By: Venus C. Ibarra. Ateneo De Manila University
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SUSTAINING ECOTOURISM ENVIRONMENT IN MOUNT BANAHAW-SAN CRISTOBAL PROTECTED LANDSCAPE: ALIGNMENT TO GLOBAL CLIMATE CHANGE
By: Venus C. Ibarra. Ateneo de Manila University Maria Donnalyn E. Briñas, San Pablo Colleges
ABSTRACT
This study was undertaken to determine the extent of influence of climate change (viewed in terms of environmental problems and natural calamities) in designing ecotourism program for Mount Banahaw-San Cristobal Protected Landscape (MBSCPL), specifically in Barangay Kinabuhayan, Dolores, Quezon, a popular tourist destination during Lenten season. Existing tourism/ecotourism activities are: visit to pilgrim/sacred places, camping, bathing in the miraculous river, trekking to Durungawan, doing nature walk, and enjoying the scenic view of the forests.
This study is generally descriptive in nature and utilized only simple statistical tools like frequency counts, percentages, and ranking in analyzing the data and information generated from interviews among 70 randomly selected respondents.
Among the environmental problems identified are illegal logging, improper waste segregation, uncollected garbage, improper sewerage system, informal settlers, use of destructive pesticides and insecticides, and illegal entry of mountaineers in areas banned for recreational and religious use. Natural calamities experienced are uprooting of trees due to typhoon and flooding of low-lying areas of the Barangay. To address these problems, temporary closure of adversely affected areas from visitation is recommended, including strict implementation of Mount Banahaw-San Cristobal Protected Landscape Act (RA 9847).
Existing management scheme, like reforestation, patrol activities, and provision of livelihood are regularly undertaken to protect the area from further destruction. For ecotourism development the following management strategies are recommended: strengthen community participation; apply environmental protection and rehabilitation scheme, like agro-forestry, reforestation to help mitigate adverse impact of climate change; install warning devices for landslide and flash flood prone areas; conduct intensive environmental campaign and strict enforcement; encourage green tourism and diversify ecotourism activities; install effective visitor management schemes; and implement a monitoring and evaluation scheme. 2
`INTRODUCTION
Mt. Banahaw-San Cristobal Protected Landscape (MBSCPL) is considered one of the important ecological sites in the Southern Tagalog region because of its rich endemic biodiversity species. Straddling the borders of Quezon and Laguna provinces, MBSCPL is also one of the few remaining areas in the region with a relatively intact forest that serves as an important watershed that supplies water for more than a million people in Laguna and Quezon for domestic, irrigation, recreational, and ecotourism purposes. MBSCPL is home to endemic species of plants and animals and the recently discovered giant flower Rafflesia Banahawensis, sp. It hosts 358 species of trees, 19 species of vines, 15 species of palms, 39 species of ferns, 15 species of grasses and 42 species of fungi. The species of trees are representatives of 71 families. There are 226 bird species, 62 species of mammals excluding the newly discovered rodent, 38 species of reptiles, 43 species of amphibians, and 188 of insects. It is the habitat of an array of unique and rare wildlife, such as the flame-breasted fruit dove - locally called punay - the hornbill or kalaw, the many-colored flycatcher, mammals like the deer and wild boar, owls like the hawk owl and the Luzon Scoops Owl, different varieties of the cloud rat and little studied varieties of frogs, eels and snakes. MBSCPL possesses all the potentials to become a favourite destination for recreation, relaxation, and religious activities. Despite this ecological importance, MBSCPL is now facing serious threats. According to its General Management Plan, threats consist of the presence of settlements inside the PA exerts pressures on the resources of the park. Unsustainable and destructive livelihood activities have endangered several endemic flora and fauna and caused the extinction of others. Tracts of forestlands converted into agricultural use that adopts inappropriate technologies that are dependent on inorganic fertilizers and pesticides. The presence of infrastructures such as roads, school, health centers and irrigation systems in the area attract migration. Other threats and issues that have impact on the PA are tenured migrants, titled lands, absentee claimants and hundreds of religious sects practicing their respective rituals in Mts. Banahaw where people from all walks of life go during Holy week that produced tons of garbage every year, thus affecting the mountain’s ecosystem. Also included are natural and man-made disasters. Efforts must be exerted in order to address these problems. Application of appropriate management strategy (or strategies) is of prime importance, especially now that MBSCPL’s 3 resources are subject to various forms of destructions. To do this, it would require a sustainable management program based on sound and scientific research studies.
