CALAPAN LAKE AQUA PARK

AND CALAPAN LAKE TOURISM

DEVELOPMENT PLAN

PROJECT PROPONENTS:
Spurazkus Cable Parks, Will Do It Enterprises
Mindoro Movement for Change

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary …………………………………………………………………… 1

Environmental Analysis …………………………………………………….………… 2

(PEST Analysis)

Industry Analysis ………………………………………………………………….…… 5

(Porter’s Five Forces Analysis)

Site Assessment for the Proposed Aqua Park …………………………………… 8

SWOT Analysis for Caluangan Lake Tourism Development ………………….. 10

Plans and Strategies for the Lake Tourism Development ……………………… 15

Project Development Phases ………………………………………………………... 20

Conclusion ……………………………………………………………………………… 35

Our Development Paradigm …………………………………………………………. 36

References ……………………………………………………………………………… 37

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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

More than the fun, the thrill and the experience, tourism can offer more to people
and the destination where it successfully operates. Gone are the days when people think
of tourism as only viable to places with spectacular attractions, mesmerizing scenic spots
and pristine natural sites. It is no big secret that the opening of CamSur Watersports
Complex (CWC) in Pili put Camarines Sur on the local and international tourism maps
and transformed it into a top tourist destination, outpacing Manila, Cebu and Boracay in
2010, 2011 and 2012, according to the Department of Tourism.

Given the serene environment and strategic location of Calapan City, it is

undeniable that tourism could be the next industry which could further propel the
development and progress of this city. As most development experts observed, the only
missing piece at the moment is a flagship attraction that can potentially make tourism the
next big thing in Calapan City. Hence, Spurazkus, Will Do It Enterprises and Mindoro
Movement for Change have collaborated to create a flagship attraction in Calapan City
which will be known as the Calapan Lake Aqua Park. This park will house different
recreational facilities namely wakeboard two tower cable system, pool with slide (slip and
fly) and wall climbing facilities. Future development and project expansion of the park
shall include the entire Caluangan Lake for the implementation of FACE Tourism Concept
of the proponents that will feature Farm Tourism, Adventure Tourism, Cultural Tourism
and Ecotourism activities showcasing the full tourism potential of the lake.

The star attraction of the proposed park is the cable wakeboarding which is a fast
growing sport in the Philippines with parks being developed throughout the country.
These cable parks are bringing in new people to the sport every day and keeping them
coming back for more. As a recognized tourist attraction, the country enjoys the reputation
of having the highest concentration of cable parks in the world. Upon the implementation
of this project, Calapan City will become the 11th destination in the country with a cable
park facility. It will be the first of its kind in MIMAROPA since it will utilize natural body of
water for its recreational facilities yet will ensure little impact on the environment.

The development of Calapan Lake Aqua Park is the initial phase of our proposed
Calapan Lake Tourism Development Plan. Key plans and strategies for the lake’s tourism
development will be executed in a number of phases to allow the scale of development
to be matched with the number of visitors coming to the area. To promote Calapan City
as a Popular Lake Destination, the project proponents seek to bring new activities, add
products and increase the capacity of all activities to ensure that visitors will be satisfied
and develop the lake as a multifaceted water sports destination.

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ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS

In the recent 25th National

Convention of the Philippine Institute of
Environmental Planners, the National
Spatial Strategy presentation of Ms.
Kristine M. Villarino, OIC-Chief of the Land
Use and Physical Planning Division,
Regional Development Staff of National
Economic and Development Authority
(NEDA) identified Calapan City as both
Regional Administrative Center and
Tourism Hub. In view of the above, project
proponents of the proposed Calapan Lake
Aqua Park took interest in exploring the
viability and potentials of Calapan City to
cater and sustain the business operation
of a water park facility which can be a key
driver to the massive growth and further
development of the city’s tourism industry.
PEST Analysis examining the political,
economic, social and technological factors
was utilized to get a grasp of a macro
environmental assessment needed for the
proposed venture.

Calapan, lone city of the island of Mindoro, formally became the city of Calapan
under Republic Act No. 8475 after it was ratified by the people of Calapan in a plebiscite
on March 21, 1998, the city’s founding anniversary. Said momentous event happened
during the administration of Mayor Arnan C. Panaligan, currently the incumbent mayor
whose “Fly High as One Calapan” program has made the city a Hall of Fame Awardee as
the Most Business Friendly City in the country. The recent election proved the great
influence of and popular support for the local chief executive after his entire team totally
dominated the elections. From the executive to the legislative department, political unity
and stability can be observed making investments more attractive in Calapan City.

The rapid industrialization of CALABARZON, the creation of Calapan City as the

regional center of Region IV-B, otherwise known as the MIMAROPA Region, and the
development of Strong Republic Nautical Highway which made the city the primary
gateway of Oriental Mindoro to reach the areas of Visayas and Mindanao are undeniable

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factors for the continued economic progress of the city. Apart from being the capital and
the only city of the province of Oriental Mindoro, it is highly regarded as the trade,
educational and financial hub of the province. Trading and commercial activities are
mainly confined in wholesale and retail trade. Banking and other financial sectors are on
the uptrend. Other thriving industries are manufacturing, financing, tourism, food and
beverages and services. Henceforth, the city serves also as the province’s industrial hub.
It plays a pivotal role in the economic development of the province and its adjacent areas,
a huge factor in attracting investments in Calapan City.

