UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES
Open University
GEOPARK GEOPARK
A Political Economy Analysis of Bohol Island as UNESCO’s First Global Geopark in the Philippines
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The Tarsier
The Philippine tarsier, a small primate native to Bohol, is an iconic
PAGE 8
POLITICAL ECONOMY ANALYSIS
PAGE 13 SUMMARY STAKEHOLDER ANALYSIS
PAGE 18
CHANGE & CHANGE PROCESS REPORT
PAGE 22
POLITICAL STRATEGY
PAGE 25 APPLIED PEA REPORT
Photo by Roland Hechanova on Unsplash
UNESCO Global Geoparks are distinct geographical regions where sites and landscapes of global geological importance are managed through an integrated approach focusing on protection, education, and sustainable development. These geoparks leverage their geological heritage, along with the area's natural and cultural heritage, to raise awareness and understanding of critical societal issues, including sustainable resource use, climate change mitigation, and reducing risks associated withnaturaldisasters(UNESCO,2024).
“The Alicia Panoramic Park in Alicia, Bohol”, Photo by Bohol Island Geopark
unesco global geopark unesco global geopark the bohol island the bohol island
The Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark in the Philippines (UGGP) is a key project for sustainable development and heritage conservation. Initiated in 2015 by the Provincial Government of Bohol with the assistance of experts from the University of the Philippines and the University of Hamburg, Germany. The goal is for it to become the first UNESCO Global Geopark in the country Situated in the central Visayas, Bohol Island boasts a geological history that spans 150 million years. Its distinctive terrain includes the iconic Chocolate Hills, which were formed through limestone erosion. Encompassing an area of 8,808 km², the geopark covers both terrestrial and marine regions, featuring significant sites such as caves and the Danajon Double Barrier Reef, one of only six such reefs worldwide (Provincial Government of Bohol et al., 2023)
The formulation of the geopark involved extensive fieldwork, meetings, and consultations with various stakeholders, including national and local government agencies, academic institutions, indigenous group of people, and the private sector. These collaborative efforts culminated in the submission of the Bohol Island Geopark application to UNESCO in 2018, reflecting the commitment of the Boholanos to protect their natural environment and promote sustainable development. Recognized by UNESCO on 24 May 2023, and officially promoted in 22 June 2023, the geopark has made significant strides in promoting sustainable tourism, education, and conservation The designation as a UNESCO Global Geopark highlights Bohol's unique geological features, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage, positioning the province as a model for sustainable tourism and environmental conservation (Provincial Government of Bohol et al., 2023).
FROM INCEPTION TO RECOGNITION: TIMELINE OF BOHOL ISLAND UGGP
The timeline/flowchart illustrates in Figure 1 are the key steps and processes involved in the establishment of Bohol Island as a UNESCO Global Geopark, from its initiation and planning to recognition and promotion, highlighting the milestones and strategic planning undertaken by various stakeholders (Provincial Government of Bohol et al., 2023).
Initiation & Planning
Field evaluation mission conducted by UNESCO on Bohol Island
Meeting with NAMRIA & PH National Commision
Celebration & Promotion
Figure 1. Timeline on establishing the UGGP
Submission of the Bohol Island application to UNESCO
Mapping request to NAMRIA
Official recognition by UNESCO
ORGANIZATIONAL FLOWCHART
Source: (Din et al., 2022)
Figure 2. The aUGGP Management Structure
I. pOLITICAL ECONOMY ANALYSIS I. pOLITICAL ECONOMY ANALYSIS
SCOPING DOCUMENT & WORKPLAN SCOPING DOCUMENT & WORKPLAN
The Political Economy Analysis (PEA) is being conducted to understand the socio-economic and political factors that influence the sustainable development and management of Bohol Island as UNESCO’s first Global Geopark in the Philippines. The analysis aims to evaluate how these factors impact the balance between tourism growth, environmental protection, and cultural preservation while maintaining the title as UGGP.
This understanding will also help identify best practices and challenges in the geopark's management and provide insights for future geopark initiatives in the Philippines
Audiences or users of the PEA in the context of the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark initiatives include a diverse array of stakeholders. These stakeholders encompass representatives from the Provincial Government of Bohol departments, national government agencies, local government units, marginalized multi-sectors, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), academia, and the tourism sector Additionally, the PEA involves community partners such as municipal and barangay local government units, universities, schools, youth organizations, indigenous people, and numerous volunteers who advocate for and promote the geopark concept.
