1.

1 AUTHENTICITY

Local Literature

According to Banes (2015), the Baroque period in the Philippines is a

significant period of architecture, blending Spanish colonial influence and local

culture. Four baroque churches were constructed during Spanish occupation,

playing a significant role in the country's colonial history, Catholicism spread,

and Spanish political support. The Mass's importance extends beyond its

historical context; it symbolizes the beginning of a long and complex

relationship between the Philippines and Catholicism, which has profoundly

shaped Filipino culture and identity. These churches' distinctive architecture

and aesthetics are a result of blending various styles, giving them a unique

appearance. Examples include the fusion of Chinese motifs at San Agustin and

the façade of Miag-ao Church, which features papaya, coconut, and palm trees.

These churches showcase the influence of Spanish and Latin American

architecture on the local surroundings.

The book Culture, Heritage, and Territorial Identities for Urban

Development (2022), explores the concept of authenticity in the context of

urban development, highlighting its significance in preserving and promoting

cultural heritage and territorial identities. Authenticity is presented as a crucial

element in urban planning, as it enables cities to maintain their unique

character and sense of place, while also fostering cultural diversity and

creativity. The book likely examines the challenges of balancing authenticity

with urban development, including the risk of cultural commodification,

gentrification, and homogenization, and explores strategies for preserving

authenticity in urban renewal projects, such as community engagement,

participatory planning, and culturally sensitive design.

According to Expat (2020), baroque-style architecture was introduced by

the Catholic Church in the early 17th century as a response to the elaborate

designs of Protestant churches, aiming to create even grander and more ornate

Catholic institutions. Baroque architects drew inspiration from the

fundamental elements of Renaissance designs, amplifying them for dramatic

effect. By elevating domes and colonnades, Baroque churches have

transformed into significant art venues as well as places of worship. A notable

feature of Baroque architecture includes clusters of sculpted angels and vividly

painted religious figures adorning the ceilings. Additionally, grand staircases

often serve as focal points, while twisted columns and the strategic use of light

further exemplify this artistic style.

According to Raymundo Go (2019) work, "The Philippine Council of

Evangelical Churches: Its Background, Context, and Authenticity," the idea of

authenticity is examined about the Philippine Evangelical Church movement.

The book addresses the perception of authenticity concerning religious

activities, involvement in the community, and theological integrity. Go

highlights the significance of authentic religious expressions relevant to local

circumstances while examining the historical and cultural influences that have

influenced the identity of the Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches

(PCEC). Through an examination of the obstacles and possibilities encountered

by the PCEC, the writer emphasizes the necessity for religious institutions to

preserve their genuineness while tackling modern-day social concerns.

According to Lim, R. L. (2021), authenticity is the accurate and realistic

portrayal of the Baroque church‘s cultural and historical importance without

interference from other aspects or commercialization. This is important in

preserving the historical aspect of the building as a form of religious institution

where visitors can see the wealth of Philippine culture. The authenticity of the

Baroque churches is closely tied to the topic of Exchanging Vows in Baroque

Churches: Its relevance to Tourism since it is the sense of the touristic culture

and history of these traditional landmarks that draws visitors and boost the

economic cycle. It is on this basis that the sustainability of the tourism

interests in the region more so by preserving the true nature and worth of the

churches that in turn bring value to the tourists, the local communities and

the culture attached to the worth of the churches.

According to Mawis-Klasen (2021), the article explained the process of

(re)making Philippine history, where she brings to the fore critical analyses and

reviewing historical accounts and interpretations. According to her statement,

the narration of history is normally colored by the dominance of the dominating

perspectives and power mechanisms, which may not express alternative voices

and experiences. In fact, this quest for authentic historical narratives is pretty

close to the postulate of authenticity in tourism since both, indeed, correspond

to the search for authentic culture/identity representations. While Mawis-

Klasen pleads that history should be made a more inclusive discipline allowing
recognition of a variety of neglected views from the present marginalized

communities, the idea of an authentic tourist experience should also convey

the complication of the local cultures in question. Further, she calls for the role

of education in shaping historical consciousness and asks for curricula that

would learn to observe the realities of all Filipinos. History and authenticity do

overlap, which reminds one of the need to view multiple narratives about

identity and how their reconstructions construct cultural identities, historic

and otherwise, and in tourism.

According to Sembrano (2021), these churches in the Philippines, like San

Agustin Church, have become dear not only because of their religious values

but also because of their architectural heritage. This makes them attract many

tourists and couples who are looking for a unique place to hold their weddings.

Nevertheless, these historical buildings are also facing threats from modern

infrastructure development in surrounding areas that could cause damage to

their Outstanding Universal Value. The bridge near the church is expected to

impact the soil further as it will cause ground vibration, air and noise pollution

that may affect not only the structural integrity of the church but also the

cultural landscape surrounding it. In all of these contests, the tightrope

between heritage site protection and the needs of urban development is

constantly shifting, as the churches themselves are tourism focal points and

venues for experience in culture that are quite meaningful to the communities

and visitors.
 The Baroque churches that have significant European and Filipino

architectural influences and these churches in the religious and cultural

identity of the Philippines provide an extremely authentic setting for couples to

exchange their vows. Indeed, weddings held in historic sites like these evoke

the deep and true cultural connection but also support the promotion of

cultural tourism. Such attractions have a natural authenticity, combined with

their historical and spiritual backgrounds, hence so important in the Filipino

landscape of tourism. This has made it highly imperative to preserve these and

ensure that they remain safe from the many modern forces facing them, since

the value of such an attraction lay both culturally as well as in the tourist eye.

According to Pineda, A. (2024), philippine baroque churches exhibit a

distinctive synthesis of influences through the artistic blending of Spanish and

Oriental forms. In order to create a distinctive aesthetic, Spanish missionaries

worked with the local Chinese residents to integrate Oriental characteristics.

The earthquake baroque style, which is renowned for its ability to withstand

seismic activity, emerged as a result of this process of cultural adaptation. The

churches' intricate iconography, which portrays events from Christ's life,

reflects the blending of several cultures that characterizes Philippine Baroque

art.

According to Ocariza (2024), the Baroque Churches of the Philippines of

the 'Peripheral Baroque Style' have maintained their authentic features and

admirable building technology that is reflective of church architecture of the

16th-18th centuries Spanish colonial period Philippines A potential threat to

the property is the possible reconstruction of portions of some of the churches'

original ensemble which were not present during inscription, in the effort to

ensure that the churches continue to function to serve their congregations

best. The government's responsible restoration and conservation efforts have

resulted in the baroque churches retaining their original materials and

substantial features. The Baroque churches continued to be used as

permanent sacred places devoted to acts of divine worship of the Catholic faith.

Foreign Literature

According to Alex (2024), polish humanist weddings are non-religious

and genuine in the sense of the actual feelings and emotions that partners

conveyed during the ceremony in contrast to the conventional falsity and

rituals of Catholic marriages. This emphasize is clearly seen where the couples

long for a more creative and intimate event that would capture their

personality. As with many weddings, the level of reality within the wedding

ceremony can be a deciding factor on the tourist experience. Genuine and

meaningful ceremony which forms the highlight of ANY wedding results in

better and deeper impressions amongst the bride and groom and their guests

which can otherwise influence the perception and thus the overall experiences

of the tourist destinations. This may in turn translate into improved tourist

traffic and financial outreach to families in the region, coupled with enhanced

respect for the conventional acknowledged value of the Baroque churches and

their historical context.

 According to Blanco (2022), the cultural aesthetic of Baroque in the

Philippines has been a feature of national identity, especially in urban Manila

culture. The mentality of baroque, based on the detailed emotions, can be felt

in terms of architecture as well as art inside Baroque churches. These

churches were cultural landmarks, reflecting a history not only of the

Philippines, but also of artistic expression locally - which had transpired over

centuries of colonization and cultural fusion. The bigger structures attracted

more tourists eager to experience rich history and cultural value which is

embedded in the structures. The cultural importance of the churches in the

Baroque style surpasses their use as everyday venues for marriages where the

newlywed couples take their photographs and marry against very unique

backdrops that enhance their cultural and emotional life during such

significant events of life. This overlay of personal events on cultural heritage

enables visitors and local folks to connect meaningfully with rich traditions

surrounding such sacred spaces. As these lovebirds vow before these historical

churches, they are helping preserve cultural practices while boosting tourism.

Adding cultural experiences to the majesty of Baroque Churches bolsters the

romantic appeal of such destinations for weddings and contributes to the

richness of the tourism landscape in the Philippines.

Authenticity, in all its complex dimensions, seems to be a phenomenon

that can only be partially validated, with its perception varying based on the

observer. Despite the challenges associated with the concept, authenticity—or

the quest for it—serves as a guiding principle for metacultural actions. This
includes determining the "correct" way to exhibit an object in a museum or

conserving it, as well as for groups that represent cultural heritage in finding

the "right" way to perform cultural traditions. Although authenticity may resist

analysis that seeks to go beyond its partial aspects, we can effectively describe

the processes and practices of authentication—essentially, the strategies used

to designate objects or performances as authentic. (Groschwitz, H., 2019)

According to Kono (2018), historical integrity, cultural practices,

contextual relevance, community involvement, adaptation versus preservation,

documentation and research, and ethical considerations are some of the

important criteria that are evaluated when evaluating authenticity in heritage

sites, while cultural practices stress the value of preserving traditions and

community involvement, historical integrity concentrates on the original

materials and architectural forms. It is crucial to balance contemporary

demands with preservation initiatives and to comprehend the site's relationship

to its surroundings and local community narratives. Ethical principles

guarantee that decisions respect the site's cultural significance, and thorough

documentation helps to comprehend its evolution. All things considered,

evaluating authenticity is a complex procedure meant to preserve the site's

character for coming generations.

According to Kaminska (2019), the origins of many Roman Catholic

churches can be found in early Christianity. Historical records, including those

pertaining to their founding, renovations, and the function they served in the

community, are sometimes used to verify the legitimacy of these churches.

Latgale region in Eastern Latvia has a rich cultural legacy, including Roman

Catholic churches of Piedruja, Pasiene, and Krāslava. Despite improvements

and losses over time, many original fresco painted interior decorations have

survived. Conservation efforts have been conducted with the help of Polish and

Latvian restorers. The church interiors have undergone monumental-decorative

painting conservation projects in recent decades, aiming to maintain the

church's physical structure and aesthetics in line with its historical design.

Masonry Catholic churches from the second half of the eighteenth century are

a significant part of the area's late Baroque architectural legacy. Guidelines for

restoring the structure have been in place since the 1960s, acknowledging the

need for conservation.

Based on the Greatest Challenge in the Management of Living Religious

Heritage by Poulios (2019), delves into the intricate relationship between visitor

experiences in religious contexts and authenticity in heritage management. The

author makes the case that upholding the integrity of religious traditions

depends on keeping the authenticity of both the heritage itself and the visitor

experience. Poulios draws attention to the difficulties heritage managers

confront in striking a balance between the needs of tourism and the

preservation of genuine religious rituals by highlighting the necessity for a

comprehensive approach that connects these components. This viewpoint

encourages more research into methods that combine tourist experiences with

the holy qualities of ongoing religious traditions, thereby promoting a greater

understanding and reverence for these customs.

 According to Coomansingh (2018), reflect on how the concept of

authenticity is both constructed, perceived, and experienced by the tourists

and the local people in this all-encompassing. Here, according to the authors,

authenticity is more than a fixed attribute of tourist sites; it gets shaped

through the kind of materialities, cultural practices, and individual perceptions

that play together. The book thus demonstrates through case studies how

tourists seek authentic experiences and how this impacts the tourism

business, regional economy, and cultural heritage. Issues of authenticity,

which can themselves be a marketing device and, at the same time, an

expression of culture, are subordinated to the imperative of both

commodification and preservation. All in all, it seems possible to get a more

contextual and nuanced understanding of the role of authenticity in tourism

contemporary from the book while putting more emphasis on recognizing

diverse experiences and perspectives in authentic tourist experience creation.