Furthermore, Calapan City also plays a major role in the Philippine economy as
one of the major food suppliers in the country. Majority of the vast agricultural lands of
Calapan is devoted to rice production. The city is a major exporter of rice supplying to
Metro Manila and major parts of Luzon making it both an agriculturally-progressive and
urbanized city. The five major crops are rice, citrus, banana, rambutan and lanzones. The
top five industries in Calapan are trading, tourism, services, marine and aquatic, and food
processing.

In terms of tourism, the city has much to offer to the travelers interested in various
types of tourism activities. Although the city is not naturally endowed with pristine white
beaches, towering waterfalls, majestic hills and mountains and other famous scenic
spots, it is also catering for visitors looking for fun, shopping and entertainment on its busy
commercial central business district. It also somehow manages to attract some local and
domestic travelers to some of its natural scenic spots, among them, the five islets
guarding Calapan Bay and Lazareto-Silonay passage, the Caluangan Lake and Calapan
Nature Park. There are also several man-made resorts and attractions that provide
visitors respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Its proximity as well as its
accessibility to neighboring areas with potential sources of both foreign and domestic
tourist market, specifically the tourism mecca known as Puerto Galera, presents a good
sign for tourism development.

In recent years, the city has witnessed the influx of private investments that
increase income and employment opportunities. The City Investment Code encourages
new and existing entrepreneurs to increase their investments. The city government
provides fiscal and non-fiscal incentives and support measures to qualified enterprises.
Notable of which are exemptions from the payment of all kinds of business taxes and real
property taxes with corresponding percentage discount entitlements within the specified
timeframe. All business establishments are also required to employ bona fide residents
of the city to at least 70% of the job opportunities that they will generate.

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 The 2015 Census of Population of the Philippine Statistics Authority identified the
Third Class Component City of Calapan as belonging to the Top Three (3) Most Populous
Areas in MIMAROPA with a total population of 133,893. Regardless of high population
density, social indicators suggest that the city is host to numerous higher educational
institutions. Health and social services are highly accessible for the local people as it is
served primarily by the Oriental Mindoro Medical Center which is also the largest hospital
in the province while there are also numerous private hospitals in the city. Alongside the
economic development of the city in the previous years, the city government further
spurred development not just by physical infrastructure but also through building the
moral and ethical infrastructure of this city instilling the value of discipline and good
character in the hearts and minds of all Calapenos. Hence, the massive campaign of the
city government to promote Calapan City as the City of Discipline and Good Character.

Calapan boasts of many notable accolades and recognitions that it had garnered
under its belt over the past years ever since becoming a city all of which serve as proofs
of the city's continuing efforts to improve its standing and cement its reputation as one of
the most livable cities in the country. Among them are as a Hall of Fame Awardee for
being the “Most Business Friendly City” given by the prestigious Philippine Chamber of
Commerce and Industry and as One of the Most Competitive Small Size Cities in the
Philippine Cities Competitiveness Ranking Project 2007 of the Asian Institute of
Management (AIM) Policy Center.

As the City of Calapan ventures into a new era and phase of economic growth and
prosperity as MIMAROPA’s premier metropolitan center of investment and agro-industry,
it offers ten (10) good reasons to invest in its booming economy namely:
1. Strategic Location being the nearest island province in Metro Manila;
2. Regional Center of MIMAROPA as now becoming the premier commercial hub
not just in the province but in the entire region;
3. Peace and Order Condition maintaining a consistent low crime rate;
4. Stable Power and Water Supply having ample access to electricity and clean
potable water readily available to all residents and establishments;
5. Risk Reduction and Modern Disaster Management Services;
6. Golden Grains City image and reputation as supported and backed up by the
modernized farming techniques accessible to farmers;
7. Ease of Doing Business as the city ensures 10-minute protocol using three (3)
steps (File, Pay and Release) in the application and renewal of permits;
8. Assistance Services and Fiscal and Non-Fiscal Incentives to Investor;
9. Availability of Skilled Manpower for Investments; and
10. Hall of Fame Awardee as the Most Business Friendly City.

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 At present, the city’s central business district (CBD) houses several financing
institutions, service utilities and shopping centers. Most banking institutions provides 24/7
ATM services. Local and new investors are establishing new investments or expanding
their business operations to cater the growing demands of the populace. Innovations in
information technology are also seen recently by the entry of Business Process
Outsourcing (BPOs) in the city.

The city government has also identified preferred / priority investment areas as
menu of investments for prospective foreign or local investors on agro-industrial business,
light manufacturing / processing industries, tourism and transshipment facilities, property
development, development of other environment-friendly enterprises / manufacturing /
production / basic engineering industries, financial institutions and the promising industry
of business process outsourcing. In view of the above, PLDT is now planning to expand
the operation of its fiber-optic lines to improve the internet services in Calapan City.

The information gathered unveiling the development trends and potentials of

Calapan City and the clear commitment of the city government to promote a more
inclusive growth and greater social equity by further improving the investment climate of
the city through better preferential treatment and incentives to investors are indicative of
the great potential of the city to cater and sustain our proposed water park facility.

