Designing Inclusive and Sustainable Tourism Experiences:

A Community-Based Itinerary Proposal

Members:

De Guzman, Jan Carl Vincent

Jose, Germaine A.

Limos, Eliz Fate G.

Pante, Charisma Louise C.

Tanghal, Heart Margarette P.

BSITM TTO 3-Y1-5

Submitted to:

Mr. Joseph B. Dimaano

November 27, 2025

I. Executive Summary

This capstone project proposes a three-day inclusive and sustainable community-based tourist

itinerary for Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's New

Seven Wonders. Vigan, known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, rich Ilocano

traditions, and strong community identity, provides an ideal environment for creating a tourist

strategy that combines cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and economic

inclusion. The schedule is designed to encourage meaningful contact between tourists and the

local community while providing accessibility for people with disabilities (PWDs), older

citizens, and marginalized groups, in accordance with the principles mentioned in the project

objectives.

The planned itinerary combines history research, cultural immersion, and nature-based activities

to highlight Vigan's distinct assets, which include Calle Crisologo, Syquia Mansion Museum,

Vigan Cathedral, Plaza Salcedo, Abel weaving community, and the Pagburnayan Jar Factory.

These experiences are enhanced by sustainable transportation options such as e-tricycles,

community crafts that support local artisans, and ecologically responsible eating with locally

produced cuisine. The project prioritizes authentic connections with Vigueño craftsmen,

weavers, potters, and local food producers, strengthening community participation and providing

direct economic advantages to individuals relying on tourism for livelihood.

This itinerary also tackles current tourism difficulties in Vigan, such as congestion in heritage

zones, environmental concerns, and poor accessibility in some regions, by encouraging off-peak

site visits, alternative community settings, and mobility-friendly routes. Overall, this proposal

demonstrates how thoughtful tourism planning can improve visitor experiences while protecting

cultural heritage, supporting local communities, and contributing to the destination's long-term

sustainability, in accordance with the goals of inclusive and responsible tourism development.

.
II. Destination Profile

Location and Geographical Setting

Vigan City is the capital of Ilocos Sur and is located along the western coast of Northern Luzon,

facing the South China Sea. It is accessible through land travel via the Manila–Ilocos National

Highway and by air through Laoag International Airport, which is approximately one hour away

from the city. Vigan’s geographical setting includes well-preserved colonial streets, riverside

areas, and nearby coastal and inland zones, making it an ideal destination for both cultural and

sustainable tourism experiences

Historical Background and Significance

Vigan is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and also holds the distinction of being

one of the New7wonders cities of the world. Founded in the 16th century during the Spanish

colonial period, Vigan became a significant center for political, religious, and commercial

activity in Northern Luzon. The city’s urban planning characterized by a fusion of Spanish

colonial architecture and local Filipino-Asian influences remains one of the best-preserved

examples of a Spanish-era town in Asia. The city played an important role during the Galleon

Trade and served as a hub for crafts, agriculture, and local governance. Many ancestral houses in

Vigan were owned by affluent Filipino-Chinese families, influencing the city’s unique cultural

identity. Because it survived major wars and natural disasters, Vigan today stands as a symbol of

Filipino resilience, heritage preservation, and cultural continuity.

Local Community and Cultural Practices

The local community of Vigan, also known as the Vigueños, is deeply rooted in Ilocano

traditions and values. The people are known for their craftsmanship, strong family ties, and

commitment to preserving their heritage. Several key cultural practices continue to thrive in the

city, including burnay pottery, abel weaving, and traditional woodcarving, all of which are kept

alive by local artisans and family-run workshops. Vigan is also well known for its culinary
traditions, which include iconic Ilocano dishes such as bagnet, Vigan longganisa, and empanada

that make use of locally sourced and sustainable ingredients. Cultural celebrations like the Viva

Vigan Binatbatan Festival highlight the city’s artistic heritage, while religious processions and

practices reflect the strong spiritual foundation of the community. These traditions play an

important role in shaping the identity of the destination and strengthening community

participation in tourism

Major Tourist Attractions

Vigan offers a diverse mix of heritage, cultural, and nature-based attractions suitable for

inclusive and sustainable tourism. Key sites include:

● Calle Crisologo:

- A famous heritage street with ancestral homes and shops, designed to be walkable

and accessible for all visitors.

● Syquia Mansion Museum:

- A preserved Spanish-era house displaying antique furnishings and historical

collections.

● Bantay Bell Tower:

- A historic tower that serves as a scenic viewpoint overlooking the city.

● Vigan Cathedral:

- A prominent Baroque-style church that stands as a central religious landmark.

