ecotourism markets and other high-yield niche segments. The DENR on the other hand it is currently undertaking steps to formulate visitor impact management techniques and monitoring for use in the preparation of “Visitor Management Plans” for each banner site that can be fully used in the updated NES.

Both agencies suffered from inadequate funding in implementing the NES. As partners DENR and DOT, while they are cooperating with each other, have no available funding that they can jointly dispense for some ecotourism activities. Whoever is the chairman of the NEDC, NESC and the REC usually shoulders the full expenses during their incumbency as chairman. Thus the NEPO (National Ecotourism Project Office – common office for PAWB and DOT) which started when foreign funds were available simply stopped operating when the former funds dried up. The Ecotourism fund, which is one of the program components to implement the

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NES, was not established. This lack of resources was one of the main reasons why there was no effective monitoring and evaluation of the NES 2002-2012. The two agencies’ supposed partnerships with LGUs and NGOs to consolidate the involvement of local communities in tourism was weak due to lack of mainstreaming of NES with the plans of LGUs and NGOs.

The NES 2002-2012 Action Plan’s implementation hinged on the actualization of its components program in the regions. The components programs are composed of the following: 1. Key Ecotourism Site; 2. Product Development; 3. Marketing and Promotion; 4. Education and Advocacy; 5. Support Program and 6. Ecotourism Fund. In each region are key sites which refer to a number of specific locations selected as the focus of concerted efforts to develop ecotourism in the Philippines. These sites were selected based on established criteria and conform to the accepted definition of ecotourism. There are three (3) type of key sites targeted for various development interventions in the old NES:

1) Banner sites were selected to set an image and to position the Philippines in the international and domestic markets. They total 32 in all;

2) Emerging key sites were those areas that are already in the initial stage of

development where ecotourism can be developed for the medium-term (2002-2007). They total 20 in all;

3) Potential key sites were those not yet suitable for development and promotion and are targeted for ecotourism development in the long-term (2002-2012). They total 35 in all.

The bulk of implementation of the NES in the regions during the past 10 years were basically activities undertaken largely by the LGU, DOT and DENR through their normal operation to achive their respective organizational objectives of local development, tourism development and natural resource protection, respectively. Any connection of these activities to NES implementation was more of associating these activities with the related project components nof the old NES. In other words, there was no conscious NES implementation in most of the regions but many of these activities fit with the seven components of the NES.

Of the 87 key sites of the NES 2002-2012 only 35 key sites have reported activities relating to the NES program components or just 40% over the previous ten (10) year period of implementation. Most of these activities were undertaken in the banner sites and barely touching the emerging and potential sites. All of these 35 sites did not have a full complement of activities matching the structure of the NES Action Plan with its program components and sub-components. At best, they touch on at least one or two of the sub-components of the six (6) of the seven (7) NES program components included in the action plan. Most of these activities were undertaken either by the LGU or jointly with the DENR and the DOT.

In Table 2.4.1 is a consolidated matrix of the activities undertaken that were consistent with the NES Action Plan. In terms of having activites in all of the program components in the action plan, the top performers were Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region and Caraga Region. Those with the least activities were Central Luzon, Cordillera

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Administrative Region, Central Visayas and Eastern Visayas while ARMM did not participate in the regional consultation workshops. In terms of which project component has the most regions with related activities, the leading project component was Key Ecotourism Site followed by. Marketing and Promotion. The project component with the least regional activities was Ecotourism Fund.

In the same matrix is the inclusion of issues identified in the region but may also applies to other regions who are facing multiple issues in developing and sustaining their ecosites. Among them are the following gaps:

-No formal operator in Banaue like private organizations to sustain tour packages-Lack of regular funds especially at local level-Treats in timber poaching and illegal gathering/trading of wildlife-The increasing influx of tourists and the consequent impact of facilities getting to be

inadequate-Need for sharing of revenues with PAMB.-Uncontrolled development-No effective monitoring system like tourism data-Increase in-migration in the area-Lack of accesibility-No trained naturalist guides in protected areas/ecotourism sites-Change in local administration-No manuals for easy guide for operators-Security concerns-No master plan -Lack of mainstreaming of NES with local plans

The NES 2002-2012 was not implemented fully in the key sites. For one, the NES was not deliberately implemented at the LGU level as observed in CARAGA as programs and projects implemented in most of the ecotourism sites were based on the regular ecotourism activities of the DENR and the DOT, but was not anchored in the NES. In the same vein, the LGUs undertook activities and projects that are not anchored on the NES but probably on the immediate concern to attract visitors and raise local revenues. The other reason is that the NES Action Plan itself based on the seven (7) components of the NES Strategy was presumed to be followed uniformly across the regions during 2002-2012, may not reflect the peculiar needs and concerns of the ecotourism sites which are in varying stages of development. The aforementioned 35 sites with reports while having substantial ecotourism operations already are still in their various stages of development. One example of the mismatch with local conditions was in the Key Ecotourism Site component. Instead of concentrating on site development and site conservation, it touches on other fields that should belong to product development, market development, education and advocacy, support program, and monitoring and evaluation. The NES Action Plan also lack components crucial to ecotourism success: human resource development, economic development and institutional development. Many issues identified in the workshop could be addressed in the future if these three (3) components are added because it will be focused on relevant issues. In addition, the component support program is too broad a

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category, it is better if all infrastructure sub-components can be lodged in this component since they basically support the ecotourism site.

One of the common thread of issue points to the lack of resources to implement program/projects consistent with the NES Action Plan. The lack of resources was due to the failure to come up with a single Ecotourism Fund. The most practical thing to do was to tap multiple sources of funds (public and private) instead of building a single fund whose source was very vague in the current NES. This could be aptly referred to as Ecotourism Financing in the new NES 2013-2022.

Equally important in addressing the mismatch is to have NES actions plans formulated by regions with the future NES Action Plan only serving as a guide. Regionalization of the plans will increase the chances of the future NES being implemented deliberately. It will also facilitate the mainstreaming of the future NES to the planning-programming-budgeting system in the Philippines (e.g., CLUP, PPFP, RDP and PDP)

Some of the crucial issue that needs to be addressed in the future given the above findings, aside from lack of financing, could be the following:

1) Each ecotourism site is a finite or limited resource in which it cannot expand due to demand unlike conventional tourism. Several sites are already receiving influx of visitors. It is imperative to determine the carrying capacity of each site. This study could be part of the set of studies in the business/master plan;

2) Many issues raised by the sites could be addressed by having each site formulated with a master plan/business plan. Such plan shall identify adverse issues that need to be minimized/eliminated and opportunities that can be maximized to enable the site to create values among its stakeholders;

3) Information and its communication is crucial in any development. The current NES, based on the findings suffers from lack of awareness among many of its stakeholders;

4) Periodic monitoring is crucial in implementation. The current NES have had no annual reviews or periodic reviews based on available data. For the future NAP, annual review shall be crucial. This is compounded by the fact that the proposed NES focal office was not sustained and just vanishes when the funding vanishes as well.

5) Accreditation standards for product and site development in ecotourism need to be developed for all the sites for adoption in order to maintain quality and integrity that will satisfy the community and the visitors.

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Table 2.4. 1 Matrix of NES 2002-2012 ACTION PLAN IMPLEMENTATION

RegionsNumber of Key Sites

Number of Key

Sites With

Activities

Related to NES 2002-2012

Action Plan

Component of the NES 2002-2012 Action Plan % Share of of NES Program Compone

nt in which

Regions Have

Related Activities

NOTED ISSUEIMPLEMENTI

NG AGENCIES

1. Key Ecotourism Site

2. Product Developm

ent

3. Marketin

g and Promoti

on

4. Education and Advoca

cy

5. Suppo

rt Progra

m

6. Ecotourism Fund

Cordillera Administrative Region 6 1 YES YES 33.3%

No formal operator in Banaue like private organizations to sustain tour packages LGU, DOT

Ilocos Region 4 4 YES YES YES YES YES YES 100%Lack of regular funds especially at local level

LGU, DOT, DENR

Cagayan Valley 9 5 YES YES YES YES YES YES 100%

Treats in timber poaching and illegal gathering/trading of wildlife

LGU, DOT, DENR

Central Luzon 6 1 YES 16.7%

The increasing influx of tourists and the consequent impact of facilities getting to be inadequate

LGU, DOT, DENR

CALABARZON 5 2 YES YES YES YES YES 83.3%Need for sharing of revenues with PAMB.

LGU, DOT, DENR

MIMAROPA 9 5 YES YES YES YES 66.7% Uncontrolled developmentLGU, DOT,

DENR

Bicol Region 7 3 YES YES YES YES YES 83.3%No effective monitoring system like tourism data

LGU, DOT, DENR

Western Visayas 14 1 YES YES YES YES YES 83.3%Increase in-migration in the area LGU, DENR

Central Visayas 9 4 YES YES 33.3% Lack of accesibility LGU

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RegionsNumber of Key Sites

Number of Key

Sites With

Activities

Related to NES

Component of the NES 2002-2012 Action Plan% Share of of NES Program Compone

nt in which

Regions Have

NOTED ISSUEIMPLEMENTI

NG AGENCIES

1. Key Ecotourism Site

2. Product Developm

ent

3. Marketin

g and Promoti

on

4. Education and Advoca

cy

5. Suppo

rt Progra

m

6. Ecotourism Fund

Eastern Visayas 7 2 YES YES 33.3%

No trained naturalist guides in protected areas/ecotourism sites

LGU, DOT, DENR

Zamboanga Peninsula 1 1 YES YES YES YES YES 83.3%

Change in local administration

LGU, DOT, DENR

Northern Mindanao 3 2 YES YES YES YES YES YES 100%

No manuals for easy guide for operators

LGU, DOT, DENR

Davao Region 2 1 YES YES YES YES YES YES 100% Security concernsLGU, DOT,

DENRSOCCSKSARGEN 1 1 YES YES YES YES YES 83.3% No master plan

LGU, DOT, DENR

Caraga Region 2 2 YES YES YES YES YES YES 100%Lack of mainstreaming of NES with local plans

LGU, DOT, DENR

Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao 2 0

TOTAL 87 35 % Share of Regions Having Activities in NES Program Component 93.8% 62.5% 75.0% 68.8% 75.0% 31.3% % Share of Key Sites with NES Related Activities 40.2%

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2.5. Best Practices of Ecotourism in Other Countries – additional input for the assessment as Strength

The DOT and DENR/PAWB was co-organized in hosting the 2012 ASEAN conference on Ecotourism. It is also the 10th anniversary since the UN declared 2002 as the Celebration of the Year of Ecotourism. What perfect timing!

The gathering was attended by almost all the ASEAN member countries. The various presenters outlined the highlight of their ecotourism programs and strategies. There were trends and best practices to learn from that can be adapted.

In general, it was observed that:

tourists want to experience the outdoors  yet want some kind of luxury  or value for money ;

tourists want local involvement and community participation;

Australians and Europeans need to see, hear and understand, so there is a need to create new products to sustain their interests;

business and biodiversity  are the same so there is no competition between the two;

tourists wants a good ecoguide and great interpretation;

tourists wants experience and escape from routine;

tourists find it as honor and an iconic feat to be able to visit a distinct natural or cultural reserve;

tourists wants to visit the more remote and less structural area;

tourists go online for research and booking;

tourists visit ecosites to expand their frontier and travel experience.