INDUSTRY ANALYSIS

The Porter's Five Forces tool is a simple but powerful tool for understanding where
power lies in a business situation. This is useful, because it helps understand both the
strength of the current competitive position, and the strength of a position one considering
moving into. It provides a holistic way of looking at an industry and determining if it is a
good place to start a business.

With a clear understanding of where power lies, one can take fair advantage of a
situation of strength, improve a situation of weakness, and avoid taking wrong steps. This
makes it an important part of this development plan. This tool is used to identify whether
new products, services or businesses have the potential to be profitable.

Five Forces Analysis assumes that there are five important forces that determine
competitive power in a business situation. These are Supplier Power, Buyer Power,
Competitive Rivalry, Threat of Substitution and Threat of New Entry. As a model for
industry analysis, the proponents of Calapan Lake Aqua Park utilized the Five Forces
Analysis to analyze the relative strength of venturing into this type of tourism investment

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which is an item in the preferred / priority investment areas identified by the City
Government in their investment portfolio. Further, to fully assess the five forces that
determine the competitive intensity, business attractiveness and likely-profitability of an
industry, the proponents have rated each force using the scale of high, moderate or low
to create a basis for investment decisions.

Five Forces Analysis for Calapan Lake Aqua Park

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Competitive Rivalry

From the position of strength in terms of competitive rivalry, Calapan Lake Aqua
Park enjoys relative advantage over competition where the bargaining power of rival firms
to absorb its market share has been assessed as low. Direct competitors are all situated
in the mainland Luzon with Batangas as the nearest destination with similar facilities and
equipment. Our relative advantages will be in terms of park accessibility, product
innovations and technology infrastructure. Calapan Lake Aqua Park will be the first of its
kind in MIMAROPA since it will utilize natural body of water for its recreational facilities
yet will ensure minimal impact on the environment.

Threat of New Entry

Park development requires high investment and specialist knowledge for the
production of necessary facilities and attractions. Bargaining power of new entrants to
capture the market share for Calapan Lake Aqua Park has been assessed as low for its
high protection of its key technologies where the project proponents are entirely
responsible for the development and maintenance of its technologies and infrastructure.
Since both Spurazkus and Will Do It Enterprises are technology developers and
manufacturers of park inputs, our park can have high innovations and product
differentiation. With strong and durable barriers to entry, Calapan Lake Aqua Park can
preserve a favorable position and take fair advantage of it.

Supplier Power

This is driven by the number of suppliers of each key input, the uniqueness of their
product or service, their strength and control over you, the cost of switching from one to
another, and so on. In the case of Calapan Lake Aqua Park, the bargaining power of
suppliers to affect our operations has been assessed as low since major project
proponents namely Spurazkus and Will Do It Enterprises are technology providers and
manufacturers of our park inputs. Other inputs for the park development will be
outsourced but access to them is manageable.

Threat of Substitution

This is affected by the ability of your customers to find a different way of doing what
you do, thus, if substitution is easy and substitution is viable, then this weakens your
power. Bargaining power of substitutes and compliments to affect our operations and
capture our market share has been assessed as moderate since our venture is a water
park, people may opt to look for other pool facilities in the city. The upward trend in the

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development of pool facilities in the whole province can be a factor as potential substitutes
for our product specifically a wave pool currently being developed in Barangay Sapul,
Calapan City owned by Jolliville Holdings Corporation.

Buyer Power

This is driven by the number of buyers, the importance of each individual buyer to
your business, the cost to them of switching from your products and services to those of
someone else, and so on. Our park would initially appeal to an active niche market
particularly the youth and sports enthusiasts. As such, bargaining power of customers to
affect the business operations has been assessed as moderate as it requires presence
of support facilities and variety of attractions to cater for the other needs and interests of
the people visiting the water park.

SITE ASSESSMENT FOR THE PROPOSED AQUA PARK

The proposed site for Calapan Lake Aqua Park can be found in Barangay Wawa.
It will utilize the dilapidated and rusting mooring facility formerly used for the power barge
of NAPOCOR for the development of the park’s physical structure. This park will house
different recreational facilities namely wakeboard two tower cable system, pool with slide
(slip and fly) and wall climbing facilities. Future development and project expansion of the
park shall include the entire Caluangan Lake for the implementation of FACE Tourism
Concept of the proponents that will feature Farm Tourism, Adventure Tourism, Cultural
Tourism and Ecotourism activities showcasing the full tourism potential of the lake.

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 Lake Caluangan covers 128 hectares, found in the western tip of Calapan City. It
has a recorded maximum depth of 40 feet and is locally known for its abundant supply of
freshwater fishes, shrimps and crabs. It traverses along the major coastlines of Calapan
City’s six rural barangays namely Wawa, Mahal na Pangalan, Masipit, Tawagan, Baruyan
and Canubing I. For generations, the lake has been a reliable provider of the communities’
daily livelihood, a clear indication of the area’s abundance in marine resources. Most of
the developable land on these communities is privately owned. There is visible presence
of fish cages and small fish pens in the lake, operated by local community residents. The
entire lake area is accessible through land transport, the nearest point being
approximately 6 to 7 kilometers off the city’s center. Its radiated areas register a total
population of almost 7,600 residents on approximately 1,400 households, nearly 6.5% of
the total city population.

