Founded by Official tourism department of Province of Bohol

Philippines

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Community-based tourism initiatives organized in the province of Bohol by the official tourism authorities.

Challenge

The absence of alternative livelihood opportunities for the rural communities in the province of Bohol.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Solution and innovation

The Government tourism department identified eco-tourism as a main source of livelihood for the rural communities in province of Bohol. The rural communities were trained and provided with infrastructure support to set up different kinds of initiatives involving eco-tourism, sight-seeing and adventure.
4 sites visited by Oxfam team:
1. Loom weaving in Tubigon, Bohol
2. Cabilao Romblon Weavers Network (CROWN) in Loon, Bohol
3. Calamay Makers in Jagna, Bohol
4. Organic Demo Farm in Maribojoc, Bohol
These sites were created as solutions that hoped to help recover after the earthquake and at the same time, address the then growing issues on lack of alternate attractions to visit and lack of activities for tourists. This also helped in developing the rural infrastructure and communities.

 

 

Results

The tourism department brought in different stakeholders such as investors, rural communities and service providers in an innovative way that benefits all of them. This has enabled them in setting up around 40 eco-tourism initiatives and 14 sight-seeing locations in the community. These initiatives also offer investment opportunities for external investors in rural communities.