Agri-Tourism in the Philippines (Midterm Review 2022) PDF

**ELECTIVE 2 (MIDTERMS)** **Introduction to AGRI-TOURISM PART 1** **The Rise of Agri-tourism in the Philippines [What is Agri-tourism?]** - The word "***agri-tourism***" is a mash-up of both "***agriculture***" and "***tourism***". - Fundamentally, **agri-tourism** involves an **agricult...

**ELECTIVE 2 (MIDTERMS)** **Introduction to AGRI-TOURISM PART 1** **The Rise of Agri-tourism in the Philippines [What is Agri-tourism?]** - The word "***agri-tourism***" is a mash-up of both "***agriculture***" and "***tourism***". - Fundamentally, **agri-tourism** involves an **agriculturally-based operation or activity that draws visitors to a farm**, ranch or any natural site like pineapple plantations, orchid farms and bee farms for outdoor recreational activities, education, shopping or even lodging. **Note**: Many people are now looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life to get back to nature; resulting in agri-destinations gaining popularity among tourists. Besides, amidst various food scandals, many people have a growing interest in tasting naturally cultivated foodstuffs and finding out more about food production from farmers and processors. - **Agri-tourism** has been present in the Philippines **since the 1990s but was not institutionally defined** then. **Note**: In those early days, most agri-tourism farms were either privately owned or managed. - - **In 1991**, the **Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP)** came together and **formulated the Philippine Tourism Master Plan (TMP)**: aimed at developing tourism on an environmentally sustainable basis. - **In 2002**, the **Department of Agriculture (DAR) and DOT** issued a joint circular that **identified 10 agri-tourism sites in the country.** **Note**: With this accreditation, all sites would have to adhere to the minimum standards prescribed by the Department for all operations and maintenance activities; guaranteeing a satisfactory visit for the tourists. - **At present,** the **Philippines** has a total of **Note**: As a tropical country with an abundance of natural resources, biological diversity and a strong cultural heritage, the Philippines is well-positioned for agri-tourism. - The Philippines also hosts various events, including farmers\' field days and agricultural fairs, which are estimated to be attended by **64,000 tourists each year**. [Fostering talent to develop the industry] ====================================================== - Many academic and tourism experts are tapping on the potential of **agri-tourism to alleviate poverty and promote agriculture courses** in schools and universities. - For instance, some agri-tourism graduates from the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) are currently involved in research and development efforts, and are contributing to the promotion of **Laguna agri-destinations**, such as the **Costales Nature Farms** **Note**: First DOT accredited farm tourism destination in the Philippines [Benefits of Agri-tourism] ====================================== - It has since gained increasing popularity in the Philippines; becoming a profitable and sustainable sector within the tourism industry. **Note**: Since farming considered an integral aspect of Filipino culture, it can easily be cultivated into an agri-tourism activity. Some benefits agri-tourism has brought about include: ===================================================== 1. **[Economic growth]** - Agri-tourism offers a path to **economic development in rural areas**. - Agri-tourists tend to be **more than willing to pay to experience** a unique opportunity to contact nature. - The agricultural sector in the Philippines employs close to 32 percent of the population and contributes approximately 14 percent of national GDP. ================================================================================================================================================== **Note**: Agri-tourism offers a path to leveraging the strong, mature agricultural sector to boost the up- and-coming tourism sector. 2. [Social benefits] ============================= - **Experts estimate** that the **Philippines could create a total of 14.6 million new jobs by 2016** should the country adopt various reforms geared towards improving the business environment, particularly in the sectors of agriculture and tourism. - Using the land for agri-tourism, the state can also achieve a **balance in tourism development between urban and rural areas; spreading the benefits of tourism and contributing to poverty alleviation.** 3. [Heritage and ecological conservation] ================================================== - **Most** of the agri-tourism sites in the Philippines have been established as **World Heritage Sites.** **Note**: As this trend emerges, more farmers are encouraged to preserve their land and prevent agri- land conversion, so as to attract agri-tourists. - The UNESCO appellation is deployed as a promotional tool for Philippines Agri- Tourism to implement conservation and promotional efforts of such sites. ======================================================================================================================================================= - By educating the farmers, a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly way of life can be established, and these agri-tourism sites can achieve full benefits of a sustainable and controlled environment. **Note**: It further encourages participation of the private sector in developing the rural areas. Introduction to AGRI-TOURISM PART 2 =================================== **[What the Philippines has to offer to investors?]