CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

Cortes, also known by the ancient name Malabago, was established as an

independent parish in 1793 or 94, and was later renamed Paminguitan. The town

was later then renamed after the Spanish conquistador, Hernan Cortes. The

municipality of Cortes possess a number of heritages that represent the locality’s

culture and traditions. Ever since its establishment, the municipality has not been

fully developed yet. If compared to other towns, Cortes is among those with an

extremely slow development rate. The only way to hasten the municipality’s

development is to boost its economy through promoting and developing its local

heritages well.

Cultural heritage is a way of living in a community inherited from previous

generations and passed on to the following generation. It refers to cultural sites,

monuments, folklore, traditional activities, practices, languages, customs, artistic

expressions, values, etc., that are considered vital to be preserved for future

generations. Cultural heritage connects people to specific social values, beliefs,

1
religions, and customs. It also allows them to identify with others with similar

backgrounds. Cultural heritage offers people a sense of unity and belonging

within a group and will enable them to understand better previous generations

and the history of where they come from (Eritrea,2019). Additionally, investing in

the preservation, promotion, and ongoing use of heritage buildings and other

historic places has economic benefits for individuals and communities. Heritage

conservation can lead to higher property values, increased tax revenues, more

jobs, revitalized neighborhoods, and economic growth (Saskatchewan, 2018).

One of the major rivers of Bohol, the Abatan River, is a lesser-known

heritage in the locality, but has the most potential for development. The river is

located 10 minutes away from Tagbilaran City and is among the major rivers of

Bohol together with Loboc River and Inabanga River. Abatan River

approximately stretches to 20 kilometers (km) of water that passes through the

towns of Catigbian, Antequera, Balilihan, and Maribojoc up to its mouth at the

town of Cortes. At this point, the river opens up to an estuary, comprising of

mangrove and nipa swamps. Its mangrove forests are one of the most diverse in

the country, being home to approximately 32 Mangrove species. Before roads

were developed in the area, the Abatan River served as the main waterway and

transport route, with dark and deep portions that the locals bravely navigated

(Middeljans, 2019). To enjoy the view of this cultural heritage, locals and tourists

usually take kayaks or traditional bandong boats to experience an incredible light

show of fireflies during night-time. Despite all the incredible things that the

2
heritage possesses, there remains an unknown reason as to why it is not as

featured as other heritages like Loboc River.

With this, the researchers thought of assessing the Abatan River as a

cultural heritage. The assessment includes surveys that determines how well-

known it is, the satisfaction level of tourists that visited the said heritage, and its

significance to the locality of Cortes. The Abatan River Community Life Tour’s

service quality will also be assessed as they are mainly responsible for the

conservation and development of Abatan River.

3
Statement of the Problem

This study aims to assess Abatan River, Cortes, Bohol as a cultural

heritage.

Specifically, the study aimed to answer the following questions:

1. How well-known is the Abatan River among:

a. Locals of Cortes;

b. Boholanos not residing in Cortes and;

c. Non-Boholanos?

2. What is the satisfaction level of tourists that visited the Abatan River

among:

a. Locals of Cortes;

b. Boholanos not residing in Cortes and;

c. Non-Boholanos?

3. How significant is the Abatan River to the locality of Cortes among:

a. Locals of Cortes;

b. Boholanos not residing in Cortes and;

c. Non-Boholanos?

4
Theoretical/Conceptual Framework

Independent Variables

Assessment Categories Dependent Variables

• Abatan River Popularity Groups of Respondents

• Satisfaction level of • Locals of Cortes

tourists that visited the • Boholanos not
Abatan River
residing in Cortes
• Significance of Abatan
River to the locality of • Non-Boholanos
Cortes?

Figure 1.1 The Paradigm of the Independent Variables and Dependent

Variables on the Assessment of Abatan River, Cortes, Bohol as a Cultural
Heritage.

Assumptions

The following assumptions served as the basis of the study:

1. The respondents have a general knowledge about cultural heritages.

2. The respondents have been to Bohol at least once.

3. If compared to Loboc River, the Abatan River is not that well-known,

especially to those residing outside Bohol.

4. The questions are answerable and are within the respondents’

comprehension.

5
 5. The respondents’ answers are with outmost honesty and are

opinionated.

Scope and Limitations

This qualitative study was done through face-to-face surveys and online

surveys. Face-to-face surveys were done around different areas in Cortes and

Tagbilaran City, Bohol.

The study was limited to Abatan River's assessment regarding its

popularity, satisfaction level, and significance level among the participants. The

formulation of solutions for developing and conserving the heritage is not

included. One of the weaknesses of this study was the limited number of

participants in which their shared experiences may not truly represent the reality

of the majority of the entire population of the province of Bohol. Besides, since it

utilized qualitative methods, this cannot make a generalization or general

conclusion about the Abatan River. However, the researchers ensured that the

trustworthiness and credibility of the participants were safeguarded.

Significance of the Study

Over the years, Abatan River has been developing little by little. Despite

this, the river is yet to be fully considered as developed due to its lack of

promotion and recognition. Because of this, there is a possibility that soon the

heritage might not be conserved for too long and its potential to flourish well

6
might go to waste. Once the study has already been completed, the following

entities should have benefitted from the study:

Local Authorities. This research study helped identify the possible flaws

the heritage might possess and what specific improvements should be done.

Hence, assisting local authorities to work on those lacking departments. Seeing

how much people value the national heritage might convince in giving more value

to the Abatan River, pushing authorities to allocate more funds to the river’s

development.

Environment. The environment benefitted from the proper development

and thorough conservation of the Abatan River, as this is a natural heritage and

is home to several diverse species.

Locals. The people appreciated the heritage more since the river is part of

the municipality’s culture and tradition, and is also the center of the locality’s way

of living. Through this, the heritage is respected and cared for more.

Tourists. The knowledge about the diverse cultures and traditions

revolving around the Abatan River helped in attracting more tourists. The tourists

who wish to visit the said river may have a first-hand experience of the fun and

unique activities the heritage has to offer.

The Community. When the heritage is properly promoted and fully

developed, it can accommodate more tourists. Thus, also improving the

community’s economy.

7
 Definition of Key Terms

Abatan River. It is one of the main rivers in the province of Bohol, located in the

municipality of Cortes. It traverses through the town of Antequera, to the town of

Balilihan opening up to the Cortes.

Abatan River Community Life. Gives the guests a tour of the sceneries of

Abatan river, made as an income, and job-generating program for the poor

people in various municipalities.

Bandong Boats. These are traditional boats designed in the form of houses

found in the Abatan River.

Cortes. It is a municipality in the province of Bohol where the Abatan River is

located.

Popularity Level. the level of how something or someone is liked enjoyed, or

supported by many people

Respondents. This refers to the people who took part in the research survey.

River. A stream of water that flows into the sea or another large body of water.

Satisfaction Level. It measures the level of pleasure and contentment derived

from the respondents regarding how those meet their expectations.

Significance Level. It is expected to identify if the result is statistically significant

for the null hypothesis to be false or rejected.

8
 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

A. Community Cultural Development

According to Rene Yung, culture serves as a link between the community

and its development in terms of community cultural development. It serves as a

catalyst and conduit for a dynamic development process for both the community

and practitioners working together. Regarding community cultural development,

the Abatan River plays a significant role as a cultural heritage.

Through the Abatan River, tourism is slowly becoming prominent in the

community of Cortes. The community’s culture can only be preserved and

developed with tourism since it is closely tied to cultural promotion, increased

cultural awareness, and the accumulation of resources for cultural preservation.

Upon visiting the Abatan River, the municipality’s cultures and traditions are

showcased. This brings several benefits to the local community’s development

and its people. An example of these benefits includes a better community for

residents that offers more opportunities and jobs to all, which encompasses a

more creative and entrepreneurial environment.

