Abstract |
This paper assessed the agro-ecotourism potentials and prospects of
Barangay Digkilaan by examining some of its environmental elements,
agro-elements, market viability and community people芒聙聶s skills,
capability, and social acceptability of the local community on their
cooperation for income generating activities for agro-ecotourism and
environmental protection. Environmental elements include physical
landscape, existence of natural resources such as waterfalls, agroforestry and indigenous farm products were also identified. Farm to
market road, potential market of agro-ecotourism products and services
were determined. Skills and capability of community residents were also
assessed for the prospect of potential income generating activities for
agro-ecotourism development of Barangay Digkilaan. Participatory
Resource Appraisal was done in gathering necessary data. Transect walk
was conducted as a technique in identifying the environmental elements
and market viability of the research area. Also, Focus Group Discussion
(FGD) with the Barangay officials and local residents were conducted to
gather information about the proposed agro-ecotourism project as well as
current issues. A total of 82 participants participated in the FGD.
Results revealed that Barangay Digkilaan has a considerable degree of
potential for agro-ecotourism development. Collaborative policy-making
in enhancing community-based agro-ecotourism is also highlighted in
this study to achieve sustainability: environmental sustainability, social
sustainability and economic sustainability. |