Thesis (BS in Architecture)--University of the Philippines Mindanao, April 2013

The Philippines is indeed rich in natural and cultural heritage. More of these heritage assets are even recognized by United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization's (UNESCO) and are included in the list of World Heritage Sites like the Historic Town of Vigan. In the recent years, more and more people are visiting heritage sites in a movement called Heritage Tourism. Tourism in the other hand, is a key element in the economy of our country. It generates foreign exchange earnings, investments, revenue, and employment. Even though the Philippines have a vast array of heritage assets that became tourist attractions, yet it is still lagged behind its competitors in Southeast Asia Region. As of now, quality product, accessibility, and promotion has always been the heart of the problem that our industry had. To address the pressing need of developing high quality tourism products in our country, this research was conducted. The study aims to develop heritage sites in Mindanao as recognized by the National Historic Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). The development of a heritage site could not be possible if were not because of the fragile and very important heritage assets present in each site. The study also aimed in the conservation of those identified heritage resources in order to ensure the sustainability of the host community's culture. The research had included the consensus of the community regarding tourism development. The general attitude also of the frequent travellers, who were the consumer of the product, was also considered in proposing a development that cold meet the need of the tourist and the community. It also developed some guidelines as well as restrictions by means of carrying capacity that will ensure the protection of the site. With these study, it hopes the advancement of the tourism industry in our country and the conservation of our own culture as a Filipino.