Determination of Carrying Capacity Estimates of Ecotourism

Attractions in the Quezon Protected Landscape, the

Philippines

A Critic Paper

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements

for the Subject
Environmental Science (MSTE 111)
MW 10:30AM-11:30AM

MARGARETT GABRIELLE L. FAJARDO

March 28. 2023

 The Quezon Protected Landscape in the Philippines is an area of exceptional natural
and cultural beauty, with a diverse range of flora and fauna and important historical and
cultural sites. It is a popular destination for both local and international tourists, who come
to experience the region's unique natural and cultural heritage. However, the development
and management of ecotourism activities in the area must be carefully managed in order to
ensure the long-term conservation of these resources. In this context, the determination of
carrying capacity estimates of ecotourism attractions in the Quezon Protected Landscape
has become a critical issue for sustainable tourism development.

The determination of carrying capacity estimates of ecotourism attraction in the

Quezon Protected Landscape, the Philippines is a topic of great importance in the realm of
sustainable tourism. The study aims to provide insights into the carrying capacity of
ecotourism sites in the Quezon Protected Landscape, in order to guide the development
and management of ecotourism activities in a sustainable manner.

Carrying capacity is defined as the maximum number of visitors that an ecotourism

site can sustain without causing significant damage to the natural or cultural resources.
Determining carrying capacity estimates is therefore an essential part of ecotourism
planning and management. It involves assessing the ecological, social, and economic
impacts of tourism activities, and identifying the limits beyond which these impacts
become unacceptable.

The Quezon Protected Landscape in the Philippines is a popular destination for

ecotourists, but the development and management of ecotourism activities in the area must
be carefully managed to ensure the long-term conservation of natural and cultural
resources. The determination of carrying capacity estimates is an essential part of
ecotourism planning and management, and several studies have been conducted on this
topic in the Quezon Protected Landscape. Gerald T. Eduarte's study employs a
participatory approach that involves local communities and other stakeholders in the
determination of carrying capacity estimates, providing valuable insights into the
development and management of ecotourism activities in the area. However, some
potential limitations include a lack of consideration of cultural carrying capacity and a
focus on quantitative data and surveys. Rogelio Andrada's study also provides a valuable
framework for the determination of carrying capacity estimates of ecotourism attractions
in the Quezon Protected Landscape, emphasizing the importance of a participatory and
multidisciplinary approach to ecotourism planning and management. Overall, sustainable
tourism development in the Quezon Protected Landscape requires a careful balancing of
economic benefits and environmental and cultural preservation.

While the determination of carrying capacity estimates of ecotourism attractions in

the Quezon Protected Landscape such as Malayabas Forest, Pinagbanderahan Peak, and
Pinagbanderahan Trail is an essential topic, there are some limitations and potential areas
that I have observed in the context. One issue is the potential lack of consideration of the
long-term impacts of ecotourism development on the natural and cultural resources of the
area. The focus on short-term economic benefits of ecotourism activities may not account
for the potential negative impacts on the environment and local communities in the long
run.

Another potential limitation is the potential lack of consideration of the equity and
distribution of benefits and costs of ecotourism development. Ecotourism activities may
benefit some local communities while leaving others out or creating unequal distribution
of benefits. Furthermore, the commodification of natural and cultural resources may create
negative social impacts, such as the loss of cultural integrity and identity.

In conclusion, while the determination of carrying capacity estimates of ecotourism

attractions in the Quezon Protected Landscape is an important topic, it is crucial to take
into account the potential limitations and critique the existing studies to ensure the
sustainable development of ecotourism in the region. An approach that considers the long-
term impacts, equity and distribution of benefits and costs, and external factors is essential
for the preservation of natural and cultural resources and the promotion of sustainable
tourism development. The long-term impacts of ecotourism development, the equity and
distribution of benefits and costs, and external factors such as global climate change must
all be considered in the management and planning of ecotourism activities in the Quezon
Protected Landscape.

Overall, the sustainable development of ecotourism in the Quezon Protected

Landscape requires a careful balance of economic benefits, environmental conservation,
and cultural preservation. By taking a comprehensive approach that considers all these
factors, ecotourism can contribute to the long-term preservation of natural and cultural
resources while providing economic benefits to local communities.