EDUCATION 

Education of local communities and even the target audience of the ecosite is given much attention and great care in order to preserve the area.  This is referred to as the "wholistic education approach" employed at the Sungei Buloh Nature Park in Singapore. Education both at the  public level to the school level were programmed to increase the level of awareness about nature parks. The target audiences are encouraged to visit the park in and out of the season of the migrating birds so there will be better understanding  of the cyclical and seasonal nature of a wetland park.

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The Park also embarked on a program that taught the participants how to establish baseline data for it's mangrove flora and fauna.  What  is encouraging is their other  program to monitor the surrounding properties that may have an adverse effect on the sensitive nature of the park.

The Green Island in Taiwan is the first designated Eco- resort"  in that country and education is one of the major objectives of the project. One of their projects is the setting up of a social education station where they can conduct community activities.  They have three types of guided tour programs;one is a guided tour,a self guided tour and an experiential tour through media. An Education Center was eventually put up for their ecotourism program.

TRAFFIC CONTROL WITHIN AN ECOSITE

Many of the ecosites are unfamiliar to ordinary tourists and most often without guided assistance one may miss the best part of the  tour. Or worst scenario you can literally go around in circles  and end up frustrated. In the case of the Huascaran  National  Park, the national park staff designed a network of circuits and a list of climbing routes with the purpose of redistributing the tourist use to less visited areas and relieves the burden  on the most popular trails and routes. Since many of the visitors do not have much knowledge of the  parks environment, their experience had to be enriched through a program of  interpretation and diffusion. The goal was to make people visit areas under less pressure; orient visitors as they enter the park as well as the importance of it's conservation.

PEOPLE EMPOWERMENT

The more participation there are from all of the stakeholders of an ecosite the more successful it becomes.  Most  often that not  these persons  may get affected by the development of such a site and most often, too they may even contribute to the learnings from the area being a resident familiar with the surroundings.

In the case of the Kinabalu Park, considered the oldest forests in the world, Malaysia's national  parks are  home to vast ecosystems and are known for the abundance and diversity of it's plant life within one of the most ancient vegetations of the world. It is important both as a protector of biological  diversity and as a resource for tourism.

Sabah Park is the management Authority, a government body within the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Development. Sabah Park  employs staff who manage the park itself, enforce the law, and the park regulations, maintain trails and visitor trails and visitor facilities and carry out miscellaneous other functions. Most of the employees are residents of the area.

GREEN PROGRAMS

It is amazing how in recent year so many green projects have appeared in the market. One such project is the one from Taiwan; where ecotourism is anchored on the use of local and

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seasonal food, reusable utensils, use of public transportation, respect for local culture and reduction of carbon emission.

Indonesia put up a one- stop shop in designated  ecotourism sites in order to maintain the sustainable development  of the  ecosites. 

Thailand's ecotourism management with partnership ensures the successful implementation of their environmental programs. The government provides  for studies on zoning, carrying capacity,protection of the environment and culture and monitoring; while the private sector provides the appropriate facilities.

ECOTOURISM POLICY AND DEVELOPMENT

There  are many commonalities in ecotourism policy between countries who are blessed with abundant  protected areas because of the presence of a large number of ecosystem. In Cambodia  their policy is  anchored on Public private  and people partnership.

Indonesia is anchored on the policy of pro-poor, pro- growth and pro-job.The local communities are provided capability building programs so they will be able to do product development. the service permits have been simplified to conform with and a one - stop shop has been established.

Taiwan 's  ecotourism is anchored on good governance. Most important is  to make  sure they have safe areas where the visitor can roam around without fear .

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3. National Ecotourism Strategy 2013-2022 (Short Intro to link with previous section)

Strategic Framework

The Philippines’ God-given gift of more than 7, 101 islands necessarily invite a kaleidoscope of natural cave formations, hills and mountains, forest and volcanoes, wildlife, natural water falls, endless coastal and marine attractions, lakes and wetlands, nature-based cultural attractions and resources (festivals, traditional cuisines, crafts). This makes the country a haven for ecotourism thus, natural attarctions shld be conserved, protected and shared with everyone.

Principle of Ecotourism

During the Bohol Congress in 1999 ecotourism in the Philippines is defined as 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 the satisfaction of visitors.”22

- To be included in the Background

Ecotourism was seen as one tourism product is a tool for sustainable development. Philippine ecotourism has four pillars compared to the three pillars as Ecotourism is defined by The International Ecotourism Society (TIES).

4 Pillars Of EcotourismPhilippines

3 Pillars Of EcotourismTIES

1. Sustainable management of natural and cultural resources.

1. Nature must be protected and conserved.

2. Environmental education and conservation awareness.

2. Community outreach and education programs, local community must benefit.3. Empowerment of local communities to

participate and benefit from ecotourism.

4. Development of ecotourism product that satisfy visitor and position the Philippines as a globally competitive ecotourism destination.

3. Interpretive programs must be offered to educate both tourist and employees about the surrounding natural and cultural environments.

As can be gleaned from the above, there is not much difference between the Philippines and the TIES ecotourism pillars as both contain the essence of what will fast track the promotion and development of ecotourism.

- Expound pillars as related to sustainable development3.1.2. Goals/ Vision/Mission

22 NES 2012-2022

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The NES vision and mission adopted during the Bohol Congress will still guide planners and implementersof the National Ecotourism Program (2013-2022)23.

The goal for NES 2013-2022 would be enhanced. The goal shall be to develop and manage globally competitive ecotourism sites, products and markets that will contribute to inclusive growth..   Inclusive growth means ecotourism generating increasing income that will reduce poverty and generate large employment.

- Goal from previous NES to.. - Cite/ explain link of communities with ecotourism - Highlight biodiversity conservation - Relate/Infuse info on the direction set by NTDP

Toward this goal shall be the following objectives:

a. Tap ecotourism markets that will create more value-added to the economy,b. Optimize and equitably distribute community benefits in the ecosites;c. Enhance the quality of ecotourist experience;d. Strengthen national and local ecotourism governance;e. Facilitate domestic and foreign investments in the sites and its products;f. Promote environmental education and ethics’g. Pursue visitor’s management to sustain site quality and further enrich visitor

experience;

23 NES 2012-2022

VISION

To develop a globally competitive but distinct Philippine tourism characterized by a balanced ecosystem and a well-preserved culture and indigenous knowledge systems and practices which are nurtured by committed, empowered, responsive and gender-sensitive stakeholders for the benefit of present and future generations.

MISSION

Position the Philippines as a globally competitive ecotourism destination anchored on sustainable development where the use, development and protection of the country’s natural resources and environment as well as the preservation and management of cultural heritage are given priority consideration for the benefit of present and future generations.

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h. Safeguard natural and cultural heritage of the ecosites and their indigenous residents.

i. Promote and strengthen the Philippine brand and image in ecotourism in the domestic and international market.

-In a recent adventure mart gathering in Nepal the emphasis was for the economic

development from ecotourism must redound to the benefit of: First, the immediate community surrounding the ecotourism site Then the province Then the entire country Lastly, the world

To pursue these goals and objectives, a wider and more vigorous awareness campaign will be carried out, strengthen the capability of both individuals and institutions, a more coordinated working relationship between government agencies and the private sectors, ethics to be promoted, build up entrepreneurship, standards, and education.

3.1.3. Methodology/ Approaches/ Networking

A. Introduce enumeration of Approaches

The general approach to achieve the NES 2013-2022 goals and objectives will still involve a combination of “top-down” and “bottom-up” element. 

The EO 111 Bodies will be the key players in “top-down” process.  They will focus on policies and program and projects that they do best, namely:

a. Marketing and promoting the sites in the domestic and international market;b. Provide the infrastructure support to make the site accessible and maintain their

environmental quality;c. Set the accreditation and quality standards and guidelines to make the sites meet

global ecotourism standards and provide enhanced ecotourist experience;d. Provide the statistical system, standards and infrastructure to monitor ecotourism

in the country for better planning and resource allocation;e. Provide a common mechanism in which the LGUs and the NGO’s can equitably

access funds in developing their sites and products.f. Provide and apply the national-based incentives and assistance that will encourage

the regional LGUs and the private sector to develop and sustain their ecotourism sites.

g. Undertake the nation-wide education and advocacy measures about ecotourism.

 The “bottom-up” process aims to create mechanisms and avenues for nurturing ecotourism development through LGU involvements, community initiatives, local entrepreneurship and private sector participation.  These actors shall build the linkages, networks and institutions to enable the sites to have efficient and effective studies, planning, programming, budgeting, implementation, and monitoring/evaluation that shall result to ecotourism in their

42

areas contributing to alleviation of poverty in its local communities, reducing income inequality and employing the greatest number of local community residents,

- Mention outcome of the approach, that it is a good approach but not used

B. Networking and Clustering

As envisaged in NES 2002-2012, there are two types of networking:

1. One that links keysite based on complimentarity and similarity of products to be offered to visitors and

2. Establishment of a communications network aimed at facilitating the sharing of ideas and information as well as exchange of techniques and best practices in developing ecotourism products.

In other words, one networking technique is for new products and the other for existing products.

However, under the new NTDP, the clustering of products and destinations are encouraged for ease in finding investors and funding these ecosite areas. The priority action in these areas are designing and developing a new product.

- Connection with NES 2013-22

3.2. Institutional Partnership

The partnership of DOT and the DENR, together with other agencies in developing, protecting and promoting ecosites that will benefit the local communities became firmly bonded with the issuance of E.O 111 in 1999.

One would be safe to presume that government does not always have enough funds specially for activities of the agencies that is not their main function. E.O 111 corrected this weakness, by creating the synergy that would push the various agencies of government to share in the development and promotion of ecosites.

The first 10 years of NES was seen as the formative years for the E.O to take its roots. Even then, the DOT-DENR began to forge strong working relationship to push the cause of ecotourism. One weakness in the implementation of the NES and for the other agencies to fully benefit from ecotourism is the constant changes among the various membership of the E.O. 111 Bodies and the lack of mainstreaming of the NES and monitoring and evaluation.

The consultation-workshops zeroed in on the immediate and possible solutions to put E.O 111 Bodies on track same as with the NES. Discussions and suggestions to have only one lead agency to oversee the implementation of the NES were set aside unless E.O 111 is amended. The concerned E.O 111 Bodies agreed to further strengthen their working relationships and coordination to correct past shortcomings and saw no need to change E.O. 111 for now.

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- mechanism on how to address gaps on partnership; highlight strengths of partnership- last 2 paragraphs, Part of the assessment; can form part of the weaknesses

3.2.1. Functions of the E.O 111 Bodies

We are reproducing here the various E.O Bodies that will monitor and oversee the successful implementation of NES as previously presented in NES 2002-2012.

3.2.2. National Ecotourism Development Council (NEDC)24

The NEDC’s role will be to provide the policy direction for ecotourism guided by the NES as basic frame work in formulating policies, guidelines, rules and regulations. Any changes to the NES will have to be approved by the NEDC.

