Local sports tourism industry

The President calls for 'international effort' to adapt to risks of climate change and encourages countries around the world to 'mainstream climate change adaptation with local, sectoral and national plans'

CHALLENGE. President Benigno Aquino III urges the development of the tourism industry while fighting climate change. File photo of Boracay by Rappler

MANILA, Philippines – To President Benigno Aquino III, tourism in the Philippines is a "low-lying fruit, " and is one of "the shortest and most efficient paths to inclusive growth."

As long as it it can be pursued in a sustainable manner.

"Our country has so many natural gifts. Such attractions, combined with our people’s natural kindness and hospitality, make our country an excellent tourism destination, " said Aquino.

He added, "The long-term viability of such programs, however, is tied to how we deal with the problem of climate change. It is true: We have some of the best beaches and dive spots in the world; sadly, these areas are also the ones most vulnerable to climate risk—whether in the form of loss of biodiversity or coastal erosion."

But Aquino also highlighted the need for a global effort to fight climate change.

"Taking on the challenge of climate change necessitates an international effort. We must come up with a more focused and more organized strategy to adapt to the risks it poses. This entails each country revisiting the way they approach every facet of governance to take into account how they affect the environment—from infrastructure, to agriculture, to energy, " he said.

Aware of the need to "start taking action now, " Aquino gave assurances the Philippines is doing its part to respond to the challenge of fueling sustainable tourism, and called for international movement on the issue.

"Our immediate response: To plan ahead and reduce the impact of the effects of climate change on our tourist destinations, amongst others. The government has included climate change adaptation and mitigation, as well as disaster risk reduction and management, among the major considerations for future development, " he said.

"Our plan: To mainstream climate change adaptation with local, sectoral, and national plans—all of which will consequently guide the development of tourist destinations and tourism activities per locality. With the increasing risks of climate change, this is something we encourage other ASEAN-member countries, as well as countries around the world, to look into."

'Significant opportunity'

Tourism is a "significant opportunity" for Filipinos because of its instant impact on the economy, said Aquino, who cited that each international tourist visiting the country spends almost $1, 000 dollars or about P44, 000 during their visits – an amount that is growing even higher.