Heritage New Paradigm explores the complexities of preserving and

authenticating cultural heritage in the face of globalization, technological

advancements, and environmental changes. The authors examine the

challenges of maintaining the authenticity of cultural artifacts, monuments,

and intangible heritage, while also promoting education and awareness about

the importance of cultural preservation, highlighting the need for a balanced

approach that respects the integrity of cultural heritage while making it

accessible to future generations. (Turcanu-Carutiu, 2021)

 Church authenticity ensures the teachings, values, and relationships

remain pure. In the present world, maintaining the authenticity of churches

has become a challenge. Communities become increasingly diverse; churches

face the challenge of integrating cultural influences while remaining true to

their spiritual foundations. In the digital age, churches struggle to maintain

authenticity in the online world. An online presence that captures the true

spirit of the religion while adjusting to digital media presents an emotional

challenge. Churches can add substance to their internet presence to preserve

authenticity. One way to close the gap between virtual and physical

authenticity is to host virtual prayer sessions, create online discussion spaces,

and provide important content regularly.(Zakranson. 2023)

Local Studies

In Cornelio's (2014) work, "Popular Religion and the Turn to Everyday

Authenticity: Reflections on the Contemporary Study of Philippine

Catholicism," the author explores the complex relationship that exists between

popular religious practices and the pursuit of authenticity within the Philippine

Catholic setting. The author makes the case that modern Filipinos are trying

more and more to use rituals and everyday experiences to communicate their

faith, which helps them negotiate their identities in a sociocultural

environment that is changing quickly. This emphasis on authenticity is in line

with broader developments in the study of religion, which hold that

comprehending religious life requires an understanding of both individual and

collective representations of faith. Through an analysis of popular devotional

rituals, Cornelio demonstrates the value of daily spirituality by showing how

these activities not only uphold personal convictions but also promote

communal harmony.

According to Jose, R. T. et al., (2024), the study investigates the

authenticity of these resources and how they can be leveraged to develop

sustainable tourism attractions. consider the level at which the

commodification of various sites impacts the historical, cultural, or social value

of the sites. The final section is that commercializing is to be implemented for

the purpose of tourism promotion but could jeopardize authenticity.

"Assessment of Heritage Resources in Solano, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines as a

Heritage Tourism Destination". This paper raises recommendations on

managing heritage sites as a compromise between some commercial interests

and the interest in retaining true cultural and historical values.

According to the study, the findings indicate that tourists are primarily

motivated to visit two pilgrimage churches for secular reasons. The study

highlights the UNWTO statement that many people visit churches for tourism-

related purposes. The research revealed that religious motives are significantly

more important for visitors embarking on their journeys compared to secular

motives, which are considered less influential in attracting travelers to religious

sites. This is particularly evident as many tourists recognize Cavite province as

a notable destination, including for pilgrimage tourism. Analyzing the two

churches, it becomes clear that they play a vital role in the province's history

and culture, which can help attract more visitors and promote both historical
and religious tourism. The results suggest that travelers are attracted to the

authentic elements of the pilgrimage journey, such as the spiritual ambiance,

rituals, and involvement in the local community at these locations. This is

consistent with studies showing that authenticity influences tourists' general

satisfaction and connection to a place. (Magsino & Bulaong, 2023)

The Spanish Colonial Churches of Zambales, as represented by Balin

Sambawon, embody a unique blend of European and Asian influences,

showcasing Filipino artistry through the use of local materials. This fusion of

styles is a testament to the authenticity of the churches, which have retained

their original character despite centuries of cultural exchange and foreign

occupation. The churches' architectural integrity is a reflection of the Filipino

people's ability to adapt and assimilate external influences while maintaining

their cultural identity, thereby preserving the authenticity of their heritage.

(Marquez, 2021)

According to Naga J. F. (2020), the conservation of the historical and

cultural qualities of the cultural heritage sites particularly the Baroque

churches in the Philippines. It stressed the need to keep these sites as original

as possible as these are historical and cultural landmarks that could also

double as tourist attractions that bring in income for the communities. It is

very relevant to tourism development. Hiring a company that will incorporate

the true essence of these churches is very important for couples who would like

to have their solemnization indoors since it gives them an experience that is

rich in culture and history of the country. Thus, the presence of the Baroque
church is a major reason for tourism, young couples in particular, who want to

have beautiful and unique weddings in the church thus enhancing social

relations and promoting economic benefits to the region.

According to Paglinawan (2022), the Catholic visual culture in the

Philippines of the Spanish colonial period, which lasted from 1521 up until

1898, played an important role both in the practice of religions and the cultural

identity of the Filipinos. Catholic iconography was merged in works such as

Jesuit Fr. We find Pedro Murillo Velarde's Carta Hydrographica y

Chorographica de las Yslas Filipinas and the Via Crucis (Stations of the Cross)

by artisans of the place reminders of important aspects of transcultural

relations between the Spanish colonizers and Filipino artisans. The production

was visual in nature for religious purposes only. At the same time, it pointed to

an important symbol: the conversion of Filipinos into Catholics under the

Spanish. This conversion became a physical manifestation in the use of

Baroque elements within the construction and ornamentation of churches, and

those churches were iconic landmarks of Catholic faith. The history and

culture interlaced within exchanging vows make Baroque churches the perfect

backdrop that reflects centuries of religious and cultural identity. This value

makes them an attractive venue for couples who would want both spiritual and

cultural depth in their wedding ceremonies.

Regarding the authenticity of religious iconography and the role of

Filipino artisans in creating these art pieces highlights the importance of

saving these Baroque edifices as genuine expressions of the colonial past of the
country. These historic churches offer the best venues for other couples to

exchange their vows. The choice may be for the religious sacrament that this

tradition embodies; more often than not, however, it is for experiencing the

rich, authentic heritage the same structures hold. Cultural depictions in

weddings unfold through the Baroque architectural designs of these churches

with finer minute details and acts of religious symbols. Such churches are real

sites for ceremonies and even attract locals and tourists interested in relishing

a piece of the history and legacy of the Philippines' trans culture to other parts

of the world, thus helping to boost heritage tourism.

According to the study of Rickly, J., et al., (2023), authenticity is

interpreted differently in each of these matters. Place and cultural heritage,

place-based experiences, and place and community identity are the three

primary areas that are related to authenticity. The significance of places and

people as experienced and expressed is emphasized, along with how tourism

geographies interact with authenticity discourses and provide a spatial

perspective to tourist destinations and people. Therefore, by emphasizing the

relationships between people and location in our communication and

experiences of authenticity, tourist geographies promote the conceptualization

of authenticity.

The colonial past of the Philippines has had a significant impact on its

architectural legacy. The Philippines lacks large temples with Indian, Khmer, or

Burmese influences, despite the fact that the countryside is still dotted with

the region's distinctive folk architecture—light buildings with high-pitched

roofs and erected on stilts—unlike its neighbors in Southeast Asia. Rather, a

huge stone church filled with Catholic symbolism may be found in the middle

of practically every town beyond architecture; the authenticity of practices and

traditions within these churches can vary. Local interpretations of Catholic

rituals often incorporate indigenous beliefs and customs. Nearly all of these

churches are still in existence and continue to be used. Their tenacity is a

silent testament to the devotion of those who look after them. (Santillan &

Manalo 2018).

Tabuena, et al., (2022) emphasizes the importance of aesthetics and

authenticity in the experience of cultural heritage sites. Aesthetics,

encompassing art, nature, and design, play a key role in attracting visitors to

these sites. Even though indicators like artistic appeal and authenticity rank

low compared to other factors, they are still rated positively. Cultural heritage

sites that incorporate artistic elements and symbols are seen as more attractive

and meaningful to visitors, enhancing their emotional and aesthetic experience.

This suggests that authenticity, combined with artistic value, plays a crucial

role in the appeal and significance of heritage tourism, as it ties to both

cultural and historical narratives. This perspective aligns with studies

highlighting that the inclusion of artistic and symbolic features in the design of

heritage sites can not only beautify them but also serve to fascinate and

educate visitors, making the experience more impactful and memorable.

Foreign Studies
 According to Dragan M. (2022), actual and unadulterated depiction of the

cultural and historical aspect of the churches and monasteries across Northern

Transylvania. It underlines the proper significance of these cultural heritages

while proposing that these are untouched and should not be changed in the

strategies of tourism manipulation and management.

In this regard, the fact that Baroque churches are real wedding venues,

gives a new traveling experience to the tourists. By preserving the historic and

cultural significance of these churches, it becomes possible for these couples to

embrace the history of the simple background of the place thereby increasing

the value of the delivery of vows in these mediums.

According to Fleming (2018), the churches built by the Society of Jesus

in Macao reflect the adaptation of European architectural styles to different

locations, showcasing authenticity and culture. The first church, Madre de

Deus (St. Paul), was built in the 17th century under the supervision of Italian

Jesuit Carlo Spinola. Fostering authenticity in these churches can strengthen

relationships within the church and create a welcoming atmosphere for

individuals to explore their faith. The potential conflict between rationalism-era

advances in science and mathematics and society's religious values is also

considered. A comprehensive review of late baroque architecture from the 17th

and 18th centuries in Europe and Asia is included, emphasizing the

importance of considering examples from Italy and Portugal to comprehend the

structures built by the Jesuits in China and Macao.

 According to Gerasimov (2024), the Baroque architecture constructed

between the 17th and the early 20th century within West Siberia has unique,

creative expressions of the Baroque style- especially in wooden architecture.

Though the European and Russian cities of the 17th and 18th centuries were

heavily influenced by the Baroque style, its influence reached Siberia with

considerable delay. In this section of the region, it mostly affected religious

constructions rather than being characteristic of residential buildings or public

spaces. This trend was reflected mostly in the ornate design of wooden

churches-a feature of Siberian Baroque. Baroque ornamentation became a

distinguishing factor in the region's religious architecture, and the style's

adaptation to local wooden structures highlighted a blend of the traditional

Russian and Baroque influences. This focus on religious buildings in Baroque

style, particularly in Siberian architecture, speaks to the cultural import of the

construction of such buildings. Many of these Baroque element‘s feature in the

architecture of churches where aesthetic grandeur, relating to a wedding or

other religious ceremony, would prove worth the experience and beef up

tourism in Baroque churches.

The preservation of Baroque elements also boosts cultural and heritage

tourism significantly for Siberian churches. Gerasimov (2024) has

demonstrated how the adaptation of Baroque in Siberian architecture

preserves the architectural quality of the period, which is attractive to those

looking to explore historical authenticity and cultural values. The buildings are

the authentic environment anchored by a combination of historical, religious,

and cultural values to the modern couple who wishes to swear in a Baroque

church. The Siberian Baroque architectural style characterizes such a unique

appeal to authenticity that attracts tourists, mainly those who want cultured

and different aesthetic venues for weddings and other ceremonies. This

interrelation between authenticity and tourism fortifies the role of Baroque

churches as not only congregational symbols but as important touristic

destinations as well.

According to Khalaf, R. W. (2020), conservation is continuity, which

requests States Parties to continue to conserve, protect, and present properties

situated in their territories. The Operational Guidelines for implementing this

convention retain the authenticity as a benchmark for assessing cultural

heritage. Statements of Outstanding Universal Value (SOUV) were scrutinized

to prove that continuity is the evidence presented to justify inscription. It

shows that only 263 properties are listed on the World Heritage. Because their

values and attributes continue to exist, they are truthfully and credibly

expressed through various attributes based on the Operational Guidelines.

Continuity reveals recurring concepts in other sections of SOUV; this holds

true for natural properties. Indeed, continuity applies to natural and cultural

heritage and tangible and intangible attributes.

