Blue Tourism Perspectives and Willingness to support among locals of Davao

Abstract

The study aimed to assess the perspectives on blue tourism and the willingness of Davao locals to support it. To gather data, the researchers adapted and modified a questionnaire, which was then administered to 385 residents of Davao City. This research employed a descriptive correlation design, allowing the study to not only measure the levels of the two key variables—blue tourism perspectives and willingness to support—but also examine the correlation between them. The data were analyzed using the Mean and Pearson correlation coefficient (Pearson r). The results revealed that Davao locals have a highly positive perception of blue tourism. The community views blue tourism in the region as economically beneficial and environmentally sustainable. From a social perspective, locals believe that blue tourism is inclusive, ensuring that both residents and visitors are treated well without discrimination. Furthermore, Davao residents express strong enthusiasm for supporting the growth of blue tourism, with many showing a willingness to volunteer their time and resources to aid in the development of marine tourism or to advocate for it. A significant correlation was found between the locals' positive perspectives on blue tourism and their willingness to support its growth. This suggests that the more favorable the perception of blue tourism, the greater the likelihood of locals actively engaging in its development and promotion.