Community-Based Coastal Tourism for Sustainable Beach Resort Development

Abstract

Community-Based Tourism (CBT) is recognized as a sustainable tourism approach that promotes local economic development, community participation, and environmental conservation. This study assessed the influence of CBT on the sustainable development of beach resorts in Balatan, Camarines Sur by examining its impact on community participation, determining its economic, socio-cultural, and environmental benefits, identifying implementation challenges, analyzing the relationship between the level of influence and perceived benefits, and proposing a Community-Based Tourism Development Plan. A descriptive-correlational research design was employed involving 150 purposively selected respondents comprising local residents, tourists, private establishment representatives, and Local Government Unit personnel. Data were analyzed using frequency distribution, weighted mean, ranking, and Chi-square test. Results revealed that CBT positively influenced community participation across economic, socio-cultural, environmental, politico-administrative, and civic dimensions and generated significant benefits in employment, community development, safety, and environmental awareness. The major challenges identified were inadequate product development training and limited tourism-related skills. A significant relationship was found between the level of influence and the perceived benefits of CBT (χ² = 204.131, p < .05). The study concludes that strengthening capacity-building programs, product innovation, and multi-sectoral partnerships is essential for sustaining community participation and enhancing the long-term development and competitiveness of beach tourism in Balatan, Camarines Sur.