After the Surge: Tourism as a Disaster Recovery Strategy in Tacloban, the Philippines

Abstract

This thesis presents a comprehensive examination of the role of tourism in disaster recovery, specifically focusing on Tacloban’s response to Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. Employing case study methodology, this study delves into the dynamics of tourism development post-disaster, highlighting both organic growth and structured initiatives facilitated by local government and tourism bodies.

The findings reveal that the influx of aid workers and disaster tourists played a pivotal role in the economic resurgence of Tacloban, transforming the city into a tourist attraction itself as well as a regional gateway for tourism. This unexpected shift not only bolstered immediate post-disaster economic stability but also laid the groundwork for sustainable economic development. The thesis underscores the dual role of tourism in providing immediate economic relief and fostering long-term economic growth, facilitated by strategic planning and policy-making.

Key recommendations from the study emphasize the importance of preparedness in leveraging tourism for disaster recovery, suggesting the implementation of strategic frameworks to manage and maximize the benefits of tourism post-disaster. The research contributes to the broader discourse on disaster recovery and tourism, advocating for further studies to explore the potential of tourism in diverse post-disaster settings globally.