** - The **Philippines** is a **developing nation with ideal conditions** which position it as **one of the best destinations for agri- tourism**. 1. [Diverse Geographic Conditions] =========================================== - This is evident from its diversified and unique agri-tourism sites, including the vast pineapple and coffee plantation in Bukidnon, strawberry and organic vegetable farms in Benguet, as well as the farms in Batangas. - Varied offering, this niche tourism segment has been a hit with agri-tourists; bringing much revenue to these agri-companies and farmers. **Note**: The Philippines is the largest archipelago in the world. It consists of around 7,641 islands and covers an estimated 30 million hectares, with about 11 million hectares being agricultural lands. The Philippines offers diverse conditions for agri- tourism. 2. [A relatively English-speaking] [environment] ===================================================================== - Filipino Tagalog and English are both official languages of the Philippines. - This makes it easier for tourists to communicate with the locals; making the country relatively more accessible and tourist-friendly. 3. [Tropical Climate] ============================== - The **Philippines** has a maritime **tropical climate with two distinct seasons** -- the rainy and dry seasons -- making it an ideal place for agriculture. - Located on the **Pacific Ring of Fire**, volcanic activities also ensure the **fertility of the soil16**. - In addition to abundant rain and sunshine, the **wide range of habitats and elevations** account for an incredible **variety of flora and fauna.** 4. [Government initiatives] ==================================== - Tourism and agriculture are the topmost priorities of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) from 2011 to 2016. - The government has increased investment in this sector by 13.6 percent, from PHP196 billion as of 2010 to PHP222 billion in 201118. - The Agri-Tourism Promotion Act was also put in place in 2010 to promote agri-tourism. **Note**: Looking into the future, officials have identified the most promising investment opportunities to lie in providing accommodation of all types, transportation, historical and cultural heritage destinations, ecotourism and agri-tourism. [Other industry sectors that stand to benefit] [from agri-tourism:] =========================================================================================== 1. **[Food and beverage]** - The **harvest season** in the Philippines spells a boon for farmers; bringing in more tourists, and hence a new revenue source, to agri-destinations. - At the same time, food exports from the Philippines including high-grade rice, coconut, mangoes and pineapples, are **exported to countries**, such as the **USA, Europe, Japan and Switzerland.** 2. [Transport Infrastructure] ====================================== - As most agri-destinations are located in rural areas, the transportation infrastructure in the country is relatively underdeveloped. - This could be partly attributed to the mountainous terrain and the scattered geography of the islands. - The influx of tourists calls for better modes of transportation to bring them to and from their destinations. - Such improvements include having accessible roads, installing road signage, and upgrading from gravel to asphalt concrete roads. 3. [Accommodation] =========================== - The **hospitality sector** is e**xpected to add 11,000 new hotel rooms over a span of five years**; including a range of budget and premium hotels. - Meanwhile, the average occupancy rate for hotels was 69 percent in 2011, an improvement from 67 percent in 2010. It is [The future for agri-tourism in the Philippines] [and beyond] ===================================================================================== - Agri-tourism is now seen as a rising star that will contribute to the economic development of the Philippines in the long- term. - The influx of agri-tourists has brought in revenue and created a more ecologically sustainable environment. - This will generate employment in rural areas, where the employment is often most needed, to avoid excessive migration and slum-formation in urban areas. **Note**: There was a time when the Philippines was considered the second wealthiest nation in East Asia, next to only Japan. No doubt the country's state planners hope to recapture this lost economic glory. - The agri-tourism sector in the Philippines is not necessarily a bed of roses. - It is particularly vulnerable to natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons. - Though considerable attention has been paid to disaster management, these efforts are largely concentrated on preparedness and post-disaster response; not so much on prevention and mitigation projects. - Nevertheless, there is vast potential for agri-tourism in the Philippines, thanks to the country's favorable geographical features. =================================================================================================================================== - The Philippines agri-tourism sector may **also spawn imitators across Asia**, as other countries seek to tap into their mature agricultural sectors to grow the economy and nurture high quality jobs in rural areas. Basic Principles of Agri-Tourism PART 3-4 ========================================= **[What is Agritourism?]