Tourists Perception and Willingness to Pay for the Conservation of Ecotourism Resources in Sohoton Cove, Surigao del Norte, Philippines

Abstract

Sustainable management of tourism resources was formulated to address the need for environmental issues and threats that may harm very significant tourist spots. However, multi-stakeholder fora often neglect the importance of tourists’ perception and views for the conservation of resources. This study determines the understanding of tourists visiting Sohoton Cove in Surigao del Norte, which specifically aimed at determining tourist’s profile, satisfaction level of their experience, and willingness to pay for the conservation of ecotourism resources. A self-made validated interview schedule was designed to gather information, and a total of 169 tourists were the respondents of the study. Results indicated an increase in tourist arrival over the past seven years, and a good number of international tourists had visited the area. Tourists pointed out activities they like, such as the passing through the Sohoton cove and jellyfish encounter. They also emphasized the need to improve and provide enough safety equipment for visitors. The majority of the tourists were more willing to pay to experience the scenic attraction that Sohoton Cove offers. In general, tourists express the value of conserving the Sohoton Cove for the sustainability of tourism activity.