A key aspect of a heritage tourism image is authenticity, or at least the

perception of it. Emphasizing authenticity is essential for the development of

this type of tourism. However, the narrative and physical construction of

heritage sites often raise questions about their authenticity, even though the
experiences tourists have can be far more impactful than simplistic

evaluations. The study highlights Bruner who proposed a constructivist

approach to authenticity rather than an objectivist critique. Objective

authenticity relies on originality and genuineness, which can be assessed by

experts. Numerous researchers argue that authenticity significantly enhances

the quality of heritage tourism. The Rotated Component Matrix identifies four

key factors related to tourists' perceptions of authenticity in historical streets,

derived from 15 attributes. These factors include design authenticity, which

focuses on aesthetics, art, and architecture while aiming to convey historical

messages despite potential modern changes. Building and material authenticity

emphasizes the preservation of original construction materials and clear

distinctions between new and old materials during restoration. Environmental

authenticity relates to the historical context and architectural state of a

building at its time of construction, highlighting the challenge of balancing

urban development with preservation efforts. Lastly, artistic authenticity

requires maintaining existing structures while ensuring that any additions are

reversible, allowing for the restoration of original appearances without

damaging ancient monuments. Overall, authenticity in heritage tourism is

perceived as the degree to which a site is seen as genuine and representative of

its culture or historical period, with the article noting that this perception is

subjective rather than absolute. (Lin et al., 2017)

According to Reisinger and Steiner (2018), authenticity is a significant

topic in tourism literature. It is understood through three main ideologies:

modernism/realism, constructivism, and postmodernism. Modernists/realists

believe that authenticity is based on an objective foundation for artifacts,

events, cuisine, practices, dress, and culture, rooted in a fixed and knowable

reality. On the other hand, constructivists argue that authenticity is socially or

personally based, making it subjective and variable. They emphasize that

authenticity can be negotiated and reject the existence of a fixed, objective

reality that people can rely on. Many postmodernists argue that authenticity

holds little significance for most tourists, either because they don't place value

on it, view it with suspicion, participate in its commercialized and cynical

portrayal, or recognize it as a mere marketing tool. They question the existence

of any distinct, objective reality underlying perceptions of authenticity, aligning

with constructivist views. In contrast to constructivists, they stress that few

people genuinely care enough about authenticity to bother fabricating its myth

or that the boundary between genuine and artificial is so indistinct that

debating it is futile.

According to Silverman (2015), explores the intricate relationship

between authenticity and legacy in "Heritage and Authenticity," arguing that

authenticity is a dynamic concept influenced by social, historical, and cultural

circumstances rather than a static quality. The author makes the case that

different stakeholders, such as visitors, locals, and historical experts, may have

quite diverse ideas about what is "authentic." Given that modernity and

globalization frequently contradict traditional behaviors and representations,

this heterogeneity raises significant concerns concerning the standards used to

assess authenticity in cultural sites. According to Silverman, some see

authenticity as a sign of historical integrity and those who see it as a marketing

ploy for tourists can occasionally result in the monetization of cultural

property.

According to Tan and Kusumo (2020), explores the concept of

authenticity in the context of 'Bathic' church architecture in Bali, Indonesia,

and its impact on Balinese identity and tourism. The research delves into the

design elements that contribute to the authenticity of these churches and how

they reflect the cultural heritage of the Balinese people. The study also

examines the effects of tourism on the authenticity of these sites and the

potential consequences for Balinese identity. By analyzing the relationship

between architecture, culture, and tourism, the study provides insights into

the complexities of preserving cultural heritage in the face of tourism

development. The findings of this study can be useful for architects, cultural

heritage managers, and tourism stakeholders in designing and managing

cultural heritage sites that balance authenticity with tourism demands.

According to Zhou, G. et al. (2024), analyzed how tourists' perceptions

towards authenticity influence the intention of visiting heritage sites. In

drawing on qualitative and quantitative approaches, this study analyzes

tourists' re-visitation intent in light of their notion of authenticity of heritage

tourism destinations. There was considerable evidence that showed a strong

impact of authenticity on the tendency of tourists to return to such

destinations. The study illustrates how cultural representation and historical

accuracy influence the connection as well as personal intentions to return.

Thus, based on the findings of the present study, improving authenticity in

offers is a necessity for legacy tourism providers if they hope to increase

recurring business.

1.2 Cultural Worth

Local Literature

According to Anri (2020), earthquake Baroque churches in the

Philippines are exceptional for their strange architectural character,

representing how the Philippines learned to adapt to natural hazards.

Hundreds of years old churches that were recognized by UNESCO are not only

a strictly religious and historical monument but also a very potent symbol of

Filipino culture, liable to face calamities. This was a result of the repeated

destruction brought upon by the earthquakes, so such churches remain as

artifacts of endurance. Vowing amidst such culturally and historically rich

locations gives wedding ceremonies an unmatched depth, much to the

advantage of history-bagging, symbolism-rich wedding offers in the tourism

value of these buildings. Their cultural value speaks for itself as living artifacts

that testify to the colonial past of the Philippines and the versatility of the

Filipino people in environmental impact. Weddings are held in these

structures, which not only support the preservation of cultural heritages but

also help visitors become part of a greater historical saga. This relationship

between heritage buildings and cultural tourism mobilizes local resources,

making the notion of maintaining the same set of architectural masterpieces in

the future a stronger fact. Deciding to get married in these old churches builds

upon increased appreciation and preservation of the culturally irreplaceable

sites through couples and tourists.

In Baroque Churches of the Philippines, Berto (2023) discusses the

Philippine Baroque churches as architectural masterpieces, and at the same time,

artifacts of historical value, proving their cultural importance. Since these are

UNESCO World Heritage Sites, they symbolize not only European but also the

Filipino people's skill with resilience, faith, and heritage. They are reflections of a

cultural identity which boosts community pride and attracts more local and

international tourists rather than serving religious purposes only. The preservation

of these churches reveals the nation's concern in preserving its cultural heritage,

signifying their value not just as landmarks but as treasures with enduring

historical and cultural worth.

In the article of Kerlynb (2023), affirm the cultural importance of the

Philippine Baroque Churches, presenting their aesthetic and historical values

on architecture. He observes that some of the oldest and most beautiful

Baroque churches are found in the Philippines; these churches, which are

tourist attractions, normally have large and elaborate decorations evident in

some of the stone carvings, ornate retablos and large facades.

The Cultural Worth where these churches are monumental to the

constructional, histo- architectural, artistic, socio-cultural, religious, or any

other meaningful significance to the country. Wedding service in these

churches enable the couples to grasp and cherish this cultural value making
their weddings special experiences which truly capture the essence of their

love, bond and culture.

Despite being faithful to their Catholic roots, the churches of the

Philippines are made unique by the subtle ways in which they tell our nation's

history. In addition to being testaments to faith and tradition, the churches of

the Philippines are a testament to our people's ideals, hopes, and aspirations

for the future. As a nation full of Catholics, churches play a significant part in

Filipino culture. (Mawis, 2019)

The Spanish had an impact on the local arts and architecture as well.

One well-known instance is the Baroque-style architecture of churches built

during colonization. Several of the Philippines' oldest churches were

constructed during the Spanish colonization. Just as much as Renaissance

churches have evolved into art institutions, Baroque churches have become art

institutions just as much as Catholic buildings. These Baroque-style

architectural institutions represent a beautiful manifestation of the art and

history that the country has experienced. Catholic or not, these Baroque

churches are heritage sites worth seeing and experiencing. Any local or foreign

traveler should notice this UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its

stunning architectural details, religious background, and history. It is a

cultural landmark worth visiting. ( Angara, 2024)

According to De Cruz (2023), weddings are a universal celebration of

love, commitment, and the beginning of a new chapter in life. In the

Philippines, a country known for its rich cultural diversity, weddings are deeply
rooted in Filipino culture, blending old and new traditions. The country's

complex history, including indigenous practices, pre-colonial beliefs, Spanish

colonization, and interactions with other Asian and Western cultures, has

contributed to the mosaic of traditions found in Filipino weddings today. One

significant historical influence is the Spanish colonization, which brought

Catholicism to the Philippines, making many wedding traditions infused with

Catholic rituals and symbolism.

As stated by Sanares, S. (2023, historical sites like the 400-year-old

Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Makati, have a cultural value that goes beyond

their architectural significance since they are essential connectors to a

community's history and sense of identity. This church, which is valued as a

significant cultural asset, captures the aesthetic and religious expressions of

the day and the socio-historical setting in which it was founded and developed.

These locations offer chances for education and tourism, as well as a sense of

continuity and belonging that enriches the cultural environment. Not only does

the preservation of these sites protect tangible history, but it also improves

comprehension of cultural narratives, fostering intergenerational

communication and a sense of appreciation for regional customs.

After South Korea, the Philippines is one of the few primarily Christian,

God-centered religious civilizations in Asia. With origins in Catholicism, the

Philippines is a Third World nation that was occupied by Spain for more than

three centuries, from the early 16th century to the late 19th century. In terms

of patron saints, festivals, and ceremonies, the religion of the Philippines is

fairly similar to that of Central and South America. God is still taught to

schoolchildren in the Philippines. There are still public school classrooms

where everyone is aware of Jesus Christ, the Bible is cited, and God is

welcomed. Religion is not a taboo subject here, despite the fact that the

religious atmosphere has gotten increasingly assimilated with Islam. In fact,

some Filipinos I have spoken with find it strange that in the U.S. one cannot

speak openly about God in school. (Smith, J. ,2017).

The book, "The Orient Strikes Back‖ by Joy Hendry (2020), explores how

Baroque churches in the Philippines contribute to the country's cultural worth

in the context of tourism, highlighting their significance as cultural and

historical treasures. The cultural worth of these churches lies in their unique

architectural style, which reflects the country's rich cultural heritage and

history. By promoting the cultural worth of these churches, the book aims to

inspire a deeper appreciation and respect for the Philippines' cultural identity

among tourists and locals alike. Furthermore, the book highlights the

importance of preserving and conserving these cultural assets for future

generations to enjoy.

Foreign Literature

Azoulay, A. (2021), illuminates the strategies in reviving the

competitiveness of cultural tourism, in its phases both during and after

disruptions caused by global events. The publication bases strategic decisions

on boosting the cultural tourism pertaining to amplifying cultural worth on

heritage sites and fostering sustainable development. Thereby, it places its

emphasis on novel approaches and best practices relating to how cultural

worth may be implemented in preserving and demonstrating intrinsic worth in

cultural assets. The results indicate that, if carried out positively, cultural

worth increases economic benefits as well as brings forth the importance of

cultural heritage, thus causing more respect and preservation of such heritage.

The report gives a guideline for correlation of cultural worth into tourism

strategies where cultural and historical values are preserved and protected.

Breger and Hill's (2021) book, "Cross-Cultural Marriage: Identity and

Choice," gathers many viewpoints to examine how cross-cultural marriages

affect people's identities and ways of making decisions. The book explores the

difficulties that arise when individuals from various cultural origins get

married, emphasizing how these unions subvert conventional ideas of identity

and belonging. The authors stress that people frequently work through cultural

divides to create distinctive hybrid identities that combine elements of both

partners' backgrounds. The book also looks at how society's expectations and

conventions affect individual decisions, showing how outside influences can

affect family dynamics and marriage dynamics.

The baroque became a prominent style in Polish culture between the

early 17th and mid-18th century. Its origins were in the customs of the Polish

aristocracy, and its impact is still evident today, especially in some of the most

beloved buildings in the nation. Other distinctive cultural shifts were also

linked to the Baroque in Poland. Art historians have referred to Polish culture
of the 17th century as "Sarmatism" or the "Sarmatian Baroque," as Catherine

S. Leach points out. (Bretan, J. 2021)

According to Britannica (2024), baroque churches are known for their

grand, dramatic designs that are meant to inspire feelings of awe and devotion.

The rich decorations and beautiful interiors of these churches, created during

the Counter-Reformation, are not just religious spaces but also important

cultural landmarks. When couples choose to get married in these churches,

they connect with centuries of tradition, making their wedding a meaningful

part of history. This experience appeals to both the couple and tourists who

visit these sites to appreciate their historical and cultural significance. Baroque

churches are also popular tourist destinations because of their beauty and

history. Weddings held in these churches add to their cultural value, as visitors

can see how these historical sites are still important today. The combination of

old-world architecture and modern celebrations makes these churches even

more attractive to tourists, who come to witness not only their artistic beauty

but also their continued importance in today‘s world.

