TOURISM ACTIVITIES IN INTRAMUROS AND ITS CONTRIBUTION TO POVERTY REDUCTION IN LOCAL COMMUNITY

Abstract

In recent years, the connection between tourism and its capacity to reduce poverty and empower local communities has received considerable focus on both national and international stages. This trend is especially noticeable at historical and cultural sites, where the combination of tourism initiatives and community involvement can create transformative effects. A notable instance of such a location is Intramuros, a walled city located in the heart of Manila, Philippines. This research investigates the complex relationship between tourism initiatives in Intramuros, their role in diminishing poverty, and their impact on the local community. Tourism initiatives encompass a variety of experiences that visitors participate in while discovering a destination. These experiences include sightseeing, cultural immersion, recreational activities, and local cuisine. In the context of Intramuros, tourism initiatives encompass guided heritage tours, art exhibitions, culinary events, and interactive workshops that provide a multifaceted view into the historical and cultural fabric of the city. As noted by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO, 2020), tourism initiatives are crucial in promoting economic development, encouraging cultural exchange, and generating job opportunities in various communities worldwide. Intramuros exemplifies Manila's rich history, showcasing centuries of Spanish colonial influence and indigenous traditions. Its cobblestone streets, magnificent churches, and well-maintained architectural wonders draw both domestic tourists and international travelers eager to explore the city’s history. This phenomenon has positioned Intramuros at the crossroads of heritage conservation and sustainable tourism advancement. According to the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT, 2022), Intramuros has experienced a significant rise in tourist arrivals over the last decade, emphasizing its increasing reputation as a cultural hub. However, within the charm of tourism exists a fragile balance that must be struck to ensure that the advantages of this surge lead to concrete benefits for the local community. Frequently, the challenges brought about by poverty and limited local involvement persist as significant issues. It is essential to critically evaluate whether the expanding tourism initiatives in Intramuros are genuinely aiding in poverty alleviation and encouraging a sense of empowerment among local inhabitants. The research design for this study utilizes a mixed methods approach, specifically implementing a sequential explanatory design to thoroughly explore the complex relationship between tourism activities in Intramuros and their role in poverty alleviation. The research will begin with a quantitative phase, which will include the gathering and analysis of numerical data through surveys, structured interviews, or the evaluation of existing data. This phase will largely concentrate on economic indicators, tourism metrics, and poverty assessments, utilizing descriptive and inferential statistics. Following this, a qualitative phase will take place, which will involve detailed interviews and focus group discussions to explore community attitudes and obtain qualitative insights. Thematic and interpretative analyses will be utilized to extract detailed understandings. The integration phase will enable the conversion of qualitative insights into quantifiable variables. During the research process, a stringent sampling strategy will be applied, employing probability sampling for the quantitative phase and purposeful sampling for the qualitative phase to guarantee representation and variety within the community. Triangulation of data from both phases will bolster the credibility of the findings. Ethical considerations, such as informed consent, privacy, and confidentiality, will be carefully maintained. The research design is organized to offer a structured, thorough examination of the complex interactions between tourism and poverty reduction in Intramuros. In summary, the research illuminates the complex dynamics of tourism activities in Intramuros, Manila, and their effects on the local community. The results indicate a predominantly favorable view among residents about the role of tourism in decreasing unemployment and mitigating poverty. Although there is agreement on the economic advantages stemming from tourism, worries about the sustainability of these benefits stress the importance of strategic planning and management. The research emphasizes the significance of community involvement, skills enhancement, and infrastructure improvements to optimize the beneficial effects of tourism on both economic and environmental aspects. As Intramuros continues to seek a delicate equilibrium between tourism growth and community welfare, it is essential to implement comprehensive strategies that emphasize sustainable practices, safeguard cultural heritage, and empower locals. The knowledge acquired from this study offers a basis for informed decision-making, promoting a resilient and prosperous community in Intramuros. This chapter outlines the main findings and conclusions derived from the study, which sought to explore the connection between tourism activities in Intramuros and their influence on poverty alleviation in the local community. Furthermore, it offers suggestions for future measures that could be implemented to improve the well-being of the local community. The research took place in the historic area of Intramuros, Manila, engaging one hundred participants selected through purposive sampling. The study employed a quantitative research method and utilized statistical tools like mean, percentage, and weighted mean to examine the data.