3.2.3. National Ecotourism Steering Committee (NESC)25

The NESC, as the working committee of the NEDC, will have the following responsibilities:

1. Review progress through regular reports from RECs and other implementing agencies;

2. Advocate the key sites concept and promote banner sites as images for the international and domestic tourism promotion;

3. Approve action plans for ecotourism development in the key sites;4. Encourage the RECs to undertake product development and marketing within and

along the networks of key sites;5. Undertake assessment of projects for accreditation;6. Approve major ecotourism project;7. Lobby for the enactment of legislation in support of ecotourism;8. Facilitate the continued operation of NEPO;9. Oversee the establishment and administration of the Nationa Ecotourism Fund;10. Institutionalize the Philippine Ecotourism Communication Network;11. Create a pool of experts to provide technical assistance in developing ecotourism

projects; and12. Coordinate with concerned agencies/ institutions/ organizations in the

implementation of the NES.

3.2.4. Regional Ecotourism Committees (RECS)26

The RECs will have the following responsibilities in the implementation of the NES at the regional level:

24 NES 2012-202225 NES 2012-2022

26 NES 2012-2022

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1. Prepare action plans for ecotourism development at key sites for approval of the NESC;

2. Advocate and promote the key sites in coordination with concerned agencies/ institutions/ organizations;

3. Provide advice and assistantance in the development of key sites;4. Network with other REcs in joint product development and marketing within and

along the network of key sites;5. Approved minor ecotourism projects;6. Recommend legislation, agenda and proposal to the NESC in support of

ecotourism development;7. Lobby for the enactment of ordinances and resolutions in support of ecotourism at

the local levels;8. Encourage application to the National Ecotourism Fund; and9. Promote membership to the Philippine Ecotourism Communication Network.

3.2.5 Ecotourism Technical Working Support Group (ETWSG) – Secretariat Support27

1. The Ecotourism Technical Working Group (ETWG) will provide secretariat support- both technical and administrative, to the NESC and RECs.

2. The ETWG duties and responsibilities are to:a. Review and evaluate project applications as to the completeness of

the documentation and compliance with the guidelines set by the Council and NESC for the approval of major ecotourism projects;

b. Provide technical assistance to project proponents in the completion of necessary documents and, when necessary, extend support in the design and preparation of proposals through training;

c. Provide assistance in the formulation of the National Ecotourism Strategy and the implementation of the National Ecotourism Program;

d. Monitor the implementation of the National Ecotourism Strategy and Program as well as the activities of RECs;

e. Coordinate the regular meetings of the NEDC and NESC including the documentation and preparation of necessary materials; and

f. Perform all other activities and functions that may be deemed necessary by the NEDC and NESC.

27 NES 2012-2022

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3.3. NATIONAL ECOTOURISM PROGRAM 2013-2022

In order to gear up the national ecotourism plan for the next decade, identifiable policy actions and proposed projects and activities were solicited during the consultation workshops held in various regions and according to the ten (10) point National Ecotourism Program (NEP) components. During the consultation process, the participants generally recognized the importance of natural resources to tourism and to the conservation of it's biodiversity.  It was their consensus that ecotourism based activities have a fundamental obligation to channel some of the revenue gained from using the natural resources into the management and sustenance of those natural resources and for the benefit of the local community.

The recommendations and courses of actions to be undertaken for the successful implementation of the new NEP were presented during the National Consultation Workshop at the Diamond Hotel in Manila and were the body unanimously approved the same.

- Not yet unanimously approved

The list of the ten (10) components in the updated NEP includes the following:- Include Brief description of each component

A. Site Protection and DevelopmentB. Product DevelopmentC. Marketing And PromotionsD. Education And AdvocacyE. Ecotourism FinanceF. Infrastructure And Services Support ProgramsG. Human Resource DevelopmentH. Economic DevelopmentI. Institutional DevelopmentJ. Monitoring And Evaluation

Explain why 10 components, why the 7 were retained

The implementation of the NEP will be rotated between DOT and DENR per provision of E.O. 111 while the other concerned agencies of government, NGOs, private sector, foreign and local agencies, grant and donor, bilateral and multilateral agencies will be tapped to ensure the full implementation of the NEP.

The DOT will spearhead the product development, international and domestic promotion of the ecosites and conduct training and awareness campaign on the new ecotourism sites.

The DENR will spearhead the management of ecosite resources, visitor management services, provide extension services, and conduct training and wareness activities on the importance of protecting the biodiversity in and around the ecosites and monitor the impact of such ecosites.

Other agencies such as the DTI will assist DOT and DENR in the development of livelihood opportunities.

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The LGUs will work closely with the DOT and DENR in protecting, conserving and developing the ecosites since it has the legal instruments for zoning, business permits and implementation of environmental codes and the ability to attract investors both domestic and foreign.

The NCIP has a vital role in the NEP implementations. In fact, we can consider them our first ecotourist since they have been protecting most of our ancestral land. Their knowledge of the sites, the plants, the wildlife and the flora would be very vital and useful for interpretative learnings.

Introduce the strategies

Diagrammatic presentation: strengths of DENR and DOT and where other partners can come in

3.3.1. SITE PROTECTION AND DEVELOPMENT - DENR

A. Reclassify designation of  past and future ecotourism sites

During the updating of the NES it was observed that those key sites that referred to provinces or islands hardly had any development or activity because of the enormity of the site. There is a need to be site specific like in the case of La Union, Pagudpud, Bohol, Antique, Misamis Oriental, and Camiguin Island. All future sites for ecotourism development must be site specific to ensure funding, timely and efficient development.

B. Formulate ecotourism plan 

Tourism is business. All good business practices must also be undertaken for any similar endeavors to achieve optimum results. All ecosites included in the list must be inputted in the master plan of the province.  All ecosites must have a master plan cum business plan.

C. Prioritize development of ecosites under the NES, 2013-2022.

In the case of the key sites under the NES, 2002-2012 to date there are eight (8) ecotourism sites developed according to the DOT in its latest National Tourism Development Plan, 2011-2016. There are some existing sites currently operating that have been through the initiative of either the community, or the private sector or of the local government. A case in point is the El Nido experience and the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, -.

Those ecosites within the Tourism Cluster and the Tourism Development Areas (TDA) under the NTDP will be prioritized in terms of funding and development of all ecosites have to undergo continuous review to meet the minimum standards set for developing ecotourism sites per the Accreditation Code to be issued by the NESC. 

D. Adopt simplified standards in selecting new sites for ecotourism.

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The guidelines set for site selection under the NES, 2002-2012, are still valid for existing sites, namely:

Natural and/or cultural features 35% Availability of ecotourism product/s

35% Level of social/ political support 30%

This two-tierred process used specific indicators to determine the appropriateness and viability for developing ecotourism. However, for the new sites the following evaluation will be used to determine the future benefits that will occur to the local community and its market potential. These are:                        

Natural sites with or without cultural or heritage features; 20% Biodiversity conservation value ; 10% Availability of ecosystem services like watershed

value, carbon capture, soil fertility, others; 10% Possible outdoor activity; 10% Have research, environmental, education and

nature interpretation values; 15% level of social and political support; and 15% Peace and order and safety. 15%

Again as in the NES, 2002-2012, the relative weights for the evaluation were pre-assigned to ensure unilateral and uniform application and the percentage is the highest depending on the attributes of the ecosite.

E. Conduct site analysis prior to identification and development of ecosite.

Site analysis is the process of going to the site, immerse yourself and understand the site. According to Mr. Hitesh Mehta28, "the most successful projects are those when after they've gotten built you will still feel the same quality, the same energy and the same spirit of the place”. When developing a site think how to maintain the spirit, the sanctity and the sacredness of the place.

The most important approach to site analysis is Mr. Mehta's sixth sense approach29 or the metaphysical approach now globally recognized as the most useful and practical way to site analysis.

28 Noted World expert on ecolodges29 Metaphysical approach is when you go onto the site and analyze the site using your five senses: the sense of sight, sound, smell, touch and taste. This is done by closing your other senses and use only one of it; for example, close your ears, nose and mouth except for your eyes, look around and observe everything that you see; using your ears, analyze the sounds that you hear, do the same with the other senses.  And then the final part is the sixth sense which is the sense of feel, assume that you are an object or a part of an object or thing like a trunk of a tree, leaf, butterfly, etc.  Most important about this sense of feel is you take yourself out of the picture, you will turn yourself as the thing that you imagined like you are a butterfly and write down what you are going to feel knowing that there is a development taking place in your area.  When you consider all these elements in the environment as you plan you can create projects that bring the spirit of the place.

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When doing site analysis, one needs to make sure that he has an idea about the environmental and social factors in site development such as the hydrology, wetlands, drainage patterns, geology, vegetation, topographies and soil type. Include biodiversity and cultural-social importance, among others.

The Arena Island in Narra, Palawan studied the island’s environmental make up before starting to develop. Long before it opened its doors to guests it has been using solar panels, reducing its carbon footprints by as much as 6,000 liters of dieselfuel. The island also has water catchments system harvesting about 300,000 liters of water annually. Arena also practices proper garbage segregation. They are on their way to create a sustainability map for the island.

F. Design courses and conduct training for key stakeholders.

The weak points in the implementation of the NES were the: a) lack of knowledge in many aspects of ecotourism design, planning and management of ecosites; b) lack of education of the support staff in specific activity areas; c) the lack of awareness by the community about ecotourism and its accompanying benefits.

The training needs based on the regional consultations can be divided into three categories:

Those working directly in the industry, like the accommodation Owners and staff, restaurant owners and staff, and others;

Those involved in the planning  and management of Ecotourism programs at the national, regional  and local levels; and

Those involved in the marketing of ecotourism programs like the tour operators and the visitors as well.

The following are the suggested areas for immediate training:

Ecotourism Design, Planning and Management How to Prepare A Business Plan Nature Interpretation Ecoguiding other activities like kayaking, mountain climbing, spelunking, etc. Forest Ranger courses  Visitor Management Community Based Rural Tourism Programs Homestay Programs How to Raise Funds Ecolodge Design and Management Course Disaster Risk Management Biodiversity and Ecosystem

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3.3.2 PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

E.O. 111 seeks to regulate and emphasize the need for an accreditation system to make sure products adhere to minimum standards and principles of ecotourism.

The DOT/DENR refer to Ecotourism standards as the minimum requirement for developing the natural and cultural resources as well as building facilities, providing services and implementing activities in the ecosites.

Under the NIPAS Act 1992 there are two management zones established in each protected area where ecotourism can happen:

The Strictly Nature Reserve/ Strictly Protected Zone (SPZ) These are areas with high biodiversity values or for restoration or regeneration.

Implication: No development or built up structure are allowed in this zone. Only those involved in scientific researches and indigenous people that perform their Religious rituals and traditional ceremonies can enter these areas.

Multiple Use Zone (MUZ)Includes areas of high recreational tourism activities.

Implication: Can build ecotourism projects consistent with the protected area management plan.

But there are also suitable lands available outside the NIPAS areas where ecotourism facilities can be established and could operate independently of protected areas.

Implication: In general any area that may contain ecological value shall consult with the DENR when preparing their development plans. This would ensure the integrity of the dedicated land is protected.

