“Sustainable Aqua Ecotourism: Analyzing Conservation and Protection Management of Lake Lutayan’’

This study on the conservation and protection management of Lake Lutayan on the community of Sultan Kudarat provided a holistic understanding of how the community and government manages the lake lutayan. This study employed a descriptive research design. The study involved 398 participants from the community in the municipality of Lutayan. The respondents were residents, the public sector (government), the private sector (industry), and potential tourists (visitors), all of whom have varying levels of engagement with the lake’s resources. It also employed a simple random sampling method. Results revealed the community has a growing awareness of biodiversity and commitment to conservation around Lake Lutayan. Hence, gaps remain in addressing the negative impacts of human activities. Governance is crucial, with well-supported policies, but improvements in zoning and fish cage regulations are needed for stronger environmental protection. Enhancing infrastructure, tax management, and cultural heritage preservation will further unlock the lake’s economic and social potential while ensuring long-term sustainability. The researcher recommends strengthening environmental education and community engagement. It is to develop targeted education campaigns to bridge the gap between awareness and action regarding the impact of human activities on the lake.