RATIONALE / SIGNIFICANCE Ecotourism as a Management Strategy As one of the world's largest and fastest growing industries, tourism’s continuous growth places great pressure on biological diversity and the culture of indigenous people. Especially now that the trend is on nature-based tourism, any wrong move on tourism will certainly affect the ecological integrity of the natural environment as well as the cultural well-being of the affected local communities. Ecotourism is sensitive to these threats; hence, its goal is directed towards environmental integrity, social justice, and economic development. A balance must be met between limits and usage so that it will not pose adverse effects on the natural environment. This requires long-term thinking, knowing that change is often cumulative, gradual and irreversible. According to World Travel and Tourism Council in 2016, by now, ecotourism has found a niche in our country since aside from protecting the environment; it also provides the local community with income-generating opportunities1. It has also proven itself as one of the more viable natural resources management strategies because it is founded on the principles of Sustainable Development and supports key development objectives such as poverty alleviation, employment generation, income redistribution, people empowerment, environment and natural resources conservation. Climate Change and Ecotourism Climate change is manifested in many ways and is linked to natural catastrophes like global warming, droughts, wildfires, extreme storms, hurricanes, earthquakes, sea level rise, fresh water shortages, food shortages, climate refugees, collapsing ecosystems, and biodiversity extinctions. According to Motavalli, global warming is a phenomenon that has been occurring over the past 15,000 years on Earth. It can be described as a struggle between human progress (in the form of industrialization, population increase, and economic growth) and nature. If left
1 World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), Mar 23, 2016, https://www.wttc.org/research/economic-research/economic-impact-analysis/ 4 unchecked, Earth’s surface temperatures could rise by 3.8 to 11.2 degrees Fahrenheit over the next 50 years, according to studies from the International Panel on Climate Change 2. Conserving nature by declaring areas with natural and biological significance as Protected Areas (PAs) could be a strategy in reducing global warming or other adverse impacts of climate change. PAs are“identified portions of land and water set aside by reason of their unique physical and biological significance, managed to enhance biological diversity and protected against destructive human exploitation”3. Areas are also declared as PAs to ensure that Ecosystem Services (ES) like the provision of clean water, food, medicine and recreation; acting as a reservoir for resources; protecting the soil; preserving biodiversity and culture, among many others, are constantly and sustainably used. One such ES is Tourism or Ecotourism. This study, therefore, attempts to determine the extent of influence of climate change (viewed in terms of environmental problems and natural calamities) in designing ecotourism program for MBSCPL. It also recommends adaptation strategies (design of ecotourism facilities, visitor management scheme, management zoning, recreational activities, etc.) on how to sustain ecotourism in MBSCPL in the context of the changing climatic condition in the PA. Results of this study will serve as a guide to help establish sustainable management of other ecotourism sites in the country. Key questions answered in this research study are: What are the environmental problems in MBSCPL, particularly in Barangay Kinabuhayan? What are the existing ecotourism facilities in Barangay Kinabuhayan? What are recommended facilities and structure necessary to make ecotourism viable? What are the management strategies that could be recommended and implemented to sustain ecotourism in Barangay Kinabuhayan?
SCOPE AND LIMITATION This study made a simple enumeration and description of environmental problems besetting MBSCPL; how these problems are affecting the ecotourism (both recreational and religious) activities in the area; what are the existing ecotourism facilities in the area that can still be utilized or can be re-designed to adapt to the prevailing environmental conditions; what are
2 Motavalli, J., Feeling the Heat: Dispatches from the Frontlines of Climate Change, 2004 3 National Integrated Protected Area System (NIPAS Law) RA 7586, 1992 5 the other facilities necessary and appropriate in the area; and what management strategies could be recommended to sustain ecotourism in MBSCPL. MBSCPL is a large protected area in the CALABARZON region. There are many other existing ecotourism destinations in this PA. However, this study is confined only in one of its popular destination, Barangay Kinabuhayan. The Barangay is a traditional pilgrimage site for locals, because it is believed by many as a "holy mountain.” Water from its sacred springs is deemed "holy water." Aside from this, there are also other unique natural features in the Barangay like caves, streams, and boulders, not to mention Durungawan, which is popular among mountain climbers. Hikers to this sacred mountain reach to the thousands, especially during the Holy Week.
