Creating better visitor experiences in tourist spaces
The Philippines need to embrace sustainable tourism to become a top tourist destination.
That was the common call from the speakers at the recent Inquirer Campus Talks, titled “Creating Better Visitor Experiences in Tourist Spaces,” hosted by the University of the Philippines Asian Institute of Tourism on March 5.
Hotelier and former Tourism Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr. and Ar. Cathy Saldaña, who specializes in sustainable structures both reminded the audience that there was no path forward for the country outside sustainable tourism.
Full account
Focusing on policy and strategy, Bengzon kicked off with a reference to the United Nations Tourism definition of sustainable tourism—which is one that “takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.”
“We know about protecting the environment, but it’s not just a natural environment. I think more often than not, [we] forget about the local communities,” he commented.
Saldaña, in her speech on design and the built environment, echoed that when discussing “people-centered design,” a framework that promoted pedestrianization, total well-being and intentional design, among others.
“We, the architects and master planners, [consider] … accessibility and adaptability, knowing that the weather can constantly change and more,” she said. “Building materials and designs do not come up by accident. They are purposeful, allowing for mobility and integration with a culture and a community.”
Homegrown examples
Saldaña cited as an example the Lio El Nido Airport, a project by PDP+ Architecture, of which she is the principal and CEO. This airport was designed to help people breathe.
“We made sure that we preserved the mangroves and that the whole walkway is just natural fresh air. You allow people to experience tourism spaces for relaxation, for wellness, for enjoyment, for focus, and for health,” she explained.
The project also engaged clients and locals through a series of consultations, which she said was customary at PDP+ Architecture.
Redesigning hotel spaces
Players in the local hospitality industry have also been introducing sustainable tourism principles in their operations, added Bengzon, who also serves as executive director of the Philippine Hotel Owners Association.
He said association members have been redesigning their spaces and offerings to accommodate a market that willingly pays a premium for sustainability, demands more variety and personalization, and frequently mixes business and leisure.
Overcoming issues
Various issues lay ahead before the country could unlock the tourism industry, the speakers agreed.
Saldaña said tourism infrastructure could flourish if the government acted more responsibly, implemented laws more faithfully, and put the people and planet at the center.
Bengzon, for his part, highlighted the need for the already overburdened Department of Tourism to partner with the private sector on projects, including accreditations.
He likewise issued a challenge to redefine tourism metrics, looking beyond arrivals and integrating concepts like quality of life and biodiversity.
Finally, tourism stakeholders needed to abandon the tendency to “overbuild” and “overdesign,” Saldaña said, explaining that the country was beautiful as it was.
Instead, she said, we had to embrace the Philippines for being real–raw and rugged, experiential, authentic, and rich in lifestyle and culture.
