Establishing, Piloting, and Evaluating Community-Managed Tour Trek in Sagnay, Camarines Sur

Tourism has always been regarded as one of the Philippines’ most important industries and a major source of revenue. Different destinations in the country are known for their cultural diversity and natural beauty. In fact, many sites are still left to be explored and developed. This study assessed the local community’s perception of tourism development in Sagñay, Camarines Sur and aimed to propose a community-managed tour trek. Interviews, surveys, ocular visits, and mock tours were conducted to achieve the objectives of the study. Results show that the local community perceives that tourism development in the area can be a tool to help the community through improved livelihood, environmental protection, and cultural appreciation. The local community recognizes the importance of tourism development and the need for participation of all the stakeholders. Meanwhile, the proposed community-managed tour trek based on the inventory of tourism products highlights the natural and cultural resources of Sagñay, Camarines Sur. The local community was tapped as the primary stakeholders together with the local government unit. A pilot test was conducted to evaluate the proposed trek and provide a suitable offering to prospective tourists. Furthermore, the study shows the need for strong commitment among the local community and the local government to assure the successful management of the proposed community-managed tour trek. It has the potential to have a significant impact, particularly in terms of improving the community’s welfare in the future.


Introduction
The continuous development of the tourism and hospitality industry has been a worldwide phenomenon. It has opened opportunities for economic growth, socio-cultural development and environmental protection among others. The industry encompasses different sectors providing the necessary services and support to visitors. Over the years, community involvement has been recognized as one of the important success indicators in tourism development. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) International has put emphasis on the involvement of local cultures and people in tourism trade. The local community should actively participate in decision-making and reap equitable share of tourism benefits (Perrin, 2001). The United Nations established the Sustainable Development Goals in 2017. It is a blueprint for everyone to have a better and more sustainable future. There are 17 sustainable development goals to address the global challenges that many people are facing, including poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, prosperity, peace, and justice.
The Goals interconnect is aimed to be achieved on 2030 (UNWTO, 2017).
In the Philippines, tourism development is a shared responsibility of the national and local government. Various laws comprise the responsibilities of the national and local government. Tourism development and promotion are mandated by law through the Local Government Code (RA 7160) and the Tourism Act of 2009 (RA 9593). These responsibilities in tourism development requires an effective system to manage and control government initiatives.
Furthermore, Department of Tourism (DOT) implements a top to bottom approach to monitor initiatives which starts from the national level down to the local government units. In this approach, the community plays an important role in the decision-making process.
Different studies discussed how community-based institutions addressed local needs of the community. Many inaccessible rural and indigenous communities are beginning to be involved in the planning and decision-making process of local governments. Active participation to such has empowered communities to create social enterprises and organizations. These community-based institutions are presently responding to national and global economic opportunities with the local community as the primary beneficiaries. Aside from the economic benefits, community-based enterprises have been a tool towards poverty reduction and environmental protection. There is a need to establish partnerships and linkages to achieve the goals of community-based enterprises. These partners provide range of services, support functions, start-up funds, research, training, legal support, infrastructure and innovation and knowledge transfer (Seixas & Berkes, 2010). The role and participation of tourism stakeholders in the area determines the success of tourism development in a tourist destination (Amerta, 2017).
Community-based tourism in the Philippines has been recognized in different parts of the country. Though not all tourism initiatives focus on community participation, there are institutions and initiatives adopting community involvement in tourism (PATA, 2015 Based on the tourism inventory in the area, a community-managed tour trek was proposed in this study. The development of the tour trek emphasizes the area's natural and cultural resources by adapting the trail development process and identifying the potential trails.
In addition, the local community and the local government unit were identified as key stakeholders.