Photo by Brett Andrei Martin on Unsplash
POLITICAL ISSUES AFFECTING THE BOHOL ISLAND UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK
Governance and Stakeholder Participation
The need for enhanced governance and stakeholder participation is highlighted by initiatives like Project Protect Danajon, which aims to improve governance and stakeholder involvement in conserving the Danajon Double Barrier Reef. This indicates challenges in coordinating efforts across multiple sectors and regions.
Strengthening Local Ordinances
There is a need to strengthen local ordinances on environmental protection to tackle damaging human activities such as illegal fishing, exploitation of marine biodiversity, and encroaching on protected areas within the 14,145 hectares of 1,776 Chocolate Hills under Proclamation 1037 of 1997 (Bautista, n.d.).
On May 22, 2024, a preventive suspension of the Bohol Governor and 68 other officials by the Office of the Ombudsman due to their involvement in the construction and operation of the controversial Captain’s Peak Resort on the protected Chocolate Hills. The suspension is based on charges of grave misconduct and gross neglect of duty, as the officials allegedly tolerated the resort's operation and expansion in a protected area (Sitchon, 2024).
Meanwhile, on August 30, 2024, an identified dive guide went viral on social media for vandalizing corals by inscribing a Korean national client's name at the Estaca Snorkeling Site on Virgin Island in Panglao, Bohol, leading to significant damage and the site's indefinite closure to assess the ecological impact (Udtohan, 2024).
The incidents relating to the exploitation of natural resources suggest political challenges in enforcing environmental regulations and balancing economic activities with conservation efforts
POLITICAL ISSUES AFFECTING THE BOHOL ISLAND UNESCO GLOBAL GEOPARK
Political Engagement and Continuity
The Geopark staff conducted courtesy visits to various local chief executives in the province to ensure the continuity and progress of the program, indicating the importance of political engagement and the potential impact of political changes on Geopark's initiatives.
International Partnerships and Collaborations
The Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark is actively forming international partnerships, including collaborations with the Chinese Consulate of Cebu and Fangshan UNESCO Global Geopark, to enhance its global presence and foster diplomatic ties. It has also teamed up with scientists from the University of Hradec Kralove and the Czech Academy of Sciences, working with four other geoparks worldwide: Barrandien in the Czech Republic, Rio Coco in Nicaragua, Andagua in Peru, and Ngorongoro in Tanzania. This collaboration is part of the "4GEON: Four Continents Connected Through Playful Education" project, which aims to promote sustainable geological resource development by engaging youth through innovative educational methods like Geoportal, Geocourse, Geocontest, and Geobus (Provincial Government of Bohol et al., 2023).
These issues reflect the complex political landscape in which the Geopark operates, requiring careful wayfinding of local, national, and international political dynamics.
POLITICAL ECONOMY ANALYSIS WORKPLAN
The Political Economy Analysis (PEA) work plan for the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the political, economic, and social factors that shape conservation and development efforts in the island-province. Drawing on the framework outlined by Bass et al. (2021), this work plan seeks to underscore the 'political' dynamics that are often crucial to the success of conservation initiatives. By doing so, it aims to facilitate the integration of nature into development decisions, ensuring that sustainable tourism, geo-conservation, and community engagement are central to the Geopark's ongoing success and its maintenance of the 'Green Card Status' for another four years upon fulfilling the criteria after it was recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Otherwise, a 'Yellow Card' serves as a warning, while a 'Red Card' means termination when it fails to fulfill the criteria (UNESCO, 2024).
Tailoring the tasks performed and conducted by the proponent, a comprehensive work plan will be crafted through guidance from the Bass et al. (2021) streamlined approach The tasks include identifying the following:
Purpose
The PEA aims to identify and understand the political, economic, and social factors affecting the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark. The target conservation outcome is to enhance sustainable tourism, improve geo-conservation efforts, and strengthen community engagement in environmental management to maintain the “Green Card Status” of Bohol Island as UGGP
Geographic Focus
The PEA will focus on the local context of Bohol Island, Philippines, examining the specific dynamics within the geopark and its surrounding communities.