REVIEW OF LITERATURE Ecotourism Defined According to Annalisa Koeman4, ecotourism has dramatically captured the attention of many people from a variety of backgrounds. It seems to be a catchall word that has different meaning to different persons. To some it means ecologically sound tourism; to others it is synonymous with nature tourism, alternative, appropriate, responsible, ethical, green, environmentally friendly or sustainable tourism. Despite the continued debate about exactly what ecotourism entails, it seems that most agree that ecotourism must be a force for sustaining natural resources. Martha Honey5 defines ecotourism as “the practice of low-impact, educational, ecologically and culturally sensitive travel that benefits local communities and host countries.” In 1990 The International Ecotourism Society defined ecotourism as “a form of tourism involving visiting fragile, pristine, and relatively undisturbed natural areas, intended as a low- impact and often small scale alternative to standard commercial (mass) tourism.” This means that those who implement and participate in ecotourism activities should follow the following principles: (a) minimize impact; (b) build environmental and cultural awareness and respect; (c) provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts; (d) provide direct financial benefits for conservation; (e) provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people; (f) raise
4 Koeman, A., (undated) Sustainable Tourism and Eco-Tourism. 5 Honey, Martha (2008). Ecotourism and Sustainable Development: Who Owns Paradise? (2nd ed.), Washington, DC: Island Press. Honey 6 sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate; and (g) support international human rights and labor agreements. In the Philippines, the most common used definition of ecotourism is the one crafted in 1990 during the Bohol Congress, which defined ecotourism 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.” Ecotourism is simply a “responsible travel to natural areas conserving the environment and improving the well-being of the local people.” Negative Impacts of Ecotourism While generally ecotourism is perceived as a sustainable form of natural resources management, particularly in Protected Areas, it may, however, pose some negative impact, when not properly and effectively implemented. Some of these impacts are: Overlooking conservation ideals. Kamauro believes that sometimes ecotourism becomes a highly consumer-centered activity, and that environmental conservation is set aside to further economic growth6. Vivanco also believes that although ecotourism is intended for small groups, even a modest increase in population, however temporary, puts extra pressure on the local environment and necessitates the development of additional infrastructure and amenities. The construction of water treatment plants, sanitation facilities, and lodges come with the exploitation of non-renewable energy sources and the utilization of already limited local resources7. Kamauro further stated that environmental hazards, like the industrialization, urbanization, and unsustainable agriculture practices of human society are considered to be having a serious impact on the environment. Ecotourism is now also considered to be playing a role in environmental depletion. While the term ecotourism may sound relatively benign, one of its most serious impacts is its consumption of virgin territories.
6 Kamauro, O., 1996, Ecotourism: Suicide or Development? Voices from Africa #6: Sustainable Development, UN Non-Governmental Liaison Service. United Nations News Service. 7 Vivanco, L. 2002, Ecotourism, Paradise lost—A Thai case study. The Ecologist. pp. 32(2):28–30.World Tourism Organization, (undated). Climate Change & Tourism. 7
These invasions often include deforestation, disruption of ecological life systems and various forms of pollution, all of which contribute to environmental degradation8. Displacement of people. One of the most powerful examples of communities being moved in order to create a park is the story of the Maasai. About 70% of national parks and game reserves in East Africa are on Maasai land. The first undesirable impact of tourism was that of the extent of land lost from the Maasai culture. Local and national governments took advantage of the Maasai’s ignorance on the situation and robbed them of huge chunks of grazing land, putting to risk their only socio-economic livelihood9 . Disturbing biodiversity. Ecotourism activities may disturb fauna and flora biodiversity. Ecotourists believe that because they are only taking pictures and leaving footprints, they keep ecotourism sites pristine, but even harmless-sounding activities such as nature hikes can be ecologically destructive. Touhino, A. and A. Hynonen cited the following forms of biodiversity disturbances. In the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal, ecotourists have worn down the marked trails and created alternate routes, contributing to soil impaction, erosion, and plant damage. Where the ecotourism activity involves wildlife viewing, it can scare away animals, disrupt their feeding and nesting sites, or acclimate them to the presence of people. In