Project Title & Location
INTEGRATED DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR  THE PROVINCE OF ALBAY
Legazpi City

Client
Albay Ecotourism Foundation

Project Completion
May 2004

Associated Firms
Geronimo V. Manahan, Phd, (Tourism Specialist)
ENR Consultants
Orient Integrated Development Consultants,
Incorporated, Lead Firm
Pros Personnel-1
Person- Months-5

Services Provided
- Tourism Development Plan

Albay Province is one among six of the Bicol Region. About 40% of the land area is flat land and is cradled by several mountains among which is the majestic Mayon Volcano. While efforts are being directed toward the development of industries in the province, agriculture remains the main source of livelihood. Handicrafts are a major source of income in the rural areas. The abundant natural endowment, together with the people and their culture, are tourists' attractions. The features of the province, both unique and fragile, need to be developed sustainably.

In spite the number of plans extant in the province, the government recognizes the need for a plan and development activity that integrates a tri-sectoral approach for agriculture, industry and tourism. The holistic approach to development aims to integrate a wide range of technical, economic, social and institutional measures to achieve a balance between economic development and the elimination of environmental degradation.

The tourism development plan, which Dr. G.V. Manahan heads, has the objective of placing Albay as one of the country's key destinations within the next 6 years. Immediately, the necessity of identifying destinations, then developing and improving them so that the appropriate accesses and accommodations can be placed on site are priorities for the program. As the learning process of hosting tourism activities gains, the community and its people must actively participate in the launching of events and attractions in the local setting.

The provincial tourism program is phased into three: an immediate term of 6 years; a medium- and a long-term development programs follow this. The tourism program is expected to cost PhP 244 million for the first 6 years.