TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR MINOR BASILICA OF SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL

Presented to

Sir Kyle Anoso

Of STI Academic Lucena

BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN TOURISM MANAGEMENT

Lucena City, Quezon

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for

TOURISM POLICY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT

By:

AMARGO, ERMELYN GRACE

BUNDALIAN, JASMIN ROSE

CAUSAPIN, MYCA JOY

CUEVAS, KATE

GUTIERREZ, IVY DIANE

HAMMOND, ANGELIKA

REJANO, JOSEPH RAMIL

April 2024

STI College Lucena STI Academic Center, Quezon Ave. Corner Perez St. Lucena City Tel (042) 717-3150 Mobile: (0908) 177-5561
 TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR MINOR BASILICA OF SAINT MICHAEL THE ARCHANGEL

I. Tourism Industry Profile of the Site

The Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel in Tayabas City is the only one of its kind in

Quezon Province. It's renowned as one of the country's most stunning churches and was designated

a National Cultural Treasure by the National Museum of the Philippines in 2001. The basilica started

as a simple church building with a single nave, constructed from bamboo, anahaw leaves, and nipa

palm. It was built by the Franciscans in 1585. In 1743, an earthquake damaged the main church, but

it was reconstructed by 1745 with stone walls measuring 1 vara thick. By 1855, the basilica

underwent further expansion, including changing the triangular pediment of the facade to a curved

shape and adding transepts, completing the church's cruciform layout and giving it the distinctive

key-shaped appearance, it is recognized for today.

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II. Site Evaluation

Criteria 1. Uniqueness and Natural Beauty

Characteristics Least Most
Unique attraction (natural/man-made) 1 2 3 4 5
Beauty 1 2 3 4 5
Natural/Undisturbed 1 2 3 4 5
Recognized by DOT as a tourist attraction 1 2 3 4 5
Criteria 2. Historical / Cultural Value
Characteristics Least Most
Built heritage (existing for 50 years and above) 1 2 3 4 5
Festivals 1 2 3 4 5
Culinary experience 1 2 3 4 5
Museum 1 2 3 4 5
Criteria 3. Accessibility
Characteristics Least Most
Accessible all year (include specifications of 1 2 3 4 5
used vehicle types)
Availability of regular/commercial transport 1 2 3 4 5
service
Distance from service center (maximum 1 2 3 4 5
acceptable travel time is two [2] hours)
Distance from town center (maximum 1 2 3 4 5
acceptable travel time is 30 minutes)
Criteria 4. Availability of Basic Utilities
Characteristics Least Most
Clean water supply 1 2 3 4 5
Sufficient water supply 1 2 3 4 5
Communications (internet, phone, etc.) 1 2 3 4 5
Drainage/Sewerage system 1 2 3 4 5
Solid waste management system 1 2 3 4 5

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 Criteria 5. Availability of On-site Facilities
Characteristics Least Most
Clean and safe restroom for men and women 1 2 3 4 5
Good accommodation facilities 1 2 3 4 5
Clean and quality food service 1 2 3 4 5
Other activity facilities (picnic huts, pools, 1 2 3 4 5
sports and recreation, etc.)
Directional and informational signages 1 2 3 4 5
Criteria 6. Property Ownership
Characteristics Least Most
Local government owned 1 2 3 4 5
Privately owned/managed/leased 1 2 3 4 5
Under Comprehensive Agrarian Reform 1 2 3 4 5
Program or CARP (or CARPable)
Ancestral domain/land claimants 1 2 3 4 5
Criteria 7. Quality of Surrounding
Characteristics Least Most
Landfill/dumpsite 1 2 3 4 5
Mining Site 1 2 3 4 5
Informal settlements 1 2 3 4 5
Beautiful vista/view 1 2 3 4 5
Presence of support services (such as 1 2 3 4 5
emergency response team, fire prevention, etc.)

Table 1. Step 1 of Site Evaluation

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 UNIQUENESS AND NATURAL BEAUTY
Site / Location Unique Beauty Natural / Recognized by Total
Attraction Attraction Undisturbed DOT Score
Minor Basilica Tayabas, 4 5 4 2 15
of Saint Quezon
Michael the
Archangel
HISTORICAL / CULTURAL VALUE
Site / Location Built Festivals Culinary Museum Total
Attraction Heritage
Experience Score
Tayabas, 5 2 2 5 14
Minor Basilica Quezon
of Saint
Michael the
Archangel
ACCESSIBILITY
Site / Location Accessible all Transport Distance from Distance from Total
Attraction year service service center town center Score
Tayabas, 4 4 4 4 16
Minor Basilica Quezon
of Saint
Michael the
Archangel
AVAILABILITY OF BASIC UTILITIES
Site / Location Clean water Sufficient Communication Drainage Solid waste Total Score
Attraction water s system managemen
t
Tayabas, 3 3 4 4 3 17
Minor Basilica Quezon
of Saint
Michael the
Archangel
 AVAILABILITY OF ON-SITE FACILITIES
Site / Location Clean and safe Good Clean and Other activity Directional Total Score
Attraction restroom accommodatio quality food facilities and
n facilities service informational
signages
Minor Basilica Tayabas, 2 3 2 2 3 12
of Saint Quezon
Michael the
Archangel

