Bohol, a province in the Philippines renowned for its beaches, natural wonders, and cultural heritage, has enacted the Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code of 2025. This new ordinance establishes a framework for responsible tourism, prioritizing environmental protection, cultural preservation, and local empowerment.
A Vision for Long-Term Sustainability
The Code addresses increasing pressures on Bohol’s natural and cultural assets. As a popular destination—home to the Chocolate Hills, Panglao Island, and the Loboc River—and a designated UNESCO Global Geopark, Bohol faces the challenge of balancing tourism growth with heritage preservation. The Code emphasizes a purposeful evolution of tourism, focusing on long-term sustainability and aligning development with environmental, social, and economic goals.
Key Provisions of the Code
The Code expands the mandate of the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office to oversee the creation of a Provincial Tourism Development Council. This council will coordinate tourism management with local governments. A tourism price guide will also be established for activities not regulated nationally, promoting fair pricing and transparency. The provincial government is empowered to collect tourism revenues, with 50% allocated to a Tourism Development Fund for site development and preservation, and 20% earmarked for island barangays to address community needs.
Prioritizing Local Communities
A “Boholano First” policy is central to the Code, prioritizing residents for tourism-related jobs, including guiding services. The Code also encourages sourcing goods and services from local businesses, benefiting Boholanos economically and preserving cultural authenticity.
Quality Standards and Interlocal Cooperation
The introduction of the Ultimate Boholano Identity (UBI) Standards will establish quality assurance guidelines for tourism establishments. Businesses meeting these standards—upholding cultural authenticity, environmental sustainability, and fair pricing—will receive the UBI Seal of Excellence, granting access to marketing support and capacity-building programs. Furthermore, Destination Management Clusters will be created for areas like Panglao Island and the Chocolate Hills, facilitating coordination and resource sharing among local governments.
Looking Ahead
With the Code’s passage, the next step is drafting implementing rules and regulations. Information campaigns will educate residents and visitors about the Code’s provisions. If successfully implemented, the Code could serve as a model for other destinations in the Philippines and beyond. It is also possible that other regions may adopt similar strategies to balance economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code of 2025?
The primary goal is to protect the future of tourism in Bohol by establishing a comprehensive, sustainability-focused framework that prioritizes environmental protection, cultural preservation, and local empowerment.
What is the “Boholano First” policy?
The “Boholano First” policy aims to ensure that residents are given priority in tourism-related jobs, including guiding services and tour operations.
What is the UBI Seal of Excellence?
The UBI Seal of Excellence is a voluntary certification programme recognizing businesses that uphold cultural authenticity, environmental sustainability, and fair pricing practices, granting them access to marketing support and capacity-building programmes.
How might this new code impact the overall tourism experience for visitors to Bohol?
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