1. Update and Develop Standards in ecolodges, homestay, ecotours, accreditation of ecoguides and ecotourism facilities.  

It is time to revisit the Accreditation Code issued by the Department of Tourism in 2008, outlining the rules and regulations that govern the accreditation of ecoguides, ecotours, ecolodges and ecotourism facilities when planning to develop projects related to above mentioned programs.  

Ecolodge, as defined by the guru on ecolodge, Mr. Hitesh Mehta, is a two to seventy-five rooms, low impact, nature based, financially sustainable accommodation facility that helps protect sensitive neighboring areas; involves and helps benefit local communities; offers tourists an interpretative and interactive participatory experience; provides a spiritual communion with

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nature and culture; and is planned, designed, constructed and operated in an environmentally and socially sensitive manner.

An authentic ecolodge must adhere to the four principles of ecotourism as defined by the NES, 2002-2012 plus a minimum of any two of the eight criteria for an authentic ecolodge listed by Mr. Hitesh Mehta:

a. Use alternative and sustainable means of water acquisition and at the same time reduce overall water consumption;

b. Meet its energy needs through passive design and renewable sources;c. Provide for careful handling (reduce, refuse, recycle, reuse) and disposal of solid waste;d. Use of environmentally friendly sewage treatment system;e. Fit into its specific physical and cultural contexts through the use of vernacular

architecture; f. Use environmentally friendly building and furnishings materials;g. Have minimal impact on the natural surroundings and utilize traditional building

techniques during construction; and h. Endeavor to work with the local community, including community members, wherever

possible, in the initial physical planning and design stages of construction

Homestay, unlike ecolodges, homestay is utmost one (1) to twenty (20) rooms. It is a living arrangement with a host family or organization who offers extra private room or space for an out of town guest for a reasonable charge compared to other accommodation providers. A hosting family or group offers the guests a home away from home.  In a Homestay one can easily have a wonderful stay ,form new friends, know the community as well as improve foreign languages and interpersonal skills. It also allows visitors to participate in activities, traditions and lifestyle of local people. Under its classification are two areas that can fit into the accommodation requirements for ecotourism sites, the Nature Homestay and the Beach Homestay.

2. Suggested Planning Process in Product Development

Product Planning Process (SADLES) must be consultative and interactive and must involve specialists from different disciplines when starting to develop an ecosite, namely:

Site (Selection and Evaluation, Analysis and Assessment) Activities (customer buying experience not the product) Development (Infrastructure and Human Resource) Livelihood Opportunities Enforcement and Control System Sustainable Attributes

The surrounding local communities must have a sense of belonging to the project specially the social and economic implication of the project to their families. The inputs of the local people can be valuable as they know the tourism, the wildlife and species and other characteristic of the environment.

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Site selection and evaluation will help to determine which site will have the least amount of impact on nature or on the local communities. How close is the location to the nearest airport or the nearest bus station or port?  This is followed by site analysis, then planning, designing and landscaping.                     Activities refer to both active and  passive forms  of events included but not limited to nature filming both still and video, mountaineering,    white water rafting, Ecopaddling, diving, spelunking,  bird watching and mountain biking.  Learning the local music and dances are always preferred. Ecotourists are after the experience, they are not only buying the product or destination.  This should be taken into account when planning the site.

Development. Mr. Hitesh Mehta30 recommends that from the beginning, before you are about to develop the site, you should already start predicting what possible impacts your development is going to cause the project. Then, do mitigation, be ready to change your design and develop ideas that could have less impact on the site. He calls this the Environmental and Cultural Impact Assessment. Then the important questions to be asked are:  

Will mitigation of either cultural or environmental impacts raise cost substantially?

To what extend would hotel/resort activities benefit or hinder the local people and the environment?

How might the construction activities and operations of the entities negatively affect the surrounding ecosystem?

How the road would not disturb the species How to control pollution How to make sure people enjoy the view                  

                                  Today, development does not only refer to infrastructure but also to human resource

development. Human resource training should start almost at the same time as the building of the infrastructure not when the project is about or already built up.  

Livelihood Opportunities is deciding what possible business can be developed within the ecosites, which sometimes could be tricky. It is important to do need analysis with the help of the representatives of the Department of Trade and Industry, the Design Center of the Philippines, successful entrepreneurs and the tour operators and guides.  What are the most common products that visitors to ecosites look for.  What are the services constantly requested. Use of indigenous materials whether for hard goods or for food (organic is premium).

Enforcement and Control System.  As in any successful endeavor rules and guidelines must be prepared and implemented for each of the activities to be done in an ecosite. This way you minimize disasters, ensure the safety of the visitors and ensure the seamless movement and proper use of the facilities; and enjoyment of the activities. As in the case of Costa Rica, they have invested on signage......signage........signage!

30 A noted expert on ecolodges of TIES

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Sustainable Attributes.   Ecotourism is sustainable tourism. WHY? Ecotourism at the planning stage already takes into account its impact on the environment, the benefits that it would bring to the community and the long term viability of its programs.  It is important that a regular review of activities, products and programs are done to ensure that the visitors get the best quality service and that the programs are in tune with the trends and changes occurring in the market and those new products are developed to sustain the buying interest of the visitors.

3. Pursue the Establishment  of a Certification System

There are several Certification Systems that are successfully implemented in other countries with similar ecotourism pursuits.  It is highly recommended the Department of Tourism pursue this project. The Green Leaf Certification used in Costa Rica is an example. The System will ensure the good quality of our ecotourism projects is sustained.

4. Pursue Adoption of Internationally  Recognized  Ecotourism Icons/Symbols 

As emphasized in the NES, 2002-2012, the use of internationally recognized ecotourism symbols is vital to destination marketing and site development.  They provide a common language among visitors, agencies, tour operators, ecoguides and host communities in identifying areas and promoting the same.

5. Pursue Development and institutionalization  of the Code of Ethics for Ecotourism

The development of ethics on how to properly utilize the God given natural beauty of our ecosites must be prioritized. This will ensure that these sites are protected and conserved. Each site and its stakeholders should adhere to the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism.

6. Establish Carrying Capacity of Different Ecosites or Conduct Limit of Acceptable Change

In cases where the Host organization finds it expensive to have a study on the carrying capacity of the site, then they can conduct a limit of acceptable change study.    

"Tourism Carrying Capacity" is defined by the UN World Tourism Organization as “The maximum number of people that may visit a tourist destination at the same time, without causing destruction to the physical, economic, socio-cultural environment and an unacceptable decrease in the quality of visitors' satisfaction”.                            

Limits of acceptable change was the first of the post carrying capacity visitor management frameworks developed to respond to the practical and conceptual failures of carrying capacity. The framework was developed by The U.S. forest service in the 1980s. It is based on the idea that rather than there being a threshold of visitor numbers, in fact any tourist activity is having an impact and therefore management should be based on constant monitoring of the site as well as the objectives established for it. It is possible that within the limit of

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acceptable change framework a visitor limit can be established but such limits is only one tool available. The framework is frequently summarized in to a nine (9) step process, as follows:31

a. Identify area concerns and issues. b. Define and describe opportunity classes (based on the concept of ROS). c. Select indicators of resource and social conditions. d. Inventory existing resource and social conditions. e. Specify standards for resource and social indicators for each opportunity class. f. Identify alternative opportunity class allocations. g. Identify management actions for each alternative. h. Evaluate and select preferred alternatives. i. Implement actions and monitor conditions.[10]

3.3.3. MARKETING AND PROMOTION                    

Ecotourism is HOT topic today, so as the saying goes... strike while the iron is hot!

The 21st century is a time for caring and sharing and tourism is high on the list among the industries that would benefit from this trend. People are going back to nature tripping, and ecotourism provides the perfect opportunity for people to give back to the community while caring and conserving the environment.

The country’s marketing and promotions efforts can be further strengthened by:

a. Revisiting the recommended target markets and matching the developed sites with the target market segments. Most ecotourism projects have their own distinct activities that would cater only to certain types of visitors.  -   Some micro-targeting is in order. For example invite only scientists, educators, or researchers for ecotourism sites under the strictly protected zones; or when the foreign members of the consular corps based in the Philippines visited the Underground River as part of their getting to know the distinct natural places of a country.

b. Using diverse marketing  tools like market matching, cross exchanges to learn best practices, more targeted  mission and fair participation;

c. Tapping overseas Filipinos to market our sites. "It’s More Fun in the Philippines Bring Home A Friend!" or “Visit Tropical Philippines Bring Home a Friend!”. 

d. Maximize utilization of the services of tourism attaches in marketing and promoting the Philippines as a preferred ecotourism destination by providing the necessary linkages between the local and the foreign actors and entities. The end goal is to ensure increase visitor arrivals.  All tourism attaches must be properly briefed on the 2013-2022 NES and list of ecosites. In turn they could run educational seminars/training for tour operators. So the tour operators can brief their customers about the ecotourism destination, the do's and don'ts when visiting these sites;

31 http://www.prm.nau.edu/prm300-old/LAC_article.htm

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e. Refining and enhancing the image of ecotourism in the Philippines.   With many countries now vying to be THE ecotourism destination, we may consider Donsol, Sorsogon as a handle for branding our ecotourism sites. Donsol acknowledged by Time Magazine, as an internationally recognized ecotourism destination for marine life (whale) viewing.  This can provide the vehicle for branding and positioning ecotourism in the Philippines, an image of care, community involvement, learnings and conservation efforts, Homestays and hospitality experience that could set the tone for marketing other ecotourism products.

The inclusion of El Nido Resorts as one of the finalists in the “Tourism For Tomorrow Awards for 2013” (organized by the  World Travel and Tourism Council) is another opportunity for the Philippines to highlight the importance of community benefits in our ecotourism programs as a come on for ecotourists to visit the Philippines, specially Palawan.  El Nido Resorts believes that good business can be had with environmental protection hand in hand with long term community relations;

f. Undertake an investor’s fora and market place for ecotourism products that are ready for marketing and promotion. These investors could commit resources to undertake one or more of the ten(10) components of the new NES. Only those ecotourism sites that have passed the standards will be included in the promotion and assisted in their funding requirements;

g. Existing ecotourism tour packages need updating and enhancing. Cultural experiences many times are lacking in substance or international/local importance of its natural features are not highlihgted because of lack of research. There is a need to compliment ecoguiding with stories and learning nature interpretation;

h. There should be an advance booking system through the Internet to be at par to the requirements of today's traveler.

In 1999 and it is still very true today, the Ecotourism Society,(now The International Ecotourism Society- TIES), reminded those countries seeking to attract ecotourists that they  must first understand that ecotourism is a specialty market and cannot be reached by the same marketing techniques used for other general tourism products.  An inventory of what we have to offer as ecotourism products (both on a national scale and province-wide) must be the first step. Compare this data with what other countries are offering and evaluate its viability to compete in the market place.

Target Market: AustraliaCompeting Ecosites in Asean Countries

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Flight Duration and Total Distance to Australia from Ecosite MarketsEcosite Markets Travel Duration Total Distance

1. Cebu 8 Hrs. & 32 mins 3861.3 miles2. Thailand 9 hrs. & 38 mins. 4636 miles3. Bali, Indonesia 6 hrs. & 1 min. 2895.4 miles4. Kuala Lumpur,

Malaysia8 hrs. & 32 mins. 4108.7 miles

5. Singapore 8 hrs. & 8 mins. 3978.5 miles

i. Target outbound and inbound operators that specialize in ecotourism, this probably would be one of the most efficient approaches to entering the desired market.