Kenya, wildlife-observer disruption drives cheetahs off their reserves, increasing the risk of inbreeding and further endangering the species10. According to Touhino and Hynonen, lack of economic opportunities for local people. Most forms of ecotourism are owned by foreign investors and corporations that provide few benefits to local communities. An overwhelming majority of profits are put into the pockets of investors instead of reinvestment into the local economy or environmental protection. The limited numbers of local people who are employed in the economy enter at its lowest level, and are unable to live in tourist areas because of meager wages and a two-market system11. Threats to indigenous culture. Ecotourism often claims that it preserves and "enhances" local cultures. According to Touhino and Hynonen, evidence shows that with the establishment of protected areas local people have illegally lost their homes, and most
8 Kamauro, O. , 1996, East Africa: Ecotourism, Suicide or Development. 9 Kamauro, O. , 2007, East Africa: Ecotourism, Suicide or Development. 10 Touhino, A. & Hynonen, A, 2001, Ecotourism—Imagery and Reality, Nordia Geographical Publications. 11 Ibid. 8
often with no compensation. Pushing people onto marginal lands with harsh climates, poor soils, lack of water, and infested with livestock and disease do little to enhance livelihoods even when a proportion of ecotourism profits are directed back into the community. The establishment of parks can create harsh survival realities and deprive the people of their traditional use of land and natural resources12. Mismanagement. While governments are typically entrusted with the administration and enforcement of environmental protection, they often lack the commitment or capability to manage ecotourism sites effectively. The regulations for environmental protection may be vaguely defined, costly to implement, hard to enforce, and uncertain in effectiveness. Government regulatory agencies, as political bodies, are susceptible to making decisions that spend budget on politically beneficial but environmentally unproductive projects13. Ecotourism Market Trends The recently published National Ecotourism Strategy and Action Plan for 2013-2022 developed jointly by the Department of Tourism and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources vividly outlines the market trends of ecotourism globally and locally. According to the document, international tourist arrivals grew by 4% in 2012 reaching 1 billion, with Asia and the Pacific showing the strongest results of 7% growth. United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) forecasted international tourist arrivals worldwide to increase by an average of 3.3% annually from 2010 to 2030 for a total of 43 million more international tourist arrivals annually, reaching 1.8 billion arrivals by 2030. Ecotourism belongs to the category of “travel for leisure, recreation, and holidays,” which account for 51% (505 million) of all international tourist arrivals in 2011. Ecotourism is among the sectors expected to grow most quickly over the next two decades. The Convention on Biological Diversity says that since the 1990s, ecotourism has grown to 20% to 34% per year. In 2004, ecotourism/nature tourism grew globally three times faster than the tourism industry as a whole. Meanwhile, nature tourism is growing at 10% to 12% per annum in the international market.
12 Ibid. 13 Baumol, W.J. & Oates, W. E., 1977, Economics, Environmental Policy, and Quality of Life, Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, USA: Prentice Hall. 9
As for the domestic market, Philippine tourism has reached 4.3 million foreign tourists and 41 million domestic tourists in 2012. The potential market size for ecotourism in the Philippines is in the range of 1,251,293 to 14,176,500 ecotourists. Financially, the potential gross earning from foreign ecotourism was from US$81.2 million to US$1.4 billion from 2013 to 2016. On the other hand, the potential earnings from domestic tourists could be from Php 9.5 billion to Php10.2 billion for the same period. To have an idea of the volume of tourists currently visiting ecotourism destinations in the Philippines, visitor counts in protected areas and other adventure destinations show that domestic and foreign visitors in over 200 protected areas under NIPAS averaged 778,008 annually for the period 2000 to 2012. Climate Change and Impact on Ecotourism The UNWTO provided a very concrete description of the relationship between climate change and tourism. According to an undated UNWTO report, the growing international awareness about the fast pace of climate change taking place on our planet, together with the impacts that such changes are having on the natural environment, on humans and their economic activities have become evident. For tourism, climate change is not a remote event, but a phenomenon that already affects the sector and certain destinations in particular, mountain regions and coastal destinations among others. At the same time, the tourism sector is contributing to greenhouse gas emissions (GHG), especially through the transport of tourists. Climate is an essential resource for tourism, and