Exploring Stakeholders Insights on Makati’s Poblacion Heritage Sites: Implications to Local Tourism, Development and Strategic Planning

Abstract

This study explores the potential of cultural heritage as a catalyst for socio-economic development in Makati City’s Poblacion Heritage Site. Focusing on four key heritage sites, Museo ng Makati, Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Plaza Cristo Rey, and Poblacion Park, the research examines how preserving these sites can contribute to local tourism, economic growth, and strategic planning. Through a qualitative case study methodology, including stakeholder interviews, the study highlights the intricate balance needed between heritage conservation and urban development. Findings underscore the sites’ unique cultural characteristics, their role in fostering tourism, and their significance in driving local development and the city’s strategic planning initiatives.

The study proposes policy recommendations, such as establishing conservation zones, involving community stakeholders, allocating funds specifically for heritage preservation, and integrating sustainable practices in restoration projects. The research also suggests embedding heritage preservation within Makati’s urban development and tourism planning, advocating for a collaborative and inclusive approach to maintaining the city’s cultural fabric. Ultimately, the study positions cultural heritage as an essential component of Makati’s long-term development strategy, emphasizing that urban growth and heritage preservation can co-exist harmoniously, fostering both economic prosperity and cultural continuity for future generations.