Another TIES reminder: Before we begin to offer our ecotourism products to the international market, ensure that the following are observed: 1) We have adequate trained ecoguides or naturalists guides or cultural expert guides that can interpret  the local environment and lead groups in an educated manner and preferably in the visitor's native language; 2)  Ensure that its destination is prepared for international visitors;  3) Local inbound agency has the skill to carry out  the tour professionally and that schedules are met; and  4) Lodging provides environmentally and culturally sensitive opportunity to experience the ecosite.

j. Prepare an ecotourism marketing plan that would include the following:    

An inventory of your product attributes; the market profile  of your target Customer; a realistic budget for at least three (3) years; goals that are  Achievable; position your marketing keeping in mind what the media is looking to Cover and

select a market approach that fits your budget.

3.3.4. EDUCATION AND ADVOCACY

Incorporate ecotourism in the communication plan of the national government.

AUSTRALIA

Palawan, PhilippinesUnderground River

Ban Prasat, ThailandArcheological Sites

Bali, Indonesia

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

SingaporeSungei Buloh Nature park

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1. Create a website hub for ecotourism sites/products /services, with links to specific site websites that could serve as a basic source for Philippine ecotourism information akin to a “Wikipedia for ecotourism.”

2. Partner with CHEd and DepEd to include ecotourism in the elementary, secondary and tertiary level. For the elementary and secondary level as a case study and for the tertiary level ecotourism principles and topics could be incorporated as a subject in other disciplines.

3. Open a social networking account (e.g. Tweeter, Facebook, etc.) for Philippine ecotourism.

4. Open an Internet mail list and discussion forums for the Philippines ecotourism.

5. Establish Ecotourism Knowledge centers and Information centers per region.

6. Formulate an ecotourism information and communication plan on national, regional and local levels.

3.3.5. ECOTOURISM FINANCE

1. Ensure that mainstreaming with the Philippine planning system leads to incorporation in the GAA or local budget. This entails inclusion in the plan and investment programming exercises of the national agencies and local government units.

2. Simplify procedure to access IPAF.

3. Simplify investment procedures and make requirements more investor-friendly; likewise, simplify requirements for the private sector to access financing for small and medium enterprises.

4. Conduct an investor’s forum for the various ecotourism sites, with investors defined as any of the following: a) private corporations; b) NGOs; c) multilateral and bilateral funding agencies, like USAID and ADB; d) CSRs of private corporations; and e) educational and research institutions.  These investors could commit resources to undertake one or more of the ten (10) components of the new NES.

5. Utilize the DOT "ladderized" accreditation program which is now available at the DOT website; and has a self-assessment tool for ecosite products. Accreditation is voluntary and not mandatory. 

6. Develop project proposals to match donor/grant sources and Explore ways to tap innovative financing schemes to generate funds for the development of

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ecotourism for specific sites or cluster of sites. These shall include PPP, debt for nature swaps, carbon credits, etc.

7. Develop project proposals to match donor/grant requirements for the bilateral or multilateral fund resources.

8. Explore ways to tap innovative financing schemes to generate funds for the development of ecotourism for specific sites or cluster of sites. These shall include PPP, debt for nature swaps, carbon credits, etc.

3.3.6. INFRASTRUCTURE/ SERVICES SUPPORT PROGRAM

1. Ensure that ecotourism sites have requisite utilities like clean water, adequate supply of power and communication.

2. Ensure that ecotourism site packages have access to basic amenities like shops, hospitals, etc.

3. Ensure that ecotourism sites shall be accessible in the most cost effective manner, using various transport modes (land, air and sea).

4. Ensure that ecotourism sites should have more than adequate peace and security.

3.3.7. HUMAN RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

1. Ensure basic training on ecotourism principles, ethics. All personnel involve in the ecotourism value chain shall have basic training on ecotourism principles and ethics using the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism as core guide.

2. On the supply side like tour operators, customers must be briefed prior to departure for the Philippines.

3. Training ecoguides will ensure sites are protected, earn sustainable income for the community, foster educational experience for visitors and become an unforgettable trip for the visitor that would result in repeat business.

4. Train local community and personnel involved in the ecotourism program to learn data gathering for ecotourism statistics.  There is a need to have baseline data for good planning.

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For example, Costa Rica is able to identify new products and improve their services because of availability of baseline data. They know that tourists traveling for pleasure pursued the following activities: 38% Natural History

37% tropical Adventure34% Bird Watching

On America travelers it was recorded that:67% visit beaches

42% visit volcanoes25% visit Flora and Fauna

_____________________

Source: Instituto Costaricense de Turismo-ICT

5. Hold regular skills training for all tourism personnel.

3.3.8. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

1. Ensure product development shall have strong backward and forward linkages with the local economy. It should also be labor intensive using indigenous materials and skills of the local community within the ecotourism site.

2. Organized communities to be ecotourism enterprises, which will enable them to undertake business activities in the various stages of the ecotourism value chain in the sites.

3. Ensure that any ecotourism endeavor shall result to the net welfare improvement of the community. Conduct o cost-benefit studies and ecotourism resource valuation to guide decision makers for proper and equitable sharing of income.

4. Ensure local enterprises shall have local government and private sector support in terms of management, policies, promotion, financing and others. This includes facilitating permits at the local level and access to private and public financing facilities.

3.3.9. INSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT

1. Mainstream the new NES in the Philippine planning system and instrumentalities: a) Philippine Development Plan and its MTDIP; b) Regional development plan and it’s RDIP; c) CLUP/CDP/ELA of municipalities, cities and provinces and their LDIP; d) Climate Change Commission's Philippine strategy for Climate Change; e) Disaster Risk Reduction and Management plans in t he local and national level.

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2. Incorporate the NES in the LGUs local tourism plans. 

3. Develop local institutions which will handle ecotourism management in the site, such as cooperatives, foundations and Community Corporation.

4. Implement the tourism law's provision to appoint a tourism officer per locality if the main source of income of that locality is tourism.

5. Amend E.O. 111 to include the Department of Trade and Industry in the NESC, and ecoguide associations as part of the RECS. The DILG has a very important role in the development of ecotourism and should also be at the forefront of ecotourism development since most of these will happen at the local level.

6. Establish DENR-PAWB as the lead office to oversee the successful implementation of the new NES. DOT will market and promote those sites that are ready to accept visitors. Meantime, PAWB-DENR continuous to monitor to ensure that the site is preserved and it's attributes are maintained;

7. Link ecotourism sites with nearby higher education learning, like State Universities and Colleges, and private tertiary institutions to encourage research and extension services on ecotourism.

3.3.10. MONITORING AND EVALUATION

1. Train local staff and community in gathering statistics on ecotourism and to have a compendium of ecotourism statistics every 2 or 3 years.

2. Conduct annual regular monitoring and evaluation of ecotourism projects to keep those managing these sites on their toes at all times. Monitoring and evaluation standards must be developed for the new NES on a) site conservation, protection, and development; b) Product/market development activities; and c) other components of the new NES.

3. Conduct review/consultation workshops in the regional levels before calling for an annual regional cluster review/consultation workshops. This annual review will provide the avenue to add new ecosites and, maybe, delete those that are found to be difficult to develop. For an effective review, it is suggested to have the following:

4. Establish output and outcome indicators to monitor progress and impact of ecotourism in the environment.

5. In 2013, the Philippine Development Plan will be updated. It will be advantageous for DENR and DOT to finalize and provide the NEDA with the mapping of these ecotourism sites (existing, emerging and potential).

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6. Overall implement NES recommendations.

3.4. List of Ecotourism Sites

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The selection of the ecotourism sites for the next ten (10) years was made in consultation with stakeholders both from the government and private sectors during the consultation workshops. The key sites of NES 2002-2012 (banner, emerging, potential) was augmented by additional proposals from the regions.

Ecotourism has been gaining more attractions from foreign and domestic travelers in the recent years. It has been identified as a means to alleviate poverty in the countryside. There is a need to improve on several ecotourism sites in the country that have great potential for increasing tourists and simultaneously the need to sustain these areas for the next generations to benefit from the natural and cultural features of these ecotourism sites.

For 2013-2022 together with the key sites of the previous plan are additional 185 ecotourism sites identified by the stakeholders from the various regions making a total of 272 would be ecosites. The total list of ecosites will be included in the annex for easy reference as those sites where mining cannot occur. These ecosites were matched to the Tourism Destination Areas (TDA) listed by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in their NTDP totaling 229. The ecosites in the TDAs are mostly recognized protected areas (PA), national parks (NP), marine reserves (MR), protected landscape (PL), wildlife sanctuary (WS), protected seascape (PS), protected landscape-seascape (PLS) watershed reservation (WR) or watershed forest reservation (WFR).

Table 3.4-1 lists the identified ecotourism sites that shall have priority in implementation under the NES 2013 -2022.

Table 3.4-1 Ecosites in NES 2013-2022

GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism Sites

NorthernNP-1:  Batanes, Cagayan

NP-1A:  Batanes Island Batanes

Philippines Coast and Babuyan NP-1B:  Babuyan Island  

  Islands NP-1C:  Cagayan Coast

Palaui Island, Sta. Ana

         NP-2:  Laoag-Vigan NP-2A:  Laoag-

Pagudpud Pagudpud  Kapurpurawan

geologic formation, Palpalokada landscape, Tanaa Watershed Forest Reserve, caves and cave systems , Burgos, Ilocos Norte

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GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism Sites

 

Metropolitan Ilocos Norte Watershed Forest Reserve

 Paoay Lake National Park, Paoay

 Nueva Era critical habitat. Nueva Era

 Bangui Windmills, Bangui

   NP-2B:  Vigan Vigan

       

 

NP-3:  Sierra Madre

NP3-A:  Tuguegarao-Tabuk

Baggao Bluewater Subterranean Cave

  Apayao River

 

Penablanca Protected Landscape and Seascape, Tuguerarao

 

Balbalasang-Balbalan National Park, Balbalan

  Chico River Dam   NP3-B:  Ilagan & Isabela Coast

Fuyot Springs, Ilagan

 Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park

      

NP3-C:  QuirinoGovernor Rapids, Maddela

       

 

NP-4:  Cordillera

NP4-A:  Central Cordillera

Cordillera Rice Terraces

   NP4-B:  Benguet-Baguio-Mt. Province Mt. Pulag, Benguet  Sagada Caves, Mt.