―Sustainable tourism culture and heritage promotion. Advances in Science,

Technology & Innovation/Advances in science, technology & innovation,‖

explores the cultural worth of cultural heritage and its relationship with

tourism, highlighting its importance as a valuable resource for tourism

development. The cultural worth of cultural heritage provides a sense of place,

identity, and authenticity that is essential for creating memorable tourist

experiences. By prioritizing the preservation and celebration of cultural

diversity and community values, the book promotes a more nuanced and

responsible approach to cultural heritage tourism. (Chica-Olmo et al. 2024)

According to Johnson (2024), weddings are sacred events with significant

customs, regardless of origin or religious beliefs. Multicultural wedding

planning helps in blending different cultures or religions into a joyous union.

Researching wedding customs worldwide, particularly those observed in one's

culture, is crucial. These fusion marriages celebrate families' heritage and each

other, preserving cultural identity and passing on values to future generations.

These customs and rituals showcase unique heritage, preserving cultural

identity and enhancing the significance of the wedding day.As cultures come

together, wedding customs may combine traditions from several countries,

creating new traditions that honor heritage while reflecting modern values.

According to Lindy C. (2020), the Cultural Worth of exchanging vows

rests in its conspicuous importance as a kind of contract between two lovers.

Palm wedging is a cultural practice that is prevalent in many societies today

including the Australian society where palm wedging is considered an

important part of the wedding rite.

Unlike other archetypes, the concept of the exchange of vows reaches

another level of meaning especially in the context of Baroque Churches and

tourism. The value of this practice is further boosted by the historical and

architectural importance of some of these churches and as such both couples

and tourists will always remember their experience. This is a mix of cultural
norms and historical sites which if marketed well has the ability to attract

tourists and increase.

According to Ripolles, D.C (2022), in colonial settings, churches held

additional importance as sites of conversion, while also providing local artists,

artisans, and craftsmen from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to enhance

Baroque styleAccording to Anri (2020), earthquake Baroque churches in the

Philippines are exceptional for their strange architectural character,

representing how the Philippines learned to adapt to natural hazards.

Hundreds of years old churches that were recognized by UNESCO are not only

a strictly religious and historical monument but also a very potent symbol of

Filipino culture, liable to face calamities. This was a result of the repeated

destruction brought upon by the earthquakes, so such churches remain as

artifacts of endurance. Vowing amidst such culturally and historically rich

locations gives wedding ceremonies an unmatched depth, much to the

advantage of history-bagging, symbolism-rich wedding offers in the tourism

value of these buildings. Their cultural value speaks for itself as living artifacts

that testify to the colonial past of the Philippines and the versatility of the

Filipino people in environmental impact. Weddings are held in these

structures, which not only support the preservation of cultural heritages but

also help visitors become part of a greater historical saga. This relationship

between heritage buildings and cultural tourism mobilizes local resources,

making the notion of maintaining the same set of architectural masterpieces in

the future a stronger fact. Deciding to get married in these old churches builds
upon increased appreciation and preservation of the culturally irreplaceable

sites through couples and tourists.

The Baroque Churches offer a history through architectural masterpieces

and rich and significant cultural heritage that immerses visitors. The style,

characterized by its extravagant design and ornate, impacted art, music, and

literature. That served as a grand stage for celebration and religious

ceremonies, showcasing the wealth and power of the Catholic church. The

churches focused on the preservation of historical significance so that the next

generations could benefit and learn from. Ongoing maintenance and

restoration programs preserve these architectural gems for future generations.

Churches is a gem showcasing the Baroque architecture's history and

significance, making it an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Baroque

churches are the city's cultural heritage, offering a rich history to the people

and an opportunity to appreciate them. Visitors leave with a lasting

appreciation of the artistry of the time. (Veronika, 2024)

Local Studies

According to Artuz (2020), cultural value is essential to comprehending

how communities view and interact with their history, especially in the context

of Bataan's pilgrimage churches. Using a symbolic interactionism methodology,

the study emphasizes how these churches work as hubs for local communities'

sense of identity and spiritual ties. In addition to strengthening social bonds,

pilgrimage-related customs and behaviors support cultural continuity despite

modernization. Additionally, these churches are important for tourism since

they draw tourists looking for genuine cultural experiences, which boosts local

economies. The preservation of such sites and the ongoing vibrancy of

community identity ultimately depend on acknowledging their cultural value.

In the Province of Albay, Bicol Region, Philippines, the century-old

churches serve as a living testament to the people's religion and cultural

legacy. In general, a church is a place of worship, a structure used for religious

activities. Catholics, on the other hand, acknowledge the existence of a parish.

The term "parish" describes the group of Catholics who live in a certain

geographic area and attend a specific church. (Ayo, 2017)

Cultural heritage sites are legacies that must be preserved. However, it

can be ruined anytime, and no one can guarantee its continuance. For this

reason, one should ensure that they are well-documented. This study used a

photogrammetry technique to generate three-dimensional (3D) replicas of the

Philippine Baroque churches that anyone can view online. This study

presented a workflow to produce 3D replica models of the Baroque churches to

document cultural heritage sites digitally. Thereby, providing an effective and

viable method to be used in digital cultural heritage preservation, and as a tool

for cultural heritage experts in the Philippines. This study successfully

demonstrated the suitability and practicability of the photogrammetry

technique for digital cultural heritage documentation and preservation, which

the country can use to preserve valuable cultural identity for future

generations. (Febro, J. 2020)

 The article discusses the concept of cultural worth, which refers to the

value that culture holds within a society. Cultural worth encompasses various

dimensions, including the preservation of heritage, the promotion of identity,

and the enhancement of social cohesion. It emphasizes that culture is not

merely an aesthetic or entertainment aspect but is integral to the community's

social fabric. The article argues that recognizing and valuing cultural worth can

lead to better policy-making, increased funding for cultural initiatives, and a

deeper appreciation of diverse cultural expressions. By understanding cultural

worth, societies can foster environments that celebrate and sustain their

unique cultural identities. (Gonzales, 2018)

The Itawes people of Isabela possess a distinct culture that defines their

identity. Their cosmology is reflected in their marriage customs. The research

aimed to document and analyze the various wedding rituals of the Itawes,

utilizing data gathered through observation, community immersion, and

informal interviews with the elders. The data collected were interpreted and

presented to the elders for validation, and their feedback was incorporated into

the study. The findings revealed that the Itawes have multiple marriage rituals

and stages, such as tubad, mangatatawa, gumina or landay, entrega, boda

(wedding ceremony), gala-gala, and dallut. However, due to practical reasons,

tubad and mangatatawa are no longer practiced. Additionally, the study

unveiled that these wedding rituals signify the communal nature of the Itawes

people, as all community members are encouraged to take part in the rituals.

Moreover, it was discovered that female Itawes are highly esteemed in terms of
preparation for married life, as parents ensure that their daughters will have a

better life after marriage with their future husbands. This explains why parents

assess the commitment of suitors through the performance of mangatatawa

and other related rituals. The promotion, conservation, and preservation of

these rituals for better understanding of the unique Itawes culture should be

the focus of an intervention involving the Local Government Unit (LGU), the

Department of Education (DepEd), and the academe. (Guzman, 2019)

Maicom (2024) examines Filipino popular piety in the context of Vatican

II‘s Directory of Popular Piety and the Liturgy, highlighting the integration of

traditional rituals within modern liturgical frameworks. The article discusses

the balance between maintaining cultural practices and adhering to

contemporary ecclesiastical norms, advocating for a synthesis that respects

both. This exploration underscores the cultural worth of these religious

expressions, particularly in the context of significant rituals like weddings in

Baroque churches, which serve as vital links to identity and heritage. By

valuing these traditions, the study emphasizes their role in enriching

communal bonds and reflecting the unique spiritual narratives of the Filipino

people.

The significance of a ring and a promise in an exchange of vows that are

said in baroque churches is to uphold Filipino culture as it empowers people‘s

individuality, as well as mutual cohesion. The above reference proves that

culture plays a role of enhancing feelings of belonging and self esteem by

protecting ancestry. Church weddings that take place in baroque churches are
not just a celebration of love but tradition with cultural messages of history

adding to the couple‘s memory and the community as well. These churches,

because of their age, history and religious importance, help to make this

continuity thus strengthening the Filipino‘s sense of selves. Cultural tourism is

also attributed to baroque churches since tourists visit the church for cultural

and or architectural value. Weddings in such places embrace the cultural side

of the society while at the same time embracing the contemporary world and

here is where tourists get to be a part of our culture. In this regard, cultural

conservation supports resistance and coherence making these rituals more

crucial. Apart from signifying personal value in such places, that concept adds

societal cultural importance to the exchange of vows and adds value to the

tourism industry as a form of Filipino pride and representation of who the

Filipinos are. (Manalo, R. & Mabulay, E. P. 2023)

According to Minger (2024), Sadanga, a Philippine locality, has a rich

heritage of traditions and rituals that form the foundation of their civilization

and society-building. Their wedding customs are particularly ornate and lavish,

strengthening ethnic identity and uniting the group. However, these customs

have evolved due to external influences like formal education, religion, and

interfaith unions. Initially aimed at legalizing unions, labor rewards, and

strengthening family bonds, these customs now prioritize social standing and

family lifestyles. This poses a threat to the community's cultural legacy and the

preservation of traditional marital practices.

 According to Tiburcio-Garcia (2019), the historic churches in the

Philippines, during the Spanish colonial times, are mainly the reasons why the

country has an urban and cultural heritage. The design for these Churches,

like the ones situated in Bulacan, was under Spain's "Laws of the Indies" and

is already, nowadays, an essential element in religious activities and urban

development. Largely affecting modernization and urbanization, the churches

became a tourist attraction. A marriage in one of these churches, especially in

a Baroque design, brings out a greater cultural experience than the conducted

ceremony. Couples contribute to the preservation of such cultural heritage by

marrying within the sites since it attracts local and international visitors

seeking their original experience. These churches carry the cultural worth for

not only architectural beauty, but also in terms of maintaining the Filipino

identity. Since the marriage becomes a huge event for local and international

tourists, getting married there helps keep this historical value alive and fosters

tourism, culturally strengthening the locality's economy while holding the

churches as treasured historical and cultural preservation.

Foreign Studies

As explained by Carter, J., and Duncan, S. (2016), in the 21st century,

weddings have become a significant social event, reflecting deep traditions,

values, and social significance. They are no longer seen as prerequisites for

long-term relationships or sexual interactions. They are now seen as a social

goal and part of popular culture, with weddings often blending traditions from

different cultures. This fusion creates unique and meaningful ceremonies that
celebrate diversity and essence. The cultural worth of weddings goes beyond

the event itself, encompassing values, connections, and heritage that enrich

individuals and communities.Weddings mark significant life transitions, not

just for the couple but for their families as well. This importance lends

weddings a deep emotional and cultural significance.

The study by Chowdhary (2016), proposed a cultural theory model which

is a comprehensive framework that emphasizes not only the presence of six

elements but also the interdependence of these elements. Therefore, adaptation

is intrinsic to this model due to the inevitability of change, which cannot be

avoided. The cycle commences with a concept being embedded in a framework.

The framework then symbolically utilizes various structures based on

knowledge, accessibility, and necessity. Symbolic interaction and utilization

occur within the sociocultural environment, which is susceptible to inevitable

change. Economic security is pursued through economic means and

organizations to fulfill sociocultural needs. Ultimately, technology assists in

enhancing the efficiency of all operations within a culture. Marriage, as a social

institution, is highly sustainable. Despite the persistence of some traditional

practices, changes in education and technology, as well as the prevalence of

cross-cultural and cross-racial marriages, have led to various alterations in

cultures, customs, and attire. The cultural theory model was assessed in the

context of marriage to examine it from cognitive, structural, symbolic,

sociocultural, economic, and technological standpoints. Culture is

continuously conveyed through oral, visual, and written traditions, acquired

through nurturing and sharing via diverse forms of communication, evolves

over time alongside socio-cultural and technological changes, and is

cumulative. Cultural influences are amalgamated and harmonized to retain

what is still meaningful and useful, while discarding redundant aspects, at

least temporarily, until they may need to be reintegrated from the past to the

present. Marriage rituals serve as just one avenue to explore these cultural

attributes. Other rites of passage, sociocultural influences, political

movements, psychological tendencies, social occurrences, and theories can also

serve as a basis for analysis or examination.