Community Participation in Tourism Development
Private and public sectors focus on the construction of facilities and infrastructures to attract visitors with the goal of gaining economic benefits. However, this led to environmental and social issues. Little attention was given to the negative effects of development initiatives towards the local community. The projected benefits supposed to be earned sacrifices the wellbeing of the local community. In the long run, the aesthetic value of the place diminishes to the extent that destinations attract low-spending mass tourism. This poses socio-economic and environmental problems since tourism development relies on the environmental and sociocultural resources. Thus, over the years, studies show that community involvement serves as an indicator towards success and sustainability (McIntosh & Goeldner, 1986;Timothy, 1999;Tosun, 2000).
Community involvement works better if the residents receive direct benefits from tourism development. However, benefits are often limited to a number of people who have the financial resources to capitalize on existing potential. For residents to receive benefits from tourism development they must be given opportunities to participate in, and gain financially from, tourism. However, benefits from tourism are often concentrated in the hands of a limited number of people who have the capital to invest in tourism at the expense of other segments of the community (e.g. lower class, uneducated and poor people). Therefore, tourism benefits and costs should be distributed more equally within the local community, allowing a larger proportion of the local population to benefit from tourism expansion, rather than merely bearing the burden of its costs.
One example is Boracay Island which is a famous attraction in the Philippines.
Development initiatives bloomed like mushroom due to the marketability of the place. However, the welfare of the local community and the environment were sacrificed. This led to the closure of the growing tourism zone in Boracay in in the year 2018. The President of the Philippines ordered the closure of Boracay Island for rehabilitation purposes to mitigate the negative impacts to the natural environment and the local community. This scenario occurred due to the lack of involvement of the local community. Many businessmen capitalize on the natural resources of Boracay, displacing many locals, and destroying the environment. Instead of generating positive impacts and experiencing benefits, the issues led to a challenging call for change and protection.

Community-Managed Tourism Enterprises and Activities
Community-based enterprises are widely implemented in different parts of the world.
Different studies discussed how community-based institutions addressed local needs of the community. Many inaccessible rural and indigenous communities are beginning to be involved in the planning and decision-making process of local governments. Active participation has empowered communities to create social enterprises and organizations. These communitybased institutions are presently responding to national and global economic opportunities with the local community as the primary beneficiaries. Aside from the economic benefits, communitybased enterprises have been a tool towards poverty reduction and environmental protection.
However, there is a need to establish partnerships and linkages to achieve the goals of community-based enterprises. These partners provide range of services, support functions, startup funds, research, training, legal support, infrastructure and innovation and knowledge transfer (Seixas & Berkes, 2010).
Community-based enterprises are (CBE) created to provide economic and social benefits to the local community (Peredo & Chrisman, 2006

Community-based Tourism Initiatives
Community-based tourism in the Philippines has been recognized in different parts of the  Another emerging type is community-based ecotourism. It is a form of ecotourism that emphasizes the development of local communities and allows local residents to have substantial control over and involvement in its development and management, and also a major proportion of the benefits within the community. This form of ecotourism allows the participants of the cooperative to share the environment and their way of life with visitors. While increasing local income and building local economies, community-based tourism allows communities to participate in the modern global economy while cultivating a sustainable source of income and maintaining their way of life (Ladaga, 2018). Thus, community participation is a major success factor in tourism development. Many countries and programs have exhibited the benefits of involving and empowering the local community in tourism development.

Theoretical framework
The Trail Development Process (TDP) was adapted to guide the research (figure 1).

Figure 1
Trail The TDP is a scalable process, suitable for the development of a local trail for a small community (State of Western Australia, 2019). The study adapted this process and implemented steps 1-5 as specified in table 1.

Site Assessment
Broad-scale study of the area and identification of opportunities, constraints and characteristics such as soil types, vegetation etc.

Concept Planning
Identification of opportunities and conceptual trail plan, including walking trail maps and infrastructure requirements.

Evaluation
Detailed assessment of trail maps for use in determining the final trail. Validation with stakeholders will be conducted.

Methodology
The data collection technique was directed by the trail development process and defined objectives. The researcher evaluated the location to determine the tourist components and conducted a meeting with stakeholders to determine which potential trails to consider. To assess future tourist demands, a visitor preferences survey was conducted. Using the established criteria, the trails that were considered were identified and mapped. The sites were assessed in order to determine the potential trails and propose tour trek packages. Stakeholder validation was also carried out. A series of mock tours were conducted to create the suitable tour trek itinerary. Selected government employees, tourism practitioners and faculty evaluated the proposed itineraries. An itinerary was developed and pilot-tested for evaluation.
The respondents of the study were the stakeholders in Sagñay, Camarines Sur. Random Sampling technique was used in the study. Percentage Technique and weighted mean were used to analyze the data gathered. The primary sources of data are the on-site visitors, previous visitors, local residents, tourism experts and LGU officials.