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GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism SitesProvince

   NP4-C:   Nueva Vizcaya

Malambing Valley Rainforest and Caves

       

 

NP-5:  Lingayen Gulf

NP5-A:  La Union Coast

La Union Coastal Area

   NP5-B:  Western Pangasinan Loop

Priority Caves and Cave Systems

NP5-C:  East Pangasinan Circuit     NP5-D:  Lingayen Coast & Islands

Hundred Islands National Park, Alaminos

         NP-6:  Central Luzon NP6-A:  Subic-

Clark-Tarlac Corridor Mt. Pinatubo

 Subic-Bataan Rainforest

 Mt. Tapulao, Zambales

   NP6-B:  Nueva Ecija

Pantabangan -Karanglan Watershed

   NP6-C:  Pampanga Mt. Arayat , Arayat   

NP6-D:  BulacanBiak Na Bato, San Miguel

   

NP6-E:  Zambales Coast

Hermana Menor Marine Protected Area, Sta. Cruz

  Matanda River and Mangrove Stand, Botolan

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GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism Sites

 

Marine protected Area San Salvador, Masinloc

 

Yaha Mangrove Patch and Panglit Marine Sea Bed Protected Area, Masinloc

   NP6-F:  Bataan Coast and Inland

Balanga Wetland and Nature Park, Balanga

 Tarak Peak, Mariveles

 

Pawikan Conservation Project sites, Morong

NP6-G:  Aurora  

 

NP-7:  Metro Manila and

NP7-A:  Metro Manila & Environs

Las Pinas-Paranaque Critical Habitat Ecotourism Area

     

CALABARZON NP7-B:  Nasugbu-Looc-Ternate-

Mt. Palay-Palay, Mataas na Gulod National Park, Cavite and Batangas

  Cavite Coast       

  NP7-C:  Laguna de Bay

Laguna Lakes Laguna de Bay Lakeshore tTwns

     

 NP7-D:  Batangas Peninsula

Tagaytay/Taal Volcano

   Verde island, Batangas City

 

 

Marine protected area, artificial reef, mangrove forest, sand bar, Calatagan

     

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GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism Sites

  NP7-E;  Quezon Coast & Islands  

       

Central

CP-1:  Bicol

CP1-A:  Camarines & Catanduanes

Culasi Mountains, Mercedes, Camarines Norte

Philippines  Caramoan, Camarines Sur

   

Mt. Isarog National Park, Naga City. Camarines Sur

   

Mt. Isarog Natl Park, Calabanga, Camarines Sur

   

Cabusao Wetlands, Cabusao, Camarines Sur

   

Nahulungan Falls, Gigmoto, Catanduanes

     

 

CP1-B:  Albay-Sorsogon-Masbate

Mayon Volcano, Legazpi, Albay

     Bongsalay Natural Park, Masbate

     Tacdogan Reef, Ticao Pass, Masbate

     Pawa Mangrove, Masbate City

      Buntod Island, Masbate City

      Minalayo Islet, Batuan, Masbate

      Danao Marsh, Balud, Masbate

  

 

Sombrero Island, San Pascual, Masbate

     Bulusan Volcano, Sorsogon

      Donsol, Sorsogon

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GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism Sites      Prieto Diaz, Sorsogon

  

 

Bacon-Manito Mountains, Albay & Sorsogon

 CP-2:  Marinduque-Mindoro-

CP2-A:  Marinduque Island

Mt Malindig, Buenavista

   Marinduque Wildlife Sanctuary

   Maniwaya Island, Sta. Cruz,

     

Romblon CP2-B:  Romblon Island

Mt. Guiting-Guiting, Sibuyan

 

 

Bila-bila falls, Dagubdub river gorge, Mt Manbo Layag IP community, Kawa-kawa spring, Magdiwang river & magrove, Sibuyan Is.

  

Tuangkal Cave, Tuburan Busay, Odiongan

  

Bal-ong falls, Pag-alad caves, San Andres

  

Looc Marine sanctuary, Looc, Romblon

  

Calatrava Forest Reserve, Calatrava, Romblon

 

 

Mt Sibuyan, Cresta de Gallo islet, Canongas river, San Fernando

  

Alad Marine Sanctuary, Alad island, Romblon

     Bunsoran sea turtle sanctuary & Ferrol

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GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism Sitesmangroves, Ferrol

     

  CP2-C:  Puerto Galera Puerto Gallera

        

 CP2-D:  Southwest Mindoro Coast  Apo Reef, Sablayan

       

 

CP-3:  Palawan

CP3-A:  San Vicente-El Nido-Taytay

El Nido-Taytay Protected Areas

CP3-B:  Puerto Princesa

Puerto Princesan Underground River, Puerto Princesa City

 Tubbataha Reef, Puerto Princesa City

   CP3-C:  Southern Palawan Brookes PointCP3-D:  Busuanga-Coron-Culion Islands

Calamianes Islands, Palawan (Northern)

      Bulalacao Island, Coron

      Coron Island, Coron                     

 

CP-4:  Western Visayas

CP4-A:  Metro Iloilo-Guimaras

Taklong-Tandog Island Marien Reserve, Guimaras

   CP4-B:  Bacolod-Silay     CP4-C:  Boracay Island-Northern

Kalibo Mangrove Reforestation, Kalibo

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GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism SitesAntique-Kalibo

 Jawili Campo Verde, Tangalan, Aklan

 Northwestern Panay Peninsula, Antique

   CP4-D:  Capiz  

 

CP-5:  Central Visayas

CP5-A:  Northern Cebu-Bantayan-Malapascua

Camotes-Malapascua-Bantayan Islands

 Mt Manunggal, Balamban

 

San Remegio Seascape, San Remigio

 Central Cebu Protected Landscape

   CP5-B:  Metro Cebu-Mactan-Olango

Olango Islands, Cordova and Lapu-Lapu City

Island  

CP5-C:  Southern Cebu

Southwestern Cebu Marine Sanctuary Chain

  Lantoy, Argao

 Kambais Falls, Alegria

  Boho, Alonuisan

 Kawasan Falls, Badian

 

Osmena Peak, Mantalongon Dalaguete/ Badian

 Mainit Mabugnaw Hotsprings, Car-Car

 Nug-as Protected Area, Alcoy

 Pescador Island, Moalboal

  Sumilon Island, Oslob  Tanon Strait, Negros

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GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism SitesOriental and Cebu

   CP5-D:  Negros Oriental-Dumaguete-Siquijor

Mt. Kanlaon, Canlaon, Negros Oriental

 Mt. Talinis, Valencia, Negros Oriental

 

Odloman Cave System, Mabinay, Negros Oriental

 

Balinsasayao Twin Lakes National Park, Sibulan

 Apo Island, Dumaguete City

 

Dauin Marine Sanctuary, Dumaguete City

 

Casaroro Falls , Valencia, Negros Oriental

 

Lake Balanan, Siaton, Negros Oriental

 

Tambobo Bay, Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental

 Mt Bandila-an, Larena, Siquijor

 Cantabon Cave, Siquijor , Siquijor

  Bulalacao Forest, San Juan, Siquijor

  Cambugahay- Lazi, Siquijor

 

Tulapos Marine Sanctuary, Enrique Villanueva, Siquijor

 

Olang Marine Protected Area, Maria, Siquijor

  Luyang Mangrove,

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GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism SitesMaria, Siquijor

   CP5-E:  Tagbilaran-Panglao

Panglao Island Protected Seascape

         CP-6:  Eastern

VisayasCP6-A:  Northeastern Leyte-Basey-  Marabut  CP6-B:  Northeastern  Leyte-Biliran

Cabucgayan -Caibiran, Biliran

 Higatangan Island, Biliran

 Marabut Marine Park, Palo, Leyte

 

Mahagano Volcano Natural Park ,Burauen, Leyte

      CP6-C:  Southern  Leyte

Silago Closed Canopy, Silago

 Sogod Bay Dive Sites, Sogod

   

CP6-D:  West Samar

Ulot River (Ulot Watershed Ecotourism Loop) , Paranas

  Calbiga Caves , Calbiga

   CP6-E:  Eastern Samar

Samar Island, Balankayan

 

Guiuan Marine Protected Landscape and Seascape, Guiuan

  Amandaraga Falls , Lawa-an

71

GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism Sites

 

Borongan-Llorente closed Canopy -Borongan-Llorente

   

CP6-F:  Northern Samar

Biri-Larosa Protected landscape and Seascape, Biri

 

 

 

Pan-As Hayiban Protected Landscape and Seascape, Calbayog

              

Southern

SP-1:  Surigao-Dinagat Island

SP1-A:  Dinagat-Siargao Islands Siargao Island

Philippines  Bucas Grande, Socorro

     

 SP1-B:  Surigao City-Lake Mainit  

 

SP-2:  Agusan River Basin

SP2-A:  Butuan City-Cabadbaran  SP2-B:  Agusan Marsh Agusan MarshSP2-C:  Agusan Sur-Hinatuan  SP2-C:  Agusan Sur-Bislig  

 

SP-3:  Cagayan de Oro Coast

SP3-A:  Camiguin Island Camiguin Island

    Benoni Tourist Centre

     

and Hinterland SP3-B:  Cagayan de Oro-Misamis

Cagayan de Oro river white water rafting

  Oriental CoastMacahambus Gorge & Hills, Cave

   Gardens of Malasag Ecotourism Village

    Mapawa Nature Park

72

GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism Sites

 

 

Cagayan de Oro City Community-Based Rainforest and Ecotourism Park Development

  

Cagayan de Oro Golden Ecotourism Area

   Tablon CBFMA Ecotourism Area

  

Mantianak Zoological and Botanical Park

    Duka Bay, Medina

 

 

Medina-Talisayan-Balingoan-Sugbongcogon Corridor

   Agutayan reef, Jasaan

   Mantangale Dive Resort, Balingoan

 

 

Initao-Libertad Proteced Landscape and Seascape, Inatao

  

Mahanggub and Talabaan Falls, Naawan

   Canopy Walk, Claveria

   Agutayan Island, Jasaan

   Sagpulon Waterfalls, Jasaan

   Alubijid Spring Development, Alubijid

   Caba-Caba Beach, Alubijid

   Odiongan River, Gingoog City

    Tiklas Falls, Gingoog City

73

GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism Sites     

 SP3-C:  Iligan City/Lanao del Norte

Tinago Falls, Iligan City

 

 

Bacolod-Kauswagan Protected Landscape and Seascape Ecotourism Development , Bacolod and Kauswagan

   Cathedral Falls, Kapatagan

  

Sultan Naga Dimaporo Public Beach, Togoloan

   Tagoloan (Mighty Cave) , Togoloan

   Water Spring Development, Tubod

     

 SP3-D:  Misamis Occidental Coast and  

 (Tangub Bay/Ozamis-Oroquieta)

Baliangao Marine Park, Baliangao

   Clarin Public Beach, Clarin

    Plaridel Beach, Plaridel

   Layawan River , Oroquieta City

   Sibucal Hot Spring, Oroquieta City

   Tangub Highland Garden, Tangub City

  SP3-E:  Bukidnon  

      Mt. Kitanglad Range      Ecotourism and

Recreational Park,

74

GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism SitesMalaybalay City

      Lake Pinamaloy, Don Carlos, Bukidnon

     Limestone Cliff, Quezon

      Mangima Park, Manolo Fortich

      Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich

     Provincial Mountain Park Development

     Lake Apo, Valencia City

     Lake Napalet, Pangatucan

     Mt. Kalatungan, Kitanglad

                SP-4:  Zamboanga

PeninsulaSP4-A:  Zamboanga Sibugay

Tungawan Mangrove Forest Reserve

   SP4-B:  Zamboanga City-Sta Cruz- Isabela

Bangaan Island Marine Reserve

  Bulosan Marine Protected Area

  Calarian Bog Lake

  Las Islas de Sta Cruz

  Malamaui Islands  Mangrove swamp  Merloquet Waterfalls

 Pasonanca Natural Park

 Zamboanga Cave Complex

   SP4-C:  Pagadian City-Zamboanga Del

Daw-Daw Islands, Pagadian City

75

GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism SitesSur

 Kendis Cave, Pagadian City

 

