EDITORIAL - Ethics in tourism

This week the country is hosting an event of the World Economic Forum for the first time, and hoping that delegates will find time to have fun in the Philippines. Tourism is seen as one of the engines of economic growth. Like any engine, however, tourism resources must be properly maintained and protected from abuse.

The other day local players in the tourism industry committed the country to the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, drawn up by the United Nations World Tourism Organization. It is a welcome commitment. Among other things, those who signed up for the Code of Ethics are committing to protect the environment and preserve the nation’s cultural heritage.

That heritage is threatened by unregulated commercial and residential development and industrial activity. Some of the country’s top tourist spots are now marred by ugly concrete structures that stick out like sore thumbs. Property development is best when it blends with the scenery and becomes a showcase of local culture in the host community, but this concept is either alien to or ignored by certain developers.

Part of the blame goes to shortsighted, greedy politicians who will sign away cultural heritage in exchange for fat commissions from developers. Tourism industry players not only should commit to avoiding involvement in such schemes, but also move to persuade concerned government agencies to preserve natural attractions and heritage sites.

Property development and ethical tourism can and should go hand-in-hand. Several communities are now reaping immense benefits from heritage tours and eco-tourism. Government agencies involved in tourism infrastructure development should do their part by enhancing natural attractions and promoting local culture.

The country is blessed with rich natural attractions and traditions that are guaranteed to provide visitors with a memorable experience. Now the Philippines has become only the second country in Southeast Asia, after Indonesia, to commit to abide by the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism. The code also commits the Philippine tourism industry to respect human rights and work for social inclusion, gender equality and accessibility. Now comes the complicated part, which is compliance.