The values and worth ascribed to churches as built heritage in Swedish

heritage policy have been relatively constant since the 1920s. The most

dominant group of values is historical values. This can be tied to the

professionalization of heritage conservation, which had already come far by

1920. Over the majority of the time, heritage preservation—the preservation of

historical sources and records—has grown in importance. But this isn't always

the kind of historical significance that the content most frequently relates to.

Rather, the prevailing justification for preserving cultural assets has,

particularly in the past fifty years, focused on the idea that churches and other

constructed heritage serve as tangible reminders of the past, stabilizing the

environment where people have lived for generations. This knowledge is in line

with initiatives to fortify local identities and emphasize the environment as a

place to live. (Harding, T. 2018)

 While most Catholic couples today marry in baroque churches, the setting

cannot be regarded as traditional in the sense that it embodies cultural norms;

rather, weddings are public staging of couple‘s relationships and their

connection must be approved by their relatives. As maintained in the literature,

weddings are a clear indication of a communal recognition of the couple‘s

transition and the public nature of the event is central to this recognition

report. Though contemporary weddings may provide an outlet for individual

input, the wish to restate the relationship within a culturally proper context, in

a church baroque style, is timeless (Chesser, 1980). The great history and rich

examples of architecture of baroque churches become the addition to the value

of the celebrations intertwining the private gains and the significance of

traditions. Apart from the cultural significance, weddings in baroque churches

are important to the growth of tourism. The legends and such landmarks are

quite popular for lovers and tourists who come to see historical and

architectural objects. To maintain the service of modern wedding ceremonies,

the relevance of baroque churches is restored along with the function of

heritage tourism, making them unique sites that combine both significance.

(Joseph, J. & Alexander, K. 2018).

According to Mekonnen, H., et al. (2022), analyze the cultures and

challenges involved in cultural heritage conservation practices in historical and

religious sites of the North Shoa Zone of Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Conservation methods applied on the site and difficulties related to integrity.

Using field research and interviewing local stakeholders, the writers show how
sound conservation methods are essential in these locations in order to

conserve their cultural value. Positive conservation methods conserve not only

the physical forms of these sites but also their cultural and historical values,

thus allowing local heritage to remain valuable to global heritage. This research

has tended to concentrate much on the fact that it is important to face the

conservation challenges in conserving the rich cultural heritage of Ethiopia's

historical and religious heritage.

According to Smith and Richards (2019), baroque churches have

enormous cultural value, which increases their importance in cultural tourism.

These churches are important tourist destinations for those interested in

heritage and culture because they are not just places of worship but also

cultural landmarks that embody centuries of history, art, and tradition.

Furthermore, according to Smith and Richards (2019), the availability of

resources during the Renaissance has been associated with the achievement of

goals related to political party pledges that are mainly associated with

increasing people's access to the arts and culture in lower socioeconomic

groups. The Renaissance's resource availability has been associated with the

realization of specific party-political pledges, particularly the improvement of

access to the arts and culture for people in lower socioeconomic groups.

Tourist experiences and motivations are greatly influenced by cultural

values, especially in locations like Macao that have a rich history and tradition.

Studies show that the perceived value of cultural attractions has a significant

impact on tourists' loyalty and readiness to return (Wang and Leou, 2015). The
emotional ties formed via cultural engagement, the uniqueness of local

traditions, and the genuineness of cultural experiences are some of the

components that contribute to this sense of worth. Comprehending these

constituents can aid locations in refining their promotional strategies to entice

historic tourists, thereby endorsing sustainable tourism practices and

augmenting the recognition of cultural assets. The relationship between

destination loyalty, tourist motivation, and cultural value highlights how

crucial it is for the tourism industry to protect and promote cultural heritage.

According to Yumuk (2023), church rites have become a significant

attraction for religious tourists, particularly in the case of Syriac Churches. The

cultural tourism value of these churches is derived from their historical and

architectural importance, and religious importance to the guests who are in

search of their faith. The authors maintain that these religious and cultural

activities like the Holy Qurbana are now part and parcel of the tourism

experience since tourists get to interact with the local people. The church rites

do not only hold cultural aspects, but they also have the Aspect of Cultural

Tourism since people from all over the world visit the church to partake in

these rites. As the study indicates, the enhancement of conservation and

dissemination of Church rite can be helpful in the upkeep of cultural sites and

create sources of income for people in the local area through employment. In

addition, cultural interactions between the tourists and citizens through

church practices can help promote harmony and respect for diverse cultures

hence the need to embrace such practices.

 According to Zhou et al. (2021), the study explores the key factors

influencing rural tourists' aesthetic experiences, using Zoumatang Village in

Ningbo as a case study. The research identifies the essential elements that

contribute to a positive aesthetic experience for rural tourists, such as natural

scenery, cultural heritage, and local community engagement. The findings of

this study can inform the development of sustainable rural tourism strategies

that prioritize the preservation of natural and cultural resources while

enhancing the overall tourist experience. Moreover, this study's emphasis on

the importance of cultural heritage and local community engagement

highlights the need for rural tourism development to be deeply rooted in the

local context, ensuring that tourism activities are not only economically

beneficial but also culturally sensitive and environmentally sustainable,

ultimately contributing to the long-term viability of rural tourism destinations.

1.3 HISTORICAL ARTIFACTS

Local Literature

In the article of Delos Reyes (2023), emphasizes that heritage sites play a

fundamental role in the preservation of the historical narrative of the

Philippines, for these structures are imbued with a rich collection of historical

artifacts. Tangible links to the nation's past, artifacts contribute to enhanced

understanding of Filipino identity and culture on the part of visitors. It would

be essential that these artifacts be preserved in ensuring the authentic

experience of culture presented by these sites. Through this responsible

tourism, Delos Reyes insists that engaging heritage sites and their artifacts are
able to enhance the consciousness of both the locals and tourists as regards

the complexities in Philippine history, ensuring that these histories are

cherished and passed on to the next generation.

In the article of Philippines Ethnic Groups (2022), over 120 years have

passed since the Philippines gained their independence from Spanish

domination. However, the presence of relics from that era across the nation is

not unusual. The many Baroque churches that may be seen all over the

Philippines are among the most notable and enduring. These churches not only

exhibit amazing craftsmanship, but they also offer insight into Spanish culture.

Middleton (2023), explores the rich literary and historical contributions

of the Philippines in "Some Notes on the Bibliography of the Philippines:

Exploring the Rich Heritage," highlighting the significance of bibliographic

research in comprehending the country's cultural heritage. In her analysis of

how these works represent the many social, political, and cultural landscapes

of the nation, Middleton emphasizes important texts and writers who have

influenced Filipino literature and scholarship. To develop a greater appreciation

for Filipino literature and a more profound comprehension of the country's

identity, the research emphasizes the importance of maintaining bibliographic

records. By outlining the development of Philippine bibliographic resources,

Middleton promotes more investigation into and interaction with this rich

literary heritage.
 The Philippine government has recovered historical artifacts from the

Philippine Revolution, including rare documents, photographs, and other items

that provide a glimpse into the country's struggle for independence. These

artifacts, which date back to the late 19th century, are significant in preserving

the country's cultural heritage and historical identity. They offer a tangible

connection to the past, allowing Filipinos to learn about and appreciate their

history and cultural roots. The recovery of these artifacts is a crucial step in

promoting cultural awareness and preserving the country's historical legacy for

future generations. (Montemayor, 2024)

According to the National Museum of the Philippines (2023) article, this

stone church complex, finished in 1607, is the oldest of its kind in the

Philippines and has remained largely unchanged since its construction. San

Agustin Church is made from locally sourced adobe stone and lime mortar,

exemplifying the Neoclassical-Baroque architectural style. Its layout features a

Latin cross within a rectangular shape and includes three aisles. The

Neoclassical-Baroque design is highlighted by Ionic and Corinthian columns on

the façade, along with a rose window, triangular pediment, and symmetrical

elements. Additionally, the main wooden doorways showcase intricately carved

bas-reliefs that reflect a proto-Baroque style.

Historical objects for Baroque church architecture are very important in

enhancing the factor of vow exchanging since they make the couple relate to

the church‘s history in their new found relationship. Similarly to how Rizal‘s
relics were mentioned to ‗come alive‘, seeing men in tuxedos and women in

white with their floral bouquets around the actual Baroque churches and their

relics – altarpieces make weddings seem like a tradition of old. Such objects

enhance man‘s touch with the past of the church and take the importance of

ceremonies performed there to another level. From a tourism angle, such

artifacts can only increase the attractiveness of Baroque churches as a place of

wedding receptions. Just like how the author got curious to make history

because of the relics that Rizal has, tourists and couples want something

different in their lifetime experience that these historical points can offer.

Getting married in an environment that has a rich historical significance brings

added experience and worth into heritage wedding tourism. Hence, historical

artifacts are useful in developing and maintaining individuals‘ cultural heritage

when used as a way of enhancing tourism of these churches. (Ocampo, A. R

(2017)

According to Sorote, R.C. (2019), augustinian missionaries founded the

parish of St. James the Greater in Tanjay, Negros Oriental province, on June

11, 1580. After Spanish missionaries landed on the neighboring island of Cebu

59 years earlier with Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, the parish

served as the first mission station on the island of Negros. In the parish's

former convent, artifacts including vestments of early missionaries, altar items,

baptismal certificates, and lectionaries were collecting dust over time. The

collection is now kept in the diocese's Museo Ecclesiastical de Tanjay,

inaugurated by Archbishop Gabriele Caccia, papal nuncio to the

Philippines.The majority of the exhibits at the museum serve as a reminder of

the diocese's "religious history and heritage." A museum means keeping the

roots alive, which is not just about the past; it is where we can find the history

of our country.

According to the UNESCO World Heritage Convention, the World Tourism

industry has in the past twenty years grown tremendously with a cultural and

heritage tourism surge. This trend has therefore sparked an increased interest

in historical artifacts and landmarks such as Baroque churches. As a matter of

fact, these architectural marvels with their intricate ornamented decorations

and grand architecture have been increasingly popular for tourists around the

world. Put them together, and they form a living history of art and culture that

these churches have become so in demand by every type of traveler who is into

enriching and truly immersive experiences.

Specifically, the Baroque churches have become a hot wedding destination

for couples who want to exchange their vows in a very singular and romantic

setting. In addition, the grandeur and beauty of these churches make them a

breathtaking backdrop for destination weddings that would create lifelong

memories for the couple. As such, these churches have become a part and

parcel of cultural tourism scenery, with visitors attaching much importance to

history and architectural aspects but, above all, in a touch of romance and

magic regarding these iconic monuments. The fact that tourists visit and

appreciate them also signifies their contribution to its maintenance and

conservation for the benefit of these cultural treasures being an important

heritage in our shared culture for future generations.

According to Dizon (2023), the Philippines' heritage sites offer a rich

historical and cultural backdrop for weddings, setting the mood and

atmosphere for a distinctive and memorable event. These practical venues often

provide a range of amenities and should be honored by incorporating cultural

traditions and customs into the wedding ceremony. For example, couples may

choose to include religious rites or symbols important to the church's history if

the wedding takes place in a colonial church. Heritage sites are a great option

for couples seeking a distinctive and unforgettable wedding location. They give

a rich history and culture that may be incorporated into the wedding

celebration, as well as a sense of charm and character that contemporary

locations cannot match. Couples can design a memorable and significant

heritage wedding by carefully weighing the venue's cultural relevance and

practicality.

Foreign Literature

The book of Bendix (2018), explores how artifacts function as markers of

cultural identity and how they contribute to the tourism industry's

monetization of legacy. Bendix addresses ownership, authenticity, and the

moral obligations of heritage management while critically analyzing the effects

of this commodification. She shows the conflicts between commercialization

and preservation by examining case studies from many cultural contexts. This

emphasizes the necessity for a middle ground where historical items are
respected for their historical significance and economic worth. This work

encourages readers to think about the wider cultural effects of tourism on

historical sites while also enhancing the conversation on heritage studies.