PROPERTY OWNERSHIP
Site / Location Local Privately owned Under CARP (or Ancestral Total Score
Attraction governmen / managed / CARPabel) domain/lan
t owned leased d claimants
Minor Basilica Tayabas, 5 1 1 1 8
of Saint Michael Quezon
the Archangel
QUALITY OF SURROUNDING
Site / Location Landfill / Mining Site Informal Beautiful vista / Presence of Total Score
Attraction dumpsite settlements view support
services
Minor Basilica Tayabas, 1 1 1 4 3 10
of Saint Michael Quezon
the Archangel

Table 2. Step 2 of Site Evaluation

 Site / Location Uniqueness Historical / Accessibility Availabilit Availability Ownership Quality of Total Score
Attractio / Natural Cultural y of Basic of On-site of Surroundings
Beauty Utilities Facilities
n Value Property
Minor Basilica Tayabas, 15 14 16 17 12 8 10 92
of Saint Quezon
Michael the
Archangel

Site / Attraction Total Points Ranking

Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel 92 3
Site 1

Table 3. Step 3 of Site Evaluation

Explanation:

Tayabas was formally established as a parish in 1580, with Michael the Archangel as its patron saint.

The original church, like many in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era, was a camarin-style

edifice constructed with bamboo, nipa, and anahaw that had been built between 1580 to 1585 by

Franciscan friars. Based on the group’s direct observation it is apparent that the church needs

restoration to enhance the overall interior of the church however, preserving the historical integrity

and architectural significance of Minor Basilica of Saint Michael the Archangel while implementing

necessary upgrades is very complex yet important to maintain it in the long run for future generations

to experience. Thus, a balance between modernization and conservation is very crucial in order to

maintain the character and beauty of the church.

The table presented above showcases the evaluation made by the overall group based on observations

during a thorough research from online sources and analysis. This site evaluation is crucial and involved

in meticulous research of various factors such as location, accessibility beauty and uniqueness of the

place and problems. Table 1 provides a comprehensive breakdown of the initial step of the evaluation

to highlight various criteria and characteristics that is a must to be considered therefore, it is rated on a

scale of 1 to 5 according to the state of the church currently. With 5 being the highest possible mark

and 1 being the lowest possible mark, the attraction chosen is rank according to the suitability based on

predetermined criteria. This table provides a concise review of key points for Minor Basilica of Saint

Michael the Archangel.

Furthermore, Table 2 presents the scores submitted by the overall group's decision and thoughts in

each of the site evaluations per criteria. This suggests that there is room for improvements to maintain

STI College Lucena STI Academic Center, Quezon Ave. Corner Perez St. Lucena City Tel (042) 717-3150 Mobile: (0908) 177-5561
the infrastructure in a long period of time and list the total scores that were collected for all the

criteria. Moreover, for step 3 and 4 provided of the site evaluation are listed and ranked and it

comprises of the site prioritizing assessment along with the evaluation summary. With all things

considered, in this paper the focus remains solely on analyzing the total score gained by the chosen

attraction

III. Site Problem Identification

Site / Attraction / Circuit Component Problems / Issues

Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Infrastructure -Original wood ceiling is being
Archangel
removed

-Painted parts were

transferred to other areas

-Renovation of an older work

of the painting

Historical -Historical Preservation

Other facilities -Comfort room needs improvement

-Sufficient parking space

Environment -Absence of trash can around the area

• Natural
• Social
• Economic

Table 4. Problem Identification in Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel

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IV. Site Problem Analysis

Step 1
Improper restoration of the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel affects the
authenticity and integrity of an ancient structure.
Step 2
We gathered information from online sources that proves that the Basilica of St. Michael
the Archangel is encountering improper restoration
Step 3 Lack of expertise, Cost constraints, Inappropriate materials, Lack of planning
Step 4 Loss of Historical Authenticity and Damage of Architectural integrity
Step 5 Contractors and builders
Table 5. Problem Analysis in Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel

Step 1. Improper restoration in the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel in Tayabas represents a

critical challenge in preserving its rich historical and cultural heritage. Improper restoration

practices also extend to the neglect or disregard of established preservation principles and

guidelines. Restoration decisions made without careful consideration of preservation standards

can result in irreversible harm to the basilica's historic fabric and cultural significance.