Local community perception on potential tourism development
The local FRPPXQLW\ ¶V perception towards tourism development is an important factor to achieve sustainability. Different cultures and customs exist in different societies which are affected by tourism development. Local communities in developing nations are required to engage in and manage tourist activities. The mixed perception about the tourism development in the study area reflects that direct benefits through tourism hold positive perception and attitudes while those who have not received any tangible benefits hold negative attitudes about the tourism development.  The respondents perceive that tourism development in the area can be a tool to help the community through improved livelihood, environmental protection, and cultural appreciation.
However, the respondents disagree that there will be increased crimes and competition of resources among the locals and visitors. Respondents agree that the local community should be involved in the decision-making process when it comes to policy formulation. This shows that the local community recognizes the value of tourism development in the area, as well as the need for participation from all stakeholders. As a result, community involvement might be used to help regulate tourism in the area.

Inventory of Tourism Products in Sagñay, Camarines Sur
The tourist product is the sum of a tourist's physical and psychological experiences when visiting a destination. It is a composite product, consisting of a collection of services such as tourist attractions, transportation, accommodation, and entertainment that provide visitor satisfaction. Each aspect is supplied by individual service providers. The potential attractions and activities in Sagñay, Camarines Sur varies from natural, cultural, and man-made. Table 3 shows the inventory of existing and potential tourism products, location, approximate distance from the information center and activities in the site.     Sto 1L R %HDFK 6WR 1L R Visitors may experience local traditions and cuisine through the numerous locally-owned food establishments offering local food and delicacies in the site. Cottages and room accommodations are also available in private resorts along the shoreline. Community immersion is also a must-experience activity. Locals are known to be hospitable and fun-loving.

View of Atulayan Island from the mainland Atulayan island beachfront
Atulayan Island (Figures 6 & 7) is noted as a pristine white sand island whose name was based on the local dialect for snail, atol. From afar, it is considerably a snail-shaped island. A 20-minute boat ride from Nato Wharf will lead to the soothing crystal clear waters.  Diving is a must-experience activity guided by local professional and registered divers upon request, A notable practice in the area is the continuous environmental awareness drive and monitoring conducted by the local government unit to educated locals of the important practices to protect and preserve the sanctuary.

b. Cultural Attractions and Events
Visitors can see and experience mankind's physical and intellectual creations at cultural places. Culture encompasses everything created by humans in its broadest meaning; nonetheless, certain achievements leave a stronger effect than others. 6DJ D\ is also known for festive and colorful celebrations commemorating feast days and the home one of the oldest church in the area. The local people are known to be pious and hospitable. Many visitors participate in 38 | International Journal of Academe and Industry Research, Volume 3 Issue 4 festivals, feast days and other activities. There are also groups of indigenous people in some parts of the municipality. The previous table (Table 3) lists Cultural Attractions and Events, its location, approximate distance from the information center and activities.     Found at the town center, the stone church attracts visitors with its architectural design and rich history. It is an iconic attraction and place of worship at the town center.

c. Man-made Attractions
Man-made attractions are described as human-made attractions with the goal of leaving a lasting impression. Among the interesting man-PDGH DWWUDFWLRQV LQ 6DJ D\ LV WKH 3DWLWLQDQ 5HVW House or Rest Area and the Partido Riviera viewing deck. TAs shown in Table 3, the following are the man-PDGH DWWUDFWLRQV LQ 6DJ D\  Area where complete facilities waits for those who want to take a break from road travel.

Community-Managed Tour Trek
Community-based tourism is a type of tourism in which tourists are invited into local communities to learn about their culture and daily lives. It is a type of sustainable tourism that allows visitors to build deep bonds with the communities they visit. Visitors can meet with the local people, learn about the diversity and customs of another region and consider homestays, farm visits, group cooking and crafting, storytelling, village excursions, and other activities that provide insight into their daily lives.