In regard to Italian Baroque art, the Swiss art historian Heinrich

Wölfflin's book "Renaissance and Baroque" is the source of the international

interest in the style. This fascination was not felt in Spain until well into the

20th century from an architectural perspective. The judgment and

condemnation of the Baroque that the Neoclassical writers had made was still

in effect at the start of this century. (Carolinarh, 2023)

Recent excavations in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem

have revealed a number of new historical artifacts, including a hoard of coins

dated to 364 -378 A.D., found under a floor made of large smooth stone slabs.

The excavations were conducted in a continuous cycle over seven days and

seven nights, revealing the remains of the 16th-century liturgical enclosure, a

fragment of wall cladding, and traces of the very frequented area on the tomb's

rock. The construction of the Church began in the 4th century and consisted of

two structures: the dome above the tomb and a basilica to the east. The tomb

location is determined by Helena, mother of the first Christian Roman Emperor

Constantine who miraculously found the tomb and cross during a pilgrimage to

the Holy Land. (Lidman, 2023)

Religious sites are important in heritage tourism since baroque churches

have not only religious, but also historical meanings. Conflicts arose between
religious groups who associate these churches as spiritual places and heritage

workers who examine its significance. This tension often plays out in decisions

about how these sites are managed and used, particularly for such events as

exchanging vows – both the sacred and aesthetic aspect of which draw tourists.

In your work of exploring vow exchange in Baroque churches these antiques

have a prime role in attracting the visitors. The Baroque churches are not only

historical monuments but also unique objects that continue to be involved in

the processes of religious and cultural activities. Hence, weddings in these

spaces stress on the function between the religious conservation and utilization

of the heritage alongside the religious and historical significance (Cordis, C.,

2019).

Du Cros and McKercher (2020), explain how the production of cultural

experiences impacts the perception of tourists of destination identities.

According to the authors, cultural tourism allows for unique encounters

between both tourists and local communities as far as appreciation of different

kinds of cultural expressions is concerned. A more poignant aspect of such an

engagement has to do with historical artifacts as something which might be

more intimately tied to the past of a destination as well as its cultural heritage.

Historical artifacts are of great interest not only to tourism but also very much

in the framework of constructing authentic cultural narratives. The

presentation of such artifacts can be used to give a better understanding of

history which may lead to a much more fulfilling tourism experience. The

authors further pointed out the problems on the integration of authenticity and
commercialization arguing that successful cultural heritage management, and

hence preservation of historical cultural relics, is not at the expense of the

experience of tourists but rather maintains the local identity and history in

order to be lived.

During the 2nd to the early 6th century, Early Christian art developed

alongside the expansion of Christianity in the Roman Empire. It originated in

the catacombs of Rome and initially used symbolic representations like fish to

symbolize Christ and bread and wine to signify the Eucharist. After Emperor

Constantine legalized Christianity in 313 AD, there was a notable shift towards

more extensive and intricate artistic endeavors, including the construction of

grand basilicas and shrines. While large sculptures were not as prevalent,

there was a flourishing of relief sculptures on sarcophagi and detailed ivory

carvings. Churches were decorated with mosaics and paintings designed to

instruct worshippers, with noteworthy examples found at Sta. Maria Maggiore

in Rome. The artistic style evolved from classical naturalism to a more abstract

form, placing greater emphasis on spiritual representation rather than physical

beauty. As a result, figures were depicted as types rather than individuals,

characterized by expressive features. In summary, Early Christian art

amalgamated classical influences with a focus on conveying profound spiritual

themes through symbolism and emotional impact. (Hohler, 2024)

According to Hoh (2018), Eleven nations, around 700 million people,

and a wide range of religious traditions may be found in Southeast Asia. For

instance, East Timor and the Philippines are the only two nations in Southeast
Asia where the majority of the population is Christian. About 90% of the 104

million people living in the nation identify as Christians, with the majority

being Catholic, according to the 2000 CIA World Factbook estimates. Islam was

brought to the Philippines in the late 14th century through trade with traders

from Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Middle East before Catholic missionaries

and explorers from Spain arrived. Catholicism was first introduced to the

archipelago by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan (1480–1521) later in

the 16th century. Spanish explorer Ruy López de Villalobos (1500–1544) had

originally named the islands St. Lazarus‘ Islands, but Philip II of Spain, who

ruled from 1556–1598, changed the name to its current one. After months of

cruising through what is now known as the Strait of Magellan at the southern

section of Chile and Argentina, Magellan finally made land claims in the name

of Spain on March 17, 1521, when he arrived on Homonhon Island on

commission from the King of Spain.When Magellan reached Limasawa, an

island west of Homonhon Island, on Easter Sunday in March 1521, his

missionaries celebrated the first mass ever celebrated in the Philippines.

The Baroque churches in the Philippines are also considered as historical

structures, which carry a lot of information about the country‘s history and

culture (Tiatco, 2018). They are Visible physical structures that have been

through the tests of time and necessarily acculturated through the

circumstances of the Spanish colonial period. In these historical artifacts, one

is able to infer information about the cultural and religious theme of the
Philippines and an appreciation of the significance of indigenous kinds of

architecture.

According to Verhage (2018), this paper explores the significance of

artifacts in tourism destination management, highlighting their role in creating

unique experiences for tourists and enhancing the overall appeal of a

destination. The author discusses various types of artifacts, including cultural,

historical, and natural artifacts, and provides case studies to illustrate their

impact on tourism development. By examining the relationship between

artifacts and tourism, the paper sheds light on the importance of preserving

and promoting cultural heritage in tourism destinations.

Local Studies

According to Andaya (2018), wedding traditions in the Philippines often

blend modern elements with traditional practices, reflecting the dynamic

nature of culture. The Bago people, descended from specific migrant groups,

have experienced alterations and adaptations due to rapidly evolving times.

Some tribal people lack interest in preserving their customs, while younger

generations may be treated as second-class citizens. Weddings involve not only

the couple but also families and communities, strengthening bonds and

reinforcing social networks. They serve as a platform for families to come

together and celebrate. Combine various cultural practices and artifacts from

the backgrounds of the two couples to create a complex tapestry that embraces

contemporary ideals while paying tribute to both heritages. Couples can honor

their heritage and make the event distinctively their own by carefully
incorporating historical antiques into their nuptials, which will reflect both

tradition and modern living.

According to the paper "An Insight into the Late Baroque Architecture:

An Integrated Approach for a Unique Bibiena Church" by Barbieri et al., (2017),

the authors examine the cultural heritage and authenticity of the Bibiena

church, a historical artifact of Late Baroque architecture. The paper focuses on

the preservation and protection of this historical artifact, ensuring its integrity

and cultural significance for future generations. By adopting an integrated

approach, the authors highlight the importance of considering multiple factors,

including historical context, architectural style, and cultural significance, in

the preservation of cultural heritage sites. This comprehensive approach can

serve as a model for the conservation of other historical artifacts, ensuring that

their cultural and historical value is preserved for generations to come, while

also promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultural

heritage of the region.

According to Del Castillo (2015), the religious artwork in Baroque

churches, such as paintings and sculptures, tells the tale of Christianization in

the Philippines and offers tourists educational value. Del Castillo (2015) claims

that because of the basic similarities between Catholic Christianity and Filipino

traditional religion, there was no conflict between the two, which made it

possible for Christianity to spread, grow, and rule the Philippines. Additionally,

the Church is deeply rooted in indigenous culture, which is reflected in church

design, sacred art, and popular devotions, particularly at the San Pedro de
Alcantara Church in Pakil, Laguna, and the Church of Saint James the Great

in Paete, Laguna.

The Filipino people's treasure is the San Agustin Church. Beyond the

recognition and pride it brings the narratives' intertwined structure and

combined descriptions to depict events in our nation's history. Artistic and

religious expressions can be found within its sacred walls. It represents every

Filipino (regardless of creed), our aspirations, and our potential height. The

Church Retablos are a manifestation of glorified symbols representing the San

Agustin Church as a whole. Heavenly Jerusalem Symbols connect every

Retablo to the others. Define the passion, philosophy, and view of the Icon in

each niche. The conscious effort to apply and review the ornamentation and

style of each Retablo relieves the idea of immersing oneself through culture and

history. The San Agustin Church offers several definitions of the Art of Love,

including views that give the audience the meaning of evangelization. (De

Guzman, R. J., & Cham, J. C. 2020)

Heritage conservation and tourism are closely related to historical

artifacts: the case of baroque churches. Zerrudo stresses that told culture

shapes the developed one which is why ‗‗it is important to retain the religious

images, altar backdrops, and liturgical artifacts as part of the cultural heritage

of these churches.‘‘ These artifacts attract tourists like couples choosing to take

wedding vows under the atmosphere provided by the fatty histories of these

spaces. Authenticity embodied in structures such as those in Vigan retains the

cultural appeal in Baroque churches and encourages sustainable tourism. But

still trying to achieve the conservation and diversification of tourist

destinations especially in Bohol and Cebu proves problematic. Conservation is

given importance to enhance the relevance of these churches in such sectors

by retaining their statistics as cultural and tourism attractions among other

related benefits. (Estonanto, C. D. L., et al. 2019)

The study of Lozano (2015), examines the architectural and cultural

relevance of Intramuros and Vigan, Philippines, in "Heritage Cities in the

Tropics: Analysis on the Urban Fabric and Tropical Design Considerations of

Intramuros and Vigan, Philippines," with a focus on the locations' historic

churches. Vigan, which is home to the St. Paul Cathedral, and Intramuros,

which is known for its renowned San Agustin Church, are prime examples of

how colonial influences have influenced Philippine ecclesiastical architecture

as well as urban development. By highlighting design elements that promote

natural ventilation and cooling—both essential for preserving the integrity of

these old buildings—Lozano demonstrates how European architectural

traditions have been adapted to the tropical climate. The study emphasizes the

churches' roles as both places of worship and symbols of national identity,

reflecting the complex interplay of religion, history, and culture. By examining

the conservation challenges faced by these churches within their urban

contexts, Lozano advocates for preservation strategies that honor both their

architectural significance and their cultural narratives, ensuring these heritage

sites remain vital to contemporary Filipino identity.

 According to Gumiran and Solano (2022), study the conservation efforts

in cultural heritage for Northeastern Philippines, focused on what is considered

for historical artifacts. It will discuss the challenges and strategies to be

considered in the maintenance of the cultural heritage sites, putting in mind

the fact that historical artifacts are very essential. The preservation of artifacts

such as prehistoric relics, indigenous tools, and religious objects serves the

area's history, laying a foundation for local identity and tourism. The results

show that preserving artifacts of historical importance is fundamental in

sustaining the inherent cultural and educational values of heritage sites, which

will be enjoyed by many people who have a sense of their historical value.

According to Henares (2023), the Baroque Churches of the Philippines,

declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1993, play an important role in

the preservation of cultural heritage and historical culture. The churches, such

as the Manila San Agustin, are religious institutions but also include living

historical artifacts found within them of great cultural and architectural

importance. Such churches-which genuinely offer a history of Philistines,

through wedding-permitting couples and tourists alike to 'step into history' and

be part of age-old tradition and atmosphere for that momentous occasion,

making the exchange of vows a personal milestone rather than just an act in

such historical landmarks. These weddings are culturally very important, as

the role they play in appreciation and conservation of historical and heritage

through tourism brings visitors from around the world interested in

experiencing the architectural grandeur and cultural legacy of these sites.

Weddings in these historic churches emphasize their cultural and historical

importance but can also make them unique tourist destinations that connect

people to the past.

