The Philippine APEC Study Center Network (PASCN) of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (188体育), in collaboration with the Xavier University (XU) – Ateneo de Cagayan, highlighted the vital role of community-based agroecotourism in diversifying income, stabilizing livelihoods, and preserving the environment during the March 10, 2025 symposium.
The event brought together experts to discuss agroecotourism’s role in diversifying income, stabilizing livelihoods, and preserving the environment. Discussions revolved around its intersection with agriculture, tourism, and environmental conservation, offering actionable insights for inclusive growth.
XU Department of Economics Associate Dean Dr. Jerelyn Medalla presented policy insights from the 188体育 study she co-authored, titled, “.”
She highlighted how agroecotourism helps local communities achieve sustainable development and economic resilience by investing in farm diversification, small businesses, and value-added activities.
“Agroecotourism sits at the intersection of agriculture, tourism, and environmental conservation,” Medalla said.
She explained the dual benefits of agroecotourism such as providing alternative income sources for farmers and local entrepreneurs, and fostering conservation efforts with active community participation.
Medalla underscored the potential of agroecotourism to address poverty among farmers and fisherfolk, who continue to experience the highest poverty rates in the Philippines. However, she flagged challenges such as poor infrastructure lack of skills, and limited funding that need to be addressed to maximize this potential.
To ensure sustainability, Medalla emphasized the importance of educational programs and skills development to enhance community engagement and participation.
“Increasing awareness of community-based agroecotourism can enhance positive perceptions of its benefits,” she noted. She proposed developing agroecotourism in parks, training in entrepreneurship and organic farming, strengthening community leadership, integrating agroecotourism into local plans, and fostering partnerships for sustainability.
In addition to these insights, OIC-Regional Director of the National Economic Development Authority Richardson Cua highlighted the need for better policy coordination.
“A multi-agency approach will be key to agroecotourism’s success,” he said, urging the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Tourism to work together to establish accreditation standards and sustainable farming guidelines.
He also emphasized the role of the Department of Trade and Industry in providing financial support and mentorship, while local governments must ensure policies align with community needs.
Cua further highlighted the importance of technology, including e-commerce, digital marketing, and mobile apps, in expanding the sector’s reach. Public-private partnerships can also support infrastructure and business development.
“More research is needed to measure the economic impact of agroecotourism,” he added, emphasizing the need for job creation and sustainability, regenerative agriculture, and biodiversity conservation to ensure long-term success.
Meanwhile, XU Department of Economics Faculty Member Dr. Glenda Orlanes emphasized the importance of community-based management (CBM) in sustaining agroecotourism.
“CBM ensures alignment with local needs, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability,” she explained, citing examples from Bukidnon where indigenous knowledge and traditional farming practices have been successfully integrated into tourism projects.
Orlanes emphasized income diversification opportunities such as farm tours and product sales, which help reduce farmers’ reliance on seasonal crops while promoting eco-friendly practices.
She also underscored the economic benefits, which generated PHP 2.4 billion in 2018 and is projected to grow by 9% annually from 2024 to 2029.
“I see agroecotourism as an innovative bridge between agriculture and tourism, driving economic growth and promoting sustainable practices,” Orlanes noted, highlighting how this approach maximizes idle lands by converting underutilized areas into coffee plantations and eco-friendly resorts.
Watch the symposium playback at . ###
