Assessing Eco-Friendly Initiatives in Local Destinations: The Case of Davao City

Abstract: Davao City, one of the leading urban centers in the Philippines, has positioned itself as a pioneer in integrating sustainability into local tourism. This study evaluates the eco-friendly initiatives undertaken by the city and assesses their impact on tourism, local communities, and environmental management. By utilizing a mixed-methods approach combining surveys, interviews, and field observations, this research explores the implementation, effectiveness, and challenges of programs such as ecological waste management, community-based tourism, and sustainable accommodations. The findings reveal a high level of awareness among tourists and a strong commitment among stakeholders, yet point to persistent challenges in infrastructure, policy enforcement, and community engagement. This paper concludes with recommendations to reinforce eco-tourism strategies in Davao City and offers insights for other urban destinations in the Global South.