Philippine E-Journals

Coastal Tourism Programs of Laiya, San Juan, Batangas: An Assessment

Joanna Vette Barros | Lorraine Colinares | Andrea Beatriz Parilla

 

Abstract:

This study identified the importance of coastal tourism to the country as it provides job opportunities to communities and contributes to the social, economic and environmental development of a coastal area. With this constructive recreational pursuit and strong interest from the public, it is reasonable that programs aiming to preserve the coastal area be assessed. This study assessed the different coastal tourism programs implemented by the local government; identified the challenges and opportunities faced by beach resort operators, locals, and local government, as well as, the environmental effects. For this qualitative study, nine participants from the locals, beach resorts, and the local government were interviewed. The findings, which were thematically analyzed, showed that coastal tourism provided support for protected areas; and, as a source of revenue, it optimized economic and social sustainability. The challenges the programs encountered included the attitude of the locals in complying with the policies and ordinances, and the lack of visible manifestations for environmental protection against pollution brought by industrialization. The results suggested the need for more efforts to improve the social, economic and environmental relationship in the area, and that the environment and natural resources should be taken care of to avoid overcrowding and pollution.