Just as birth brings life into the world, the development of tourism in the Spratly Islands, a group of islands facing territorial disputes in the West Philippine Sea, has been a challenging yet rewarding journey. This archipelago, comprising seven small islands and home to a mere 190 residents, faces significant obstacles in establishing a sustainable tourism industry that can uplift the local community.
In 2022, recognizing the immense potential of tourism to improve the lives of the islanders, two dedicated faculty members from Palawan State University (PalawanSU) – Dr. Judy Ann V. Sarail and Prof. Adly P. Sarail, Jr., partnered with the Municipal Tourism Officer of Kalayaan. Together, they embarked on a mission to develop a comprehensive tourism roadmap that would transform challenges into opportunities.
Their initial discussions, held in a local coffee shop, highlighted the urgent need for innovative strategies to enhance the livelihoods of the islanders amidst escalating geopolitical tensions. Recognizing the logistical challenges of accommodating visitors, the faculty members played a pivotal role in establishing the Kalayaan Islands Tourism Agency (KITA) Cooperative, a resident-led organization trained to effectively cater to tourist needs. This initiative has proven remarkably successful, with the KITA Cooperative generating an impressive annual income exceeding 2 million pesos within a mere four-month tourism season, demonstrating the dedication and hard work of the local community.
Furthermore, the above-mentioned PalawanSU faculty members actively participated in drafting the Municipal Tourism Code, a crucial framework that provides a strong foundation for the sustainable growth of the tourism sector. This forward-thinking initiative has paved the way for a range of exciting projects and activities aimed at enhancing the visitor experience and maximizing the benefits for the local community.
The “Great Kalayaan Expedition,” a unique tourism product conceived during their brainstorming sessions, encapsulates the spirit of adventure and discovery, attracting visitors such as vloggers, bloggers, and media personalities. This initiative, along with others, has gained significant national support. The Department of Tourism has generously provided essential supplies and training programs, while the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) has allocated a substantial 200 million pesos for infrastructure development, including campsite facilities in Pagasa and the construction of attractive new boardwalks and floating docks on Lawak and Likas Islands.
Notably, Palawan State University (PalawanSU) was among the many agencies and offices, that was recognized and awarded by the LGU of Kalayaan, that played a pivotal role in making the historic event possible, the successful launch of The Great Kalayaan Expedition 2023 and the First West Philippine Sea Festival, held on March 22, 2023, in Puerto Princesa City. As a partner institution, PalawanSU demonstrated its commitment to promoting tourism in the region and fostering collaboration with local government units and other stakeholders.
As these initiatives progress, the Spratly Islands are poised to become a model for sustainable tourism, not only enhancing the well-being of the local community but also promoting regional diplomacy and fostering a deeper understanding of the region’s unique cultural and environmental significance. This remarkable journey exemplifies the power of collaboration, innovation, and community empowerment in overcoming challenges and creating a brighter future for all.