9
 B. Our Views

Compared to the other well-known rivers here in the Philippines, the

researchers think that the Abatan River is on par or even better in terms of

quality. Not only does the river gives an enjoyable experience to tourists, but it is

also a crucial part of the ecosystem of several species or the environment in

general. From the researchers’ point of view, the Abatan river is beautiful. It has

many species of mangroves, and even rare fireflies inhabit it. It also helps

promote other tourist attractions here in the province and can help the workers to

earn.

Truly, it deserves recognition from local residents and tourists as this

heritage is relevant to the different aspects; from culture and tradition, to the

community’s development. The researchers believe that this study about the

assessment of Abatan River as a cultural heritage can contribute more

knowledge to readers and influence others to come and visit this river.

C. Information from Tourism Office and Social Media

Abatan River is one of the three main rivers

located in western Bohol, Philippines. The river winds

through the towns of Catigbian, Antequera, Balilihan,

and Maribojoc to its mouth at Cortes. The river is

navigable for up to 19 kilometers (12 mi) for boats

drawing 4 ft, and up to 25 kilometers (15.5 mi) for

Plate A1. Loboc River

10
rafts. Its name comes from the word “abad” which means “to meet” or “to

converge”. At its mouth, the river opens up to an estuary, which consists of a

mixed mangrove and nipa swamp. It covers about 1,000 acres (400 ha) and has

32 mangrove species growing in its estuary; as a result, it is one of the

Philippines' most diverse mangrove forests and is the third largest riverine

mangrove forest in Bohol; despite the presence of endangered plant and animal

species, there are no conservation or protection efforts. Historically prior to road

construction, the river served as a waterway for the people going to and from the

interior towns. Following the success of the Loboc River tours, there are river

cruises from the Abatan River Visitor Center in Cortes to various communities

upstream. Kayak exploration and stand-up paddle boarding are also available.

The visitor center suffered severe damage from the 2013 Bohol earthquake.

During World War II, a ship in the United States Navy was commissioned: USS

Abatan (AW-4), a Pasig-class distilling ship, was named after the river.

The Abatan River Life Tour started out in

2008 as an initiative by the Abatan River

Development Management Council (ARDMC). The

objective of the group is to boost not only the tourist

spots in the area but also to generate jobs and

income to the entire province. All the profits

Plate A2. Abatan River
generated by the tour goes to the poor and the Community Life Tour
deprived in the participating municipalities. The Abatan Main Village Center is

11
located along the National Highway- Junction in Salvador, Cortes, Bohol, the

building marked Abatan in red letters located at the left side along the highway

from Tagbilaran City. Abatan River Community Life Tour can also be located via

Google Maps. The Center is approximately 10 kms or 10-15 mins travel time

from Tagbilaran City. Taxis, van for hire, motor for hire (habal-habal) and

tricycles are available. Public utility jeepneys and buses that travel from

Tagbilaran City to Cortes, Maribojoc or Tubigon pass through the Abatan Main

Village Center. According to the people in-charge, an average of 500-600 tourists

would come visit the heritage, but later diminished to an average of 300-350

visitors only after the pandemic. The Abatan River Community Life Tour offers

two specific types of tour namely, “The Community Life Tour” and “The Firefly

Tour.”

The Community Life Tour starts

the journey at the Abatan River Centre

at Cortes. Onboard a traditional

bandong, the guide will delight tourists

with traditional stories and folklore of the

place. Whether tourists have an hour to

spare or a whole day, a choice of tours Plate A3. The Community Life Tour

offers the flexibility to create their own cultural experience along this beautiful

river. The Abatan River Community Life Tour (Package Tour) only cater to

groups with a minimum of 15 participants for Php500 per person.

12
 Community Life Tour – Tour Inclusions:
Rite of Passage (Palina) Ritual at MVC Cortes
Welcome Drink
Welcome, Abat Ritual in Lincod, Maribojoc
Flower Shower and Tengko
Abat sa Abatan Lei- Giving Livelihood Demo/Observation
Shell Gathering/Gleaning
Crab Catching
Fishing
Nipa Leaves Harvesting and Weaving
Community Interaction Local Tour Guide
Entrance Fees and Government Tax

Table 2.1 Tour Inclusions of the Community Life Tour

The Firefly Tour is an hour-long tour that will

take tourists gently up the beautiful Abatan

River for an amazing light show of fireflies.

Guests may opt to take the bandong boat or

kayak for the firefly tour. The bandong boat

exclusive tour is available at 6:30pm, 7:30pm

and 8:30pm and the non-exclusive tour Plate A4. The Firefly Tour

(mixed passengers) at 7:00 only. Single and double kayaks are available. Meals

during the tour is also available. Tourists are usually asked to inquire to the

Visitor Centre for rates.

13
 Firefly Tour – Tour Inclusions:
Rite of Passage (Palina) Ritual
Fresh Entrance Buko Drink
Local Tour Guide
Fees and Government Tax
Bandong or Kayak Ride

Table 2.2 Tour Inclusions of the Firefly Tour

Hudyaka sa Abatan is a

celebration of the pride of place and

the creative genius of the local

communities residing in the towns

along the historic and majestic

Abatan River. It is a showcase of

Plate A5. Hudyaka sa Abatan
cultural performance products of

selected towns of Abatan developed to expand and enhance the local

community- based creative industries aimed at fostering the environmental

preservation, cultural revitalization and igniting the progress of local creative

economy. Another cultural practice observed in Abatan River is Palina. Palina is

a spiritual ritual that makes sure tourists are protected from bad spirits. In Abatan

River, this is done by locals dancing around tourists by holding a clay pot with

white incense smoke rising from it. This theatrical ritual rite of passage to the

Abatan River was said to have been officiated by the legendary warrior Princess

Wadji, the guardian of the Abatan River.

14
 CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

This chapter covers the research design and methodology including

sampling, population, establishing rigor during and after data collection, ethical

consideration, and data analysis. Questionnaires and cultural mapping are also

presented within this chapter.

A. Research Design

This qualitative study used an evaluative research design to have in-depth

information about the Abatan River as a cultural heritage. Evaluation research is

defined as a form of disciplined and systematic inquiry that is carried out to arrive

at an assessment or appraisal of an object, program, practice, activity, or system

with the purpose of providing information that will be of use in decision making

(Townsend, 2022). Through the randomly selected respondents, this research

study made use of surveys to assess the cultural heritage. There were 15

respondents from the locals of Cortes, 15 respondents from Boholanos not

residing in Cortes, and another 15 respondents from non-Boholanos. Overall, a

total of 45 respondents were selected.

15
B. Questionnaires

Plate B1. Introduction of Survey

16
Plate B2. SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE NUMBER 1
(ABATAN RIVER POPULARITY)

17
Plate B3. ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS FOR ABATAN
RIVER POPULARITY

18
 Plate B4. SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE NUMBER 2
(SATISFACTION LEVEL OF TOURISTS THAT VISITED ABATAN RIVER)

19
 Plate B5. ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS FOR
SATISFACTION LEVEL OF TOURISTS THAT VISITED
ABATAN RIVER

20
Plate B6. SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE NUMBER 3 (SIGNIFICANT
LEVEL OF ABATAN RIVER TO THE LOCALITY)

21
Plate B7. ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS FOR SIGNIFICANT
LEVEL OF ABATAN RIVER TO THE LOCALITY

22
Plate B8. ONLINE SURVEY- INTRODUCTION OF SURVEY

23
Plate B9. ONLINE SURVEY- SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE NUMBER 1

24
Plate B10. ONLINE SURVEY- SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE NUMBER 2

25
Plate B11. ONLINE SURVEY- SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE NUMBER 3

26
C. Cultural Mapping

During World War II, a Pasig-class

distilling ship called Abatan (AW-4),
was named after the river.

