Residents' Perceptions: Benefits and Concerns of the Proposed Eco-Tourism Development in the BISU-Candijay Fishpond

Tourism continues to play a vital role in advancing economic growth and strengthening cultural identity, with eco-tourism emerging as a sustainable approach that balances livelihood opportunities with environmental protection. In Candijay, Bohol, the proposed eco-tourism development in the BISU-Candijay Fishpond seeks to integrate aquaculture and tourism, making it essential to understand how residents perceive its potential benefits and concerns. The primary objective of this study was to assess the perceptions of residents in Barangay Cogtong regarding the environmental, economic, and socio-cultural impacts of the project, while also identifying their apprehensions about possible risks that may affect their community. To achieve this, the researchers employed a descriptive correlational survey design, administering a structured questionnaire to 50 residents living near the fishpond. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, weighted mean, and chi-square tests of independence to determine patterns of response and the influence of socio-demographic variables on perceptions. The findings revealed that residents strongly recognized the benefits of eco-tourism, particularly in creating jobs, diversifying livelihoods, improving infrastructure, raising environmental awareness, and preserving cultural identity, resulting in an overall composite mean of 3.61. Alongside these positive views, residents also voiced concerns about pollution, improper waste management, livelihood displacement, and the possibility of social conflicts emerging in the community. Statistical analysis further indicated that no significant relationship existed between most socio-demographic variables and perceptions, except for the length of residency, which significantly influenced how residents viewed the project. The study concludes that while residents support the proposed eco-tourism development, they emphasize the need for inclusive planning, sustainable practices, and active community participation to ensure lasting benefits and reduce environmental and social risks.