Balik-Biñan Project: Tourism Development Through Heritage Conservation

Problem

LGU officials in Biñan, Laguna, realized that there is a tendency to forget the heritage and history of Laguna, which is vital to crafting better programs and policies for the future.

Solution

Biñan City launched the Balik-Biñan Project: Tourism Development Through Heritage Conservation back in 2016, which strengthens the cultural tourism and preservation of Biñan, Laguna. The program included seven significant activities:

The conversion of the old municipal building into the Sentrong Pangkultura ng Biñan;
The restoration of the Historic Alberto Mansion;
The revival of the Biñan Heritage District;
The conduct of Local Cultural Mapping Project;
The production of tourism and culture publications, songs, and videos;
Culture-based governance training for city and barangay officials; and
The crafting of the 10-year City Tourism Development Plan.

Impact

Increased tourists in heritage sites

Implementation Guidelines

Guideline 1: Establish a department for sustainability

The City of Biñan established the Biñan City Culture, History, Arts, and Tourism Office (BCHATO) to help with the sustainability of the program.

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Guideline 2: Create a council of experts and supporters

The Balik-Biñan Project is supported by a council composed of diverse members such as the Department of Education, local historical and heritage societies, the private sector, and the youth sector, among others. These members provide expert opinions and support to all of the project initiatives.

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Guideline 3: Create a long-term development plan

As part of its activities, Biñan City also crafted a Tourism Development Plan to help guide and sustain the activities of the project.

Project Files

Photos