Status of Tourism in Lagayan, Abra: A Baseline Assesment

Abstract

Tourism has become a growing opportunity for local communities to improve livelihood, support small businesses, and promote development. In Lagayan, Abra, assessing the current status of tourism is necessary to determine its economic contributions and workforce development challenges. This study assessed the economic impact of tourism and the workforce development challenges in Lagayan, Abra for 2025–2026.

The study used purposive sampling among 250 respondents. Data were gathered through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using frequency count, percentage, weighted mean, and chi-square.

Findings revealed that most respondents were aged 35–44, male, high school graduates, seasonal workers, and had six years or more of tourism-related service. Tourism contributed to a very high extent in community livelihood and empowerment, revenue generation, and infrastructure and development, while economic inclusivity was rated high. Workforce development challenges were high in job quality and opportunities, access and support systems, and skills and education gaps, while policy and community engagement was rated moderate. Chi-square results showed significant relationships between tourism’s economic contributions and age, employment status, and years in service, while sex and highest educational attainment showed no significant relationship.

Tourism is an important contributor to the economic development of Lagayan, Abra. However, its benefits are not yet fully distributed across all sectors, and workforce-related issues continue to affect tourism growth. Thus, the study recommends the adoption of a Tourism Operations Manual to strengthen inclusive participation, workforce development, operational standards, and sustainable tourism management in the municipality.