Abatan River as Waterway for Locals

to and from the Interior Towns

1870-1896: Construction of
Abatan Bridge

2008: The Adoptation of the River

Conceptual Master Plan

2008 Onwards: Kayak Exploration and

Stand-up Paddle Boarding were Made
Available

2013: The Abatan River Community Life

Tour suffered severe damages from the
“Bohol Earthquake”

Months after the earthquake, the Abatan River

Community Life Tour slowly went back to business.

Figure 3.1 Paradigm of Timeline of Events

27
 CHAPTER 4

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This chapter shows the results and discussions of the study which was

conducted to assess Abatan River as a cultural heritage. The study’s objective is

to see how well-known the river is, the satisfaction level of tourists that visited the

said heritage, and its significance to the locality of Cortes. The gathered data

were tabulated and further examination was done.

28
 A. ABATAN RIVER POPULARITY

Table 4. 1 Results for Abatan River Popularity

Sample Size = 45 respondents

Response
Survey Questions YES NO
Group of
Respondents

Locals of Cortes 15 0
1. Do you know Boholanos Not Residing
8 7
Abatan River? in Cortes

Non- Boholanos 8 7

2. Have you seen/ Locals of Cortes 15 0

been to Abatan Boholanos Not Residing

3 12
in Cortes
River?
Non- Boholanos 3 12

Table 4.1 showed the results for Abatan River Popularity. For the first question,

“Do you know Abatan River,” all Locals of Cortes knew Abatan River. For

Boholanos not Residing in Cortes, 8 out of 15 respondents knew Abatan River,

and 7 out of 15 did not. Lastly, 8 out of 15 Non- Boholanos knew the Abatan

River and 7 out of 15 did not. For the second question, “Have you seen/been to

Abatan River,” all Locals of Cortes have seen or been to Abatan River. On the

other hand, only 3 out of 15 Boholanos Not Residing in Cortes have seen or

been to the Abatan River, and 12 out of 15 respondents have not yet seen or

29
been to the said river. Similarly, only 3 Non- Boholanos have seen or been to the
Abatan River, and 12 out of 15 respondents have not.
Table 4. 2 Responses from Locals of Cortes to the Additional Questions
Additional Questions
1. What other rivers in Bohol do you
know?
2. If you answered “YES” in the first
question, how did you know about
Abatan River?
Responses from Locals of Cortes
1. Loboc River
2. Loboc River
3. Loboc River
4. Loboc River
5. Loboc River
6. Many
7. Inabanga River
8. Loboc River
9. Loboc River
10. Loboc River
11. Loboc River
12. Loboc River
13. Loboc River
14. Loboc River
15. Loboc River
1. My family went there a few years ago.
2. From a relative of mine
3. Venue of our quarterly meeting (Ubi
Growers)
4. We visited the river once.
5. I always pass by it.
6. The river winds through the towns of
Catigbian, Antequera, Balilihan and
Maribojoc to its mouth at Cortes, Bohol.
7. I worked here since 2013.
8. Known for firefly watching
9. Known for its eco-tourism activity which
is kayaking.
10. Known for a tour package includes the
services for a tour guide, sightseeing of
natural wonders found in Bohol.
11. I knew about it because it’s popular in
our hometown.
12. I am from Cortes.
13.Through social media
14. I pass by it all the time.
15. The Abatan River is the flowing water
of two towns which come from Antequera
and Cortes.
30
3. If you answered “NO” in the second
question, do you plan on visiting
Abatan River someday?
Since all respondents from Cortes
answered “YES” in the first question,
the second question is deemed
unnecessary to all respondents from
Cortes.

Table 4. 3 Responses from Boholanos Not Residing in Cortes to the Additional

Questions

Additional Questions Responses from Boholanos Not

Residing in Cortes
1. Loboc River
2. Sevilla River
3. Loay River
4. Loboc River
5. Loboc River
6. Loboc River
7. Loboc River
1. What other rivers in Bohol do you
8. Loboc River
know?
9. Loboc River
10. Manaba River
11. Loboc River, Pilar Dam
12. Loboc River
13. Loboc River
14. None
15. Loboc River
1. -----
2. Been there
3. Can easily be passed by
4. Abatan River is located at Maribojoc,
Bohol.
5. -----
2. If you answered “YES” in the first 6. Because of my classmate
question, how did you know about 7. Through social media
8. -----
Abatan River? 9. ------
10. -----
11. ------
12. -----
13. Located at Maribojoc, and a beautiful
river.
14. -----
15. I can pass by it.
3. If you answered “NO” in the second 1. Yes

31
 question, do you plan on visiting 2. -----
Abatan River someday? 3. -----
4. Yes
5. Yes
6. Yes
7. Yes
8. Yes
9. Yes
10. Maybe
11. Yes
12. Yes
13. Yes
14. Yes
15. Yes

Table 4. 4 Responses from Non- Boholanos to the Additional Questions

Additional Questions Responses from Non- Boholanos

1. Loboc River
2. Loboc River
3. Loboc River and Inabanga RIver
4. Loboc River
5. Loboc River
6. None
7. Loay River
1. What other rivers in Bohol do you
8. Loboc River
know?
9. Loboc River
10. Loboc River
11. None
12. Inabanga River
13. Loboc River
14. Loboc River
15. Loboc River
1. It was discussed in our school.
2. -----
3. I’ve heard about it at school.
4. Never heard of it
2. If you answered “YES” in the first 5. Newspaper and radio
6. -----
question, how did you know about 7. Through Facebook
Abatan River? 8. I searched it on the Google engine.
9. -----
10. -----
11. -----
12. I knew about the Abatan River because
I have seen and visited it last September.
13. -----

32
 14. By searching through Google only
15. -----
1. Yes
2. No, I’ve never been to Abatan River but
if I had the chance to go there then why
not?
3. Maybe
4. It’s not somewhere I’m planning to visit.
But, I wouldn’t mind checking it out if I’m
around.
3. If you answered “NO” in the second 5. No
question, do you plan on visiting 6. Yes
Abatan River someday?
7. Yes, I’m planning to visit it one day.
8. Yes, I’m planning on visiting the Bohol.
9. Yes
10. Yes
11. Yes
12. Yes
13. ------
14. Yes soon
15. Maybe

Based on all the results of the respondents to the additional questions, it can

clearly be observed that most people, residing and non-residing Bohol, know

Loboc River and not so much about Abatan River. Meanwhile, it can be seen

from question two that there were several ways to discover cultural heritages.

The responses from this question can be used as a basis when coming up for

methods in promoting cultural heritages. Regardless of the very minimum

number of people who went to Abatan River, majority of respondents are open

and interested in visiting the cultural heritage when given the opportunity to do

so.

33
 B. SATISFACTION LEVEL OF TOURISTS THAT VISITED ABATAN RIVER

Table 4. 5 Rating Results for the Satisfaction Level of Tourists that Visited
Abatan River (Locals of Cortes)

Overall No. of Respondents = 15 Respondents

No. of Respondents that Responded = 15 Respondents

1
5 4 2
3 Very
Very Satisfied Dissatisfied
Ok Dissatisfied
Satisfied
A. Locals of Cortes
1. Attractiveness of
9 6 0 0 0
View
2. Cleanliness 2 11 2 0 0
3. Charisma 4 10 1 0 0
4. Safety 7 4 3 1 0
5. Service Quality 6 6 2 1 0
6. Food Quality 3 9 2 0 1
7. Price Rate 1 9 4 0 1
8. Quality of
Activities and
Entertainment 8 6 1 0 0
(firefly watching,
music, etc.)

Table 4.5 showed that out of 15 participants, 9 were “Very Satisfied” and 6

were “Satisfied” of the river’s attractiveness of view. In terms of cleanliness, 2 out

of 15 participants were “Very Satisfied,” 11 out of 15 were “Satisfied,” and 2 out

of 15 participants were “Ok” with it. For charisma, out of 15 participants, 4

participants were “Very Satisfied,” 10 were “Satisfied,” and one was “Ok” with it.

