The Socio-Economic and Environmental Impacts of Eco-Tourism: The Alaminos City Case

Abstract

This study attempts to find out the impact of ecotourism in Alaminos City, Pangasinan particularly in the case of the Hundred Islands National Park. To assess the impact of eco-tourism in Alaminos City, the researcher used questionnaires, interviews and observations in the Hundred Islands National Park. Additional information data were obtained from government agencies such as the Department of Tourism, Philippine Tourism Authority, Provincial Tourism Office and the Alaminos City Hall especially from the City Planning and Development Office. The number of tourist arrivals, existing tourism facilities and infrastructures as well as the existing eco-tourism policies and programs were noted. The study showed that eco-tourism contributed to the economy and to the local people by providing employment opportunities, generating income for the government, and enhancing participation of the local residents in tourism activities. It also contributed in improving and protecting the environment by increasing environmental awareness, formulating and implementing environmental policies, and improving infrastructures. The researcher recommends further improvement of infrastructures and improvement of the functioning of government agencies.