Fishing and agriculture support the economic needs of the communities. Sources
of jobs and employment are mostly farm-based. Residents of these areas are generally
warm, friendly and hospitable while the resident’s traditionally serene and simple way of
carrying out their daily community affairs can still be observed.

Physical requirements for basic infrastructure such as road networks and

transport, drainage systems and utility (power and potable water supply) are present on
these locations. Medical concerns are normally attended in the city proper which is
approximately 20 to 35 minutes ride. Tourism amenities on these areas like lodges, hotels
and food establishments are not yet in place, indicating an untapped opportunity and
development potential.

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SWOT ANALYSIS FOR CALUANGAN LAKE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

When one considers the elements of tourism and development possibilities,

Calapan City can actually become a major tourist destination. As specified in the Final
Report on Calapan Ecotourism Development Framework prepared by Carlos M. Libosada
Jr. of Conservation International – Philippines, what lacks now is the identification and
development of sites that will serve as the flagship attractions of the city. It is important to
note that this proposed Calapan Lake Aqua Park seeks to address this need to create a
flagship attraction for Calapan City which can trigger the growth and development of the
city tourism industry.

STRENGTHS

1. Unique Natural Endowments

Based on DENR AO 34 Series of 1990, the lake falls on Class C waters, wherein
it is used for fishery waters; for the propagation and growth of fish and other
aquatic resources; recreational water class II for boating, etc., and for industrial
water supply class I (for manufacturing process after treatment). It has a saline
type of lake ecosystem favorable for migratory fish propagation where an
abundant fish species can be found mostly of migratory species. Marine waters
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 get through the lake via Wawa River that serves as an estuarine site. Estuaries
are highly potential for fishery development in the aquatic environment and are
considered as the potential source for feeding, spawning and nursery ground for
most of the fin fishes and shellfishes. The present water quality condition and
presence of fishery resources were indications that the lake has a great potential
to accommodate migratory species. Mangrove trees and associates are notable
to enclose the area, hence the lake has been used as the major source of fishery
resources in the community and it also provides numerous goods and services
from bathing, navigational lane, to source of income and consumption of the
fishery resources.
Preserved natural beauty and carefully maintained resources – the communities
have maintained the scenic beauty of the lake despite ongoing livelihood activities
in the areas like fish caging and fishing. This strength underscores the viability of
developing the lake as a prime tourism destination.
Safe areas for water-oriented activities like dry and wet river cruising, swimming,
wakeboarding and other water sports activities.
Fishing areas – opportunities for fresh water fishing activities. Abundance of
resources like shrimps, crabs and fishes reinforces the lake’s marketing image.
Accessibility – the existing multiple transportation modes (land and water access)
highlights the lake’s accessibility to the city’s major key centers and other potential
tourism extension sites like beach resorts and other scenic spots within the city’s
periphery and tourism-oriented activities like beach hopping, trailblazing, etc.

2. Quality of Local Communities

Community resources – the target communities have sufficient supply of

resources, most significantly in terms of its local labor pool. The presence of semi
and skilled labor source within these areas can make material contribution to the
development of local tourism, e.g. tourism product development, events and
recreation planning and coordination, etc.
Existing cultural practices – The day-to-day social and economic community affairs
expressing simplicity, and the prevailing culture of hospitality in the communities
add up to the positive marketing image of Lake Caluangan as a prime and exciting
lake destination in the province.

3. Tourism Development Direction

Land use planning – the current city’s comprehensive land use plan defining the
target communities as tourism growth areas for expansion and development which
conveys the local government’s support the community and tourism development.

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WEAKNESSES

1. Low Community Preparedness

Absence of facilities for visitors’ accommodations and other basic amenities in the
radiated areas. Although the communities have the infra and utility requirements
in place, there are no available facilities to address basic market needs and
concerns. Accommodations do not only imply lodging facilities, but also food
service and the need for immediate medical access.
Absence of physical spaces or sites for camping grounds, parking and mini-docks
for cruise transports. Most of these facilities require serious investments.
Lack of social preparedness, manifested by:
o Untrained labor pool – although there is available local source of labor for the
tourism activities within the communities, these resources must be trained and
developed to suit the requirements of the project.
o Poverty incidence – the lake has been bordered with barangays and it has been
utilized by the community for fishing purposes as the primary source of their
livelihood. Thus, the heavy reliance of the community to the role of the lake to
their livelihood could undermine cooperation and acceptability of any tourism
development program.
o Negative community perceptions – negative perceptions are expected to arise,
but they are not necessarily difficult to address. Common apprehensions may
include: disruption of everyday social and economic activity, incidence of
economic displacement, some negative social impacts brought by conventional
tourism, negative environmental effects, and peace and security issues.
Absence of social mechanism to prepare the target communities for the positive
and negative implications of the project.

2. Low Market Preparedness

Lack of market awareness in terms of the features and attributes of the lake as a
tourism destination. A final image of Lake Caluangan is yet to be accurately
defined for market segmentation and appropriate positioning for recreation
planning and coordination, etc.
Product offerings are seasonal and dependent on weather conditions. If not
carefully planned, this attribute could pose a constraint on the communities in
terms of income sustainability and impelling negative perceptions among the
residents. This has been one of the identified lapses in the operations of Mindoro
Tourism Cooperative’s Lake Cruiser and Floating Restaurant.