Scope of Analysis
The analysis will be comprehensive and cross-sectoral, covering various aspects such as tourism, conservation, community involvement, and governance.
POLITICAL ECONOMY ANALYSIS WORKPLAN
Possible analytical questions and tools that will aid in directing the work-plan output. What are the key political and economic influences on the geopark's development?
How do local communities engage with and perceive the geopark's initiatives?
What are the challenges and opportunities in balancing tourism and conservation? How effective are current policies and governance structures?
What role do external stakeholders play in the geopark's development?
What strategies and activities are being implemented to promote and sustain the current status of the geopark?
Tools: Interviews, focus groups, policy analysis, and stakeholder mapping using the Net-Map tool of Schiffer et al (2008) that helps visualize and understand complex relationships between people or organizations involved in a specific issue or project by mapping connections, influence, and power dynamics in Bohol Island UGGP.
PEA Team and Roles:
This includes forming a team comprising a Project Manager, Research Team, Stakeholder Liaison, and Report Writer.
Supplementary Expertise
Additional expertise may be required in areas such as geo-conservation, sustainable tourism, and community development to address any skills gaps.
Stakeholder Engagement Platform
The PEA will utilize existing forums such as the Bohol Provincial Tourism Council and the Geopark Management Council for stakeholder engagement throughout the analysis process.
Integration into Project Strategy
Findings from the PEA will be integrated into the overall project strategy through workshops, capacity development, and strategic planning sessions with key stakeholders, ensuring alignment with the geopark's objectives
Resources and Timeline
This task will involve series of activities from the Preparation Phase to the Evaluation Phase (a target of 6-12 months timeframe). Resources include funding from the Bohol Provincial Government and support from local and international partners and stakeholders.
Summary Summary
1.LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNITS (LGUs)
The provincial government of Bohol and its municipal governments, including Tagbilaran, Panglao, and Carmen, are significant in local governance, focusing on land-use planning, tourism regulation, and natural resource management. They formulate and implement policies affecting socioeconomic development, balancing environmental conservation, tourism growth, and community welfare. These entities regulate zoning, approve infrastructure projects, and ensure sustainable stewardship of Bohol's natural and cultural resources. Local government units (LGUs) are pivotal in directing the development of the Bohol Island Geopark and fostering collaborations with the private sector, national agencies, and local communities for effective management and sustainable development
2. NATIONAL GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
Key national agencies, including the DENR, NCCA, DOT, and NEDA, play vital roles in the development of Bohol Island Geopark. The DENR enforces environmental protection laws to preserve the geopark's natural integrity, while the NCCA ensures cultural preservation by integrating local traditions The DOT promotes the geopark as a sustainable tourist destination, advocating for responsible tourism, and NEDA aligns the geopark's development with national economic goals to boost local and regional growth. Together, these agencies aim to balance environmental protection, cultural preservation, and economic development for the geopark's long-term sustainability.
3. LOCAL COMMUNITIES & INDIGENOUS GROUPS
The local communities within or near the Bohol Island Geopark, including agriculturalists, fishermen, and those reliant on tourism, are deeply connected to the land and its resources, with many depending on agriculture, fishing, and small-scale tourism for income. Indigenous populations, like the Eskaya Group, have cultural and spiritual ties to the region, viewing the geopark as both an opportunity for economic growth and a challenge to their traditional lifestyles.
4. PRIVATE SECTOR (BUSINESS
INTERESTS)
Tourism operators, developers, real estate firms, and local entrepreneurs, including the hotel, transportation, and restaurant sectors, significantly contribute to the tourism industry The stakeholders actively influence the tourism experience, contribute to the local economy, and affect the sustainable development of tourism destinations.
5. ENVIRONMENTAL & CONSERVATION (NGOs)
Domestic and global environmental NGOs and conservation organizations (e g , WWF, Greenpeace, local grassroots entities) are dedicated to biodiversity, sustainable development, and environmental preservation.