This study by Retoma and Ocbian (2023), investigated the customs and

experiences of the Sorsogon community regarding the unique cultural artifacts

found in their area. The participants in this study were individuals from

different municipalities in Sorsogon who have knowledge and/or firsthand

experience with these cultural artifacts, selected with the guidance of

municipal administrators. Qualitative-narrative research methods were used in

this study, and thematic coding was employed to analyze the raw data. The

data uncovered that the community practices religious, spiritual, and livelihood

activities such as farming and crafting, as well as burial practices and

defending and protecting the land, all of which are reflected in the cultural

artifacts found in their area and also mirror the values and attitudes of the

people in the community. The community utilizes various methods to preserve

cultural artifacts, including organizing festivals and feasts, establishing

museums and maintaining records, implementing initiatives through local

government units, and privately safeguarding these artifacts. The researcher

creatively crafted narratives based on the stories and information gathered

about the cultural artifacts, incorporating her experiences and observations

during the study. This approach effectively turns the gathered information into

a story within a story. (Retoma & Ocbian, 2023)

Foreign Studies
 According to Adem Yulu and Kaan Kapan (2020), tourism plays a crucial

role in promoting urban conservation efforts in Manila, particularly in the

context of historical artifacts and cultural heritage. The preservation of

historical artifacts is important not only for cultural and historical significance

but also for promoting tourism and economic development in the city. The

Philippine government can start expanding its efforts to preserve and restore

its heritage sites by partnering with the LGUs to promote their endangered

sites as tourist attractions. By doing so, the government can create a win-win

situation where tourism revenue can be generated while also preserving the

city's cultural and historical identity, ultimately contributing to the sustainable

development of Manila's urban landscape. Furthermore, this approach can also

help raise awareness about the importance of cultural heritage conservation

among locals and tourists alike, fostering a sense of community ownership and

responsibility towards the preservation of Manila's rich cultural legacy.

The context of cultural heritage is diverse and intricate. It encompasses

various stakeholders and procedural methods depending on the type of

intervention and the historical building involved. Additionally, a key aspect is

that cultural and historical heritage faces an ongoing risk of deterioration. This

degradation can be worsened and sped up by environmental factors,

catastrophic events, and insufficient ongoing monitoring and maintenance.

(Bertolini & Fabbri, 2018)

According to Biliunas (2024), the axis of symmetry in Baroque church

ensembles in the Grand Duchy of Lithuania is an open unity that

demonstrates balance and harmony. This concept can be used in a scenario

such as exchanging vows in Baroque churches where there are many great

relics and some sections in the church that have some significant history. This

emphasizes the importance of understanding the cultural and historical

significance of Baroque churches in the context of tourism. By examining the

axis of symmetry in these churches, researchers can gain a deeper

understanding of the ways in which these artifacts contribute to the cultural

experience of exchanging vows. This perspective can inform strategies for

preserving and promoting cultural heritage in a way that is respectful of

historical artifacts and beneficial to local communities.

The religious art and culture that is preserved through objects in

baroque churches are a key icon in culture and tourism. These ones include

sculptures, paintings and special religious items; this survives touch the

interest of the people who have or have not traveled to the place in terms of

history and art. As pointed out by Burdick et al., in their paper called, cultural

heritage, such preservation means that such artifacts remain relevant and

available for future users. Such preservation is necessary not only to preserve

their historical value, but also to sustain the tourist‘s attraction as these

artifacts add overall value to the artistic churches. Burdick et al. also noted

that digital preservation provides further safeguard against these artifacts and

makes them available to a worldwide public. In your case, the analysis of focus

for research pays more attention to history and its concern with promotion of
culture and tourism through artifacts. If Baroque churches incorporate ICOM

& Cotter method into their regimes traditional and at the same time

incorporate the advances of digital technology then invaluable relics will not

deteriorate and there will be a continuous stream of tourism to contribute to

the economy and further solidify the historical aspect of it. (Cele, S., et al,

2024)

According to El-Refai and El-Habashi (2021), heritage places should be

preserved since doing so enhances local identities and their ties to the

community. It also gives people a sense of pride, which motivates them to invite

others to join in the celebration. To maintain sustainability, it is therefore

essential to involve all stakeholders in the management of heritage assets.

These principles present difficulties when dealing with pilgrimage sites because

of their moral connotations about various cultures that practice the religion. It

is essential to respect historical facts and reflect the religious significance of

pilgrimage sites when presenting or interpreting their historical features.

Stressing sincerity also helps to keep believers closer together.

According to the study, most participants perceive historical artifacts as

works of art and remnants; they are more familiar with historical artifacts in

their surroundings. Additionally, physical visitation of historical artifacts

increases interest in them, and when people explore historical artifacts, they

tend to analyze historical thinking. Historical artifacts should be significant for

the community or society, and individuals mainly acquire information about

historical artifacts from written sources and through visits. Most of the
participants of the study are interested in historical artifacts located in

Erzurum, but there is a lack of awareness. Individuals do not recognize

historical artifacts in their surroundings, educational, and daily lives. (Guven,

A. & Yalcin, R. 2024)

According to Ismagilova et al. (2015), the process of tourism development

has to incorporate the historical heritage and especially use heritage artifacts.

Based on this, the authors try to develop the role of historical artifacts in

tourism - ancient objects, artworks, and cultural relics in the tourist products

development and the existence of tourists in the region. The authors discuss

strategies to use the mentioned artifacts so as to add richness to the tourist's

life and to keep the cultural heritage safe. This therefore, as evidence, shows

that the effective integration of cultural heritage artifacts in tourism

development fosters economic and cultural value for tourist destination places

while playing a crucial role in preserving culture and education. The

importance of managing the display of heritage artifacts is therefore to ensure

that there is not only sustainable tourism but also enrichment of the culture.

Tourism marketers and promoters in places all over the world have

resorted to using the tangible and intangible elements of religious culture and

tradition in order to diversify offerings and experiences. Similar to other niche

tourism industries, religious tourism affects host destinations in both positive

and negative ways on the economy, society, and environment, especially when

religious heritage tourism plays a significant role in the local economy. (Esplin

& Olsen, 2020)

 According to Payne (2020), baroque historical artifacts, dating from the

late 16th to mid-18th century, showcase the art and culture of the Baroque

period. However, their use has evolved, making it challenging to separate time

eras. The term "baroque" is not universally applicable to all civilizations, and

the boundaries between the Renaissance and the Renaissance are no longer

clear. The Renaissance was seen as elevating individuality, humanism, and

modern science, leading to a "golden age." These artifacts not only reflect the

Baroque period's artistic achievements but also provide insight into the

cultural and historical contexts.

1.4 CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

Local Literature

The article of Amper (2019), analyzes the interplay of tourism with

development through experiences in Bohol, Philippines, by the indigenous

people called Ati. In this case, the study had considered aspects concerning the

impact of tourism on the Ati's potential and problems, mainly about cultural

experience importance in developing community attachment with visitors.The

practices, customs, and way of the Ati are there to be used for the tourists to

experience, de facto providing a cultural experience that bridges the gap in

understanding between cultures. However, the study also showed that such

practice was in thin balance between upholding its integrity as a culture and

the commercial pressures for which such practices could be exploited. The

findings of this study establish that sustainable tourism management actually

offers and provides economic benefits while developing an appreciation of

indigenous cultures among visitors in such a way that Ati's cultural

experiences are an integral part of the development of tourism in the region.

The cultural experience is deeply rooted in a sense of community and

shared identity. It is shaped by the collective history, traditions, and values of a

group of people, and is often passed down through generations. A strong

cultural experience provides individuals with a sense of belonging and

connection to their heritage, fostering pride and self-awareness. Moreover, it

allows individuals to share their cultural practices and traditions with others,

promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. By embracing and

celebrating their cultural experience, individuals can develop a deeper

understanding of themselves and their place within the larger cultural

landscape. (Carretero, 2023)

The blending of contemporary and traditional practices makes Filipino

weddings truly remarkable. In Filipino culture, weddings symbolize the union

of two families, not just two people. The distinctive Filipino wedding customs

include the prominent role of family, captivating attire such as the Barong and

Filipiniana, and the traditional Tinikling folk dance. Make sure to visit our blog

for the most recent updates on Filipino wedding ceremonies. (Lopez, 2024)

Cebu baroque churches make Filipino weddings more beautiful by

combining Filipino wedding traditions and historical architecture.

Pamamanhikan and cord and veil ceremony are examples of cultural values of
family and love that can be commemorated by any couple. For the tourist,

seeing these ceremonies first-hand is a phenomenological as-real-as-it-gets'

Filipino cultural experience in a stunning and sacred urban space. Church

weddings, specifically Baroque church weddings are also the key promotional

features for cultural tourism since tourists get to witness first-hand the

practice of Filipino culture. These ceremonies, supported by various symbolic

elements and historical locations, do not only symbolize love but help to

advance and present tourism. (Nicole, 2023)

Singapore is one of Southeast Asia's most unique cultures. Its strategic

location made it attractive to both the people and colonial power. Before the

British colonized the island, it was ruled by the Dutch-Allied Sultan of Johor.

Cultural influences can be found in their food, clothing, religion, etc. One of

Singapore's cultural highlights when it comes to cultural experience is its

fashion. Singapore has its traditional clothing: the sarong kebaya. It is worn on

special occasions like weddings and other celebrations; the sarong kebaya

combines the different cultural influences in Singapore. Aside from this,

Singapore has a lot to offer regarding cultural experiences. (Panaligan, M.

2022)

In the article of Quirino (2018), the diverse range of cultural experiences

related to Filipino weddings in "Philippine Wedding Traditions: How the Past

and the Present Make the Future," emphasizing how traditional rituals are still

influencing modern ones. The article highlights how old customs like the
"money dance" and "veil and cord" ceremonies are combined with contemporary

aspects, demonstrating respect for cultural history and flexibility in response to

shifting social mores. In addition to highlighting the value of family and

community in Filipino culture, this interaction shows how these changing

customs help to create a distinct cultural identity, guaranteeing that the spirit

of Filipino weddings will endure and be relevant for upcoming generations.

According to Rometic (2022), filipino weddings are highly valued and

unique, with meaningful rituals that incorporate tradition and family

participation. These weddings often follow Catholic ceremonies and include

customs such as the Filipino money dance, which may seem unusual to

Westerners. Like A bride's parents send their daughter to the altar during the

processional during the actual wedding, where the groom is waiting. Western

wedding ceremonies, where the bride walks down the aisle alone, are

considerably different from this.

However, the bride and groom give the parents a kiss on the cheeks, a

hug, or the pagmamano before the parents formally surrender them to their

partner. Taking an elder's hand and pressing it to your forehead is a popular

Filipino custom. It is respectful and an indication of the parents' approval of

the couple to ask for their blessings at the wedding.

According to Grim, W. J. (2023), the declaration of the Malate Church as

an "Important Cultural Property" of 435 years being a Baroque-type church in

Manila underlines its deep historical and cultural importance in the

Philippines. Weddings here are really the most culturally significant, in that
they allow couples and their guests the unique opportunity to take their vows

in an atmosphere steeped in history and tradition. For instance, in Malate

Church, its existence today provides a concrete link to the country's colonial

past as it has long endured the passage of time-the invasions, the earthquakes,

and so on. Renewing vows such as that in these holy places can then make it

not only a personal achievement but a heritage celebration where visitors get to

touch a living piece of history. The preservation of these churches fosters

deeper cultural experience because these sites are more than architectural

marvels-they are sanctuaries of faith and history. It is still a center of

pilgrimage for the faithful to the Virgin Mary, but an increasing number of

young couples attending its altar to take their vows are also attracted by its

historical miracles and liturgical meaning.

The Baroque churches in the Philippines hold great cultural significance

as they are a testament to the country‘s colonial past and its rich religious

heritage. As houses of worship, hubs for communal gatherings, and historical

sites, these churches have been integral parts of Filipino culture for

generations. In addition to being architectural wonders, the Philippines'

Baroque Churches in Manila, Santa Maria, Paoay, and Miag-ao serve as

reminders of the nation's rich cultural past. These Spanish-built cathedrals

from the late 16th century combine Chinese and Philippine craftsmanship with

European Baroque. For generations, these important sites have been an

integral part of Filipino life. (Wise, 2024)

Foreign Literature

In the book Cascardi (2019), in The Oxford Handbook of the Baroque

explores the relationship between experience and knowledge in the context of

Baroque art, architecture, and culture. The author examines how the Baroque

period, characterized by dramatic lighting, intense emotions, and highly

ornamented decoration, influenced the way people experienced and understood

the world around them. The chapter likely delves into the philosophical and

cultural underpinnings of the Baroque, discussing how the period's emphasis

on sensory experience and emotional intensity shaped the way people acquired

and processed knowledge. By analyzing the intersections of experience and

knowledge in the Baroque, Cascardi's chapter provides insights into the

cultural and intellectual currents of the time, and how they continue to

influence art, architecture, and culture today.