Meanwhile, the river’s safety received 7 responses for “Very Satisfied,” 4

responses for “Satisfied,” 3 responses for “Ok,” and one response for

“Dissatisfied.” For the service quality, 6 out of 15 participants were “Very

Satisfied,” 6 out of 15 were “Satisfied,” 2 out of 15 participants were “Ok” with it,

34
and 1 participant was “Dissatisfied.” Moreover, out of 15 participants, 3 were

“Very Satisfied,” 9 were “Satisfied,” 2 were “Ok” with it, and one was “Very

Dissatisfied” with the river’s food quality. The river’s price rate received one

response for “Very Satisfied,” 9 responses for “Satisfied,” 2 responses for “Ok,”

and one response for “Very Dissatisfied.” Lastly, in terms of the quality of

activities and entertainment, 8 out of 15 participants were “Very Satisfied,” 6 out

of 15 were “Satisfied,” and 1 out of 15 participants was “Ok” with it.

Table 4. 6 Rating Results for the Satisfaction Level of Tourists that Visited
Abatan River (Boholanos Not Residing in Cortes)

Overall No. of Respondents = 15 Respondents

No. of Respondents that Responded = 3 Respondents

1
5 4 2
3 Very
Very Satisfied Dissatisfied
Ok Dissatisfied
Satisfied
B. Boholanos Not Residing in Cortes
1. Attractiveness of
2 1 0 0 0
View
2. Cleanliness 3 0 0 0 0
3. Charisma 2 0 1 0 0
4. Safety 1 1 1 0 0
5. Service Quality 2 1 0 0 0
6. Food Quality 2 1 0 0 0
7. Price Rate 1 0 2 0 0
8. Quality of
Activities and
Entertainment 2 1 0 0 0
(firefly watching,
music, etc.)

35
 Table 4.6 showed that out of 3 participants, 2 were “Very Satisfied”, and

one was “Satisfied” of the river’s attractiveness of view. In terms of cleanliness, 3

out of 3 participants were “Very Satisfied” with it. For charisma, out of 3

participants, 2 participants were “Very Satisfied,” and one was “Ok” with it.

Meanwhile, the river’s safety received one response for “Very Satisfied,” 1

response for “Satisfied,” and one response for “Ok.” For the service quality, 2 out

of 3 participants were “Very Satisfied”, and 1 out of 3 was “Satisfied.” Moreover,

out of 3 participants, 2 were “Very Satisfied”, and one was “Satisfied” with the

river’s food quality. The river’s price rate received one response for “Very

Satisfied” and 2 responses for “Ok.” Lastly, regarding the quality of activities and

entertainment, 2 out of 3 participants were “Very Satisfied”, and 1 out of 3

was “Satisfied.”

Table 4. 7 Rating Results for the Satisfaction Level of Tourists that Visited
Abatan River (Non-Boholanos)

Overall No. of Respondents = 15 Respondents

No. of Respondents that Responded = 3 Respondents

1
5 4 2
3 Very
Very Satisfied Dissatisfied
Ok Dissatisfied
Satisfied
C. Non-Boholanos
1. Attractiveness of
3 0 0 0 0
View
2. Cleanliness 1 1 0 1 0
3. Charisma 2 0 0 1 0
4. Safety 0 2 1 0 0
5. Service Quality 1 1 0 0 1
6. Food Quality 1 1 1 0 0
7. Price Rate 1 1 1 0 0
8. Quality of
0 2 0 1 0
Activities and

36
Entertainment
(firefly watching,
music, etc.)

Table 4.7 showed that all 3 participants were “Very Satisfied” with the

river’s attractiveness of view. In terms of cleanliness, 1 out of 3 participants was

“Very Satisfied,” 1 out of 3 was “Satisfied,” and 1 out of 3 was “Dissatisfied.” For

charisma, out of 3 participants, 2 participants were “Very Satisfied,” and one was

“Very Dissatisfied” with it. Meanwhile, the river’s safety received 2 responses for

“Satisfied” and one response for “Ok.” For the service quality, 1 out of 3

participants was “Very Satisfied,” 1 out of 3 was “Satisfied,” and 1 out of 3 was

“Very Dissatisfied.” Moreover, out of 3 participants, one was “Very Satisfied,” 1

was “Satisfied,” and one was “Ok” about the river’s food quality. The river’s price

rate received one response for “Very Satisfied,” 1 response for “Satisfied,” and

one response for “Ok.” Lastly, regarding the quality of activities and

entertainment, 2 out of 3 participants were “Satisfied”, and 1 out of 3 was

“Dissatisfied.”

37
Table 4. 8 Responses from Locals of Cortes to the Additional Questions
Additional Questions
1. Do you recommend Abatan River to
other tourists? Why?
2. What recommendations do you think
should be improved?
Responses from Locals of Cortes
1. Yes, because of its beauty.
2. Yes, it’s worth a try.
3. Yes, because it is situated at our
municipality Cortes.
4. Yes, it’s the longest river.
5. Yes, it’s unique so worth a shot!
6. Yes, there are the best way to
experience Abatan River, firefly watching
cruise, firefly kayaking with dinner.
7. Yes, because its nice view and Abatan
River.
8. Yes, because the finest area to go for a
firefly watching.
9. Yes, in addition to enjoying our own, I
recommend it because of the location’s
view.
10. Yes, it is the best place to experience a
safe sightseeing of natural wonders in
Bohol.
11. Yes, the fireflies are breathtaking.
12. Yes, because it’s longer than Loboc
River.
13. Yes, because the place is relaxing.
14. Yes, so the municipality can gain
income.
15. Yes since it’s beautiful
1. Its safety
2. Better foods
3. Need support to LGU and additional
floating cottages
4.The safety
5. Add other business stalls.
6. More food
7. Food or restaurant
8. The old boats to be used for the tour
guide activity, it should be replaced by the
new ones.
9. None
10. I recommend to place new boats to the
old boats that are still used for
transportation in all water-related activities.
11. Offer more delicacies
12. Schedule of activities
13. Its safety
14. Time of activities
38
 15. Yes
1. Fireflies
2. Fireflies
3. Firefly viewing
4. Fireflies
5. Fireflies
6. The Abatan Life River Tour highlights
the life of the Boholanos, the three hours
tour will take you to the lush greeneries,
bushes, trees and we wanted to see the
3. What do you think was the highlight firefly watching.
of Abatan River?
7. Fireflies
8. Firefly watching
9. Firefly watching
10. Firefly watching
11. Fireflies
12. Firefly watching
13.The firefly watching
14. Kayaking
15. Need to improve and develop

Table 4. 9 Responses from Boholanos Not Residing in Cortes to the Additional

Questions

Additional Questions Responses from Boholanos Not

1. Do you recommend Abatan River to
other tourists? Why?
Residing in Cortes
1. Yes because it helps us fellow
Boholanos to help introduce the tourist
spot.
2. -----
3. Yes because it’s nice,
4. Yes, because it is so nice and stress-
relieving.

NOTE: Only 3 participants responded.

