Chapter I

INTRODUCTION
Resort nowadays contributes a great development on economic aspects of the
country, especially in tourism. The demand for tourist accommodations is gradually
increasing every year because of the increasing rate of tourist arrivals, both local and
foreign. Therefore, the services offered by resorts must be enhanced as well as the
application of architectural aesthetics on buildings and strategic site development must be
given great concern to enhance more guest arrivals and the return of investment spent on
developing it must be easily achieved. It must have comfortable accommodations for
everyone who come to spend their time or sort of adventure. It must also be affordable to
average families who also want to enjoy their weekends and special occasions.
Resort developments are also greatly enhanced by their location and its
environment like the island of Guimaras which is bounded by distinctive, unique and
historical features which make it known in the Philippines and the world. It is also known
and considered to be as THE SWEETEST MANGO IN THE WORLD, considering
that it was the first to export mango products in the international market. Remains of old
buildings and structures of the early civilization like the Guisi lighthouse, the Balaan
Bukid and the Navalas Church are now the main tourists attractions of the island, which
could be experienced only upon staying in Guimaras. Other places of interests are the
inviting beach, coral rich islands, fish abundant seas, environmental conserved areas both
marine and in land, caves, falls and springs. The Manggahan Festival and the Ang
Pagtaltal sa Guimaras have also become the tourist attractions held in the island which
bring large number of local and foreign arrivals. Sibunag, a component municipality of

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Introduction

Guimaras is also one of the tourist destinations which offer unique experiences for
visitors.
As the time passes by, the tourism industry of the island is rapidly growing. In
relation to this, resort business and hotels are also increasing in the island which increases
the threat on the environment considering that most resorts occupies large parcel of land
areas for its development. The disposal of wastes is also one of the great concerns on this
matter.
Most resort in Guimaras lacks response to the growing trend of architectural
approaches on development and considerations to the global issues and environmental
concerns that we currently face. Examples of this are improper waste segregation and or
management, obsolete planning and utilization of spaces and utilization of alternative
sources of energy. The integration of sustainable concepts in the design development is
not being considered.

I.1.BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Ecological resort developments are essential because it integrates both resort and
environmental considerations. Through this, we can help the prevention of the current
concerns on global ecological problems and improve the quality if resorts and enhance
the conservation of our natural resources. Ecological resort development is now growing
throughout the country. In some countries like the United States, ecological resorts serve
as the zone for the conservation of animals and the environment as well as the place for

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Introduction

economic development. Some theories on environmental planning are being applied to

maximize its goal on environmental conservation and economic development. Ecological
resorts are also one way of incorporating eco-friendly but luxurious designs on
accommodations and structures in the site where it is to be developed.
In our case, resorts in the Philippines are mainly the provider of large array of
employment, job opportunities, community development, business development and
promotion of local and international cultures. With less considerations on the
environment, resorts in our countries are more focused and giving much attention on the
economic aspects only such as income, human resource management and services which
neglects the environmental impacts of the resort. Although resorts have provided lots of
benefits on that case, it is not deniable that its continuing development has caused much
on depleting our resources such as bringing down of our forests to give ways for
expansion without even replacing what is lost.
The natural condition of the site environment plays a big role on the resort
development; therefore it must not be altered too much. For instances of the
development, it is necessary to adopt the site features in implementing the design to
enhance the positive ecological impacts of the resort. The geographic location is also a
factor that determines these aspects.

The good impact of resorts depends greatly on its location, such as accessibility
and transportation, the panoramic views and interesting sites, the good environment, the

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Introduction

place for fun and recreation, and safety. Incorporating these factors will greatly determine
the success of project on return of investment and environmental impact basis.
Guimaras, with its diverse environment, practically suits for ecological resort
development. With its crystal clear waters, protected and reserve ecosystem, minimum
pollution, accessibility, interesting points adventure and recreation, rich collection of
heritages and cultures, forested areas and peaceful environment, the island provides a
large excitement for the tourists who come and visit it.
This study will develop a good resort with the integration of sustainable design
and complete ample amenities and facilities. It will formulate better designs to upgrade
the services and type of resorts no one has ever been formulated in Guimaras.

I.2.GENERAL OBJECTIVES
To develop an eco-resort with the integration of sustainable design that respond to
its unique environment.

I.3.SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES
1. To design a first class resort in Guimaras incorporating new trends and style of
resort development to enhance tourism industry in the whole province.
2. To consider the potential of the site in regards to its ecological and environmental
features.

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Introduction

3. To apply and integrate local materials in its design composition making its architecture
unique and impressive.

I.4.SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study was vital in enhancing resort architecture styles in site development
and structures to further develop tourism industry in the island. This promoted and
upgrade the quality of resorts in Guimaras and be competitive into other known quality
resorts in the country.
The study has also considered environmental awareness through environment
friendly building and site designs and proper handling of wastes by providing waste
segregation facilities in the site.
Architectural studies had enhanced and developed the existing features of the site
and promoted its diverse setting into a place for a peaceful interaction of nature and manmade environment.

I.5.SCOPE AND LIMITATION

The scope of the study contains the analysis of the site features and transforms
them into a unique resort incorporating vernacular architecture. The analysis will include
rigid data gatherings, case studies, interpretation of facts and translate those into
architectural presentations which is the main target of the study. Design considerations
are evaluated to conform and respond to the present resort styles where it will be situated.

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Introduction

The study will only be limited in the province of Guimaras specifically in the
municipality of Sibunag but the features will consider the varied style of resort planning
and design. This thesis is within the scope of a five to ten years design application and
will somehow consider changes after that period.