Figure 16
Tourist Map of Sagñay, Camarines Sur Source: http://tourism.sagnay.gov.ph/index.php/products-and-services The local tourism office headed by Ms. Cathe Ortinero believes that Sagñay has great potential as a tourist destination. The LGU recognizes tourism as an important tool to boost their economy. One of the initial steps conducted by the local government unit was the identification of tourist attractions in the area. A map (Figure 16) was developed to highlight points of interest in the town. Based on the identified potential tourist attractions and activities in Sagñay, a community-managed tour trek was developed by the researcher in consultation with the tourism officer. Attractions and activities included in the proposed tour treks were also based on the survey conducted in the municipality. The following are the proposed tour trek developed by the researcher and approved by the local tourism officer.

Figure 17
Day Tour Package A The Sample Package Tour A shown in Figure 17 is a sightseeing day tour along the Sibaguan, Patitinan and Nato. It showcases the magnificent Sibaguan Falls, Patitinan Rest area and Nato Beach. Visitors will participate in a cultural walk that includes an adventure trek to the multi-tiered Sibaguan waterfalls, interaction with locals, shopping of local woven products, beautiful seascapes from viewing decks, and the relaxing aura of Nato Beach while dining in local food establishments of their choice.
Creating a positive interaction between locals and tourists is one of the most important aspects of attaining and maintaining sustainable tourism development in a region. Tourists' experiences and perceptions of the visited destination, as well as residents' acceptance and tolerance of tourists, are influenced by the quality of interaction between tourists and residents (Armenski et al., 2011).

Figure 18
Day Tour Package B The Day Package Tour B shown in Figure 18 is an adventurous escapade to Patitinan Beach, Partido Riviera, Sibaguan Falls and Nato Baeach. Visitors will experience a 15-minute boat ride from Bongalon Port to Patitinan White beach, guided trek to Sibaguan Falls and local immersion at Nato Beach to end the day while relaxing and dining at sunset. This tour package is for the adventurous types who want to engage in trekking, swimming, and social interaction. The highest level of interaction between locals and visitors is the formation of a desire to share knowledge and experience.

Figure 19
Overnight Tour Package The Overnight Tour Package shown in Figure 19 highlights the beauty of the mostvisited sites in Sagnay and the importance of social interaction and cultural understanding to improve the quality of relationships between locals and visitors. Visitors will trek to Sibaguan Falls, experience local hospitality at Patitinan Rest Area, appreciate the overlooking view of seascapes at Partido Riviera, dine in different local food establishment and relax while watching the sunset at Nato Beach, and be amazed by the amazing waters and views of Atulayan Island.
Community-managed tourism provides for more interaction with local inhabitants while also providing better economic and environmental benefits. Developing a tour package that encourages meaningful interaction among locals and visitors promote better sustainable tourism practices and multi-cultural understanding. Involving the community empowers the local people.
It may also inspire them to contribute to the protection of their local area since they are part of the decision-making process.
On the other hand, the researcher also developed a Tri-fold Information Sheet for potential visitors. Figure

Evaluation of the Community-Managed Tour Trek
The site assessment, tourism products inventory identification of trails, and mock tours led to the proposal of tour trek packages. The pilot test was conducted with participants including tourism professionals, tourism graduates, individuals who completed the Tour Guiding Course and the tourism officer of Sagnay, Camarines Sur. The tourist attractions visited were based on the previous mock tours conducted. The participants rated the itinerary based on the distributed questionnaire.
Community service providers and establishments were tapped for the pilot test. However, there were very few who committed to provide services on-call depending in the offered itinerary. The researcher observed that though there are many local food establishments, most of them are not ready to provide service outside store dining premises. Transport vehicles are also limited and rented vehicles are advisable.

