Ann Mizer Hernandez, Puvaneswaran Kunasekaran, Lazey Doma Bhutia

Abstract: This paper assesses the readiness of the Dumagats Indigenous Peoples for community-based ecotourism (CBET) development in Gen. Nakar, Quezon, Philippines. The study explored if there is a presence of congruence between their attitude on sharing their knowledge, systems, and practices to tourists and their willingness to participate in community-based ecotourism development. It also identified the specific training programs essential for equipping the community with the necessary skills for CBET. The assessment is based on the results of observations during focus group discussions, in-depth interviews with the elders and key leaders, and workshops. The results show that members of the indigenous community have a positive attitude towards sharing their KSPs (Knowledge, Belief Systems, and Practices), willing to undergo various trainings so that they could be equipped with different skills on CBET, and ready to take part in CBET based on the different preconditions set. It is recommended that the community should increase their effort in protecting their natural environment and cultural heritage, enhance their effort on maintaining their relationships among the community, government, and other stakeholders, and community empowerment must be addressed to achieve the results of CBET.

Keywords: Community-based ecotourism, indigenous peoples, attitude, knowledge, systems, and practices, Dumagats

Suggested citation: Hernandez, A. M., Kunasekaran, P., & Bhutia, L. D. (2026). Readiness of the Dumagats Indigenous People in Gen. Nakar, Quezon, Philippines for community-based ecotourism development. Asia-Pacific Journal of Innovation in Hospitality and Tourism, 15(1), 21–33.