Perception and Acceptability of Rice Cake Vendors on Community-Based Tourism (CBT) in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro

Abstract

The allure of a destination often lies in the unique and authentic connections with local communities. In line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 11, which advocates for sustainable cities and communities, community-based tourism (CBT) has emerged as a promising approach. Recognizing the potential of CBT, this study delves into the perceptions and acceptance of this concept among community members and rice cake vendors in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro, Philippines. Rice cake, bibingka in Filipino language, holds deeper significance for these vendors. It embodies their cultural heritage passed down through generations. By embracing CBT, they can transform their passion into a sustainable livelihood, not only for themselves but for their entire community and the whole tourism industry of the province. Adopting a quantitative approach, this study employs a CBT framework with a supplementing focus on community capital. Through mapping and observation of the research locale, community capital includes built, human, and political. The findings also reveal a positive correlation between the community’s perception and acceptance of CBT. This encouraging outcome signifies that the community has met the first consideration of embracing CBT-they have their eyes wide open. It is therefore recommended that consistent and inclusive programs from various stakeholders be in place to enhance the existing knowledge of the CBT concept towards strong community organization building. Future researchers may assess tourists’ experiences and satisfaction with the current offering of rice cake as a CBT product for planners’ and policymakers’ prospect program implementation.