especially for beach, nature and winter sports. Changing climate and weather patterns at tourist destinations and tourist generating countries can significantly affect the tourists’ comfort and their travel decisions. Changing demand patterns and tourist flows will have impacts on tourism businesses and on host communities, as well as knock off effects on related sectors, such as agriculture, handicrafts or construction. In a publication entitled Climate Change: Implications for Tourism, produced by The University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL), it was mentioned that the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) concludes that climate change is unequivocal, and that human activities, particularly emissions of carbon dioxide, are very likely to be the dominant cause. Changes are observed in all geographical regions: the atmosphere and oceans are warming, the extent and volume of snow and ice are diminishing, sea levels are rising and weather patterns are changing. 10
Computer models of the climate used by the IPCC indicate that changes will continue under a range of possible greenhouse gas emission scenarios over the 21st century. If emissions continue to rise at the current rate, impacts by the end of this century are projected to include a global average temperature 2.6–4.8 degrees Celsius (°C) higher than present, and sea levels 0.45–0.82 meters higher than present. To prevent the most severe impacts of climate change, parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) agreed a target of keeping the rise in average global temperature since pre-industrial times below 2°C, and to consider lowering it to 1.5°C in the near future. The first instalment of AR5 in 2013 (Working Group I on the physical science basis of climate change) concluded that by 2011, we had already emitted about two-thirds of the maximum cumulative amount of carbon dioxide that we can emit if we are to have a better than two-thirds chance of meeting the 2°C target. Four key findings were enumerated on the extent of possible impacts of climate change on the tourism industry were mentioned by Nicholls14. These are: The tourism sector is exposed to numerous direct and indirect impacts from climate change. Sea-level rise and more acidic oceans will threaten coastal tourism infrastructure and natural attractions. Rising temperatures will shorten winter sport seasons and threaten the viability of some ski resorts. Climate change will lead to changes in biodiversity, affecting eco-tourism. Changing precipitation will affect water availability. Adaptation options exist, but many are likely to add costs and offer only short-term relief. Locations at risk can invest in more resilient infrastructure. Winter sports providers can turn to artificial snow makers, move to higher elevations, or market themselves as year-round destinations. Under scenarios that see high emissions, and higher temperatures, questions exist as to whether adaptation is possible at all. The contribution of tourism to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions is rising. Calculations of the contribution of tourism to global carbondioxide (CO2) emissions range from 3.9% to 6% of human emissions, with 4.9% the best estimate. As the world becomes more affluent, thesector is expected to grow by an average of 4%
14 Nicholls, M., 2014, Climate Change: Implications for Tourism, 2014. 11
annually and reach10% of global GDP within ten years. The sector’s emissions are on course to grow 130% between 2005 and 2035. There is considerable uncertainty about how tourists will respond to the effects of climate change. Academic research provides much detail on likely impacts, and on possible changes in tourism demand. These changes are likely to create opportunities at both the destination and business level. Ecotourism and environmental disturbances in MBSCPL Ecotourism, being nature-based, needs to be planned properly. Otherwise, it may contribute further to the destruction of the already fragile Philippine environment. In MBSCPL, the most common environmental disturbances observed, which may be (directly or indirectly) attributed to ecotourism were: (a) increased amount of rainfall; (b) changed in drainage pattern; (c) decreased in water quality, getting more turbid and with high total dissolved solids (TDS); (d) increased in dissolve oxygen (DO); (e) increased amount of coliform; (f) presence of high phosphate (PO4) and ammonia (NH3); (g) increased soil erosion; and (h) vulnerability to flash floods and landslides15. Because of these disturbances, the camping and pilgrim areas in Barangay Kinabuhayan, Dolores, Quezon were closed for five years starting in 2004 to allow the area to recover and for the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) to formulate management strategy in order to rehabilitate its deteriorating condition. The closure was extended several times. In addition, based on the recent research undertaken by the Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau (ERDB) of the DENR, where the biophysical characteristics and carrying capacity of the area were validated, the PAMB decided again to extend the closure until February 2015.