1. None
2. -----
2. What recommendations do you think
3. Add more lights
should be improved? 4. The entrance location of the Abatan
River.
NOTE: Only 3 participants responded.
1. The river
3. What do you think was the highlight
2. ------
of Abatan River?
3. The amazing and delicious foods

39
 Abatan River offers.
4. The firefly watching
.
NOTE: Only 3 participants responded.

Table 4. 10 Responses from Non-Boholanos to the Additional Questions

NOTE: Only 3 participants responded

Additional Questions Responses from Non-Boholanos

1. ------
2. ------
3. ------
4. ------
5. ------
6. ------
7. Yes if you are a nature lover, adventurer
and loves a wonderful scenery
1. Do you recommend Abatan River to 8. ------
other tourists? Why? 9. ------
10. ------
11. ------
12. Yes, I would recommend Abatan River
to the other tourists because it’s a one-of-
a-kind scenery to be proud of as a Filipino.
13. Cortes bodies of water
14. ------
15. ------
1. ------
2. ------
3. ------
4. ------
5. ------
6. ------
2. What recommendations do you think 7. More entertainment and fun activities
8. ------
should be improved?
9. ------
10. ------
11. ------
12. I would suggest that the service quality
should be improved.
13. Abatan
14. ------
15. ------
3. What do you think was the highlight 1. ------

40
 of Abatan River? 2. ------
3. ------
4. ------
5. ------
6. ------
7. The ecosystem and the river
8. ------
9. ------
10. ------
11. ------
12. It’s the River itself.
13. Abatan
14. ------
15. ------

From all the results of the respondents to the additional questions, all

respondents recommend Abatan River to other tourists due to varying reasons

but mainly because of its beauty, uniqueness, and quality of services. For the

second question, still, the responses were different from one another. Some

wanted more food options, more business stalls, a better schedule for activities,

and many more. Lastly, regarding the third question, the fireflies and the river

were indeed the cultural heritage's highlight.

41
 C. SIGNIFICANT LEVEL OF ABATAN RIVER TO THE LOCALITY

Table 4. 11 Rating Results for the Significant Level of Abatan River to the
Locality (Locals of Cortes)

No. of Respondents = 15 Respondents

Do you think the 3

1
heritage is 5 4 Neither 2
Strongly
significant to the Strongly Agree Disagree Disagree
Disagree
people in terms Agree nor
of: Agree
A. Locals of Cortes
1. Way of Living 9 5 1 0 0
2. Economy 10 4 1 0 0
3. Culture and
10 5 0 0 0
Tradition
4. Career/ Job 9 5 1 0 0
5. Businesses 8 5 2 0 0
6. Social Relations 8 6 1 0 1
7. Tourism 10 5 0 0 0

Table 4.11 showed that out of 15 participants, 9 strongly agree, 5 agree,

and one neither disagrees nor agrees with the heritage being significant to the

locals’ way of living. Regarding the economy, 10 out of 15 participants strongly

agree, 4 out of 15 agree, and 1 out of 15 neither disagree nor agree with it. Out

of 15 participants, 10 strongly agree, and 5 agree with culture and tradition.

Meanwhile, regarding the locals’ careers or jobs, it received 9 responses

for strongly agree, 5 for agree, and 1 for neither disagree nor agree. For

businesses, 8 out of 15 participants strongly agree, 5 out of 15 agree, and 2 out

of 15 neither disagree nor agree. Moreover, out of 15 participants, 8 strongly

agree, 6 agree, and one neither disagrees nor agrees that the heritage is

42
significant to the locality’s social relations. Finally, in terms of tourism, 10 out of

15 participants strongly agree, and 5 out of 15 agree.

Table 4. 12 Rating Results for the Significant Level of Abatan River to the
Locality (Boholanos Not Residing in Cortes)

No. of Respondents = 15 Respondents

Do you think the 3

1
heritage is 5 4 Neither 2
Strongly
significant to the Strongly Agree Disagree Disagree
Disagree
people in terms Agree nor
of: Agree
B. Boholanos Not Residing in Cortes
1. Way of Living 6 8 1 0 0
2. Economy 5 9 1 0 0
3. Culture and
6 8 1 0 0
Tradition
4. Career/ Job 6 6 2 1 0
5. Businesses 7 5 3 0 0
6. Social Relations 5 7 3 0 1
7. Tourism 9 6 0 0 0

Table 4.12 showed that out of 15 participants, 6 strongly agree, 8 agree,

and one neither disagrees nor agrees with the heritage being significant to the

locals’ way of living. Regarding the economy, 5 out of 15 participants strongly

agree, 9 out of 15 agree, and 1 out of 15 neither disagree nor agree with it. For

culture and tradition, out of 15 participants, 6 participants strongly

agree, 8 agree, and one neither disagrees nor agrees. Meanwhile, regarding the

locals’ careers or jobs, it received 6 responses for strongly agree, 6 for agree, 2

for neither disagree nor agree and 1 for disagree. For businesses, 7 out of 15

participants strongly agree, 5 out of 15 agree, and 3 out of 15 participants neither

disagree nor agree. Moreover, out of 15 participants, 5 strongly

43
agree, 7 agree, and 3 neither disagree nor agree that heritage is significant to the

locality’s social relations. Finally, in terms of tourism, 9 out of 15

participants strongly agree, and 4 out of 15 agree.

Table 4. 13 Rating Results for the Significant Level of Abatan River to the
Locality (Non-Boholanos)

Do you think the 3

1
heritage is 5 4 Neither 2
Strongly
significant to the Strongly Agree Disagree Disagree
Disagree
people in terms Agree nor
of: Agree
C. Non-Boholanos
1. Way of Living 2 5 3 2 2
2. Economy 4 5 5 0 1
3. Culture and
6 7 0 1 1
Tradition
4. Career/ Job 3 5 5 2 0
5. Businesses 3 5 7 0 0
6. Social Relations 1 3 10 1 0
7. Tourism 10 3 1 0 1

Table 4.13 showed that out of 15 participants, 2 strongly agree, 5 agree,

3 neither disagree nor agree, 2 disagree, and 2 strongly disagree with the

heritage being significant to the locals’ way of living. Regarding the economy, 4

out of 15 participants strongly agree, 5 out of 15 agree, 5 out of 15 neither

disagree nor agree, and 1 out of 15 strongly disagree. For culture and tradition,

out of 15 participants, 6 strongly agree, 7 agree, one disagrees, and one strongly

disagrees. Meanwhile, regarding the locals’ careers or jobs, it received 3

responses for strongly agree, 5 for agree, 5 for neither disagree nor agree and 2

for disagree. For businesses, 3 out of 15 participants strongly agree, 5 out of

15 agree, and 7 out of 15 neither disagree nor agree. Moreover, out of 15

44
participants, one strongly agrees, 3 agree, 10 neither disagree nor agree, and

one disagrees that the heritage is significant to the locality’s social relations.

Finally, in terms of tourism, 10 out of 15 participants strongly agree, 3 out of 15

agree, 1 out of 15 neither disagree nor agree, and 1 out of 15 strongly disagree.

Table 4. 14 Responses from Locals of Cortes to the Additional Questions

Additional Questions Responses from Locals of Cortes

1. What do you think should be done to
promote the heritage well?
2. What is the best way to preserve our
heritage?
1. Through social media
2. Spread the news
3. More support to LGU (financial)
4. Share it to other people
5. Add more business, feature it in socmeds
6. Explore local traditions, sutoms, rituals,
festival, myths and legends, lifestyle, crafts and
cuisine and create and promote.
7. Food
8. Endorse the places history to the tourist
9. Recognize important conservation activity
10. Offer a ready-made entertaining and
educational trip as well.
11. Advertisements, medias
12. Through social media
13. Support local traditions.
14. Tell more people about it.
15. Preserve our heritage
1. Clean it all the time
2. Clean it
3. Educate our youth
4. Give more funds
5. Keep it clean
6. The best way to preserve your cultural
heritage, whatever it may be, is to share it with
others.
7. Keep the area and river clean.
8. Reading literature on the culture of all
places.
9. Going on tour to the cultural sites
10. Impart cultural knowledge to everybody and
unto the next generations.
11. Allocate funds for the preservation of
heritage.
12. Clean it
13. Share it to others.
14. Maintain it properly.

