Business · Philippines Bureau
Bukidnon town sees revenue surge as ecotourism transforms BuDa corridor
Tax collections in Kitaotao have tripled over the past decade as ecotourism development accelerates along the Bukidnon-Davao highway. Local officials credit the growth corridor with driving economic expansion in the southern Bukidnon municipality.
LSN Philippines ·
KITAOTAO, Bukidnon — The southern Bukidnon municipality of Kitaotao is experiencing significant economic growth fueled by expanding ecotourism ventures along the Bukidnon-Davao (BuDa) highway, with local tax revenues climbing to P16 million this year from P5 million a decade earlier.
The threefold increase in municipal tax collections reflects broader development trends taking hold across the critical transport corridor connecting the two provinces. According to the Municipal Planning and Development Office, the surge in ecotourism-related investments has catalyzed sustained growth in the local economy.
Officials attribute much of the revenue expansion to improved infrastructure access and heightened tourist interest in nature-based attractions along the BuDa route. The corridor has emerged as a focal point for hospitality ventures, recreational facilities, and conservation-linked businesses that capitalize on the region's natural assets.
The financial gains have positioned Kitaotao to invest in municipal services and infrastructure improvements. Local government data indicates the ecotourism sector continues attracting both domestic and regional visitors seeking recreational opportunities in Bukidnon's largely undeveloped natural areas.
Planning officials expect the momentum to persist as more tourism-oriented businesses establish operations along the highway, potentially driving further municipal revenue growth in coming years.