Valuing Nature: Local Residents’ Insights on the Aesthetic and Recreational Benefits of Patungan Beach in Maragondon Cavite, Philippines

Abstract

The Philippines, an archipelagic nation, is renowned for its diverse ecotourism destinations and rich biodiversity. Beach tourism and water-related activities play a vital role in the national economy, contributing significantly to employment and local livelihoods. However, the increasing influx of visitors has led to pressing challenges, including overcrowding, waste accumulation, and environmental degradation. This study evaluates the perceived value of Patungan Beach’s aesthetic and recreational benefits in Maragondon, Cavite, using the Contingent Valuation Method (CVM).  Findings from the logit model indicate that while socio-demographic factors do not directly influence willingness to pay (WTP) for site conservation, environmental awareness and attitudes toward water conservation play a crucial role. A substantial portion of respondents expressed a willingness to contribute to a trust fund and pay an annual environmental fee of PHP 50.00 for the site’s preservation, though WTP declined as the bid amount increased. Notably, 58% of respondents derive direct economic benefits from tourism-related livelihoods, underscoring the site’s economic significance.  The study highlights the need for local government intervention through municipal ordinances that allocate additional funding for the conservation and maintenance of Patungan Beach. Green tourism initiatives can further enhance sustainable ecotourism, balancing environmental preservation with economic benefits. Based on these findings, a Community-Based Sustainable Ecotourism Framework is proposed, focusing on four key pillars: Community Engagement, Sustainable Livelihoods, Environmental Conservation, and Governance & Policy Support. This framework aims to strengthen conservation efforts while ensuring long-term economic opportunities for the local community, fostering a balanced and sustainable approach to ecotourism development.