Philippine E-Journals

Sustainability Assessment of Selected Philippine Accredited Farm Tourism Sites: Basis for Proposed National Accreditation Guidelines

Benigno Glenn R Ricaforte

 

Abstract:

Anchored on Triple Bottom-line Approach to sustainability, the study aimed to fill the policy and accreditation gaps of five accredited farm sites representing the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon (CALABARZON), Philippines using the criteria and indicators of sustainability for management, socio-economic impacts, cultural impacts and environmental impacts. With AskExamine-Initiate-Options-Undertake (AEIOU) Participant-oriented evaluation model as a framework, the study used cumulative program implementation case study utilizing Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s (GSTC) Destination Criteria. Results showed that all the tourism business entities studied complied with national laws and anchored in education. The tourism facility’s operation did not jeopardize the integrity of community resources. The business provided fair wages and they employed and empowered women. They also informed visitors about the history, meaning, and fragility of the resources vis-à-vis with respect in viability and diversity of the biosphere. An accreditation policy guideline applicable to Philippine situation was proposed. However, provision of employees’ training like food sanitation and customer service is necessary. Incorporate climate change education and ethno-botanical profiling in the operation. To benefit from the Philippine Farm Tourism Development Act of 2016, the government shall draft the implementing rules and regulations and review the Executive Order No. 292.