● Plaza Salcedo:

- A public plaza known for its spacious layout and evening dancing fountain show.

● Pagburnayan Jar Factory:

- A traditional pottery workshop where tourists can observe or participate in burnay

jar-making.
Hidden Gems and Emerging Community Sites

Beyond the well-known attractions, Vigan also features several hidden gems that reflect

everyday local life and craftsmanship. The Crisologo Museum displays preserved family

memorabilia and heritage artifacts. Mindoro Beach provides a calm and scenic space for low-

impact recreation and sunset viewing. Meanwhile, the Vigan Public Market offers insight into

the daily life of residents, where visitors can buy fresh produce, handmade goods, and local

delicacies. The Abel weaving communities continue to protect and promote Ilocano textile

traditions through small-scale production and demonstrations.

Current Issues and Emerging Opportunities

Despite its popularity, Vigan faces several tourism-related challenges such as overcrowding in

heritage areas during peak seasons, limited accessibility in some historical structures due to their

original design, waste management concerns, and uneven economic distribution among local

artisans. However, these issues present opportunities for improvement. Promoting accessible

routes, mobility-friendly attractions, and inclusive tourism programs can make the city more

welcoming to all visitors. The use of eco-friendly transportation like e-tricycles, support for

community-based workshops, and the development of combined nature and culture tours can

help reduce congestion while creating a more balanced and sustainable tourism flow in Vigan

City.

III. Target Market & Accessibility Considerations

TARGET MARKET

1. Persons With Disabilities (PWDs)

- Individuals with physical, sensory, cognitive, or invisible disabilities, including:

● Visually impaired travelers (blind, low-vision)

● Hearing impaired travelers (deaf, hard of hearing)

● Cognitive & developmental disabilities (autism, ADHD, Down syndrome)

 ● Invisible disabilities (chronic pain, anxiety, sensory processing disorders)

2. Senior Citizens / Elderly Travelers

- Retired travelers, low-mobility seniors, senior groups, and grandparents traveling

with grandchildren.

3. Families

- Families with small children, large family groups, multigenerational families, and

single parents traveling with children

4. Marginalized & Underserved Communities

- Low-income families, rural community groups, indigenous students or youth

groups, public school students on field trips, and solo parents receiving

government support.

5. Students & Youth Groups

- High school and college field trips, tourism and history students, and youth

organizations promoting cultural awareness.

6. Solo Travelers

- Backpackers, cultural explorers, and heritage-focused tourists traveling

independently.

ACCESSIBILITY CONSIDERATIONS

1. Mobility Needs (PWDs & Seniors)

● Portable ramps or small ramps at heritage houses

● Wider walking paths and smoother surfaces where possible

● Handrails and benches for resting along main streets

● Wheelchair-friendly e-trikes or accessible transport options

2. Visual Needs (Low-vision / Blind Travelers)

● High-contrast signs in museums and streets

● Simple printed maps or guided tours with verbal explanations

● Staff trained to assist visually impaired visitors

 3. Hearing Needs (Deaf / Hard of Hearing Travelers)

● Written guides or pamphlets for tours

● Visual cues or signage for instructions and alerts

● Guides trained to communicate clearly with gestures or notes

4. Cognitive / Developmental Needs

● Simple, easy-to-follow itineraries

● Less crowded visiting hours for workshops or museums

● Guides explaining activities slowly and clearly

5. General Comfort Needs (Families, Elderly, Hidden Disabilities)

● Shaded areas and benches along plazas and walking routes

● Shorter walking loops or breaks during tours

● Accessible restrooms near key attractions

IV. Day-by-Day Itinerary

3-Day Sustainable, Inclusive, and Cultural Itinerary

Duration: 3 Days

Tour Type: Sustainable, Community-Based, Inclusive Cultural Trip

DAY 1 — Arrival and Cultural Immersion

Estimated Cost: PHP 1,700 – PHP 2,300

Morning

- Arrival in Vigan and transfer to accommodation (PHP 50–150).

- Check-in at a local homestay or heritage-inspired budget hotel (PHP 700–1,200 per

night).

- Welcome drink provided by hosts.

Lunch

- Local home-based eatery featuring Ilocano dishes (PHP 120–180).

Afternoon

- Vigan Cultural Heritage Walking Tour including Calle Crisologo, Syquia Mansion, Padre

Burgos Museum, and Plaza Salcedo (PHP 100–150 for entrances).

Late Afternoon

- Burnay Pottery Workshop with local artisans (PHP 100–150).