6. UNESCO and International Stakeholders
UNESCO, the governing organization for designating UNESCO Global Geoparks, is key in the construction and administration of the Bohol Island Geopark In partnership with UNESCO, numerous international development partners, donors, and multilateral organizations, such as the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) are critical stakeholders in advancing the geopark's development, ensuring adherence to global standards, and promoting sustainable development.
MAPPING STAKEHOLDERS’ POWER
Bass et al. (2021) acknowledged that four dimensions of power influence how stakeholders interact (shown in Table 1). In the context of the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark, several dimensions of power are:
1.
Financial Power: This refers to the ability of stakeholders to fund or financially support initiatives within the geopark. The Provincial Government of Bohol and national agencies like the Department of Tourism (DOT) have significant financial resources to invest in infrastructure, tourism development, and conservation projects.
2. Public Trust: This power stems from the credibility and trust stakeholders have within the community.
4.
Positional Power: This is the authority or influence stakeholders have due to their official roles or positions. Government agencies such as the DENR, NCCA, and local government units (LGUs) hold positional power, enabling them to enforce regulations, create policies, and guide the geopark's development [1][3]
3 Knowledge Power: This involves expertise and information that stakeholders bring to the table such as academic institutions and international partners
Table 1. Stakeholders’ Power Map
ADVOCACY COALITION FRAMEWORK MATRIX
The Advocacy Coalition Framework (ACF) by Sabatier (1988) emphasizes the role of coalitions of various stakeholders who share beliefs and coordinate actions to influence policy processes. In the context of the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark, several stakeholders form coalitions based on shared interests and powers, aligning with the ACF model as shown in Table 2.
Stakeholder Group
National Government
Local Government Unit
Indigenous Communities
Core Beliefs/ Interests
Economic development, tourism, environmental conservation, international recognition
Local economic development, community welfare, sustainable tourism
Provide policy support, funding, and technical assistance for UNESCO Global Geopark application
Ensure local communities benefit, protect cultural heritage and traditional knowledge
Aligns with local government and international organizations
Environmental NGOs
Biodiversity conservation, sustainable use of natural resources, climate resilience
Advocate for the integration of sustainable environmental practices in geopark management
Aligns with environmental NGOs, local communities
Aligns with government, local communities
Biodiversity conservation, sustainable use of natural resources, climate resilience
Advocate for the integration of sustainable environmental practices in geopark management
Aligns with government, local communities
Academe
Private Sector (Tourism)
UNESCO & Global Geoparks Network
Scientific research, geological heritage, environmental education
Provide expertise in geosciences, cultural studies, and environmental management Aligns with government, international organizations
Economic profit, sustainable tourism growth, market development
Develop and promote eco-tourism opportunities, and local economic growth through tourism
Aligns with local government, national government
Promote global standards for geoparks, sustainable development, cultural preservation
Provide recognition and technical support, ensure adherence to global geopark guidelines
Aligns with national government, NGOs, local government
Table 2. Advocacy Coalition Framework Matrix
Based on the context of the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark and its stakeholders, here is an analysis of champions, supporters, blockers, and neutrals that were identified by Bass et al. (2021) : Champions. These are stakeholders actively promoting and driving the geopark's development
Provincial Government of Bohol
Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office (BPEMO) Supporters. These stakeholders back the initiatives and efforts of the champions, often providing resources or expertise.
Educational Institutions
Youth Organizations
National Government Agencies (NGAs) Blockers. These stakeholders may resist changes or developments due to conflicting interests or concerns about potential negative impacts.
Certain Tourism Sector Stakeholders Neutrals. These stakeholders may not have a strong stance or direct involvement in the geopark's development.
General Public
Tourist visitors (local and international)
III. change & III. change & CHANGE process report CHANGE process report
Change varies across different contexts, depending on the problems, goals, and stakeholders involved within the policy system framework In environmental policy systems, events surrounding a policy issue may arise, creating a demand for policy action. These events develop limitations and challenges across various decisionmaking settings (Dunn, 1981 as cited by Villamejor-Mendoza, 1998).
It is inevitable to consider questions such as: What are the relevant positive and negative changes impacting the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark that can be understood through policy analysis? Are there any opportunities that await and threats that loom?
