A Comparative Study of Mangroves Ecotourism Policy Implementation in the Municipalities of Bato and Pandan, Catanduanes

Authors

  • Grace T. Marquez University of Santo Tomas - Legazpi City Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19355670

Keywords:

Mangrove ecotourism, policy implementation, local governance, institutional support, Catanduanes

Abstract

This study examined the implementation of mangrove ecotourism policies in the municipalities of Bato and Pandan in Catanduanes Province. Anchored on policy implementation and local governance perspectives, the research aimed to assess existing policy and legal frameworks, determine the status of implementation, identify factors affecting implementation, and develop a governance framework suited to the local context. Using a mixed-method descriptive design, the study employed documentary analysis and survey checklists administered to selected local officials and stakeholders. Findings revealed that while both municipalities possess ordinances, resolutions, and related documents supporting mangrove ecotourism, implementation remains uneven. Bato demonstrated relatively stronger institutional support and promotional efforts, whereas Pandan showed limited documentation and operational mechanisms. Common challenges identified include weak institutional coordination, limited financial and logistical resources, insufficient trained personnel, and minimal integration into municipal tourism planning. The study concluded that the presence of policies alone does not ensure effective implementation. Institutional commitment, stakeholder collaboration, and sustained support mechanisms are critical to achieving sustainable mangrove ecotourism governance. Based on the findings, a contextualized governance framework was proposed to strengthen coordination, monitoring, community engagement, and policy enforcement in both municipalities.

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Published

2026-03-31

How to Cite

Marquez, G. (2026). A Comparative Study of Mangroves Ecotourism Policy Implementation in the Municipalities of Bato and Pandan, Catanduanes. International Journal of Education, Research, and Innovation Perspectives, 2(3), 2326-2384. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19355670

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