Assessment Of Heritage Site Management in the City of Manila: Basis for Heritage Site Management Enhancement Framework

Abstract

Heritage sites serve as important cultural assets that preserve historical identity, promote education, and contribute to sustainable tourism and local economic development. Despite ongoing conservation initiatives, many heritage sites in the City of Manila continue to face challenges stemming from rapid urbanization, rising tourist arrivals, environmental degradation, commercialization, and limited stakeholder participation. This study assessed heritage site management in selected heritage sites in the City of Manila as perceived by site management employees, local government unit officials, community residents, and local visitors. Specifically, it examined respondents' assessments of heritage site management, identified significant differences among stakeholder groups, and identified the challenges encountered in managing these sites. The study employed a descriptive-comparative research design using a researcher-developed questionnaire administered to sixty (60) respondents. Data were analyzed using percentage, weighted mean, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results indicated that heritage site management was generally assessed as Highly Effective, reflecting favorable practices in heritage conservation, visitor management, cultural preservation, stakeholder participation, sustainability initiatives, and site maintenance. However, significant differences were observed among selected respondent groups regarding certain management dimensions, suggesting variations in stakeholder experiences and expectations. Respondents also identified challenges related to infrastructure maintenance, overcrowding, environmental management, funding limitations, and community participation. Based on these findings, a Heritage Site Management Enhancement Framework was developed to strengthen conservation efforts, improve visitor experiences, enhance stakeholder collaboration, and promote sustainable cultural tourism in the City of Manila.