Tourism has long been a lifeline for Western Visayas, with the recent revival leading to a notable drop in poverty rates across the region.
The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) attributes this economic improvement primarily to the rebound of tourism in areas like Boracay.
However, the sustainability of this success is increasingly threatened by the impacts of climate change, the emergence of new travel destinations, and the overuse of popular tourist spots.
The benefits of tourism to local economies are undeniable.
In Aklan, poverty incidence plummeted from 13.9% in 2021 to 3.1% in 2023, directly correlating with the resurgence of tourist activity.
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has even suggested replicating this model in other provinces to boost their economic recovery. This advice comes with a caveat: sustaining such growth requires more than marketing natural attractions.
Uncontrolled tourism can have negative consequences. Climate change poses a serious threat to coastal destinations like Boracay, which is already vulnerable to rising sea levels and extreme weather patterns.
The popularity of these spots also raises concerns about overdevelopment, environmental degradation, and the depletion of natural resources. While tourism boosts the economy, if managed poorly, it could become a double-edged sword.
To ensure that tourism remains a sustainable force for poverty reduction, several strategies must be employed.
First, stricter environmental regulations should be enforced to protect ecosystems from overuse and prevent pollution. Investment in sustainable infrastructure, such as green energy and water conservation systems, can mitigate the environmental toll of increased tourist foot traffic.
Second, tourism diversification is key. Instead of relying heavily on one destination, provinces should market alternative attractions, such as cultural heritage sites, agri-tourism, and eco-tourism. This spreads the economic benefits while reducing pressure on overburdened areas.
Lastly, it is crucial to address the impact of climate change on the region’s most vulnerable destinations. Developing comprehensive climate action plans, improving disaster preparedness, and engaging in community-driven conservation efforts can help safeguard tourism’s long-term future.
Western Visayas has shown that tourism can lift families out of poverty.
But to sustain this progress, the region must balance economic ambition with environmental responsibility and forward-looking policies.
Only then can tourism continue to drive prosperity without jeopardizing the very assets it relies on.