Pulacan Reforestation Ecological Park, Pagadian City

 

Triton Island Marine Reserve, Dumanquillas Bay

 Dinas Mangrove Reserve, Dinas

 Dumalinao Diving Tour Site, Dumalinao

 

Lakewood Reserve Aboriginal Park, Lake Wood

 Panikian Island, Pitogo

 Lake Dasay Reserve, San Miguel

 

Mt. Timolan Protected Landscape (Lake Maragang), Tigbao

 

Tabina Marine Protected Area, Tabina

   

SP4-D:  Dapitan

Aliguay Island Protecred Landscape and Seasscape

 

Jose Rizal Memorial Protected Landscape and Seascape

   

    SP4-E:  DipologCogon Ecotourism Park

      Dipolog City       

 SP-5:  Davao Gulf & Coast

SP5-A:  Davao City – Samal

Samal Island

76

GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism SitesIsland –

Davao Del NorteMt. Apo, Davao ( and North Cotabato)

   SP5-B:  Davao Del Sur     

SP5-C:  Compostella Valley – Davao Oriental

Mt. Hamiguitan Range and Wildlife Sanctuary, Governor Generoso- Mati- San Isidro

     SP-6:  Cotabato-

SaranganiSP6-A:  Cotabato Province – Mt. Apo

Libungan-Alamada NBA, (Libungan, Alamada)

 

Mt. Apo Natural Park, Magpet, Makilala & Kidapawan City

   SP6-B:  South Cotabato – Lake Sebu

Lake Sebu

 

Allah Valey Protected Landscape, (Lake Sebu, T’boli, Surallah), South Cotabato and (Bagumbayan),Sultan Kudarat

 

Mount Matutum Protected Landscape, (Tupi, Tampakan, Polomolok), South Cotabato and (Malungon), Sarangani

   SP6-C:  Sultan Kudarat

Paril-Sangay Protected Seascape, Lebak and

77

GroupingCluster

Destinations

Tourism Development

Areas Ecotourism SitesKalamansig

 

Kabulnan Plrotected Landscape (Bagumayan, Isulan, Senator Ninoy Aquino, Esperanza), Sultan Kudarat and Ampatuan, Sharief Aquak, Maguinanao

   

SP6-D:  General Santos – Sarangani

Sarangani Bay Protected Seascape, (Maitum, Kiamba, Maasim, Alabel, Malapatan, Glan), Sarangani and General Santos City

   SP6-E:  Cotabato City  

       

 

SP-7:  ARMM

SP7-A:  Basilan – Tawi Tawi – Jolo Turtle Islands   

SP7-B:  Lanao Del Sur – Maguindanao

Liguasan Marsh, (Tulunan, M’lang, Pikit), North Cotabato, Salipada K. Pendatun, Sultan Sa Barungis, Paglat, Pagalungan, Pagagawan, Rajah Buayan and Datu Piang Maguindanao and Sultan kudarat

     

Lake Buluan NBA, (Lutayan, President Quirino), Sultan Kudarat and Buluan Maguindanao

     Lake Lanao Watershed

78

1. Action Plans 2013-2022

NES 2013-2022 Action Plan is being developed to provide an updated and integrated and coordinated mechanism for ecotourism development in the Philippines. The Action Plan is composed of the following components:

1. Site Protection and Development;2. Product Development;3. Marketing and Promotion;4. Education and Advocacy;5. Ecotourism Finance;6. Infrastructure/Services Support Program;7. Human Resource Development;8. Economic Development;9. Institutional Development;10. Monitoring and Evaluation

The DOT and DENR as the main actors in EO111 will spearhead the implementation of the NES at the national and regional levels. Assistance will be sourced out from government agencies, NGOs, private sector and bilateral and multi-lateral agencies interested in conservation and ecotourism to ensure the orderly and timely implementation of the NES 2013-2022.

In Table 3.5-1 are the description of the ten (10) components. In addition to the original seven (7) program components of NES 2002-2012, added were three (3) new components which are deemed vital in the development and implementation of the ecosites.

Table 3.5-1 NES 2013-2022 Ecotourism ProgramNES PROPOSED PROGRAM COMPONENT DESCRIPTION1. Key Ecotourism Sites/Emerging/Potential/ and New Ecotourism Sites

-any action to develop and sustain the site like zoning or ecolodge building

2. Product Development-any action to develop products in the site like bird watching and its standards

3. Marketing and Promotion-any action to promote the sites to existing and potential markets like web page development

4. Education and Advocacy-any action that will inform and educate the public about the ecotourism site

5. Ecotourism Finance-any action that will generate and judiciously use financial resources for the site

6. Infrastructure/ Services Support Program

-any physical or services action that will supplement the ecotourism site like access road or security

7. Human Resource Development-any action that will develop/enhance the skills of workers/managers in the ecotourism chain

79

NES PROPOSED PROGRAM COMPONENT DESCRIPTION

8. Economic Development

-any action to create and maximize livelihood opportunities for the community like developing ancillary activities to complement the ecotourism product like native cuisines and homestay

9. Institutional Development-any action that will create the organizational framework to manage the site and its linkages

10. Monitoring and Evaluation

-any action that will ensure cost-effective monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of the NES at the local, regional, and national level

The updated action plan follows the format of the NES 2002-2012 except that the names of the output and outcomes of the program/project/activity (P/P/A) underneath each NES 2013-2022 components are specified. The other change is that there is no specific sub-component to be undertaken unlike in the old NES. The regional staff/participants in the consultation workshops were free to identify their P/P/A based on their unique problems and characteristics and their specific SWOT analysis findings. They were also encouraged to propose action plans for new ecotourism sites identified and nominated for inclusion in the updated NES.

3.5.1. National Action Plans

The national action plan in Table 3.5.1-2 is a work plan recommended for members of the NESC. They are based from the recommendations of the National Ecotourism Program 2013-2022.

80

Table 3.5.1-2 NES National Action Plans 2013-2022NES Program Component/

Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/ Activity) ; Site

 TIME FRAME (Quantity) 

Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

1. Site protection and Development                

1.1 Reclassify designation of past and future ecotourism sites      

Site specific list of ecotourism sites

List of sites that captures essence of ecotourism and have huge potentials for the community DENR/DOT DILG DENR/DOT

1.2 Initiate and coordinate with LGUs and community organizations the formulation of master plan of individual ecotourism sites      

Master plan per individual ecotourism site

Site development through Master Plan Implementation DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/

1.3 Prioritize development of ecosites under the NES, 2002-2012 and NES, 2013-2022      

Undeveloped sites developed as ecotourism site

Developed sites promoted and operated as ecosites DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG; Private Sector

1.4 Continuous review to meet the minimum standards set for developing ecotourism sites per the Accreditation Code issued by NESC      

Developed ecosites fully meeting accreditation code

Developed sites operating sustainably DENR/DOT DILG

DOT; Private Sector

1.5 Adopt simplified standards in selecting new sites for ecotourism      

Sites designated as ecotourism sites

More appropriate siteidentified to help community DENR DILG

DENR/DILG;

1.6. Conduct site analysis prior to identification and development of ecosite      

Identification of sites for ecotourism

Ecosites meeting sustainable standards DENR DILG

DENR/DILG;

        2. Product Development      

81

NES Program Component/ Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/

Activity) ; Site TIME FRAME (Quantity)

 Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

2.1. Update and Develop Standards in ecolodges, homestay, ecotours, accreditation of ecoguides and ecotourism facilities      

Number of standards updated and developed

Standards implemented DENR/DOT DILG DENR/DOT

2.2. Product development guideline must adhere to internationally accepted planning process      

Master plan systematically formulated

Master plans implemented in efficient and effective manner DENR/DOT DILG DENR/DOT

2.3. Pursue the establishment of a certification system      

Sites adopting certification system

Quality of services per ecosite upgraded through customer satisfaction survey DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG

2.4. Pursue Adoption of Internationally Recognized Ecotourism Icons/Symbols      

Sites adopting recognized symbols

Quality of services per ecosite upgraded through customer satisfaction survey DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG

2.5. Pursue Development and institutionalization of the Code of Ethics for Ecotourism      

Sites adopting Global Code of Ethics for Tourism

Quality of services per ecosite upgraded through customer satisfaction survey DENR/DOT DILG DENR/DOT

2.6. Establish Carrying Capacity of Different Ecosites or Conduct Limit of Acceptable Change      

Studies conducted per site

Visitors management plan adopted per site DENR DILG/DOT

DENR/DILG

        3. Marketing and Promotion      

3.1. Revisit the recommended target markets and match the developed sites with the target market segments using micro-       Targeted marketing

Sustainable tourism operational in ecosite DOT

DENR/DILG DOT

82

NES Program Component/ Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/

Activity) ; Site TIME FRAME (Quantity)

 Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

targeting;3.2. Use diverse marketing

tools like market matching, cross exchanges to learn best practices, more targeted mission and fair participation       Targeted marketing

Sustainable tourism operational in ecosite DOT

DENR/DILG DOT

3.3. Tap overseas Filipinos to market our sites. "Visit Paradise Philippines and Bring Home A Friend" or " Visit Tropical Philippines and Bring Home a Friend       Targeted marketing

Sustainable tourism operational in ecosite DOT

DENR/DILG DOT

3.4 Maximize utilization of the services of tourism attaches in marketing and promoting the Philippines       Targeted marketing

Sustainable tourism operational in ecosite DOT

DENR/DILG DOT

3.5 Refine and enhance the image of ecotourism in the Philippines by using key sites like Donsol, Sorsogon as a handle for branding our ecotourism sites.       Targeted marketing

Sustainable tourism operational in ecosite DOT

DENR/DILG DOT

3.6 Undertake an investors' fora and market place for ecotourism products that are ready for marketing and promotion where in they could commit resources to undertake one or more of the ten(10) components of the new NES      

Number of investors' for a and marketplace

Number of investments in the ecosites DOT

DENR/DILG and Private Sector

DOT/DENR/DILG and Private Sector

3.7. Existing ecotourism tour packages need updating and enhancing using cultural      

Number of new ecotourism packages

Number of visitors per ecosite DOT

DILG and Private Sector

DOT/DILG and Private Sector

83

NES Program Component/ Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/

Activity) ; Site TIME FRAME (Quantity)

 Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

experiences;

3.8. There should be an advance booking system through the Internet to be at par to the requirements of today's traveler      

Website developed for one-stop booking

Number of bookings per ecosite DOT

DILG and Private Sector

DOT/DILG and Private Sector

3.9 Target outbound and inbound operators that specialize in ecotourism, this probably would be one of the most efficient approaches to entering the desired market;      

