Exploring the Perceived Carrying Capacity of Cambugahay Falls: A Tourist Perspective

Abstract

Tourism carrying capacity has evolved into a multidimensional construct encompassing environmental, cultural, economic, and institutional dimensions to ensure destinations remain resilient under increasing visitor pressures. This study advances the discourse by introducing the Mansueto–Sarmiento–Sabado Carrying Capacity Model (2025), a novel framework that operationalizes the concept of Attraction Carrying Capacity by integrating physical limits, cultural resilience, economic sustainability, and institutional governance into a unified system. Unlike earlier models, this framework incorporates a real-time monitoring component, enabling both administrators and tourists to collaboratively manage visitor flows, safeguard resources, and promote sustainable tourism practices. Employing a quantitative-descriptive research design, the study surveyed 400 stakeholders in Siquijor, Philippines, using a validated and pilot-tested structured questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.92). Descriptive statistics and composite mean scores interpreted via a Likert scale revealed that Cambugahay Falls exhibits a “very good” overall carrying capacity, with composite means of 3.81 (physical), 4.02 (cultural), 4.02 (economic), and 4.01 (institutional). Cultural carrying capacity ranked highest, reflecting robust socio-cultural support and heritage preservation, while gaps in cultural infrastructure, efficiency capacity, and allocation capacity signal areas for targeted improvement. The study concludes that the proposed model offers a practical and adaptive framework for balancing ecological protection, cultural preservation, and economic resilience in tourism management. Recommendations include adaptive governance strategies, community-led heritage programs, and digital visitor tracking systems to ensure long-term sustainability.