Tourism Destination Potential and Environmental Sustainability of Manila Bay Dolomite Beach

Abstract

Since the country’s tourism have a great impact on the economy, the Philippine government continues to develop and rehabilitate, if necessary, the tourist attractions in the country. One of the country’s rehabilitation projects is at the Manila Bay (Adel, 2022) where the Dolomite Beach, a reclaimed shoreline, is part of the DENR’s Rehabilitation program. Since its opening, it earned the potential to be a tourist destination in the Manila area. However, a number of individuals have raised concerns with regards to sustaining its clean environment given its location as a public destination spot. This prompted the researchers to study the tourism destination potential and environmental sustainability (perception of respondents)) of the Manila Bay Dolomite Beach. Utilizing convenience sampling, 121 respondents (comprising of government officials, residents, and business operators at the beach) were surveyed. Results indicated that Manila Bay Dolomite Beach has a potential to be a tourist attraction, with respondents expressing strong agreement towards its appeal, particularly its shoreline, white sandy beach, and sunsets. Furthermore, respondents demonstrated commitment to environmental protection, as evidenced by their agreement to adhere to rules, dispose of waste responsibly, and act as responsible tourists. Statistical analysis revealed a significant positive correlation (Pearson r = 0.298, p < 0.001) between the potential of the beach as a tourist destination and its environmental sustainability. Thus, the findings emphasized the importance of stakeholders' commitment to environmental conservation for the long-term success of tourism in the area.