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OPPORTUNITIES

1. Increasing Harvest of Fishery Resources

Based on the initial study on physico-chemical and biological assessment, the

Urban Planning and Development Office of the City Government of Calapan
reported that Lake Caluangan is considered oligotrophic. The water is a brackish /
saline type due to the mixing of water inflows from marine and freshwater
tributaries. At present, the lake has been used for aquaculture purposes and day-
to-day fishing activities. The survey revealed that there are 147 baklad (fish
corrals), 17 fish pens and 11 salambao (lift nets) operating in the lake, and
commonly it has been utilized for mostly for capturing fisheries and aquaculture.
Under the proposed Integrated Inland Fisheries Resource Management (IIFRM) in
Lake Caluangan of the Fisheries Management Office of the City Government of
Calapan, the following measures can enhance and increase sustainability:
o Biological studies for Siganus sp. Specifically their spawning and migration
behavior for commercial purposes;
o Promotion of polyculture in ponds and cages;
o Training on semi-intensive culture of fin fishes and aquaculture;
o Institution of a Fisher’s Field School (FFS) for marginal fishermen in the
production of aquaculture products using various appropriate fishing gears.

2. Enhancing Image and Creating Distinction for Calapan City

Opportunities defining Lake Caluangan’s distinctive tourism image, can be used

for market positioning (Calapan as a Popular Lake Destination) supported by
several factors foreseen to propel the lake’s market-readiness, taking advantage
of the increasing demand for outdoor tourism:
o Calapan City as MIMAROPA’s Regional Growth Center – this political
development offers positive market opportunities for local tourism. The influx of
visitors increases demand potential for tourism and recreation products.
o Western Nautical Highway – the Strong Republic Nautical Highway increases
the level of consumer traffic and would-be visitors.
o Proximity to Puerto Galera offers opportunity for tour packages and outdoor
activities not provided elsewhere in the province.

3. Expanding Demand towards other Tourism Sites

Gateway to Calapan City’s Inner Treasures – opening Lake Caluangan to tourism

unlocks the inner strengths of the city: ecology, culture and history. Developing

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 thematic tourism programs (adventure, ecotourism, heritage tours, community
celebrations) with Lake Caluangan as the jump off point will significantly contribute
to the marketing efforts of other tourism sites in the city.
Multi-Sector Engagement – partnerships with local sectors such as transport
service sector and agriculture sector will help strengthen our city tourism.

4. Inducing Innovation and Entrepreneurial Growth

Stimulates introduction of innovative and creative ideas in lake-based tourism –

developing distinct tourism products and water-based recreational activities.
Serves as stimulus and or magnet for investments.
Transforms regular community affairs into spectacular tourism events.
Provides entrepreneurial growth in the radiated communities. Community
residents will be enticed to develop their own tourism products and offerings.

5. Becoming Powerful Tool for Community Building

Encourages community involvement.

Promotes collective decision making and planning.
Generates Source of Community Pride.

THREATS

1. Social Acceptability of the Local Communities

Communities’ negative perceptions on tourism.

Lack of community support attributed to lack of awareness and interest in tourism.

2. Impacts on the Lake’s Resources

The lake capacity to support fishery resources has been threatened by the
increasing numbers of fish gear establishments distributed unevenly all throughout
the lake waters as well as the existing piggery operation in the vicinity. The lake
including the Wawa River that connects the lake to the sea are important habitats
for fish species that are diadromous, i.e. those that have to migrate between the
sea and freshwater to complete their life cycle. The lake and the river are also
critical migratory pathways to and from upstream habitats. The water quality of the
lake is a key component of fish habitat quality and a critical measure of the lake’s
health. Consequently, maintenance of suitable conditions in these two habitats, for
both fish passage and resident fish, is important for fish management. Knowledge

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 of these factors is important to determine appropriate protection levels when
making decisions in lake management.
Destructive or unmanaged use of resources.
Land use issues – conflicts over access to resources.
Inability to manage area capacity.

3. Issues on Regulations

Issues on government regulation policies: issuance of permits, multiple agencies

and monitoring bodies, conflicts on policies (national, provincial and city levels)

4. Capacity to Sustain Tourism Development

Limited capacity of the private sector to develop, implement programs and sustain
operations which may be caused by:
o Lack of sufficient funding for facilities and visitor amenities;
o Ineffective marketing or lack of interest from other tourism players to cooperate.
Seasonal markets.
Unskilled and or untrained manpower.

PLANS AND STRATEGIES FOR THE LAKE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT

Key plans and strategies for the lake’s tourism development rest on some
significant development issues: a) preservation and conservation of the lake’s natural
scenic beauty, b) equitable benefits for and economic development of the communities
involved in the project and c) sustaining market interest through innovation and collective
participation of industry stakeholders.

Critical objectives set in the project’s initial stages are the following:
• Rename Caluangan Lake into Calapan Lake to instill ownership of the lake;
• Define the image of the lake and formulate its distinct selling proposition;
• Build awareness of the lake as a tourism destination;
• Develop and deliver appropriate tourism products;
• Mobilize community resources and encourage public and private sector support.