45
 15. Maintain the culture and tradition
1. It makes me proud of my culture.
2. It helped me appreciate structures more.
3. Identify our culture as Pinoy
4. Give us more sense of awareness
5.It affected my way of living.
6. Culture enhances our quality of life and
increases overall well-being for individuals and
communities.
7. It gave me income.
8. It helps us know the history of where we
came from, what are our past cultures and with
3. Personally, how did cultural heritages
that we can be able to gain knowledge.
play a significant role in your daily lives?
9. It helps us examine our history and traditions
and enables us develop an awareness about
ourselves.
10. It gives us a sense of unity and belonging
withing a group and allows us to better
understand past generations.
11. Culture has its intangible effect on me.
12. It reflects my pride as a Filipino.
13. It reminds us of who we are.
14. It made me appreciate places more,
15. Social Tourism

Table 4. 15 Responses from Boholanos Not Residing in Cortes to the

Additional Questions

Additional Questions Responses from Boholanos Not Residing in

Cortes
1. Make more creative advertisement in that
particular heritage, so that many can attract
and decide to promote the heritage.
2. To invite more tourists
3. Post it in social media so ithers can see it.
4. Having tarpaulin and socializing people
5. Promote in social media, since most people
use it
6. By introducing it to other people
1. What do you think should be done to
7. To educate people
promote the heritage well?
8. Promote also its tourism
9. Post in social media
10. By sharing its history to the younger
generation
11. Through social media
12. Invite other people and tell my friends
13. By posting it on social media to attract
tourist
14. By making flyers

46

2. What is the best way to preserve our
heritage?
3. Personally, how did cultural heritages
play a significant role in your daily lives?
15. Make a creative video promoting Abatan
River
1. Cleanliness, kind waiters, and other good
personalities
2. Keep it clean.
3. Don’t litter
4. Taking good care of the place
5. Clean, preserve
6. By managing it in a good way
7. By letting others know
8. Maintain its cleanliness
9. Keep it clean
10. By keeping it clean
11. Taking care
12. Don’t litter and clean it
13. Support our culture and expose it to other
tourists
14. Take good care of it
15. Keeping the heritage clean
1. Cultural heritages impact us to follow the
ancestor’s practices like fiesta, Simbang gabi,
and other behaviors. It affects in our daily life in
having knowledge that cultural heritages gave
us.
2. Represent our culture
3. It’s nice to pass by the river.
4. It helps us to recognize and to give credit to
those people who are living near Abatan River.
5. It makes our nature more alive.
6. It reflects us in our ancestors.
7. It plays on how you view the world around
you.
8. It helps me appreciate my culture more.
9. Influence way of living
10. It serves us our roots to be able to
understand where we came from.
11. Represent as a Filipino
12. It makes us proud to be Filipinos
13. It’s very important for me because I’m in
Bohol and everything represent who I am
14. It represent not just the present but also the
past.
15. It reflects ourselves and the way we live.
47
Table 4. 16 Responses from Non-Boholanos to the Additional Questions
Additional Questions
1. What do you think should be done to
promote the heritage well?
2. What is the best way to preserve our
heritage?
Responses from Non-Boholanos
1. Conduct community workshops. Create and
offer them products that are useful. Workshops
and seminars can be useful ways to educate
specific audiences about building and cultural
sites from the recent past.
2. Tell people about interesting facts and its
history
3. Knowing that technology is very on these
days, they should find ways on attracting their
locals to visit the place so that the people
would be able to share the beauty of the place.
4. Promote it on instagram
5. Further data needed
6. Because it will contribute to the preservation
of cultural heritage that is important for the
understanding and benefit of society
7. Videos of the cultural heritage will be added
in one corner where people can sit and watch
8. Telling more people about the beauty of the
river will greatly promote the heritage.
9. Increase awareness of local heritage
10. Preserve and share the goodness of the
heritage.
11. Form a volunteer group, Offer tours, Host
special events, Submit a nomination to an
endangered places list, Conduct community
workshops. Educate those involved in the
decision-making process. Survey resources
from the recent past. Evaluate the property
12. We should use the social media flatform to
promote the heritage.
13. Abatan
14. The respect
15. Tell friends about it
1. Share it with to other people, socialize with
them and talk about our heritage so that it
would spread easily.
2. Give its best care so that it can be pass
through future generations
3. Simply be a thoughtful human being and do
not do the things you shoudn't.
4. Keep it clean.
5. Funding
6. The best way to preserve your cultural
heritage no matter what can be shared
7. Save artifacts, spread awareness
8. We need to take care of the river, make sure
that the river is clean, and give love to the
heritage.
9. Protect and imparting cultural knowledge to
the young ones
48
 10. Promote and conserve resources by
reduces waste through cleanliness program.
11. The best way to preserve your cultural
heritage, whatever it may be, is to share it with
others. Cultural heritage and natural history of
a nation has a very high value and is unique. It
is an identity that can be introduced to the
world.
12. To share it to the people and to the next
generation.
13. Abatan
14. Respect each tourism and fellow Filipinos
15. Don’t throw trashes anywhere
1. Cultural heritage can enrich social capital
and create a sense of individual and collective
belonging. It makes a difference in how we
view ourselves and others.
2. It plays a significant role in our daily lives
because cultural heritages provide a story of
our people in the past regardless of its future.
3. Cultural heritages allows you to gain
historical perspectives and understand
traditions.
4. It doesn’t.
5. I don't know how to answer this question.
6. I want to make sure that knowledge of their
culture understands
7. Our ancestors will be remembered and we
know where we all came from. Their practices
will continue in our generation and it gives
people a sense of unity and belonging.
8. It plays a significant role because this type of
heritage has been in our ancestors’ care for
3. Personally, how did cultural heritages
ages, so we need to do our part and take care
play a significant role in your daily lives?
of it too.
9. It affects our values—what we consider right
and wrong. This is how the society we live in
influences our choices.
10. Cultural heritages promotes cultural
diversity.
11. Cultural heritage gives people a sense of
unity and belonging within a group and allows
them to better understand previous generations
and the history of where they come from.
Cultural heritage implies a shared bond and
our belonging to a community
12. For me, the cultural heritage really plays an
important role in our daily lives in a way that we
get to appreciate our culture and better
understand our history.
13. Abatan
14. Gives people a sense of our humanity
15. I was able to know how amazing and
beautiful nature is.

49
The results from Table 4.14 to Table 4.16 show each participant's different

responses. For the first question, "What do you think should be done to promote

the heritage well," the most common response each respondent had was to

utilize technology and social media to promote the heritage. Most also stated that

by inviting more business stalls and sharing pleasant experiences with the

heritage, more people would visit. The second question also had a diverse

selection of responses but had several common ideas like keeping the heritage

clean, allotting more funds for its conservation, exerting more effort for

maintenance, and many more. Lastly, it can be observed from the third question

that cultural heritages do affect and play a significant role in our daily lives.

50
 CHAPTER 5

CONLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

The main objective of this study was to assess Abatan River, Cortes,

Bohol as a cultural heritage. Specifically, it aimed to see how well-known the river

is, the satisfaction level of tourists that visited the said heritage, and its

significance to the locality of Cortes.

Abatan River Popularity

26%
Locals of Cortes
48% Boholanos Not Residing in Cortes
Non-Boholanos

26%

Figure 5.1 Abatan River Popularity

51
 Figure 5.1 shows the Abatan River popularity among the 3 different group

of participants. It can be observed that the river is very well-known among the

locals of Cortes, and not so popular among Boholanos not residing in Cortes and

among Non-Boholanos. The locals of Cortes were expected to be knowledgeable

about the river since it is located near their residence. The researchers expected

some Boholanos not residing in Cortes to at least recognize the river. Meanwhile,

the results from the non-Boholanos exceeded the researchers’ expectations as

the heritage has minimal exposure to the media and is not talked about that

often. From the results, it can be concluded that the people near the heritage

recognize the river, and the people away from it either know or do not know

about it. A cultural heritage’s popularity depends on how people come across the

knowledge of its existence, may it be through media or just by hearing other

people talk about it. Thus, proper promotion of cultural heritages is genuinely

essential.

