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Tourism

Harnessing Tourism for Groundwater Conservation in Mt. Makiling

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A study published in the Philippine Journal of Science, titled 'Potential Contribution of Tourism for Groundwater Conservation in Mt. Makiling, Philippines,' has revealed the potential of local tourism to generate significant revenue for the conservation of groundwater resources in Mt. Makiling. The researchers, led by Dr. Margaret M. Calderon, estimated that a water user fee of P75 per visit could generate up to P159.2 million annually, which can be used to improve groundwater conservation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that local tourists' willingness to pay (WTP) an additional fee for resorts in Calamba City and Los Banos, Laguna, could generate up to P159.2 million annually.
  • The mean WTP was estimated at P75 per visit, calculated from a model with bid amounts ranging from P0 to P200.
  • The water user fee can serve as an environmental fee, charged on top of existing resort entrance fees, and can be split, with 50% allocated to pool water quality maintenance and 50% to Mt. Makiling conservation.
  • The study found that the majority of resorts in Los Banos and Calamba City use groundwater without paying for it, resulting in losses to the water district.
  • The researchers encouraged local government units to enact policies based on the study's findings, aiming to inform local policies through science-based evidence.
  • The study proposes a follow-up water accounting and policy advocacy initiative to enable a more comprehensive understanding of the water system and guide sustainable water management strategies.

Statistics:

  • Estimated annual revenue from water user fee: P159.2 million
  • Mean willingness to pay (WTP) per visit: P75
  • Number of resort visitors in Calamba City per year: 2,015,124
  • Number of resort visitors in Los Banos per year: 111,821

Sources:

  • Philippine Journal of Science, 'Potential Contribution of Tourism for Groundwater Conservation in Mt. Makiling, Philippines'
  • Department of Science and Technology (DOST) news release
  • Dr. Margaret M. Calderon interview with DOST

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