Step 2. These sources provide evidence of restoration practices that deviate from established

preservation standards and may result in negative consequences for the basilica's historical

authenticity, architectural integrity, and cultural significance. This information highlights the

importance of ensuring that restoration efforts adhere to best practices and prioritize the

preservation of the basilica's heritage for future generations.

Step 3. The lack of expertise in restoration efforts at the Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel has

resulted in suboptimal outcomes, as restoration professionals may lack the necessary knowledge

or experience in historic preservation techniques. Cost constraints have further exacerbated the

situation, leading to compromises in restoration quality and authenticity due to limited budget

STI College Lucena STI Academic Center, Quezon Ave. Corner Perez St. Lucena City Tel (042) 717-3150 Mobile: (0908) 177-5561
 allocations for projects. Additionally, the use of inappropriate materials has posed a significant

risk to the basilica's structural stability and long-term preservation, as modern materials may not

be compatible with its original construction. Furthermore, the lack of planning or research prior to

restoration work has contributed to uninformed decisions and unintended consequences, such as

the removal of historically significant features or the application of inappropriate restoration

methods.

Step 4. Improper restoration may result in alterations or removal of historically significant

features, diminishing the basilica's authenticity and cultural value. This loss of historical

authenticity erodes the basilica's identity and its ability to convey the rich history and heritage it

represents to future generations. It can also lead to physical harm to the basilica's structure or

facade, compromising its structural integrity and long-term stability. Such damage undermines

the basilica's architectural integrity, posing risks to its preservation and detracting from its visual

and historical significance.

Step 5. Improper restoration can lead to many issues. For example, if a structure is not in keeping

with its original design, it may lose its historical and cultural value. Contractors and Builders are

those who responsible for the physical work may lack the necessary skills, experience, or oversight

to properly restore the basilica. The wrong restoration method can cause damage to the structure

itself, such as deterioration of materials or a decrease in the quality of the construction.

Ultimately, improper restoration can result in a loss of integrity and the structure becoming

unsafe for the people who use it.

STI College Lucena STI Academic Center, Quezon Ave. Corner Perez St. Lucena City Tel (042) 717-3150 Mobile: (0908) 177-5561
Step 6. Problem Tree Analysis Effect

Loss of Historical
Authenticity
Effect

Improper
restoration of
Basilica of St.
Michael the
Archangel
Problem

Inappropriate
Lack of expertise Lack of planning Cost constraints
materials
Cause 1 Cause 2 Cause 3 Cause 4

STI College Lucena STI Academic Center, Quezon Ave. Corner Perez St. Lucena City Tel (042) 717-3150 Mobile: (0908) 177-5561
V. Goals and Objectives for Tourism Development

GOAL:
Increase in Tourist Arrival

OBJECTIVE 1: OBJECTIVE 2: OBJECTIVE 3:

Preservation of Built Enhancing Visitor Restoration and
Heritage Experience Maintenance

Desired outcome in the short/medium term

Fig 2. Goal 1 and its Objectives

Goal 1: Our goal is to increase the tourist arrival in The Minor Basilica of St. Michael the

Archangel in Tayabas City.

The following objectives:

1. To preserve the built heritage of Minor Basilica of St. Michael the Archangel in Tayabas City.

2. To enhance the visitor’s experience.

3. To restore and maintain its infrastructures.

STI College Lucena STI Academic Center, Quezon Ave. Corner Perez St. Lucena City Tel (042) 717-3150 Mobile: (0908) 177-5561
Reference:

https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/181177/tayabas-church-renovations-raise-heritage-concerns/

https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g2094780-d2079763-Reviews-
Basillica_of_St_Michael_the_Archangel-Tayabas_City_Quezon_Province_Calabarzon_Re.html

https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/2022/05/12/built-heritage-tradition-of-the-minor-basilica-of-st-
michael-the-archangel-in-tayabas-city-quezon-province/

https://lifestyle.inquirer.net/181177/tayabas-church-renovations-raise-heritage-concerns/

https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/2022/05/12/built-heritage-tradition-of-the-minor-basilica-of-st-
michael-the-archangel-in-tayabas-city-quezon-province/

https://www.nationalmuseum.gov.ph/2022/05/12/built-heritage-tradition-of-the-minor-basilica-of-st-
michael-the-archangel-in-tayabas-city-quezon-province/

STI College Lucena STI Academic Center, Quezon Ave. Corner Perez St. Lucena City Tel (042) 717-3150 Mobile: (0908) 177-5561