Bohol, Philippines Implements Landmark Sustainable Tourism Development Code to Ensure Responsible Growth and Cultural Preservation

Published on December 26, 2025

Bohol, a province in the Philippines known for its pristine beaches, natural wonders, and rich cultural heritage, recently passed a landmark ordinance, the Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code of 2025. This new law, which was passed after careful consideration by the provincial board, aims to protect the future of tourism in Bohol by establishing a comprehensive, sustainability-focused framework. The Code envisions a balanced approach to tourism that prioritises environmental protection, cultural preservation, and local empowerment.

A Vision for Sustainable Tourism

The Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code of 2025 is designed to address the increasing pressures of tourism on the province’s natural and cultural assets. As one of the Philippines’ most sought-after destinations, Bohol is home to globally recognized attractions, including the famous Chocolate Hills, Panglao Island, and the Loboc River. Moreover, its designation as a UNESCO Global Geopark places even greater responsibility on local governance to ensure that growth does not come at the expense of its heritage.

The Code stresses that tourism in Bohol must evolve with purpose, focusing on long-term sustainability rather than unchecked growth. It outlines a governance structure that ensures tourism development aligns with environmental, social, and economic goals. This balanced approach reflects the province’s commitment to protecting its resources for future generations while fostering growth and innovation in the tourism sector.

Key Provisions of the Code

The Sustainable Tourism Development Code encompasses several critical provisions aimed at strengthening the governance and operational structures within Bohol’s tourism sector. Among the most significant is the expansion of the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office’s mandate, which will now oversee the creation of a more comprehensive Provincial Tourism Development Council. This council will work in close collaboration with local governments, ensuring a coordinated approach to tourism management across the province.

A vital part of the Code is the establishment of a tourism price guide. The guide will apply to tourism activities not regulated by national agencies, ensuring that local businesses adhere to fair pricing structures. This measure aims to protect both consumers and operators, fostering transparency and trust within the local tourism market.

The Code also empowers the provincial government to collect tourism-generated revenues, with specific guidelines on how these funds should be allocated. A significant portion of the revenue—50%—will go towards the Tourism Development Fund, which will support sustainable site development and environmental preservation projects. Additionally, 20% of the funds will be earmarked for use in island barangays (villages), addressing key community needs such as water systems, health services, and livelihood programmes.

A Commitment to Local Communities

Another central pillar of the Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code is the commitment to prioritizing local communities in tourism employment and operations. The province has enacted a “Boholano First” policy, which aims to ensure that residents are given priority in tourism-related jobs, including guiding services and tour operations. This policy is designed to create meaningful employment opportunities for the local population while fostering pride in the province’s tourism identity.

To further promote local involvement, the Code encourages the sourcing of goods and services from local businesses. This initiative will not only benefit Boholanos economically but also help preserve the cultural authenticity of tourism experiences in the province. As the local community plays a key role in shaping the tourism offerings, these measures ensure that the benefits of tourism are distributed equitably.

Quality Standards and Cultural Preservation

Cultural preservation is another focal point of the Code. The introduction of the Ultimate Boholano Identity (UBI) Standards will establish quality assurance guidelines for tourism establishments. The UBI Standards will recognize businesses that uphold cultural authenticity, environmental sustainability, and fair pricing practices. These businesses will be awarded the UBI Seal of Excellence, a voluntary certification programme that incentivizes compliance with the province’s tourism goals.

The UBI Seal will also grant accredited establishments access to marketing support, promotional priority, and capacity-building programmes. This system ensures that local businesses are encouraged to maintain high standards while preserving the unique Boholano cultural identity that attracts visitors from around the world.

Strengthening Interlocal Cooperation

To ensure the effective management of tourism activities, the Code also introduces the concept of Destination Management Clusters. These clusters will focus on specific tourism areas such as Panglao Island, the Chocolate Hills, and the Loboc-Loay region. By grouping local governments within these clusters, the Code facilitates better coordination and resource sharing among different municipalities, making tourism management more efficient and sustainable.

This collaborative approach aims to enhance visitor experiences by streamlining services and addressing issues such as overcrowding, safety, and environmental concerns. It will also help spread the economic benefits of tourism more evenly across the province, reducing the pressure on overburdened destinations and ensuring that lesser-known areas also gain recognition.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Tourism in Bohol

The passage of the Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code of 2025 establishes a new standard for responsible tourism in the Philippines. This pioneering effort demonstrates the province’s commitment to preserving its rich natural and cultural heritage while also serving as a model for long-term tourism growth.

As the province prepares to implement the Code, the next step is to draft the implementing rules and regulations, which will guide its execution in the coming months. Information campaigns will also be launched to educate residents and visitors about the Code’s provisions, ensuring that everyone shares the vision of a sustainable and inclusive tourism future.

Finally, the Bohol Sustainable Tourism Development Code of 2025 is more than just an ordinance; it serves as a road map for the province’s tourism future, balancing economic progress with environmental and cultural responsibility. By implementing these principles, Bohol is poised to become a global leader in sustainable tourism, setting a precedent for other destinations to follow.

This comprehensive tourism governance and development strategy demonstrates Bohol’s commitment to long-term growth. By emphasising inclusivity, community empowerment, and environmental protection, the province not only protects its future but also ensures that tourism in Bohol remains resilient and beneficial for future generations.