Study on Sustainable Tourism and Eliminating Poverty (ST-EP) Methodology of United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in Sohoton Cave Natural Bridge in Basey and Marabut Marine Park, Samar Philippines

Abstract

A survey to collate and analyze the perception of tourism operators and tourists with the practice of pro-poor tourism was conducted in Sohoton Cave/Sohoton Natural Bridge (part of the Sohoton National Park) and Marabut Marine Park. Information from key individuals and policy desk analysis was used to validate the information. The United Nations World Tourism Organization’s Sustainable Tourism – Eliminating Poverty (ST-EP) mechanism was used to analyze the existing practice of pro-poor tourism in the study area. The study showed that ST-EP mechanisms Employment of the poor, Informal economy by the poor and Infrastructure investment that helps the poor are very evident and localized. ST-EP Mechanisms Formal economy by the poor and Voluntary giving to the poor (gratuities and donation) are restricted in its practice. ST-EP mechanisms Supply of goods from the poor and Tax and levies benefiting the poor are least developed and practiced. The desk policy collaborated these finding and further elaborated there is meager or generalized pro-poor provisions in policies at the local and national level. The study recognizes the role of the poor as important actors in both the tourism and conservation of the Sohoton and Marabut. Detailed knowledge and continuous support on these governance structures should be given focus, in order to have inclusive growth in these areas.