POSITIVE FOR NATURE
In the context of Bohol Island UGGP it refers to strategies and activities implemented in the geopark for susta
Stakeholder Enga Education: The Bo Government ha educational pro partnerships to geoscience educat heritage conserva Geoscience Trainin Teachers. These i raised awareness understanding of th nature conservatio educators and stude
A kick-off Geoscience Training for Primary and Secondary school Science Teachers was held in Candijay, Bohol, from August 4-6, 2023 (Provincial Government of Bohol et al., 2023).
Policy and Project Initiatives: One of them is The "Bohol: The First Regenerative Island Project", an initiative launched by the Bohol Provincial Government aimed at promoting a comprehensive and forward-thinking environmental approach. This project represents a significant policy shift, moving away from conventional environmental management practices toward more dynamic, restorative actions for sustainable development.
International Collaboration: Participation in international workshops and conferences, such as the UNESCO workshop on geo-heritage management, has fostered the exchange of ideas and best practices, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of conservation efforts. This collaboration contributes to better decision-making and more successful conservation outcomes.
Commitment from Local Businesses: The Bohol Association of Hotels, Resorts, and Restaurants (BAHRR) has pledged to support sustainable programs aligned with Geopark development, reflecting a shift in business attitudes toward greater appreciation and value for nature.
NEGATIVE FOR NATURE
On the other hand, identified strategies and activities that have a detrimental impact on the Geopark include economic pressures, societal changes, and poor regulation of tourism activities, among others.
Economic Pressures: Some local businesses prioritize economic development over environmental conservation, leading to unsustainable practices such as overfishing, encroachment on protected areas, and rapid development and construction of business establishments and hotels
Social and Economic Challenges: Poverty and lack of security can drive communities to exploit natural resources unsustainably, impacting conservation efforts negatively.
Poor Management on Tourism Activities: Activities like snorkeling, diving, and jet skiing can damage coral reefs and other marine life if not properly regulated
Truth be told, the management of the Bohol Island UNESCO Global Geopark exemplifies the challenges of balancing sustainability with socio-economic pressures
Meanwhile, opportunities arise from ongoing educational initiatives and international collaborations, which offer the potential to further integrate nature conservation into broader agendas by expanding these programs and fostering additional partnerships. However, economic pressures and potential foreign investments that prioritize development over conservation pose significant threats to the positive changes achieved thus far Thus, it is imperative for policies and collaborative initiatives to address these socio-economic issues while continuing to promote environmental protection and sustainability.
MAPPING THE PROCESS INFLUENCING CHANGES
POSITIVE CHANGE PROCESS:
Educational Initiatives: Initiatives like the Geoscience Training for Science Teachers.
Policy Initiatives: The "Bohol: The First Regenerative Island Project"
International Engagement: Participation in international forums and workshops occurs at the international level
NEGATIVE CHANGE PROCESS
Economic Development Pressures: Business lobbying and economic interests operate at both local and national levels, often prioritizing short-term economic gains over long-term sustainability.
Social and Economic Challenges: The lack of secure rights and economic opportunities for local communities can impede conservation efforts, as these issues are deeply rooted in societal attitudes and economic structures
Integrating these change processes provides a matrix that will synthesize elements that are: a) promising; b) surmountable barriers; and c) seemingly insurmountable barriers, in parallel with the streamlined approach of Bass et al. (2021)
SUMMARY TABLE OF PROCESSES
Table 3. Synthesis Matrix Table for Change Process Analyses
Geoscience Training for Teachers
Bohol: The First Regenerative Island Project"
Geoheritage Management Workshops
IV. political IV. political STRATEGY STRATEGY
BLUEPRINT TOWARDS ACHIEVING THE DESIRED OUTCOME
Anchored on the streamline approach of Bass et al (2021), this section intends to amplify the lens of analysis in ensuring the Bohol Island Geopark maintains its status through Political Economy Analysis. Specifically, this section will provide the readers a comprehensive outline of major challenges and key issues in ensuring that Bohol Island Geopark is carefully protected, key players in the decision-making process who has an essential role to achieve the long-term goal, strategic entry points and leverage opportunities, and recommendations in order to promote the sustainable ecotourism practices through Bohol Island Geopark
KEY ISSUES & CHALLENGES IN THE PROTECTION OF BOHOL ISLAND UGGP
Economic Benefits:
Having the distinguished title as the First Geopark in the Philippines, the tourism sector in Bohol gained significant income from the growing interest of local and international tourist. While tourism immensely contributed to the economy Bohol, stakeholders should assess whether tourism practices across all sectors are sustainable.
