Perceived Tourism Impacts of Tourists on the Environment of the Philippine Military Academy in Baguio City, Philippines

Abstract

There has been an incredible increase in tourism activities in the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio City, specifically at the Philippine Military Academy over the years. Unfortunately, these tourism activities led to the growth of a variety of environmental pressures. An environment-friendly or a sustainable form of tourism is seen as a solution to this growing problem. A perception analysis of tourists on the impacts of tourism on the environment of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) was undertaken. This is a practical approach to gain information about the extent of environmental effects of tourism activity which will also identify areas that can be improved. The study adopted a survey research design with 109 PMA visitors, mainly women (63.3%), that are randomly selected. Respondents were surveyed through an online questionnaire from February to April 2019. Results of this study revealed that tourism has a moderate impact on the environment of PMA as perceived by the tourists on the different aspects of tourism including: general management, commercial areas, tourist routes and facilities. It also shows that respondents, regardless of gender, have a considerable level of awareness and concern about the effects of tourism on the PMA environment. Although considered as an environmental disturbance it is also offered that when managed properly, tourism is a positive activity benefiting the host community, environment and all stakeholders alike.