The success of any tourism program largely depends on the attitude of the host
community. Preparing a destination for tourism development entails educating the local
citizenry on the value of maintaining discipline, order and harmony within it. For the city
of Calapan, the prospects for tourism development is high given the renewed interest of

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the people to take part on the ongoing development process of the city as spearheaded
by the city government. The successful programs of “Fly High as One Calapan” are all
indicative of the potential of the city to become a premier tourist destination in the region.
Hence, this collaboration project of Spurazkus, Will Do It Enterprises and Mindoro
Movement for Change rests on the premise that the city’s real tourism wealth is in
harnessing the intrinsic resources of the communities.

The strategies for the development of Lake Caluangan as a tourism destination

are as follows:

A. Renaming of Caluangan Lake into Calapan Lake

To provide a great source of pride for all Calapenos, the project proponents
are campaigning for the renaming of Caluangan Lake into Calapan Lake which
could provide better identity, ownership and branding for the lake.

B. Creating a Destination Image for Lake Caluangan

Ideally, image-making process entails community dialogues and

consultations. It is through the communities where the appropriate character or
image of a place is drawn out, mostly emanating from the cultural experiences of
the community residents. In this particular work activity, the role of the local
government is highly critical.

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C. Awareness Building

Building awareness is more than just a market promotions activity as it takes

many tangible forms. Creating regular routes (directing traffic) in the area, placing
distinctive signage along strategic areas leading to the target tourism location or
conducting guided academic tours are just some of the many effective media to
develop awareness among the local populace.

1. Aggressive Marketing and Research – Initial promotional concept include:

Conduct of research and documentation activities like consumer research
to determine customer perceptions and preferences
Formulation of promotional campaigns to highlight programmed activities
Tri-Media Marketing, use print and broadcast media in promotional activities
Developing a promotional website
Forming linkages with partner institutions like travel agencies, government
offices and tourism associations

2. Advocacy Campaigns – Intensive advocacy campaigns for the preservation

and promotion of the lake shall be included in regular program initiatives.

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 3. Extension of Support to the City Government of Calapan in the formulation of
the City Tourism Master Plan, incentive programs, tourism policies and tourism-
related ordinances

D. Developing Tourism Products and Activities

At the outset, the communities will be encouraged to create their own

tourism products (native “pasalubong” delicacies, souvenir items or even services
like guided fishing, swimming or tour guiding).

1. Recreational Facilities – our Calapan Lake Aqua Park will house different
recreational facilities namely wakeboard two tower cable system, pool with
slide (slip and fly) and wall climbing facilities.

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 2. Dry and Wet River Cruise (with lunch or meals on board) – Dry cruising is the
regular type of cruise offering wherein the participants stay dry during the entire
tour. In contrast, Wet cruising offers visitors the chance to swim and use the
water playground facilities.

3. Entertainment at River Stops – Mini-docks will be constructed at designated

stops where visitors will be entertained by participating communities with their
cultural performances (folk songs and dances).

4. Fishing Demonstration – Actual hands-on fishing experience, shell gathering

and fish trapping will be part of the client’s educational experience.

5. Floating Spa – Another unique tourism product that the lake can readily offer is
having a great massage and relaxation activity in a quiet and peaceful voyage

6. Guided Farm Tourism Packages – As a tour extension activity, guided tours on

fruit and rice farms will form part of the entire package.

E. Mobilizing Community Resources and Offering Private-Public Participation

1. Training and Deployment – Part of the development initiative is to train local

talents in the industry of boat building and cable park development and can
utilize TESDA for this undertaking as well as training them with the following:
Tour Guiding – A critical part of every tourism package is the integration of
professional and culture-friendly guiding services for tourists. Tour guides
play a vital role in acting as “conduits” and “interpreters” of the physical and
cultural character of the host location.
Cultural Performances – Local talents from the communities will be trained
as dancers, singers and stage performers.
Souvenir Production – Local residents shall be given workshops and
trainings on souvenir-making in coordination with DTI and other concerned
national government agencies.

2. Community Organizing – Interventions from the local government units shall be

solicited in community organizing activities. Organizing the community
residents to encourage active involvement in tourism promotions and
development will play a central role in the project’s over-all success. Issues on
general sanitation, maintaining peace and security and protecting cultural
values from exploitation, commercialization and other adverse impacts shall be
collectively addressed.

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PROJECT DEVELOPMENT PHASES

The success of these initiatives which is characterized by a tourism-driven

approach under a community-based development framework is largely dependent on the
positive collaboration between the private and the public sectors. The realization of the
plan will bring enormous economic impact as well as the rise in employment, livelihood
and income for the communities of the outlaying barangays along the lake. The different
phases of the tourism development plan are as follows:

The first phase of the project will be the transfer and installation of the existing
Prototype Jack-Up Two Tower Cable System as the initial facility for wakeboarding
from Puerto Galera to Barangay Wawa, Calapan City this December 2016.