PROCEDURE AND METHODOLOGY The Study Site This study was undertaken in Barangay Kinabuhayan, Dolores, Quezon, about 98 km southeast of Manila. Yearly pilgrimage and camping of visitors (either for religious or recreational purposes) are held here, especially during the Holy Week. Data Gathering Technique
15 Calanog, L., et al (2010), A Comprehensive Diagnostic Assessment to Enhance Ecotourism in Barangay Kinabuh ayan and Taytay in Mt. Banahaw-San Cristobal Protected Landscape (MBSCPL), Unpublished. 12
Interviews were conducted among randomly selected seventy (70) respondents comprising of local officials like Barangay Chairman and Councilmen, religious and other recognized leaders; DENR officials like the Protected Area Superintendent (PASU), Asst. PASU, City and Municipal Environmental officers, PAMB member; campers; and local farmers and residents. Distributions of respondents are in Annex A. Data Analysis All the data and information generated were tabulated and arranged according to the three major questions raised in this study. Simple statistical tools like frequency counts, percentages, and ranking were used in the analysis. RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS Environmental Problems in Barangay Kinabuhayan Table 1 shows that illegal logging was found to be the number one environmental problem observed in MBSCPL, particularly in Barangay Kinabuhayan, as mentioned by 12 or 17.14% of the respondents. Second, was the improper waste segregation (11 or 15.71%), and tied in third were uncollected garbage and improper sewerage system (10 or 14.29%, each). Other environmental problems identified were: (a) presence of informal settlers; (b) use of pesticides and insecticides; and (c) illegal entry of mountaineers. Table 1. Observed Environmental Problems in Barangay Kinabuhayan Environmental Frequency Percentage Ranking Problems Illegal logging 12 17.14 1 Waste segregation 11 15.71 2 Uncollected 10 14.29 3 garbage Improper sewage 10 14.29 3 system Informal settlers 8 11.43 4 (settling on the edge of the mountain Use of pesticide 7 10.00 5 and insecticide Illegal entry of 6 8.57 6 mountaineers No answer 6 8.57 6 TOTAL 70 100.00 13
Uprooting of trees brought about by typhoon and flooding of the Barangay were identified as the most identified natural calamities that hit Barangay Kinabuhayan during the survey period as shown in Table 2. Table 2. Natural Calamities Observed and Experienced in Barangay Kinabuhayan Natural Calamities Frequency Percentage Uprooting of trees 33 47.14 due to typhoon Flooding 20 28.57 No answer 17 24.29 TOTAL 70 100.00
To adapt to these natural calamities and environmental problems, the respondents recommended two coping mechanisms. More than half of them mentioned temporary closure or ban of some of the sections of the pilgrim and camping areas (37 or 52.86%), while about one- fourth said strong implementation of RA 9847 would surely help in addressing the escalation, specially the environmental problems (18 or 25.71%) as shown in Table 3. Table 3. Coping Mechanisms to Adapt to Natural Calamities and Environmental Problems in Barangay Kinabuhayan Coping Frequency Percentage Mechanisms Temporary closure 37 52.86 or ban of some of the sections of the pilgrim and camping areas Strong 18 25.71 implementation of RA 9847 (MBSCPL Act) No answer 15 21.43 TOTAL 70 100.00
Current Tourism/Ecotourism Activities in Barangay Kinabuhayan Table 4 shows the respondents listing of current tourism/ecotourism activities in Barangay Kinabuhayan. 14
Table 4. Current Tourism /Ecotourism Activities in Barangay Kinabuhayan Current No. of Percentage Ranking Tourism/Ecotourism times Activities Mentioned Visit to 67 95.71 1 pilgrim/sacred places (bakas, tres personas, kweba, templo, pingkarapaan, pusong bato) Camping 65 92.86 2 Bathing in the river 50 71.43 3 Trekking to 43 61.43 4 Durungawan Nature walk 35 50.00 5 Scenic view of the 30 42.86 6 forest
Top in the list is the visit to pilgrim/sacred places as mentioned by practically all the respondents (67 or 96.00%). The Bakas (Christ footprint) is one famous sacred place where people from all walks of life stop, pray and get miraculous water. Other sacred places, which include Tres Personas church temple, Kweba or Templo, Pinagkarapaan, and PusongBato worship areas, are likewise interesting places to see. Following in the list of tourism/ecotourism activities is camping as mentioned by 65 or 92.85% of the respondents. Camping is one famous activity wherein campers from different places/provinces come and spend one or several nights at the campsite of Kinabuhayan. Many visitors camp as part of their pilgrim activity. Associated with camping are activities, such as praying, bathing in water believed to have a healing power, relaxing at the same time enjoying the beauty of Mt. Banahaw. Other activities enumerated by the respondents are: a. Bathing in the miraculous river (50 or 71.43%). Dipping in the cold waters of Lagnas River and experience the healing effect of water is believed to have therapeutic and healing power is one attraction that keeps visitors coming back to the place. b. Trekking to Durungawan through Dolores Trail (43 or 62.43%). The Dolores trail is the most popular route to Durungawan, the Peak of Mt. Banahaw, and is called the Banahaw 15
