Comparative Evaluation of the S&T-Based Mangrove Rehabilitation and Community-Based Eco-Tourism Management Practices in Paraiso Mangrove Eco Learning Park, Marine and Wildlife Sanctuary in Barangay Paraiso, San Jose District, Tacloban City and in Naungan- San Juan Mangrove Planters Association Eco-Park, Ormoc City, Leyte

Abstract

The present study was conducted to describe and compare the S&T-based mangrove rehabilitation strategies and community-based ecotourism management practices between two mangrove eco-parks in the province of Leyte managed by two different groups, the PTFMELPSC and the NSJMPA.

The data collection was conducted through key informant interviews, focus group discussion, semi-structured interviews, document review, and field observation.

It was discovered that the two groups differ in terms of membership/involvement with PTFMELPSC being a cooperative while NSJMPA being an association. However, they share similar best practices in terms of organizational management, mangrove rehabilitation, and ecotourism management. Both groups started the mangrove rehabilitation with the main objective of raising more mangrove trees because they are aware of its various ecosystem services. One notable similarity in the characteristics of the members from both groups is their willingness to volunteer, despite the irregular income from the eco-parks. Both POs distribute the benefits from the mangrove rehabilitation equally among its members in the form of wage for labor rendered. Both groups were strengthened through the assistance from the government, private institutions, and Non-Government Organizations. The two groups were able to innovate in finding an alternative non-extractive source of livelihood by venturing into mangrove ecotourism. The members of both groups undergo capability-building activities, to further upgrade their knowledge and skills in mangrove rehabilitation and in ecotourism.