Socio-Cultural Gains and Losses:
The tourism sector in Bohol is one of the key drivers for the populace to rediscover traditional hospitality practices to welcome tourists. Increasing tourist volume also bring along with it activities that may degrade cultural values of the populace such as increasing crime trend, proliferation of prostitution and illegal drug trade on the street level.
Environment Impact:
Although tourism brings significant change to the lives of people in Bohol, it must be noted that infrastructure development related to tourism activities must be strict regulated and must sustainable in every facet Without regulation and comprehensive policies in place, the natural resources of the island remains under the threat of overtourism and unsustainable tourism practices.
PROMISING DECISION-MAKING PROCESSES
Bohol's UNESCO Global Geopark employs a promising decision-making process by strictly implementing UNESCO policies, launching a collaborative project to restore natural resources, and enacting a provincial ordinance with the purpose of balancing economic growth with environmental protection. The following are the most significantly identified initiatives:
UNESCO Global Geopark Initiatives: Strict implementation of policies set forth by UNESCO must be observed by all sectors.
Bohol: The First Regenerative Island Project: With the end goal of restoring Bohol's natural resources, this project is a multifaceted approach to tackling environmental degradation involving various stakeholders
Provincial Ordinance No. 2023-018: Through this local policy, the local government of Bohol ensures that economic development and the protection of natural resources can go hand in hand towards progress.
KEY STAKEHOLDERS TO TARGET
Provincial Government of Bohol: Local development agenda of local policy makers and chief executives play a crucial role in ensuring that standard set forth by UNESCO observed in ecotourism efforts in the provincial level. This implies strengthening of impartial regulatory oversight functions of the government sector.
Local Government Units (LGUs): Implementation policies and their strict observance rely on the hands of LGUs.
Educational Institutions: Research and data driven management of natural resources is an essential part of protecting Bohol's natural resources. The academe, through their research initiatives could be a pipeline for enhanced decision-making process.
Tourism Sector: Key player in this area is an essential factor in ensuring that the all forms of Bohol's natural resources is not exploited Thus, engaging with this sector is an essential part of strategy in order to strengthen their support
STRATEGIC ENTRY POINTS AND LEVERAGE OPPORTUNITIES
Multisectoral Participation
To ensure that all concerns are properly addressed, the perspectives of affected sectors, entities, and communities regarding policies aimed at protecting Bohol’s natural resources must be taken into account.
Protection of Local Populace from Economic Displacement
The culture of the people of Bohol is an important part of its significance to tourists. Therefore, their rights must be protected to ensure that they maintain their traditions.
Strengthening of Implementation of Existing Environmental Policies
The lack of strengthened concerted efforts to impose existing environmental protection laws has led to violations from various entities This implies that all concerned sectors must strengthen their lawful mandates in ensuring that Bohol maintains its Geopark status.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Promotion of Participatory Governance
The government entity must create a platform and mechanism of bottom-up approach in protecting the natural resources of Bohol warranting the diverse perspective to be heard and myriads of concerns are properly addressed.
Foster Data-Driven Decision-Making Process
Recognizing the role of research and the academe in making efficient and robust policy frameworks, the management of Bohol Island Geopark and the local government must work hand in hand with Higher Education Intuitions and government agencies who have vested interest in the protection of Bohol’s natural resources.
Ensure Sustainable and Inclusive Development
With the changing business attitudes and proclivity for higher profits, business owners in the tourism sector might resort to unsustainable practices endangering the protected areas and socio-cultural value of Bohol Sustainable business approaches must be promoted to eradicate business practices that detrimental to nature.
applied applied pea report pea report
The Bohol Island Geopark initiative, recognized as the Philippines' first UNESCO Global Geopark, is focused on integrating sustainable practices through a Political Economy Analysis (PEA). This analysis examines the socio-economic and political factors influencing sustainable development, tourism growth, environmental protection, and cultural preservation on the island. Key stakeholders in this initiative include local and national government agencies, communities, NGOs, and the private sector
The project emphasizes the importance of sustainable tourism practices, strict adherence to UNESCO policies, and initiatives like the Bohol Regenerative Island Project. Local ordinances are being developed to balance economic growth with environmental protection, highlighting the roles of local government units, educational institutions, and the tourism sector
Challenges such as environmental degradation, misconduct by local officials, and incidents like coral vandalism highlight the need for improved governance and stronger enforcement of regulations. The PEA aims to identify best practices and challenges, focusing on enhancing sustainable tourism and community engagement while maintaining the geopark's "Green Card Status."