Dinner

- Farm-to-table Ilocano dinner at a community-supported eatery (PHP 150–250).

Evening

- Visit the Dancing Fountain Show at Plaza Salcedo (Free).

DAY 2 — Nature, Heritage, and Community Engagement

Estimated Cost: PHP 1,300 – PHP 1,900

Breakfast

- Standard Ilocano breakfast set (PHP 100–150).

Morning Activity

- Bantay Bell Tower Tour with optional accessible viewpoints (PHP 20–50 donation).

Lunch

- Sustainable packed lunch prepared by the local community (PHP 120–180).

Afternoon Community Experience (Choose One)

- Mangrove Planting and Coastal Clean-Up – Mindoro Cove (PHP 150–250).

- Organic Farm Tour – Sitio Mindoro (PHP 150–250).

- Traditional Ilocano Cooking Class (PHP 200–350).

Snack

- Local kakanin from community vendors (PHP 20–50).

Dinner

- Vigan Night Market Food Crawl (PHP 150–250).

Evening Activity

- Cultural performance at Plaza Burgos (PHP 50–100 donation).

DAY 3 — Souvenirs and Departure

Estimated Cost: PHP 900 – PHP 1,300

Breakfast

- Light Ilocano breakfast set (PHP 80–150).

Morning Activity

- Visit to Local Handicraft Market supporting local artisans (PHP 150–300 depending on

purchases).

Reflection Session

- Cultural exchange with hosts or guides (Free or donation-based).

Lunch

- Local Ilocano meal at community eatery (PHP 120–200).

Afternoon

- Free time and check-out (Free).

Departure Transfer

- Transport to terminal (PHP 50–100).

- Optional sustainable souvenir such as abel bookmark or handmade keychain (PHP 50–

100).

TIMETABLE ITINERARY
Day 1 — Arrival + Cultural Immersion

7:00 AM Arrival in Vigan

7:30 AM Eco-friendly transport to homestay

8:00 AM Check-in + Welcome Drink

11:00 AM Lunch (Ilocano meal)

12:30 PM Heritage Walking Tour

4:00 PM Burnay Pottery Workshop

6:00 PM Dinner

7:30 PM Dancing Fountain Show

Day 2 — Nature, Adventure & Community Engagement

7:00 AM Breakfast

8:15 AM Visit Bantay Bell Tower

 10:00 AM Packed Sustainable Lunch

11:00 AM Community Activity

2:00 PM Local Kakanin Snack

6:00 PM Night Market Dinner

7:00 PM Cultural Performance Night

Day 3 — Souvenirs, Reflection & Departure

7:00 AM Breakfast

8:00 AM Souvenir Shopping

9:30 AM Cultural Reflection Session

11:00 AM Lunch

1:00 PM Check-out

1:30 PM Departure

V. Sustainability & Inclusion Strategies

The 3-Day Vigan itinerary prioritizes inclusive, community-based, and environmentally

responsible tourism to ensure that all guest segments—including PWDs, senior citizens, families,

students, marginalized groups, and solo travelers—experience a meaningful and accessible trip.

Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

This itinerary integrates key SDGs relevant to tourism:

● SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

- Supporting homestays, small Ilocano eateries, artisans, and community

workshops.

● SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

- Preserving cultural heritage through walking tours, burnay pottery, abel weaving,

and museum visits.

● SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production

- Encouraging low-waste dining, local food sourcing, and sustainable souvenirs.

● SDG 13: Climate Action

- Organizing mangrove planting, coastal clean-up, and promoting eco-friendly

transportation.

● SDG 14 & 15: Life Below Water and Life on Land

 - Protecting coastal and inland ecosystems through community partnership

activities.

Eco-Friendly Practices Integrated in the Itinerary

1. Transportation

- Walking and bike-friendly activities

- Option for e-trikes (PWD-friendly)

- Shared rides to reduce carbon footprint

2. Accommodation

- Homestays using energy-efficient lighting and water-saving practices

- Towel/linen reuse encouraged

3. Dining

- Farm-to-table community meals

- Locally sourced ingredients supporting small farmers

- Minimal food waste by pre-ordering and portion planning

4. Waste Reduction

- Reusable water bottles, eco-bags, and utensils

- No single-use plastics during tours and community work

- Proper waste segregation during activities

5. Cultural & Social Sustainability

- Workshops with local artisans (burnay, abel weaving)

- Respectful interaction with residents

- Selecting activities with low environmental impact

Accessibility & Inclusivity Integration

(Aligned with Target Market section)