Figure 22
&XVWRPHU 6HUYLFH 7UDLQLQJ DW 6DJ D\ YLD 6$&72'(9 3URJUDP On the other hand, there are many beneficiaries of the training for tour guiding conducted by the Local Government Unit and various tourism services trainings like first-aid, basic water survival, customer service, tour guiding, conducted by the Partido State University SACTODEV Program ( Figure 22). Based on the conducted pilot test, an evaluation was conducted using the aspects indicated in the questionnaire (See Appendices). The first part aimed to assess the visitor experience and the second part aimed to evaluate the specific aspects of the tour which includes amenities, attractions, activities, tour staff and tour itinerary. Each aspect includes different indicators to evaluate the tour trek. The evaluators include tourism professionals, tourism graduates and individuals who completed the Tour Guiding Course.

Accessibility of the Site
The transport and transport infrastructure to reach the destination and at the destination. for the adventurous types who want to engage in trekking, swimming, and social interaction. Table 5 shows the evaluation results of the respondents on the community-managed tour trek which includes the following aspects:

a. Accessibility of the Site
One of the important aspects of tourism development is accessibility. Accessibility pertains to the transport and transport infrastructure to reach the destination and the mode of transfers while staying in the destination.

b. Amenities on the Site
Amenities are also essential elements within the destination. It includes the facilities available at the destination which help in meeting the needs and wants of tourists. These facilities are purpose-built around the needs and wants of the potential visitors from targeted segments in quantities identified by market feasibility studies. Table 5 shows that the food and beverage services, souvenir outlet, public restrooms, garbage disposal system and water supply were rated very good. While, the communication network and power supply are also good. This implies that while amenities are very good, there are rooms for improvement to better serve the visitors.

c. Attractions on the Site
Attractions are considered to be the pull factor in destinations. They provide enjoyment and education as well as fulfil recreation and leisure necessities. Attractions refer to the points of interests visited like natural, man-made, cultural, and social attractions. The attractions visited as indicated in Figure 18 includes Patitinan Beach, Partido Riviera, Sibaguan Falls and Nato Baeach. Visitors experienced a 15-minute boat ride from Bongalon Port to Patitinan White beach, guided trek to Sibaguan Falls and local immersion at Nato Beach to end the day while relaxing and dining at sunset. Table 5 shows that the respondents rated the natural attractions as excellent, man-made and social attractions as good and cultural attractions as fair. This implies that natural, man-made and social attractions are the strong points of the destination.

d. Activities on the Site
Activities available in the destination vary depending on the destination characteristics. It ranges from soft activities where visitors exert less effort in doing such too hard activities wherein visitors engage in strenuous effort. Available activities are also important attributes that attract visitors. As shown in Table 5, swimming is the excellent activity in the area. Sightseeing is also rated excellent, while trekking and flora and fauna appreciation is rated as very good.
Souvenir shopping is rated as good. This implies that the available range of activities in the area is suitable for visitors.

e. Tour Staff during the tour
Another important factor for visitor experience is the personnel in-charge of the tour services. The service providers have an impact on how the visitors will perceive the place.
Tourism and travel-related services includes services provided by accommodation and food and beverage establishments (including catering), travel agencies and tour operator services, tourist guide services and other related services. Table 5 shows that the respondents rated the tour staff as excellent. The tour staff rated in the tour are the driver and tour guide.

Conclusion
The A community-managed tour trek is suitable in the area but there are limited service providers and locals that are willing to engage in tourism services or provide service outside their store premises. There were conducted trainings for capacity-building but there is no specific sustainable livelihood program that would guide the local community. Therefore, there should be a specific tourism livelihood program to empower and encourage the local people to engage in providing tourism services. The strong commitment among the local community and the local government is vital to assure the successful management of the proposed community-managed tour trek. Tourism development must be seen as an economic multiplier rather than just a seasonal business venture. This is possible if there is private and public partnership in the community to realize the recommended community-managed tour treks.
This study contains new insights on community-managed tourism initiatives that may have substantial impact to the local community in partnership with the local government.
Community participation is a major success factor in tourism development. Many countries and programs have exhibited the benefits of involving and empowering the local community in tourism development. Community-managed tourism allows visitors to learn about local environments while also honoring and respecting indigenous cultures, rituals, and knowledge.
The community will be aware of the commercial and social value placed on its natural and cultural heritage as a result of tourism, which will encourage community-based resource conservation.