Perspective and Experiences of Indigenous People in Ecotourism Areas in Region XII

Marilou  E. Albano,

Perspective and Experiences of Indigenous People in Ecotourism Areas in Region XII

Abstract:

This study tried to gather and compare the perspectives and experiences of Indigenous Peoples in ecotourism areas such as T’boli and Lake Sebu in South Cotabato, Maitum, Kiamba and Glan in Sarangani Province. It utilized quantitative particularly a mixed concurrent method of research via triangulation technique among 151 the respondents. Results indicated that tourists preferred bird watching, observation of IP cultures, and mountain hiking. Furthermore, the comparative results indicated that perspectives and experiences of the IPs in Glan and Maitum were significantly lower when compared to those of the other places in South Cotabato and Sarangani Province. Results of the quantitative analysis yielded a moderate overall mean in both the perception of IPs on ecotourism activities and in the experiences in ecotourism communities. Results of the qualitative analysis uncovered both the favorable and unfavorable experiences of the IPs in ecotourism areas. The favorable experiences referred to progress and development, improvement of their cultural awareness, income generation through several employment opportunities, pride and self-empowerment as indigenous people, opportunity for cultural promotion and conservation, organized place, and unity and cooperation. The unfavorable experiences highlighted pollution, endangered health, vested interest, and restriction of IPs freedom. These results called for responsible program for protection, conservation, preservation and empowerment of IP cultures in ecotourism areas.