de Dolores Climb. There are three famous routes, the Apalihan, the Crystalino and the TatlongTangke routes. Along the Apalihan trail, trekkers can see agroforestry and vegetable farms of local residents of Kinabuhayan. In the Crystalino trail, one will pass by the Crystalino Falls, Suplina Falls, the Salamin Bubog (glass mirror) which is a small pond in which the waters are still as a mirror; the Kweba ng Dios Ama (a sacred cave), the Pintong Lihim (secret door) and the Niluhuran (place where bent trees abound). On the other hand, another route will pass by the Kapatagan (plains) and the TatlongTangke (3 natural water tanks). c. Nature walk/viewing along the trail going to Durungawan (35 or 50.00%). Hiking while enjoying the view of endemic flora and fauna of MBSCPL like jade vine, shooting star, Medenilla and the local Bigonia is a fulfilling and stress-relieving activity. Trekking activity to Durungawan is now closed to the public. d. In addition, scenic view at the MBSCPL Summit (30 or 42.86%). Upon reaching the peak of Durungawan (MBSCPL summit) one can enjoy the scenic vista of Mt. Banahaw forests, reaching an altitude of 2,100 masl. Durungawan is a window place located on top of the mountain where one can gaze at the valleys, towns, and city surrounding the sacred mountain. It is from there that one can feel the ultimate satisfaction of having gone up the mountain. Existing Ecotourism Infrastructure, Facilities and Structures in Barangay Kinabuhayan Almost all the respondents enumerated the following available infrastructure, structure and facilities in Barangay Kinabuhayan,: transportation like jeepneys, tricycles and motorbikes; 24-hour supply of electricity by MERALCO; domestic water supply; strong signals for mobile phones; TV networks that can be viewed and can be used as an avenue for information exchange; converted houses as ecolodges; 935 m of paved Barangay road; two-hectare camping ground planted with Mahogany trees; comfort rooms and shower rooms in strategic areas of the camp site, six worship areas, river bathing areas; path walks, and access trails. Potential Ecotourism Products and Services in Barangay Kinabuhayan The respondents also identified potential ecotourism products and services that can be put up in Barangay Kinabuhayan to make ecotourism work sustainably. Table 5 provides these products and services. 16
Table 5. Potential Ecotourism Products and Services in Barangay Kinabuhayan Potential Ecotourism No. of Percentage Ranking Products and Services times mentione d Village-based 69 98.57 1 agritourism in farm areas Camping in Kapatagan 66 94.29 2 High adventure 65 92.86 3 activities Canopy walk and zip 53 75.71 4 line Nature tourism in 40 57.14 5 Apalihan Geotourism 35 50.00 6 Bird watching 30 42.86 7
These products and services are described further below: a. Village-based agro-tourism in agricultural farm areas: This has high potential and it is only a matter of developing some of these farm areas where visitors can enjoy farming and experience rural life. b. Camping in Kapatagan: Climbing the peak of Durungawan takes whole day and it is advisable to camp in Kapatagan to rest. Kapatagan is an ideal place for camping and other related activities. c. High Adventure Activities: The camping ground can expand its market by establishing several high adventure challenges and facilities for rappelling, canopy walk and zip-lines as well as products that can be offered to prospective clients like Guided Mountain Climbing Trips, Cultural Immersions, Adventure Tours, Team Building Activities, Nature Exposure Trips, and many others. d. Canopy walks (Sky Bridge) and zip line (flying fox) experience in Kinabuhayan: These activities can be introduced near the camping area within the vicinity of the PASU office where ecotourists usually stay and camp yearly. These challenging activities can be enjoyed by perennial visitors. 17
e. Agri-tourism and nature tourism in Tres Piko micro water shed: The potentials for agri- tourism and nature tourism are high within the Tres Piko micro watershed area. This is because, in terms of land use, agroforestry and vegetable farms abound in the place. f. Nature Tourism in Apalihan micro watershed: The Apalihan micro watershed is characterized by having a 30% slope within the entire area and having 70% secondary forest and 30% agroforestry and mahogany plantation and therefore, nature tourism is ideal. g. Geotourism in Tatlong Tangke and Crystalino micro watershed area: Presence of unique landform makes these two micro watershed areas suitable for the implementation of geo- tourism activities. h. Bird watching: Another interesting activity that has high potentials is bird watching. There are many birds in the area that served as attractions to bird lovers. Extreme care, however, are taken in performing this activity, especially in areas that are the habitat of the threatened and endangered species. Recommended Management Structure and Strategies to Sustain Ecotourism in Barangay Kinabuhayan