The initiative advocates for participatory governance, data-driven decision-making, and sustainable development to protect Bohol's natural resources and cultural heritage. The work plan involves comprehensive analysis, stakeholder engagement, and collaboration with international partners to promote sustainable development and conservation efforts.
Bass, S., Roe, D., Hou-Jones, X., & Dublin, H. (2021). Mainstreaming nature in development: A brief guide to political economy analysis for non-specialists, UNEP-WCMC, UK.
Bautista, P. S. (n.d.). Proclamation No. 1037. https://lawphil.net/executive/proc/proc1997/proc_1037_1997.html
Din, K. M., Bohol Provincial Environment Management Office, Aumentado, E. A. C., Yap, A. C., Yap, A., & Relampagos, R. (2022). PROGRESS REPORT (A. Amorfini, K. Rangnes, & J. B. Ganub, Interviewers). In Geopark & UNESCO, Bohol Island Aspiring UNESCO Global Geopark. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1N8-qLmODV8VoG1pC3aqz-zO9d19b-J0p/view
Provincial Government of Bohol, University of the Philippines, University of Hamburg, Holy Name University’s Center for Religious Education and Mission, Philippine National Commission for UNESCO, Centre for Neighbourhood Studies Philippines, Center for Culture and Arts Development (CCAD), & Bohol Arts and Cultural Heritage (BACH) Council - Culture and Education Committee. (2023). GGNGeopark Annual Report 2023. https://www.globalgeoparksnetwork.org/sites/default/files/202405/Bohol_UGG_Annual_Report_2023_Final.pdf
Sabatier, P. A. (1988). An Advocacy Coalition Framework of Policy Change and the Role of PolicyOriented Learning therein. Policy Sciences, 21(2–3), 129–168.
Schiffer, E., Waale, D., & International Food Policy Research Institute. (2008). Tracing Power and Influence in Networks: Net-Map as a Tool for Research and Strategic Network Planning [Report]. INTERNATIONAL FOOD POLICY RESEARCH INSTITUTE.
Sitchon, J. (2024, May 29). Ombudsman suspends Bohol governor, 68 officials over Chocolate Hills mess. RAPPLER. https://www.rappler.com/philippines/visayas/ombudsman-suspends-boholgovernor-erico-aumentado-officials-chocolate-hills-may-2024/
Udtohan, L. (2024, September 7). Bohol’s underwater graffiti blamed on dive guide. INQUIRER.net. https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/1980788/bohols-underwater-graffiti-blamed-on-diveguide#:~:text=Dive%20instructor%20Danilo%20Menorias%20first,persons%2C%20inscribed%20on%2 0the%20corals
UNESCO: UNESCO Global Geopark? (2024, March 27). International Geoscience and Geoparks Programme. Retrieved December 15, 2024, from https://www.unesco.org/en/iggp/geoparks/about
Villamejor-Mendoza, M. F. (1998). The Policy System. The Framework of the Policy System. University of the Philippines Open University.
THE THINK TANKS
Ariel M. Abalos
Roxan C. Alcantara
Glen L. Sesbino
Dayanara D. Torres
Aligned with Sustainable Development Goals, this Political Economy Analaysis is Championing:
FACULTIES-IN-CHARGE
DATE OF SUBMISSION
Asst. Prof. Lianne Angelico C. Depante Ms. Kathleen Joy A. Gabaon
“With this strong belief anchored on love and pride as a Boholano, I hope to see the day when all Boholanos fully embrace the geopark concept and when Bohol Island Geopark sets the direction and best practices initiatives in the Philippines.”
Former Governor Arthur C. Yap, 2022
“Panglao, Bohol” Photo by Ariel M. Abalos