Assessing digital media strategies for promoting agritourism in Benguet

Main Article Content

Eron Gabriel G. Diadula
Jamielle S. Sumagui
Djuliah B. Corpuz
Alyanna P. Retanal
Alyssa P. Retanal
Iris Gabrielle Ann Escaro
Marga Clarence P. Bolalin

Abstract

Digital media strategies, user-generated content (UGC), and online visibility are increasingly reshaping promotional efforts across the tourism sector. However, many rural agritourism micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in Benguet remain underpromoted despite the growing influence of digital platforms on consumer travel decisions. Grounded in the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) Model, this study assessed how online visibility, UGC credibility, and digital marketing are related to Generation Z domestic tourists’ perceptions, trust, and visit intentions. Utilizing a quantitative descriptive-correlational research design, data were gathered through a structured online survey from domestic Generation Z tourists who have visited or considered visiting agritourism sites in the province. The findings indicate that user-generated content is highly credible and is strongly associated with travel decision-making. Significant positive relationships were identified between UGC credibility and travel decision-making, as well as between online visibility and visit intention, confirming that digital touchpoints show a significant relationship with tourist behavior. Consequently, agritourism operators and local tourism stakeholders should transition from traditional advertising toward designated photo-worthy farm spots, review incentives, active short-form video engagement, and digital upskilling programs to foster local MSME sustainability and regional economic self-reliance.

Article Details

How to Cite
Diadula, E. G. G., Sumagui, J. S., Corpuz, D. B., Retanal, A. P., Retanal, A. P., Escaro, I. G. A., & Bolalin, M. C. P. (2026). Assessing digital media strategies for promoting agritourism in Benguet. Journal of Tourism, Culinary, and Entrepreneurship (JTCE), 6(2), 416–424. https://doi.org/10.37715/jtce.v6i2.7091
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Articles

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