52
 Satisfaction Level of Tourists that Visited Abatan River

Attractiveness of View
13% 13%
Cleanliness
Charisma
13% 12%
Safety
Service Quality
13% 12% Food Quality
Price Rate
12% 12%
Quality of Activities

Figure 5.2 Satisfaction Level of Tourists that Visited the Abatan River

Figure 5.1 shows the satisfaction level of tourists that visited the Abatan

River. The data from the pie chart were taken from the responses of the 21

satisfied participants that went to the river. Of 21 participants, 15 were locals of

Cortes, 3 were Boholanos not residing in Cortes, and 3 were non-Boholanos.

Since 21 out of 21 respondents were satisfied with the attractiveness of the view

of the river. Thus, the river indeed has a fantastic view.

Regarding the river’s cleanliness, charisma, and safety, 20 out of 21

respondents were satisfied. Hence, it can be assumed that the heritage’s

cleanliness, charisma and safety were all satisfactory. In terms of service quality,

it was also satisfactory since 19 out of 21 participants were satisfied. Finally, the

river’s food quality, price rate, and quality of activities received 20 out of 21

satisfied responses; therefore, it can be concluded that Abatan River Community

Life Tour’s services were beyond mediocrity. Based on the overall results, it can

53
be inferred that the river has excellent qualities and satisfactory services, making

it more qualified to be visited by more tourists.

Significant Level of Abatan River to the Locality

16% 13% Way of Living

Economy

14% Culture and Tradition

15% Career/ Job
Businesses
16% Social Relations
13%
Tourism
13%

Figure 5.3 Significant Level of Abatan River to the Locality

Figure 5.3 shows the significant level of the Abatan River to the locality.

The data from the pie chart were taken from the responses of the 45 respondents

that participated in the survey. The significant level of Abatan River in terms of

living was 13% and 14% in terms of the locality’s economy. Meanwhile, culture

and tradition received 16%, and career or job received 13%. Similarly,

businesses also had a significant level of 13%, while social relations had 15%.

Lastly, tourism had a significant level of 16%. From the results, it can be

concluded that the Abatan River, as a cultural heritage, is significant and relevant

to everyone. It affects and influences people’s lives, whether in living,

54
businesses, careers, culture and tradition, and many more. With this in mind,

proper promotion and conservation of the said heritage are, in fact, essential.

Recommendations

The researchers recommend having more participants involve in the

assessment of Abatan River. The researchers also recommend including more

factors aside from the level popularity, satisfaction level and significance level,

when assessing the river. To further develop the cultural heritage, the

researchers encourage future researchers to create or formulate effective

solutions when it comes to the development and conservation of the river.

Moreover, conducting researches on other cultural heritages is also

recommended as this will become timely and relevant. Still, the researchers

recommend further studies be made on the Abatan River as not much records

relating to this are available.

55
 REFERENCE LIST

Middeljans, M. (2015). The species composition of the mangrove forest along the

Abatan River in Lincod, Maribojoc, Bohol, Philippines and the mangrove forest

structure and its regeneration status between managed and unmanaged Nipa

palm (Nypa fruticans Wurmb). Research Gate. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/281844009

Karlström, A. (2013). Local heritage and the problem with conservation. Views from

the Asia–Pacific region (Vol. 36, pp. 141–156). ANU Press. Retrieved January

18, 2023, from http://www.jstor.org/stable/j.ctt5hgz2n.14

Kalume, A. C., Bandeira, I., Cruz, J. G. N., Borges, J. C., Segalerba, M., Giglio, R. C.,

Ávila, T., Roosmalen, V. V., & Pacheco, W. (2007). Methodology of Collaborative

Cultural Mapping. Athalaia Printer and Publisher. Retrieved January 18, 2023,

from https://www.amazonteam.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/ACT-

Brazil_MappingMethodology_2008_ENGLISH.pdf

Anonymous. (2019, July 22). Culture and nature converge in “Hudyaka sa Abatan

2019”. The Bohol Chronicle, (Lifestyle). Retrieved January 18, 2023, from

https://www.boholchronicle.com.ph/2019/07/22/culture-and-nature-converge-in-

hudyaka-sa-abatan-2019/

(n.d.). Abatan River Firefly Tour. Bohol Tourism. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from

http://www.boholtourismph.com/abatan-river-firefly-tour/

(n.d.). MUNICIPALITY OF CORTES. Provincial Government of Bohol. Retrieved

January 18, 2023, from https://bohol.gov.ph/cortes/

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Riggio, M., Tardini, C., D'Ayala, D., & Parisi, M. A. (2018). Assessment of heritage

timber structures: Review of standards, guidelines and procedures. Journal of

Cultural Heritage, 31. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.culher.2017.11.007

(n.d.). Tourism Satisfaction: Importance, Measurability & Impacts. EHL Insights.

Retrieved January 18, 2023, from

https://hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu/tourism-satisfaction

Marinao, E. (2017, December 20). Determinants of Satisfaction with the Tourist

Destination. IntechOpen. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from

https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/56679

Gogoi, B. J. (2020). Enhancing Popularity of a Tourist Destination: Why Relationship

Matters? Allied Business Academies. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from

https://www.abacademies.org/articles/enhancing-popularity-of-a-tourist-

destination-why-relationship-matters-9182.html

(n.d.). Cultural Heritage. Unesco. Retrieved January 18, 2023, from

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20cohesion

(n.d.). Information about Abatan River Community Life Tour. Guide to the Philippines.

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community-life-tour

57
 APPENDICES

Appendix A

Data Gathering

Plate A. 1 The respondents Plate A.2 The respondents

Plate A.3 The respondents Plate A.4 The respondent

with the researcher

58
Plate A.5 The respondent with Plate A.6 The respondent with
the researcher the researchers

Plate A.7 The respondents with Plate A.8 The respondent

the researcher with the researcher

59
 Appendix B

Heritage Site

Plate B.1 Abatan River Eco- Plate B.2 Abatan River

Tourism

Figure B.4 Abatan River Eco-

Tourism

Plate B.3 Bandong Boat Plate B.4 Kayak Boats

60
 Appendix C

Detailed Online Survey Data Results

Name of Participant: Address:

Anthonette Manila
Leanne Suzuki Japan, Osaka
Natalio B. Bacalso Ave, Cebu City
Chico Latte 2304 Pinehurst Court, Sterling Heights Michigan
Ally Socias California USA
Kenneth Reyes Tangaoan Santa Maria ilocos sur
Jennifer Dawn Inting 618 5 st. South Lethbridge, Alberta Canada
Philippines, Rizal, Baras, Pinugay: Block 18 Lot 30
Vino, Jhao Khalil M. Phase 1
Kristell Mambahin Brgy. Rizal, Makati City
Lewelyn Seballa Kisolon Sumilao Bukidnon
Loren May Dupino Kisolon, Sumilao, Bukidnon
Airen Rose Tutanes Husayan Kadingilan Bukidnon
Jayjay abutin Paradahan dos tanza cavite
Charity M. Portallo Looc, Santander, Cebu
N/A Cebu
Table C.1 Name and Address of Participant

1) Do you know Abatan River? 2) Have you seen/ been to Abatan River?
Yes No
No No
Yes No
No No
Yes No
No No
Yes Yes
Yes No
No No
No No
No No
Yes Yes
Yes Yes
Yes No
No No

