Ecotourism and environmental conservation in the small island of Gaspar, Marinduque, Philippines: A baseline for responsible tourism

This study assesses the ecotourism potential, environmental challenges, and management gaps of Gaspar Island using focus group discussions (FGDs) with local stakeholders and the Tourism Rapid Assessment (TRA) manual. Gaspar Island, part of the Tres Reyes Islands in Barangay Pinggan, Gasan, Marinduque, served as the focal site. The TRA revealed a diverse economic base including fishing, agriculture, seaweed farming, and handicrafts, alongside natural and cultural assets such as coral reefs, caves, and the Kwebungo burial site. These resources offer potential for marine tours, agri-tourism, and cultural workshops. However, the FGDs identified issues, including seasonal tourism dependency, inadequate infrastructure, and unregulated visitor flows. Environmental threats such as waste mismanagement, reef degradation, and overfishing are exacerbated by weak enforcement and fragmented planning. Community engagement is hindered by elite dominance and minimal participation. Current management practices are perceived as reactive and underfunded, prompting calls for stronger policy implementation, environmental stewardship, and inclusive governance. The integration of TRA data and stakeholder input underscores the need to balance development with conservation. Key recommendations include the establishment of marine protected areas, improved waste management systems, and community-led initiatives. Achieving sustainable ecotourism on Gaspar Island will require reforms that promote environmental resilience, cultural preservation, and participatory management.