The installation of the Prototype Jack-Up Cable Park Towers in Barangay Wawa,
Calapan City by the third week of December 2016 will set the initial phase of our tourism
initiative. Conduct of non-commercial demonstrations of the equipment can be expected
in the last week of the month. Said facility will be offered for free test rides to the local
community and visitors to determine the level of market acceptability, gauge acceptance
of the project by the community and ensure it has no negative effects on the daily lives of
Wawa residents. As proposed in the previous meetings, the city government may do a
soft launching activity of the wakeboarding facility to showcase this new exciting attraction
in the upcoming Santo Nino de Calapan Festival on January 01, 2017.

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 Setting up the facility will require measuring the area of operations as well as the
water depths of the river in order to determine the suitable location and position of the two
tower cable system. The size of cable park riding area between the towers is 300 meters
by 40 meters, which will only utilize a smaller portion of the river.

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 Spurazkus as a legitimate developer of cable park facilities have high regard on
the preservation and conservation of the fragile ecosystem of the lake. Hence, it is
important to note that it has developed an environment-friendly facility which will not harm
the physical environment and place no burden on public resources. Calapan Lake Aqua
Park envisions to become a green adventure park which will benchmark the use of
environment-friendly facilities like solar panels and materials with zero carbon footprints.

As illustrated in the above photo, the concept of the two tower cable system is
replicated to the engineering design of an oil rig. Floaters are incorporated to the tower
design while the main foundations of the tower occupy only the size of 40cm. x 40cm. on
the river floor designed to reduce the impact from below up to the surface level.

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 Spurazkus will provide free training for the sport enthusiasts. Wakeboarding is a
beginner activity that requires no prior knowledge or certification to participate. It is a
challenging sport with tricks and stunts to be learned that take many hours of practice to
master. As a result, riders return again and again to perfect their skills. To seamlessly
accommodate all customers, Spurazkus maintains a full inventory of wakeboards, life
vests, and helmets guaranteeing that the right equipment, that fits correctly, for every size
of the rider will be readily available.

A watersports park will surely bring new visitors who want to ride and relax in a
beautiful location. Therefore, safety is also a primary concern. In addition to basic first aid
equipment strategically placed around the park, Spurazkus has a rescue boat in the water
at all times for picking up riders and bringing them back to shore.

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The second phase starts with the launching of the new barges which are currently
being manufactured. By February 2017, Spurazkus will change the prototype jack-up
cable park towers with the Generation II Jack-Up Cable Park Towers. A meeting with
key officials for the review of the outcome of the project’s initial operation and
presentation of plans and strategies for operational growth will be initiated.

The third phase will require a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the city
government and the project proponents re: development of the physical structure of
the park’s walkway and viewing deck areas on the dilapidated and rusting mooring
facility formerly used for the power barge of NAPOCOR (with the assumption that
before the city’s founding anniversary on March 21, 2017, said mooring facility has
already been donated by NAPOCOR to the city government).

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 As soon as the donation request of the city government for the old mooring facility
is granted by NAPOCOR and a MOA for the structural development of the park on top of
it is achieved, project proponents will immediately proceed with the development of the
park’s walkway and viewing deck areas as illustrated below.

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 Presented below is the schematic view of the proposed Calapan City Watersports
Complex which shall be known as Calapan Lake Aqua Park. After the construction of the
park’s walkway and viewing deck areas on top of NAPOCOR’s mooring facility, the park
will be surrounded by water floating platforms that will serve as the promenade areas for
the visitors where they can enjoy watching people engaging with different water sports.

A park’s visit will definitely make for a great family day as parents who just want to
relax can have a great day while kids are fully engaged in different water sports.

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 The main structures which are the walkway and viewing deck areas will be built on
top of the mooring facility out of honeycomb fiberglass boards which are definitely
lightweight yet durable and can easily be dismantled in case of relocation. Dock floats or
water floating platforms that will serve as the promenade areas shall be attached to it.

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 Other recreational products such as barge mounted Slide (Slip and Fly) for the
natural swimming pool area and a barge mounted climbing walls will soon be installed to
attract more visitors to the park. To promote Calapan City as a Popular Lake Destination,
new activities, additional products and increase in the capacity of all activities will surely
make the lake a highly popular and multifaceted water sports destination.

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 The unique feature of the proposed water park is not solely for being environment-
friendly but investor-friendly as well. Park facilities can work on natural water locations
and requires no excavation of any kind for installation. No heavy equipment required for
assembly, installation or removal. Park structures and facilities are completely detachable
and movable which can be put into safety if there are bad weather forecasts. In this way,
this project becomes worry and risk-free for investors. And if for any reason the park and
its facilities are removed, the environment returns to its natural state.

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 The fourth phase will be the construction of a marina adjacent to the water park which
can cater for yacht owners visiting the park. Calapan Lake due to its proximity to
Puerto Galera can be transformed into the next Muelle where a number of yachts can
be found in the aforementioned popular tourism destination.

A marina may have refueling, washing and repair facilities, marine and boat
chandlers, stores and restaurants. A marina may include ground facilities such as parking
lots for vehicles and boat trailers. Slipways (or boat ramps) transfer a trailered boat into
the water. A marina may have a boat hoist well (a traveling crane) operated by service
personnel. A marina may provide in- or out-of-water boat storage.

