Today, the association has 200 members representing 64 families living in communities around the lakes. It operates under a community-based governance structure with elected officers, including a president, secretary, treasurer, and board members responsible for overseeing a range of activities.

Members meet regularly to discuss tourism management and community initiatives, with decisions made collectively through discussion and voting. This participatory approach ensures that all members have a voice in shaping how tourism develops.

Beyond tourism operations, the association also undertakes environmental stewardship activities, including maintaining visitor facilities, cleaning access roads, and supporting park management.

Developing Tourism Experiences from Local Knowledge

Local knowledge has played a key role in shaping tourism activities in the park. Community members have identified suitable hiking routes, birdwatching locations, and areas for boating and kayaking, forming the basis of the park’s ecotourism offerings.

Today, the Balinsasayaw Twin Lakes Farmers Association manages a range of services, including guided nature and birdwatching tours, boating and kayaking on the lakes, food and dining services, and the maintenance of visitor facilities and park areas.

Currently, 19 trained local residents work as tour guides, providing interpretation of the park’s ecosystems and communicating conservation guidelines to visitors.

Tourism activities are carefully managed within designated zones to protect wildlife habitats. Visitors follow specific routes and are accompanied by guides, helping to minimise environmental disturbance while ensuring a high-quality visitor experience.

Building Skills Through Training and Knowledge Sharing

When the initiative began, most residents had no formal experience in tourism. Capacity-building programmes delivered by the Department of Tourism and park authorities therefore played a crucial role in developing the skills needed to manage ecotourism activities.

Community members trained in tour guiding, visitor safety, environmental conservation, and hospitality. Specialised courses included water safety and emergency response. Residents progressively built the confidence and capabilities required to deliver tourism services.

These efforts have strengthened local ownership of the initiative. As one community member explains, “We are motivated because we are the ones managing this place.”

Community Benefits and Local Livelihoods

Tourism revenue generated in the park is managed through the association, providing a structured approach to sharing benefits among members.

Income from guiding, boating, dining services, and other tourism activities is recorded and distributed according to agreed arrangements. A portion of the revenue is allocated to park maintenance and environmental protection, while the remainder supports community programmes and member livelihoods.esses address environmental challenges and improve operational efficiency.

For many residents, tourism complements traditional sources of income and offers a more stable way of life, particularly when visitor numbers are consistent.

Ms Haide B. Zerna, a local tour guide, explains. “Previously, I was a farmer, but now I also work as a local guide. Tourism provides a more stable income when visitors come.”

Environmental Stewardship Through Tourism

Community involvement in tourism has strengthened environmental awareness and protection in the park. Local guides provide visitors with clear guidance on conservation rules and responsible behaviour, helping to reinforce sustainable practices.

Tourism activities are managed within designated routes and activity zones to safeguard wildlife habitats and sensitive ecosystems. Community members also monitor visitor behaviour and work closely with park authorities to support environmental protection measures.

As tourism continues to grow, this collaborative approach ensures that conservation remains a top priority.

Interviewees