** - Agritourism is any economic activity that occurs when travel is linked with agricultural products, services, or experiences. [BASIC PRINCIPLES OF AGRI--TOURISM] =============================================== ***Agri - Tourism should ensure the following three basic principles:*** 1. [Have something for visitors to see] ================================================ - Animals, birds, farms and nature are few things which Agri-Tourism could offer to the tourist. - Apart from these, culture, dress, festivals and rural games could create enough interest among visitors in Agri-Tourism. 2. [Have something for visitors to do] =============================================== - Participating in agricultural operations, swimming, bullock cart riding, camel riding, buffalo riding, cooking and participating in the rural games. 3. [Have something for visitors to buy] ================================================ - Rural crafts, dress materials, farm gate fresh agriculture products, processed foods. [ELEMENTS OF AGRI-TOURISM] ====================================== - **Farmer --** Mostly, farmers are less educated, less exposed and innocent. For a farmer, any outsider guest and is treated wholeheartedly without any commercial motive - **Village --** Villages, located far from the city lack urban facilities, but are blessed with natural resources. - **Agriculture --** Rich resources in agriculture namely land, water and plants are unique from place to place bringing diversity and creating curiosity. ### [What entices tourists?] - Desire for peace and tranquility. - Fear regarding international travel and events. - Interests in the natural environment - Disillusionment with overcrowded resorts and cities - Rural recreation - Inexpensive getaway - Curiosity about the farming industry and lifestyle - Desire to provide learning opportunities for entire family ### [Benefits] - Strengthen local economies- new businesses, increased tax revenue, new jobs. - Provide agriculture employment opportunities - Help diversify local economies and preserve rural life - Capitalize on the natural, historical, and cultural resources ### [Opportunities] - Outdoor Recreation - Educational Experiences - Direct Agricultural Sales - Accommodation - Entertainment - Miscellaneous ### [What are the opportunities?] 1. **Outdoor Recreation** Horseback riding Birding/wildlife trails Fee fishing/pay lakes Wagon/sleigh rides Off road trails 2. **Educational Experience** School tours Garden/nursery tours Historical agriculture exhibits Exotic animal exhibits 3. **Direct Agricultural Sales** On-farm sales Roadside markets Farmers' markets 4. Accommodations ============== Entertainment ============= ### [Challenges] - Ignorance - Fear of misinterpretation of the Agri Tourism concept - Absence of any regulatory authority to save farmers interests. - Presence of unorganized sector in the Agri Tourism industry. - Ensuring hygiene and basic requirements considering foreign visitors ### [Considerations] - Goals and philosophy - Profit vs nonprofit - Location ### [General Management Issues] - Regulations - Taxes - Insurance - Labor - Bio-security& animal welfare - Public relations skills - Financial/business management - Risk management PART 5 ====== - Pursuant to the provisions of executive order no. 292 dated **July 25, 1987**, otherwise known as **"Administrative Code of 1987"** specifically title XIII, book IV thereof, the following rules and regulations ### Chapter 1: DEFINITION OF TERMS - *Section 1. **Definition of Terms**. When used in these Rules, unless the context otherwise indicates, the following terms shall mean as follows:* - ***Agri-tourism** - or also referred to as **"farm tourism"** is a form of tourism activity conducted in a rural farm area which may include tending to farm animals, planting, harvesting and processing of farm products.* - *It covers attractions, activities, services and amenities as well as other resources of the area to promote an appreciation of the local culture, heritage and traditions through personal contact with the local people.* a. ***Agri-Tourism/Farm Site** - is a working farm producing and/or showcasing raw and/or processed products.* b. ***Day Farm -** are farms ideal for day tours/visits usually located near national highways and main business area.* c. ***Farm Resort -** are farms that offer accommodation and dining services, for the purpose of participating in or enjoying interactive on-farm activities and other attractions offered to enrich the tourists' farm life experience.* d. ***Farm Tour** - refers to the activity of visiting an agri-tourism/farm site on a day tour, overnight stay or longer period of time for the purpose of participating in or enjoying farm activities and other attractions offered.* e. ***Farm Product/s** - refers to fresh and processed products of the farm.* f. ***Accreditation -** is a certification issued by the Department officially recognizing the holder as having complied with the minimum standards and requirements prescribed by the Department for the operation and maintenance of farms/agri- tourism sites.