City of Koronadal, South Cotabato, Philippines | April 27, 2026—-The Provincial Government of South Cotabato welcomed steps to conduct a carrying capacity study for the Seven Falls in Lake Sebu, reinforcing efforts to balance tourism growth with environmental protection.
South Cotabato Economic and Enterprise Management Head Tyronn Jan Villanueva emphasized that the initiative is critical to long-term sustainability.
“We want to ensure that tourism growth does not compromise the ecological integrity of Seven Falls. This study will guide us in setting limits and improving visitor management systems,” Villanueva said.
The study will determine the number of visitors that Seven Falls can sustainably accommodate without damaging its natural environment.
Known for its series of majestic waterfalls and zipline attractions, Seven Falls is one of the most visited eco-tourism sites in Lake Sebu and a key driver of the local tourism economy.
He added that identifying the appropriate institution to conduct the study will help fast-track compliance and ensure that technical standards are met.
Meanwhile, Arts, Culture, Tourism and Museum Development Unit Head Argie Ryan Asaria highlighted the importance of science-based planning in tourism development.
“The carrying capacity study transforms tourism at Seven Falls from quantity-based to quality-driven, ensuring that both nature and culture are preserved while still generating economic benefits,” Asaria said.
He noted that destinations like Lake Sebu, which are rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage, require careful management to avoid over-tourism.
“Seven Falls is more than a destination—it is a shared responsibility. With this carrying capacity study, we are taking a proactive step to preserve its beauty while allowing future generations to experience its wonder,” he added.
Carrying capacity studies are widely used in protected areas worldwide to assess environmental limits, visitor impact, and infrastructure needs.
In the Philippines, such studies are required for ecologically sensitive destinations to guide policy decisions, regulate tourist flow, and support conservation efforts.
With this initiative, the Provincial Government aims to strengthen environmental governance while sustaining tourism-driven livelihoods in Lake Sebu—ensuring that development remains both inclusive and environmentally sound.
A coordination meeting held on April 8, 2026, at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Mini Conference Hall brought together key offices, including the South Cotabato Economic Enterprise Management Office (SCEEMO), Mindanao State University, Provincial Legal Office (PLO), Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO), and Provincial Assessor’s Office (PASSO).
The discussion focused on meeting requirements for a carrying capacity study—an essential step for compliance with the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB).
A similar initiative was previously conducted in Lake Holon in 2023, one of the province’s major eco-tourism destinations.
The study was carried out through the convergence of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Local Government Unit of T’boli, providing a model for science-based and collaborative tourism management.
Officials said the ongoing effort for Seven Falls builds on this experience, further strengthening South Cotabato’s push for sustainable and responsible tourism development.