● Wheelchair-friendly routes, ramps, benches, shaded areas

 ● Printed guides and visual cues for deaf or low-vision travelers

● Slower-paced sessions for seniors and neurodivergent guests

● Comfortable resting areas and shorter walking loops

● Accessible restrooms near major attractions

VI. Budget Breakdown

DAY ACTIVITIES ESTIMATED COST

Day 1 Arrival, Homestay Check-In, Heritage ₱1,210 - ₱2,080

Walking Tour, Burnay Pottery, Dinner,
Fountain Show

Day 2 ₱1,050 - ₱1,130

Breakfast, Bantay Bell Tower, Packed
Lunch, Community Activity, Snack,
Night Market, Cultural Show

Day 3 Souvenir Shopping, Reflection Session, ₱350 - ₱450

Lunch, Departure

Total Estimated Budget per Person:

₱2,610 – ₱3,660

This budget is inclusive, sustainable, and affordable for all target groups, especially students,

seniors, PWDs, and marginalized visitors.

VII. Risk Management & Safety Protocols

The risk management framework ensures safety, accessibility, and preparedness for all travelers,

particularly vulnerable groups such as PWDs, seniors, and children.

Identified Risks

1. Environmental & Weather Risks

- Heat exhaustion during walking tours

- Sudden rain affecting outdoor activities

- Slippery heritage paths

2. Health & Safety Risks

- Minor injuries during community clean-ups

 - Food allergies during local dining

- Senior fatigue or sensory overload (PWDs, children)

3. Operational Risks

- Transportation delays

- Lost items in crowded areas

- Overcrowding in heritage zones

Preventive Measures

1. General Safety

➔ Buddy system for all participants

➔ First-aid kit carried by trip leader

➔ Frequent hydration and rest stops (benches, shaded areas)

2. Accessibility & Comfort

➔ Wheelchair-friendly routes and e-trike options

➔ Reduced walking distance for seniors/PWDs

➔ Visual and written instructions for hearing-impaired guests

3. Weather Preparedness

➔ Umbrellas/raincoats required

➔ Indoor backup activities (museums, weaving shops)

4. Food Safety

➔ Allergen checklists before meals

➔ Choosing establishments with clean food-handling practices

Emergency Action Plan

1. Medical Emergency

● Move to safe area → First Aid → Contact emergency hotline → Inform

homestay/guide
 2. Lost Guest

● Immediate phone contact → Share live location → Regroup at Plaza Burgos

“Safe Point”

3. Severe Weather

● Suspend outdoor activities → Shift to indoor heritage sites

4. Accident at Heritage Sites

● Notify site officers → Provide first aid → Evacuate if necessary

VIII. References

UNESCO World Heritage Centre. (n.d.). Historic City of Vigan.

[[Link]

Syquia Mansion Museum Foundation Inc. (n.d.). Syquia Mansion. [[Link]

([Link]

National Museum of the Philippines – Ilocos. (n.d.). Padre Burgos Museum.

[[Link]

([Link]

Guide to the Philippines. (n.d.). Pagburnayan Jar Factory.

[[Link]

[Link]/destinations-and-attractions/pagburnayan-jar-factory)

[Link]. (n.d.). Bantay Belfry - The People's Watchtower.

[[Link]

[Link])

Vigan City Government. (n.d.). Tourism and heritage information (For Calle Crisologo, Plaza

Salcedo, and general city heritage). [[Link]

Guide to the Philippines. (n.d.). Vigan tourist spots and heritage attractions.

[[Link]

Community-Based Tourism, Sustainability, and Inclusivity Concepts

UNWTO. (2018). Tourism for development: Sustainable tourism guidelines.

[[Link]
Department of Tourism Philippines. (2023). Sustainable tourism development framework.

[[Link]

DOT Philippines. (n.d.). Accessible tourism guidelines (References Barrier-Free Tourism (BFT)

Memo Circulars for inclusivity). [[Link]

National Historical Commission of the Philippines. (n.d.). Heritage structures of Vigan.

[[Link]

Ilocos Sur Provincial Tourism Office. (n.d.). Community-based tourism programs (Source for

local community engagement activities like Mangrove planting and Organic Farm Tour).

Transportation, Distance, and Mapping

Google Maps. (2024). Used to calculate travel distance and route to Vigan City. (Cited as a

methodology tool, not a specific URL)

Philippine Statistics Authority. (2023). Ilocos Region tourism and economic data.

[[Link]

Traveloka. (n.d.). Vigan tourist spots to visit.

[[Link]

[Link]/en-ph/explore/destination/vigan-tourist-spots/)

IX. Appendices

Maps
Promotional Poster