Number of operators involved in ecotourism

Number of bookings per ecosite DOT

DILG and Private Sector

DOT/DILG and Private Sector

3.10. Prepare an ecotourism marketing plan      

Finished ecotourism marketing plan Plan implemented DOT

DILG and Private Sector

DOT/DILG and Private Sector

        4. Education and Advocacy      

4.1. Incorporate ecotourism in the communication plan of the national government      

Inclusion in plan and media mileage in government public relations

Awareness level of ecotourism in regions and provinces DENR/DOT PIA/DILG

DENR/DOT/PIA/DILG

4.2. Create a website hub for ecotourism sites/products /services       Working website

Level of increase in ecotourists in ecosites DENR/DOT

PIA/DILG and Private Sector

DENR/DOT/PIA/DILG and Private Sector

4.3. Partner with CHEd and DepEd to include ecotourism in the elementary, secondary and tertiary level      

Class time or subjects touching on ecotourism

Awareness level of students and school activities related to ecotourism DENR/DOT

DepEd/CHED

DepEd/CHED

84

NES Program Component/ Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/

Activity) ; Site TIME FRAME (Quantity)

 Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

4.4. Open a social networking account (e.g. Tweeter, Facebook, etc.) for Philippine ecotourism      

Operational social account manned by full time staff

Awareness level of Philippine ecotourism in international market, Philippine regions and provinces DENR/DOT

PIA/DILG and Private Sector

DENR/DOT/PIA/DILG

4.5. Open an Internet mail list and discussion forums for the Philippines ecotourism      

Operational mail list account manned by full time staff

Awareness level of Philippine ecotourism in international market, Philippine regions and provinces DENR/DOT

PIA and Private Sector

DENR/DOT/PIA

4.6. Establish Ecotourism Knowledge centers and Information centers per region.      

Number of Ecotourism Knowledge centers established

Awareness level of Philippine ecotourism in international market, Philippine regions and provinces and Level of increase in ecotourists DENR/DOT

PIA and Private Sector

DENR/DOT/PIA

4.7. Formulate an ecotourism information and communication plan on national, regional and local levels      

IEC Plans formulated at national, regional and local levels

Awareness level of Philippine ecotourism in international market, Philippine regions and provinces and Level of increase in ecotourists DENR/DOT PIA/DILG

DENR/DOT/PIA/DILG

5. Ecotourism Finance      

5.1. Ensure that Updated NES is mainstreamed with the Philippine planning system that shall lead to incorporation in the GAA or local      

Updated NES incorporated in NGA plans and programming

Regular funding for Updated NES DENR/DOT

DBM/DILG/DOF/NEDA

DENR/DOT/DBM/DILG/

85

NES Program Component/ Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/

Activity) ; Site TIME FRAME (Quantity)

 Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

budget DOF/NEDA

5.2 Simplify procedure to access IPAF      

Simplified procedures Fund usage rate DENR

DBM/DILG/DOF/NEDA

DENR/DILG

5.3. Simplify ecosite investment procedures to be more investor-friendly;      

Simplified procedures

Rate of investments in ecosites DENR/DOT

TIEZA/DTI/DILG DENR/DOT

5.4 Simplify requirements for the private sector to access financing for small and medium enterprises in ecotourism.      

Simplified procedures

Rate of investments in ecosites DENR/DOT

DBP/DTI/DILG/LBP

DENR/DOT/DTI

5.5. Conduct an investor’s forum for the various ecotourism sites      

Number of investors' fora and marketplace

Number of investments in the ecosites DOT

DOT/DILG/DENR and Private Sector

DOT/DILG/DENR and Private Sector

5.6. Develop project proposals to match donor/grant sources;      

Number of proposals submitted tor multi-lateral and bilateral fund organizations

Funds granted and utilized DENR/DOT

DBP/DTI/DILG DENR/DOT

5.7 Explore ways to tap innovative financing schemes to generate funds for the development of ecotourism for specific sites or cluster of sites;      

Number of proposals submitted tor innovative financing

Sites receiving funds for development DENR/DOT

DBP/DTI/DILG/LBP DENR/DOT

6. Infrastructure/ Services Support Program      

6.1. Ensure that ecotourism sites should have requisite utilities like clean water, adequate supply of power and communication      

Sites with adequate infrastructure

Level of increase in ecotourists arrivals DENR/DOT

DPWH/DOTC/DILG/ DOE

DPWH/DOTC/DILG/DOE

86

NES Program Component/ Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/

Activity) ; Site TIME FRAME (Quantity)

 Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

6.2. Ensure that ecotourism site packages have access to basic amenities like shops, hospitals, etc      

Packages meeting accessibility standards

Level of increase in ecotourists arrivals DENR/DOT DILG/DOH

DENR/DOT/DILG/DOH

6.3. Ensure that ecotourism sites shall be accessible in the most cost effective manner, using various transport modes (land, air and sea).      

Sites with easy accessibility

Level of increase in ecotourists arrivals DENR/DOT

DPWH/DOTC/DILG

DPWH/DOTC/DILG

6.4 Ensure that ecotourism sites should have more than adequate peace and security      

Sites with adequate peace and order

Level of increase in ecotourists arrivals DENR/DOT DND/DILG DND/DILG

7. Human Resource Development      

7.1. Design courses and conduct skills and professionalization training for key stakeholders;      

Number and spatial/sectoral distribution of trainees

High level of satisfaction for human services by customers DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG and Private Sector

7.2. Ensure basic training on ecotourism principles, ethics for all personnel involve in the ecotourism value chain      

Number of personnel trained

High level of satisfaction for human services by customers DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG and Private Sector

7.3. Tour operators and customers must be briefed prior to departure for the Philippines;      

Number of Tour operators and customers trained

High level of satisfaction for human services by customers DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG and Private Sector

7.4.. Training for ecoguides must ensure sites are protected, earn sustainable income for the community, foster educational      

Number of ecoguides trained

High level of satisfaction for human services by customers DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG and Private Sector

87

NES Program Component/ Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/

Activity) ; Site TIME FRAME (Quantity)

 Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

experience for visitors and become an unforgettable trip for the visitor;

7.5. Train local community and personnel involved in the ecotourism program to learn data gathering for ecotourism statistics. There is a need to have Baseline date for good planning      

Number of local community personnel trained

High level of satisfaction for human services by customers DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG

8. Economic Development      

8.1. Ensure product development shall have strong backward and forward linkages with the local economy      

Number of ecotourism products with strong linkages

More enterprises linked in ecotourism sites through more local employment and indigenous products DENR/DOT DTI/DILG

DENR/DTI/DILG and Private Sector

8.2. Organized communities to be ecotourism enterprises      

Number of local communities organized

More enterprises linked in ecotourism sites DENR/DOT DTI/DILG

DENR/DTI/DILG/DOT

8.3. Conduct of cost-benefit studies and ecotourism resource valuation;       Number of studies

Ecosites policies guided by studies DENR DOT/DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG

8.4. Facilitating permits at the local level and access to private and public financing facilities;      

Number of enterprises registered for ecotourism activities

More enterprises linked in ecotourism sites through more local employment and indigenous products DENR DTI/DILG

DENR/DTI/DILG/DOT

         9. Institutional Development      

9.1. Ensure that Updated NES is       Updated NES Regular funding for DENR/DOT DBM/ DENR/

88

NES Program Component/ Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/

Activity) ; Site TIME FRAME (Quantity)

 Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

mainstreamed with the Philippine planning system that shall lead to incorporation in the GAA or local budget

incorporated in NGA plans and programming Updated NES

DILG/DOF/NEDA

DOT/DBM/DILG/DOF/NEDA

9.2. Incorporate the NES in the LGUs local tourism plans      

Number of local tourism plans incorporating updated NES

Implementation of local tourism plans DENR/DOT

DBM/DILG/DOF/NEDA

DENR/DOT/DBM/DILG/DOF/NEDA

9.3. Develop local institutions which will handle ecotourism management in the site      

Number of local institutions formed

Local institutions operating in ecosites DENR/DOT

DTI/DILG/SEC/CDA/SEC

DENR/DOT/DILG

9.4. Implement the tourism law's provision to appoint a tourism officer per locality if the main source of income of that locality is tourism      

Number of local tourism officers appointed

Level of local tourism planning DOT DILG DOT/DILG

9.5. Amend E.O. 111 to include the Department of Trade and Industry in NESC and have ecoguides association as parts of REC;       Amendments taken

Updated NES being implemented DENR/DOT

DTI/DILG/SEC/PMS

DENR/DOT/DILG

9.6. Establish DENR-PAWB as the lead office to oversee the protection and development of ecosites for the successful implementation of the new NES;       Amendments taken

Updated NES being implemented DENR DOT DENR

9.7. Link ecotourism sites with nearby higher education learning, like State Universities and Colleges, and private tertiary institutions to encourage research       Linkages forged

Ecotourism studies undertaken DENR/DOT

DTI/DILG/CHED/DEPED

DENR/DOT/DILG

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NES Program Component/ Policy; P/P/A (Program/ Project/

Activity) ; Site TIME FRAME (Quantity)

 Name of Output Indicator

Name of Outcome Indicator

IMPLEMENTING AGENCIES 

Potential Funding Sources

 Short-term

Medium-term

Long-Term     Lead Support  

 2013-2016

2013-2019

2013-2022          

and extension services on ecotourism        10. Monitoring and Evaluation      

10.1. Train local community and personnel involved in the ecotourism program to learn data gathering for ecotourism statistics. There is a need to have Baseline data for good planning      

Number of local community personnel trained

High level of satisfaction for human services by customers DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG

10.2 Have a compendium of ecotourism statistics every 2 or 3 years      

Number of Compendiums published

Number of plans and monitoring report utilizing the compendiums DENR/DOT

DILG/NSO/NSCB

DENR/DOT/DILG/NSO

10.3. Conduct regular monitoring and evaluation of ecotourism sites;      

Number of sites monitored

Ecosites' issues addressed DENR

DILG/NSO/NSCB/DOT

DENR/DOT/DILG

10.4 Monitoring and evaluation standards for site and products/markets must be developed for the new NES      

Standards developed

Usage of standards across sites DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG

10.5 Conduct annual review/consultation workshops in the regional levels before calling for an annual regional cluster review/consultation workshops.      

Annual reviews conducted

Better management of implementation of Updated NES DENR/DOT DILG

DENR/DOT/DILG

10.6 Ensure ecotourism is part of the Philippine Development Plan Updating.      

NES included in national development plan

NES included in national investment program DENR/DOT

DILG/NEDA

DENR/DOT/DILG

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Bibliography

APEC Secretariat. Tourism and Environmental Best Practice In APEC Member Economies. 1997

Department of Tourism. National Tourism Development Plan 2011-2016, Manila, Philippines

National Ecotourism Steering Committee. National Ecotourism Strategy, 2002, Manila, Philippines

TIES. ECOTOURISM STATISTICAL FACT SHEET

UNWTO. Press Release December 12, 2012

UNWTO. Word Tourism Barometer, January, 2013

UNWTO. Tourism Towards 2030

UNWTO. Tourism Highlights, 2012, Ed.

DOT and DENR. ASEAN Ecotourism Conference, 2012, Manila, Philippines in CD format

www.prm.nau.edu/prm300-old/LAC_article.htm

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