Attractions, Activities, and Food Products in Real, Quezon: Their Relevance to the Local Tourism Industry

Abstract

Tourism products, including attractions, visitor activities, and local food offerings, play a vital role in enhancing destination competitiveness and promoting sustainable tourism development. This study assessed the attractions, activities, and food products in the Municipality of Real, Quezon, and examined their relevance to the local tourism industry. Specifically, it evaluated the perceptions of local tourists, community residents, local government unit (LGU) employees, and business owners; determined significant differences among respondent groups; and identified the challenges affecting the promotion of these tourism resources. A descriptive-comparative research design was employed involving 60 purposively selected respondents representing the four stakeholder groups. Data were collected using a validated and reliable researcher-developed questionnaire and analyzed using frequencies, percentages, weighted means, and one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The findings showed that the municipality's tourist attractions and tourism activities were rated Very Good, while its local food products were rated Excellent, highlighting their significant contribution to destination attractiveness and visitor satisfaction. Significant differences were observed among respondent groups in selected aspects of tourism product assessment, reflecting variations in stakeholder perspectives and experiences. Respondents likewise identified challenges related to accessibility, infrastructure, destination promotion, and tourism support services. The study concludes that Real, Quezon, possesses strong tourism potential and that sustained improvements in destination management, product development, infrastructure, and stakeholder collaboration are essential to strengthen destination competitiveness and support sustainable local tourism development.