Creating stakeholder-driven indicators for evaluating sustainability of ecotourism destinations in the Philippines

Sustainability has been a primary concern in various ecotourism destinations in developing economies. Several concepts relating to sustainable development have been introduced to tourism stakeholders. Most of them are identified indicators evaluating destinations’ sustainability. However, concerns on the compatibility of objectives and perceptions of local tourism stakeholder vis-à-vis internationally-identified indicators have been raised. This study intends to create stakeholder-driven indicators to evaluate the sustainability of ecotourism destinations specific to the Philippines. Indicators will be determined by conducting focus group discussion and in-depth interviews involving tourists, government authorities, tourism businesses, tourism industry practitioners, and academe/scholars. Results will aid in identifying specific areas for policy interventions