* CHAPTER II: CATEGORIES OF AGRI- TOURISM/FARM SITES -------------------------------------------------- - *Section 2. **Categories of Agri- Tourism/Farm Sites**. For purposes of accreditation, agri-tourism/farm sites are categorized as follows, namely:* a. Day Farm b. Farm Resort CHAPTER III: MINIMUM STANDARD REQUIREMENTS ------------------------------------------ - *Section 3. **Minimum Standard Requirements**. For purposes of accreditation, the following are the minimum standard requirements for the operation and maintenance of agri-tourism/farm sites:* a. ***Location**. The farm shall be situated in a generally safe and peaceful location.* b. ### Facilities/Amenities (for day and farm resorts). - *The farm shall have the following facilities/amenities, or can also be available in the nearest service area at least not more than two hours drive from the farm, **in addition to the existing facilities necessary for its regular operation:*** a. ***Reception/Information Counter -** an info counter or a reception area shall be designated where guests can inquire about the farm's tour offerings, services or amenities. It can also serve as briefing area for the tour.* b. ***Parking** - parking area with designated drop-off/loading area shall be provided for buses and other public as well as private vehicles.* c. ***Dining/Multi-Purpose Area -** there shall be a dining, recreational and activity area for guests. Picnic grounds shall use outdoor fixtures made of indigenous materials in keeping with the farm setting**.*** d. ***Farm Guide -** Farm guides shall accompany the tour group during the entire conduct of the farm tour. They shall provide information on farm operations, processes, products and other unique features of the farm.* e. ### Souvenir Shop/ Mini-Trading Area f. ***Accommodation (for farm resorts only)** - There shall be accommodation facilities which shall comply with the minimum standard requirements of an accommodation facility of the DOT.* g. ***Restaurant (for Farm Resorts only) --** There shall be a restaurant or catering service within the farm* h. ***Infrastructure --** Support infrastructure facilities shall be in place such as road, electricity, water, and communication.* CHAPTER IV: GENERAL RULES ON THE OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE OF AGRI- TOURISM/FARM SITES -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - *Section 4. **Operation.** The farm shall be in operation for **at least three (3) months in a year.*** - *Section 5. **Safety and Security.** To ensure safety and security, the following shall be available:* c. ***Security Personnel** - Security personnel shall be on duty on a 24- hour basis to ensure the safety of guests*. d. ***Safety Signages** - Appropriate safety signages shall be conspicuously displayed within agri- tourism/farm site;* e. ***"Off Limit" Areas** - "Off Limit" areas shall be clearly demarcated. Access to these areas shall be roped-off or blocked. Public areas shall be specifically designated;* f. ***Fire Fighting Facilities** -- There shall be firefighting facilitiies within the farm;* g. ***First Aid Kit** - A well-stocked first aid kit shall be made available at all times;* h. ***Farm Equipment** - Farm equipment shall have proper parking or storage areas. Farm equipment, purposely put on display, shall be roped-off from visitors.* - *Section 6. **Sanitation.** The following sanitary facilities shall be provided:* i. ***Wash Areas** - There shall be designated wash areas within the farm with ample amenities such as continues flow of clean water, soap, hand towel or tissue paper.* - ***Restrooms** - There shall be separate clean and well-maintained restrooms for male and female. Bathrooms shall also be provided, if applicable.* - ***Garbage Cans** - There shall be garbage cans in all activity areas.* - ***Garbage Disposal/Waste Management** - Garbage/waste* (Department of Tourism) PART 6 ============================== CHAPTER V: DOCUMENTATION ------------------------ - *Section 7. **Filing of Application**. Any person, partnership, corporation or other entity desiring to secure an accreditation to operate an agri-tourism/farm site from the Department shall accomplish in duplicate and file with the Department, the application form prescribed for such purpose.* - *Section 8. **Documents Required to Support Application for Accreditation of Agri-Tourism/Farm Site.** Unless otherwise indicated in the form, the application shall be accompanied by two copies of the following documents:* j. *Appropriate permit from the local government unit;* k. *List of officers/owners and farm guides indicating therein their nationality, home address and position, certified correct under oath by the owner/general manager;* l. *In the case of single proprietorship, a Business Name Certificate and all amendments thereto duly registered with the Bureau of Trade Regulation and Consumer Protection, Department of Trade and Industry; in the case of a corporation/partnership, a certified copy of the Articles of Incorporation/Partnership and its By- Laws and amendments thereto, if applicable, duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (for farm resorts only); and* m. *Such other documents that the Department may require from time to time.* CHAPTER VI: INSPECTION ---------------------- - *Section 9. **Creation of an Inspection Team**. The Department shall create an inspection team composed of two (2) members to conduct inspection of the facilities of the applicant farm to determine whether it meets the standards set by the Department.