Sustainability and viability of community-based coastal tourist destinations: A working example of a local community in Aklan

Abstract

This study sought to determine the sustainability and viability of community-based coastal tourist destinations in a local community in the Province of Aklan. There were 9 key informants as participants included in this study who were selected using purposive sampling and the data were collected using researcher-made semi-structured interview guide. The study utilized qualitative research design employing constructionism epistemological perspective. The use of Creswell method of data analysis was used in interpreting the qualitative aspect of the study by obtaining information and insights from the participants. For concrete coding process, the researcher made use of a computer-aided software NVIVO. The researchers have drawn the following conclusions: the community-based coastal tourist destinations in Aklan are characterized by potential tourist attraction and amenities; the sustainability of community-based coastal tourist destinations in Aklan is supported by funding for Development Projects through donation from foreign source and projects initiated by Non-Government Agency. Environmental initiatives include total clean up, tree planting and mangrove planting, guardian against illegal activities are undertaken in the community, and marine conservation like sanctuary support and coral planting are continuously pursued; the viability of community-based coastal tourist destinations in Aklan is evidenced by the community engagement such as fishermen livelihood, employment and local support, resort collaboration, security services, and cultural events particularly balsa race and the economic diversification is fish drying, community grouping for economic benefit and poultry and egg production, and there are recognized challenges and issues such as deforestation, diminishing fish catch, extinction of blue starfish but the local government unit, resort owners and the community offer solutions, interventions and strategies such as reforestation, waterfall preservation, waste management attendance, kiosk design, sanitation, and community organizing.