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 Calapan City can take advantage of developing its first ever Boat-Building Industry
which could eventually put the city in the map of boat-building industry in the country. One
of the pioneer boat shop in the city is owned by Engr. Willy Lao, proprietor of Will Do It
Enterprises, and is located at Barangay Masipit, Calapan City.

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 The fifth phase will be setting up a Spurazkus Work Shop Facility manufacturing two
tower cable systems and all support equipment for future facilities distribution in other
locations all over the country and abroad. Cable park workshop jobs have the potential
to employ 5 multi-skilled jobs trained for carpentry, fiberglass lay-up, painting, metal
working and equipment assembly.

Spurazkus will employ and train locals to do welding, wiring, general mechanics,
and carpentry. These trained skills have a long term value to employees as they will
increase their earning potential while working for Spurazkus and will also give them the
potential for other jobs in the Philippines and abroad.

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The final phase will be the implementation of FACE Tourism Concept for the overall
tourism development of the lake and city that will feature Farm Tourism, Adventure
Tourism, Cultural Tourism and Ecotourism activities to showcase the full tourism
potential of the lake.

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CONCLUSION

The strategies discussed here in developing Lake Caluangan as a tourism area

can unlock the inner tourism strengths of the city embodied by ecology, culture and
history, serve as a magnet for investments, stimulate introduction of innovative and
creative ideas in lake-based tourism, encourage entrepreneurial growth within the
involved communities, heightens community pride and involvement as well as promote
collective decision making and planning. Such strategies do not undermine the value of
protecting the fragile ecosystem of the lake and stakeholders have far long term vision
for the development and sustainability of the lake.

While the initial facility has yet to be transferred from Balatero, Puerto Galera to
Barangay Wawa, Calapan City, Mindoro Movement for Change should conduct series of
Barangay Tourism Advocacy Campaign to the six (6) rural outlaying barangays along the
Caluangan Lake to increase appreciation of tourism and achieve high degree of social
acceptability of our tourism development projects.

After identifying the proposed strategies for the overall tourism development of
Caluangan Lake, the following essential recommendations must be given due attention.

1. Creation of Calapan Lake Development Council – The city government should

initiate the formation of this council who can help in the supervision of development
initiatives for the lake. This will set the directions of the development project, clearly
defining the key responsibilities and role of the private and government sectors.

2. Revitalization of the involved communities within the lake area – The socio-
economic condition of the residents within the involved communities defines the
character of the tourism destination.

3. Strengthening the regulatory environment to build suitable conditions – This long-

term development project must be guided with appropriate policies and directives
to largely maintain a community and business-friendly tourism environment.

4. Infrastructure support – Building the key infrastructure and utility facilities will help
accelerate tourism growth in the area.

5. Maintaining productive partnerships with industry stakeholders – Proper linkaging

and coordination with different key tourism service providers in the city and in the
province must be established in order to expose the potential of Lake Caluangan
as an alternative tourist destination.

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OUR DEVELOPMENT PARADIGM

The synergy and collaboration of Spurazkus Cable Parks, Will Do It Enterprises

and Mindoro Movement for Change aims to bring exciting development in three highly
potential industries that all Calapenos can be proud of. In our quest to bring an exciting
attraction in Calapan City, our efforts led us to discover strategies on how to develop and
jumpstart three powerful and labor-intensive industries namely tourism, boat-building and
cable park building or manufacturing.

Our development paradigm provides for the utilization of talent, shared values and
process which are critical ingredients in our strategic planning and strategy formulation.
The talent resources accounts for the proponents’ human resources delivering and
performing assigned roles and tasks. Shared values are the beliefs or ideals shared by
the proponents on what is good or bad and desirable or undesirable. Process refers on
the proponents’ specific methods or manner of conducting activities, tasks or roles. We
employ a pro-active approach in developing our strategies guided by the continuous
improvement process approach. Hence, we define strategy as our set of plans to be
executed in order to achieve our goals and solve our problems.

We aim to enhance the lives of Calapenos by providing a venue for participation

in sports and livelihood opportunities while promoting healthy and active lifestyles. Our
partnership with the community will bring additional employment opportunities, increased
tourism and environmental awareness to the city of Calapan.

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REFERENCES

1. City Trade and Industry Department, City Government of Calapan (2016).

Investment Portfolio (Invest in Calapan City MIMAROPA’s Premier Metropolitan
Center of Investments and Agro-Industry)

2. Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Environment Management

Bureau (1990). “DENR Administrative Order No. 34, 1990: Revised Water Usage
and Classification / Water Quality Criteria Amending Section Nos. 68 and 69.
Chapter III of 1978 NPCC Rules and Regulations (corrected version)” Published
by DENR

3. Fisheries Management Office, City Government of Calapan (2010). “Fishery

Resources Assessment in Caluangan Lake, Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro”.

4. McIntosh, R. & Ritchie, B. (2006). Tourism Principles, Practices, Philosophies–10th

Edition. New Jersey, USA: John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

5. Libosada, C., Conservation International – Philippines (2009). Calapan Ecotourism

Development Framework

6. Urban Planning and Development Office, City Government of Calapan (2007).

Integrated Coastal Resource Management Development Plan for Calapan City

7. Villarino, K., NEDA (2016). National Spatial Strategy Presentation during 25th
National Convention of the Philippine Institute of Environmental Planners dated
November 08, 2016

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