* - *Section 10. **Inspection Checklist to be Accompanied During Ocular Inspection of Agri-Tourism/Farm Site.** The team shall provide itself with a set of inspection checklist of requirements for the Agri- Tourism/Farm Site* - *Section 11. **All Observations of the Applicant to be Entered in the Inspection Checklist**. Any observation of the applicant or its duly authorized representative present at the time of the inspection on any adverse findings of the team shall be entered in the inspection checklist. The applicant shall then be furnished with a copy of the accomplished inspection checklist.* - *Section 12**. Report of the Team**. Within five* - *Section 13. **Defects and Deficiencies Found During the Inspection.** Where certain defects and deficiencies have been found in the course of the inspection, the Department shall serve notice and give direction to the proprietor, manager or operator to rectify the defects or deficiencies within a reasonable period of time.* - *Section 14. **Periodic Inspection**. When necessary or when the public interest and safety dictates, the Department may send an inspection team hereof, for the purpose of finding out whether the accredited agri- tourism/farm site is being kept and/or managed in a manner conforming to the standards set by the Department. The inspection shall be conducted at a reasonable time of the day with due regard and respect accorded to the right of privacy of parties concerned.* - *Section 15. **Failure to Remedy the Defects and Deficiencies.** Failure of the management to remedy the defects or deficiencies shall be a ground for the revocation of the agri-tourism/farm site's Certicate of Accreditation.* CHAPTER VII: ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATE OF ACCREDITATION AND STICKER ----------------------------------------------------------------- - *Section 16. **Issuance of Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker.** If the applicant has satisfactorily complied with the minimum standards and the prescribed documentary requirements, the Department shall then issue the Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker in favor of the applicant.* - *Section 17. **Validity of Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker**. The validity of Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker shall be for a period of two (2) years from the date of issue, unless sooner revoked by the Department; provided however, that the agri-tourism farm site shall be subject to an annual inspection to monitor and ensure compliance with the minimum standard requirements.* - *Section 18. **Accreditation Fees.** An accreditation fee of One Thousand Pesos (P1,000.00) and additional One Hundred* CHAPTER VIII: SUPERVISION OF ACCREDITED AGRI-TOURISM/FARM SITES --------------------------------------------------------------- - *Section 19. **Request for the Department Identification Cards.** The Department Identification Cards shall be issued to bonafide employees of the operator of agri- tourism/farm site upon request subject to payment of a nominal fee; provided, that said employees are included in the list of personnel submitted by the operator.* - *Section 20. **Surrender of ID Card**s. The operator shall within seven (7) days notify the Department regarding officers and employees who have ceased to be employed from their firm and shall surrender said officers'/employees' ID cards.* - *Section 21. **Display of DOT Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker.** The valid Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker shall be displayed in a conspicuous place of the farm.* - *Section 22. **Non-Transferability of Certificate of Accreditation and Sticker.** The Certificate of Accreditation and sticker shall be exclusive to the firm or establishment named therein and shall not be transferable.* CHAPTER IX: GROUNDS FOR THE CANCELLATION OF ACCREDITATION --------------------------------------------------------- - *Section 23**. Grounds for Cancellation of Accreditation.** Any of the following acts or omissions shall be sufficient ground for the cancellation of accreditation.* n. *Making any false declaration or statement or making use of any such declaration or statement or any document containing the same or committing fraud or any act of misrepresentation for the. purpose of obtaining the grant of accreditation provided that the cancellation of accreditation as herein stated shall be without prejudice to any action which may be initiated by the Department pursuant to law against the violator;* o. *Failure to maintain the standards and requirements for accreditation as provided in these Rules;* p. *Violation of or non-compliance with any of the provisions of these Rules, promulgated orders, decisions and circulars issued by the Department and other concerned government agencies;* q. *Promoting, facilitating or conducting activities constituting prostitution or other illegal undertakings such as but not necessarily limited to those involving children and the disadvantaged as part of a tour for both foreign and domestic tourists;* r. *Gross and evident bad faith in dealing with clients or fraudulent solicitation of business; and* s. *Any other act or omission inimical to the interest of the tourism industry*