Table C.2 Answers for Questions 1 and 2

61
 ADDITIONAL QUESTION No.
ADDITIONAL ADDITIONAL QUESTION No. 3 : If
QUESTION No. 1: 2: If you answered yes in the you answered no in the second
What other rivers in question above (Have you
first question above (Do you
Bohol do you know?
(Please write your know Abatan River), how did seen/been to Abatan River), do you
answer on the space plan on visiting Abatan River
you know about Abatan River? someday?
provided)
Loboc River It was discussed in our school yes
No, I’ve never been to Abatan River
but if I had the chance to go there
Loboc River — then why not?
Loboc River and
Inabangga River I've heard about it at school Maybe
It’s not somewhere I’m planning to
visit. But, I wouldn’t mind checking it
Loboc river Never heard of it out if I’m around.
Loboc newspaper and radio No
Was Was Yes naman
Loay River Through Facebook Yes, I’m planning to visit it one day
I searched it on the Google Yes, I'm planning on visiting the
Loboc River Engine. whole Bohol.
Loboc River Don’t know Yes
Loboc River No Yes
N/A N/A Yes
I knew about the Abatan River
because I have seen and
Inabanga River visited it last September. Yes
Loboc rivers Yes No
Loboc River By searching thru Google only Yes soon
Loboc River N/A Maybe

Table C.3 Answers in Additional Questions 1, 2, and 3

62
 With 5 as
With 5 as With 5 as
Strongly With 5 as
Strongly Strongly With 5 as
Agree and With 5 as Strongly
Agree and Agree and With 5 as Strongly
1 as Strongly Agree and
1 as 1 as Strongly Agree and 1
Agree and 1 1 as
Strongly Strongly Strongly Agree and 1 as Strongly
as Strongly Strongly
Disagree, Disagree, Disagree, as Strongly Disagree,
Disagree, do Disagree,
do you do you do you Disagree, do do you think
you think the do you
think the think the you think the the heritage
think the heritage is think the
heritage is heritage is heritage is is significant
heritage is significant to heritage is
significant significant significant to to the
significant the people in significant
to the to the the people in people in
terms of: to the
people in to the people in terms of: terms of:
[Culture and people in
terms of: people in terms of: [Businesses] [Social
Tradition] terms of:
[Way of terms of: [Career/ Relations]
[Tourism]
Living] [Economy] Job]
4 3 3 4 3 3 4
4 4 5 3 3 3 5
2 3 4 2 3 3 4
3 3 5 3 3 3 5
1 1 1 3 3 3 3
2 3 4 4 4 3 5
4 4 4 4 4 4 4
3 5 5 3 3 3 5
4 4 4 4 4 4 4
5 5 5 5 5 5 5
5 4 5 4 4 4 5
5 5 5 5 5 5 5
1 3 2 2 3 2 1
3 3 4 4 4 3 4
4 5 4 5 5 3 5

Table C.4 Answers in Survey Questionnaire Number 2

63
 ADDITIONAL QUESTION No. 1: What
do you think should be done to promote
ADDITIONAL QUESTION No. 2: What is the best
the heritage well?
way to preserve our heritage?
(Please write your answer on the space
provided)
Conduct community workshops. Create
and offer them products that are useful.
Share it with to other people, socialize with them
Workshops and seminars can be useful
and talk about our heritage so that it would spread
ways to educate specific audiences about
easily.
building and cultural sites from the recent
past.
To tell people about interesting facts and give its best care so that it can be pass through
its history future generations

Knowing that technology is very on these

days, they should find ways on attracting
Simply be a thoughtful human being and do not
their locals to visit the place so that the
do the things you shoudn't.
people would be able to share the beauty
of the place.
Promote it on instagram Keep it clean
further data needed funding
because it will contribute to the
preservation of cultural heritage that is the best way to preserve your cultural heritage no
important for the understanding and matter what can be shared
benefit of society
videos of the cultural heritage will be
added in one corner where people can sit Save artifacts, spread awareness,
and watch
Telling more people about the beauty of We need to take care of the river, make sure that
the river will greatly promote the heritage. the river is clean, and give love to the heritage.
Protect and imparting cultural knowledge to the
Increase awareness of local heritage
young ones
Preserve and share the goodness of the Promote and conserve resources by reduces
heritage. waste through cleanliness program.
Form a volunteer group,
Offer tours,
Host special events,
The best way to preserve your cultural heritage,
Submit a nomination to an endangered
whatever it may be, is to share it with others.
places list,
Cultural heritage and natural history of a nation
Conduct community workshops.
has a very high value and is unique. It is an
Educate those involved in the decision-
identity that can be introduced to the world.
making process.
Survey resources from the recent past.
Evaluate the property
We should use the social media flatform To share it to the people and to the next
to promote the heritage. generation.
Abatan Abatan
The respect? Respects each tourism or ka Pilipino
Tell friends about it Dont throw trashes anywhere
Table C.4 Answers in Additional Questions 1 and 2

64
ADDITIONAL QUESTION No. 3: Personally,
how did cultural heritages play a significant role in your daily lives?
Cultural heritage can enrich social capital and create a
sense of individual and collective belonging. It makes a difference in how we view ourselves and
others
It plays a significant role in our daily lives because cultural heritages provide a story of our people
in the past regardless of its future.
Cultural heritages allow you to gain historical perspectives and understand traditions.
It doesn’t.
I don't know how to answer this question
I want to make sure that knowledge of their culture understands

Our ancestors will be remembered and we know where we all came from. Their practices will
continue in our generation and it gives people a sense of unity and belonging.

It plays a significant role because this type of heritage has been in our ancestors’ care for ages, so
we need to do our part and take care of it too.

It affects our values—what we consider right and wrong. This is how the society we live in
influences our choices.
Cultural heritages promote cultural diversity. But
Cultural heritage gives people a sense of unity and belonging within a group and allows them to
better understand previous generations and the history of where they come from. Cultural heritage
implies a shared bond and our belonging to a community
For me, the cultural heritage really plays an important role in our daily lives in a way that we get to
appreciate our culture and better understand our history.
Abatan
Gives a people sense of our humanity
I was able to know how amazing and beautiful nature is

Table C.4 Answers in Additional Question 3

65
 Appendix D

Cultural Map of Cortes

Plate D.1 Cultural Map of Cortes

66
 CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Jheane Mae Pondoc Auguis

Nickname: Maimai

Age: 15

Date of Birth: June 01, 2007

Home Address: Tiptip District, Tagbilaran City

Religion: Roman Catholic

Nationality: Filipino

Civil Status: Single

FAMILY BACKGROUND

Father: Bernandino Trazo Auguis

Mother: Ronelyn Penaroya Pondoc

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Kindergarten: Tiptip Daycare Center

Elementary: Tiptip Elementary School

Junior High School: Tagbilaran City Science High School

CONTACT INFORMATION

Email Address: tcshs.auguis.jheanemae.p@gmail.com

Motto in Life: “If you want something, you must find a way”

67
 CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Labina Mae Sita Gilbuena

Nickname: Ben, Bin, Labin, Labs

Age: 16

Date of Birth: May 11, 2006

Home Address: De Lapaz, Cortes, Bohol

Religion: Roman Catholic

Nationality: Filipino

Civil Status: Single

FAMILY BACKGROUND

Father: Rolando Arriesgado Gilbuena

Mother: Robina Estoce Sita

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Kindergarten: Holy Spirit School of Tagbilaran

Elementary: Bohol Wisdom School

Junior High School: Tagbilaran CIty Science High School

CONTACT INFORMATION

Email Address: tcshs.gilbuena.labinamae.s@gmail.com

Motto in Life: “Time is precious, waste it wisely.”

68
 CURRICULUM VITAE

PERSONAL DATA

Name: Stephanie Chyn Sarabia Monesit

Nickname: Steph, Chynchyn

Age: 15

Date of Birth: July 1,2007

Home Address: Mansasa District, Tagbilaran City, Bohol

Religion: Roman Catholic

Nationality: Filipino

Civil Status: Single

FAMILY BACKGROUND

Father: Ismael-Michael Caomate Monesit Jr.

Mother: Judith Sanipa Sarabia

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Kindergarten: Blessed Juana Condesa School

Elementary: City East Elementary School

Junior High School: Tagbilaran City Science High School

CONTACT INFORMATION

Email Address: tcshs.monesit.stephanie.s@gmail.com

Motto in Life: “Flowers need time to bloom. So do you.”

69