ANALYSIS OF STAKEHOLDERS’ KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ATTITUDES, AND PRACTICES: INPUTS FOR COMMUNITY-BASED ECOTOURISM ENTREPRENEURSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN TINORIAN RIVER, ILOILO, PHILIPPINES

Abstract

Ecotourism offers a promising pathway for sustainable development by integrating environmental conservation, community engagement, and economic opportunities. Barangay Tinorian in Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo, Philippines, exemplifies the potential for community-based ecotourism focused on the Tinorian River. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and practices of local stakeholders in ecotourism entrepreneurship and environmental conservation. It identified needs and gaps in their current engagement with ecotourism. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combined quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with residents, community leaders, business owners, entrepreneurs, and government agencies. The findings showed that stakeholders possess moderate knowledge of environmental conservation principles and business management. While they demonstrate strong technical skills in ecotourism and positive attitudes towards sustainable ecotourism, their practical engagement in ecotourism activities remains moderate. Through Focused Group Discussions (FGD) and Key Informant Interviews (KII), the study identified the need for greater community involvement in decision-making, stronger conservation efforts, and the integration of cultural preservation into ecotourism. The study also identified potential socioeconomic benefits of ecotourism, such as income generation and job creation, while acknowledging identified challenges. These insights were used to develop targeted capacity-building programs to enhance stakeholders' knowledge and skills, promote community-based tourism enterprises, and foster partnerships between local government, NGOs, and grassroots organizations. The recommendations from the study emphasized the importance of institutional support and policy frameworks to ensure sustainable ecotourism development. A strategic roadmap was developed to leverage ecotourism and conduct participatory community extension programs to translate knowledge into effective conservation actions and sustainable ecotourism entrepreneurship.