Barangay Kinabuhayan is under the jurisdiction of the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB). As defined in the NIPAS Law (RA 7586), the PAMB is the highest governing body that, through majority vote of the members, decide on the allocations for budget, approve proposals for funding, decide on matters relating to planning, peripheral protection and general administration of the protected area in accordance with its General Management Plan. Likewise, there is already an appointed Protected Area Superintendent (PASU) in the area, who serves as the Chief Operating Officer. The PASU is assisted by staff to handle all the administrative and regulatory functions defined in the NIPAS Law. Based on the interviews conducted with the PASU and member of the PAMB, and the information generated from the environmental officers, the following management strategies are implemented: a. Reforestation is regularly undertaken every year to help mitigate the adverse impact of climate change. This is funded by both the DENR and partner private institutions. b. Regular patrolling in the area to prevent illegal activities. c. Livelihood projects for the local people for alternative source of income. 18
The MBSCPL’s General Management Plan describes in details the management strategies being applied, such as: (a) adoption and implementation of appropriate management zoning regime that ensures the sustainable and equitable use of its resources; (b) participatory development and implementation of an integrated protection, rehabilitation and management program that safeguards the integrity of MBSCPL as a protected area; (c) research and documentation; (d) organization and mobilization of communities and other stakeholders to support and develop community-based approaches to Park management including the provision of appropriate land tenure security for the tenured migrants residing in MBSCPL; (e) implementation of non-destructive livelihood alternatives that will promote sustainable local economy such as the development and implementation of community-based ecotourism and the establishment of cultural and tropical biodiversity museum; (f) comprehensive, multi-media and aggressive information, education and communication campaigns and social marketing to respond effectively to the PA’s multiple and varied stakeholders; (g) human resources development/capability building to institutionalize and enhance local capacities for park management; (h) creative and sustainable resource generation and mobilization to establish a mixed and varied resource base for the management of MBSCPL; (i) institutionalization of protected area administration and networking with other institutions and organizations for the delivery of basic services, disaster management, legal support and other services including the declaration of the PA; and (j) disaster management.
FINDING AND RECOMMENDATIONS Ecotourism development has environmental, social, and management issues. Environmental problems Illegal logging was found to be the number one environmental problem observed in MBSCPL, particularly in Barangay Kinabuhayan. This is followed by improper waste segregation, and tied in third are uncollected garbage and improper sewerage system. Other environmental problems identified are: (a) presence of informal settlers; (b) use of pesticides and insecticides; and (c) illegal entry of mountaineers. Uprooting of trees brought about by typhoon and flooding of the Barangay were identified as the most identified natural calamities that hit Barangay Kinabuhayan during the survey period. 19
To adapt to these natural calamities and environmental problems, the respondents recommended two coping mechanisms: (a) temporary closure or ban of some of the sections of the pilgrim and camping areas; and (b) strong implementation of NIPAS (RA 9847). Existing and potential ecotourism activities, facilities and structures Barangay Kinabuhayan has a very high potential for ecotourism development. At present, there are basic infrastructure and facilities available in the areas that are necessary to operationalize an ecotourism enterprise. In fact, tourism attractions and activities in the form of camping and religious retreats are held every year, especially during the Lenten season. Necessary facilities and structures are likewise recommended for full operation of the ecotourism projects. Management structure and strategies Necessary management structures are already in place in the area through the PAMB and PASU and staff. Likewise, management schemes like reforestation, patrol activities, livelihood are regularly being undertaken as defined in their General Management Plan. For ecotourism development, the following management strategies should be reviewed: community participation; environmental protection and rehabilitation scheme, like agro-forestry, reforestation to help mitigate adverse impact of climate change; installing warning devices for landslide and flash flood prone areas; environmental campaign and strict enforcement of rules. It is recommended that all strategies pertaining to sustainability of ecotourism in Barangay Kinabuhayan be strongly implemented, particularly on environmental conservation, on encouraging green tourism, and aligning ecotourism to global climate change. 20
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Annex A.
List of Respondents
1. Residents/community 40
2. Farmers 5
3. City Tourism Office of San Pablo Staff 5
4. Recognized Leaders
*M2K Mountaineering and Outdoor Club/Ugnayan ng Mamumundok ng Banahaw 4
5. Campers 3
6. Vendors 3
7. Barangay Kinabuhayan Councilors 2
8. Local Tour guides 2
9. Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Officers of Dolores 1
10. Protected Area Management Board Member 1
11. Protected Area Superintendent 1
12. Assistant PASu, Mt. Banahaw-San Cristobal Protected Landscape/DENR 1
13. City Environment and Natural Resources Officer of San Pablo 1
14. Brgy. Chair of Brgy. Kinabuhayan 1
15. Religious Sector 1
Total 70