Weddings are deeply ingrained in culture and history, acting as a vibrant

tapestry of traditions, symbols, and rituals handed down through the ages.

These traditions vary widely across different cultures and regions, each imbued

with unique significance and meaning. Weddings offer an effective way of

expressing and conserving cultural history, from the holy rituals of a

traditional Hindu wedding to the tasteful simplicity of a Japanese tea

ceremony. Understand the significance of wedding customs and rituals, such

as the sharing of symbolic foods and candles during the ceremony, the

exchanging of vows and rings, and more. These traditions honor the past while
uniting families and communities in a shared celebration of harmony and love.

Weddings are a beautiful expression of the multiculturalism of humanity and

the universal need for love and acceptance that unites people from all

backgrounds. (Haysbert, B. 2024)

Marriages are important cultural features since couples continually

embody cultural beliefs of a given society or tribe. It counts for various reasons

that are civilizational; however, the analyzed state has specific traditions that

are connected with multicultural background, for example, dressing brides in

white gowns, which is connected with English tradition However, analogue can

be observed in the culture of Japan during the Edo period (1603-1868). Where

and when couples look for a place traditionally significant for the ceremony,

Baroque churches are immeasurable to look at, and historically valuable,

allowing a couple to make memorable pictures. The assertion that selecting

Baroque churches for weddings as part of heritage is also part of cultural

tourism also increases the economy. These are spectacular places that have

invariably interested tourists for the artistic and history imprinted on them

stressing the need for cultural tourism. By marrying in such culturally relevant

areas, couples do more than honor their culture and tradition but also assist in

the promotion of the historic sites that make up valuable their cultural past

which in return helps enhance couples‘ experience as well as the tourism

industry‘s awareness of culture (Keller, N., 2018).

Cultural experiences play a crucial role in forming social behaviors,

societal values, and individual and collective identities. According to Lupfer

(2018), fewer couples are getting married in churches, which indicates a

change in cultural norms and beliefs about customs. This occurrence raises

concerns about the changing importance of religious places in modern society

by pointing to a larger shift in how communities interact with these institutions

and the rituals that go along with them. Couples looking for different locations

for their weddings are a symptom of shifting cultural environments where

individual values may trump conventional norms. Knowing these changes in

cultural experiences helps one to better understand the dynamic interaction

between modernity and tradition, and how social standards change to fit

personal preferences and current circumstances.

Baroque churches are significant examples of creative success in nations

like Portugal, Spain, and Italy. They frequently feature elaborate chapels

brimming with religious imagery, exquisitely crafted altars, and breathtaking

ceiling murals. Every component is intended to evoke wonder and respect. The

Church of San Lorenzo in Turin, the Basilica of San Pietro in Vatican City, and

the magnificent São Francisco Church in Salvador, Brazil, are notable

examples. These buildings are museums of art and history in addition to being

houses of worship. The Baroque movement had an impact on sculpture,

painting, and music in addition to architecture.

Visiting a Baroque church is like stepping back in time. Visitors are

transported to a world of dedication and beauty by the minute details, the way

light plays, and the general ambiance. Baroque cathedrals provide a singular
experience that speaks to the soul, regardless of your interests in history, art,

or just finding a quiet space to think. Think about the artistry and the

backstories of each piece as you visit these areas. Every element, from the

delicate statues to the towering ceilings, narrates a tale of human experience,

faith, and artistic talent. (Marshall 2024)

According to Nowack (2021), the wedding industry continues to uphold

long-standing cultural customs despite changing trends, offering a lovely

tribute to ancestral heritage during wedding festivities. Filipino weddings

celebrate the union of families, emphasizing community, faith, and cultural

heritage. The blending of modern influences with traditional customs reflects

the dynamic nature of Filipino culture, ensuring that weddings remain joyous

and memorable occasions.

According to Steinhardt (2023), the coming in and syncretism of Baroque

architecture in China, especially concerning Catholic churches in the late Ming

Dynasty, played a vital role by blending European traditions with the

traditional Chinese components to build unique heritage. This current

architectural amalgamation is an example of the enormous power Baroque art

had outside of Europe, as manifest in these religious constructions, such as

those found in St. Paul's Church, Macau. Generally, historical and artistic

values of Baroque-style buildings in China spice up cultural tourism since

these facilities offer multi-layered experiences in terms of grand architecture,

religious adoration, and cultural exchange. In this way, the European

architectural elements blended with those of China into an eclectic cultural

landscape for the religious buildings and public spaces of China. The long,

intricately designed spaces with touches of Baroque speak to this mingling of

cultural aesthetics, which can make the visit that much more enjoyable for

guests attending weddings and other ceremonial occasions.

In the article of Angelis (2023), the richness of Rome in terms of arts and

architecture during the Baroque era with a focus on this period that

transformed the cultural scenario of the city on a profound level. It explores the

works of such prominent Baroque artists and architects that reflect the

worldview and psychological environment of the time. The authors present the

features of land and art, as well as cultural ways of this era, revealing the rich

experiences that culture visitors get to enjoy in Rome today. Presently,

interacting with the Baroque Period allows tourists to be close to the history

identity of the city while also gaining a whole understanding on how the

movement has resulted in powerful effects on modern culture, allowing a better

perspective on art and history in human lifestyle.

In the article Why marry in church? Getting married in a church adds a

spiritual element to your marriage, involving God and seeking his guidance.

Many couples are drawn to the idea of receiving God's blessing, regardless of

their beliefs. In a church, you can exchange meaningful vows that are

witnessed by others, which can serve as a foundation for your relationship. The

church and God's presence can provide support in keeping these vows. The

Vicar has a unique role in shaping your wedding, blending ancient traditions
with modern experiences to reflect your story. With the Vicar's involvement,

your wedding can be personalized, memorable, and beautiful. Church

buildings offer remarkable beauty, whether they are old or new, intimate or

grand. In fact, around two-thirds of the 16,000 churches in the country are

listed buildings, making them stunning wedding venues. These church

buildings carry centuries of history, potentially including marriages of your

own family members. Getting married in the same place as your relatives can

make you feel connected to history and the larger plan.bYou have the

opportunity to be involved in planning your ceremony, and there is an online

ceremony planner available to help you get started. For many, a church is

considered the ideal setting for a wedding due to its peaceful and serene

atmosphere, making the marriage experience particularly special. After the

wedding, you'll come to appreciate that a church holds more significance

beyond being just a wedding venue. (Welby, 2017)

Local Studies

In the study of Alvero J. C. (2022), cultural experience is a learning

process by which special attention is paid to cultural heritage and to which the

interested parties have established interaction. These experiences can be

achieved through educational enhancement programs and activities which

stress on the cultural history and traditions.

 It can also be culturally rewarding for couples who want to exchange their

vows in a famous Baroque church; this will help the tourists get a new

meaning of the historical and cultural value of the church. This can also aid in

the retention of cultural assets as such areas attract visitors therefore helping

locals in creating a source of income conservation and appreciation of these

sites through tourism.

According to Cabeza-Lainez and Almodovar-Melendo (2018), the spread

of the Baroque churches affected various cultures and climates. The

weathering patterns will be accordingly different and, in this context, one of the

prominent features was the usage of natural light to create a unique ambiance.

This wedding of light design is unique and makes the Baroque churches

popular venues for marriages, thus providing a beautiful and meaningful

environment for couples and visitors. The experience of taking their vows in

these historical churches adds to their allure while attracting tourists

interested in their beauty as well as in their cultural importance.

In the Philippines, the Baroque churches are manifestations of cultural

heritage that merge European influence with one indigenous characteristic.

The churches are not only beautiful pieces of architecture but also central to

heritage sites in the country. Marrying in one of these churches is a special

experience both for the couple getting married and tourists because these

weddings display the importance these historical sites have had and hold until

today. That makes for a wonderful combination of history as well as personal

remembrance.
Cabeza-Lainez, J. M., & Almodovar-Melendo, J. M. (2018). Daylight, shape, and

cross-cultural influences through the routes of discoveries: The case of

Baroque temples. Space and Culture, Volume 21, Issue 4. Journal Article.

Sage.

The study of Gonzales (2017), analyzed how festivals can achieve cultural

and economic values for community residents in Batangas, Philippines. The

analysis showcased the way such festivals beautify the cultural experiences of

the residents by infusing them with local traditions and heritage and values

through performing arts, rituals, and community activity. They strengthen

community identity and maintain local cultural expressions with a stronger

heritage value that is being used to the advantage of the individual. Besides

these cultural benefits, the report also identified some economic gains in which

festivals can engage the "visitor economy" and induce local commercialization.

Conclusion: it deduced that festivals could be best used in developing cultural

heritage and economic growth so as to further promote continued community

pride and more investment in the local economy.

The study of Macaranas (2021), explores the complex relationship

between cultural experience and folk religious practices in "Understanding Folk

Religiosity in the Philippines," emphasizing how these activities influence and

reflect communities' lived experiences. The author makes the case that folk

religiosity, which integrates regional customs, beliefs, and rituals with a strong

cultural foundation in the Philippine setting, is an essential manifestation of

cultural identity. Macaranas highlights the communal nature of cultural events

in addition to their nature, which promotes social cohesiveness and continuity

among practitioners. People connect with their cultural history by taking part

in rituals and celebrations, which strengthens group memory and identity. The

study also addresses folk religiosity's dynamic character, showing how cultural

experiences alter over time in reaction to societal shifts and outside influences.

The findings in the research study by Manez and Yabut (2022), indicate

that the daily spiritual experiences of Filipino Catholic youth are generally

above average. This spiritual engagement is most prominently expressed

through feelings of gratitude for their blessings, while acceptance of others,

particularly those whose actions participants perceive as wrong, is less

frequently experienced. Further analysis reveals variations in these daily

spiritual experiences based on gender and occupation. These findings have

important implications for providing spiritual care and fostering personal

development aimed at promoting wellness and enhancing quality of life,

particularly in the context of the pandemic.

According to Mindanao et. al (2022), various Filipino wedding superstitions,

including "sukob," which involves a parent renewing their vows, siblings getting

married in the same year, or getting married the year a family member passed

away. It also mentions the superstition of not trying on the wedding dress

before the wedding and the custom of wearing veils. Superstitions play a

significant role in cultural experiences, providing a lens through which people

interpret and navigate life's complexities.In contrast to the previously listed,

there are several lesser-known but equally significant wedding superstitions

that are observed in the Philippines.

According to Niinioja, H. (2021), as part of the universe, a church is a

permanent embodiment of the divine project and a symbolic location. As they

enter the sanctuary, believers experience the peace of a world under God's rule

and the promise of eternal life. Collective memories work with a location that is

inhabited by the soul to give it identity; tangibility and intangibility are

intertwined, even combined. Going back to the four World Heritage Philippine

Baroque churches, they are all built to withstand earthquakes, but they differ

in the amount of adornment they use. Furthermore, they lack the grandeur,

elegance, refinement, and luxury of the orthodox Baroque churches in Europe.

Above all, the author can contend that the Philippine Baroque churches'

cultural history, sense of place, collective memory, and ornamentation were

influenced by regionalism, acculturation, and syncretism throughout time and

space. As a result, everyone who is in front of the hallowed structures has been

and will continue to be welcomed by God. The four churches in the Philippines

have been aware of this cultural treasure.

According to Tallara (2022), the study examines the symbolism and

expression of performing Panata, a traditional Filipino devotional practice,

specifically in the context of the Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno of Quiapo. The

author uses an ethnohistorical analysis to explore the cultural and historical

significance of this practice, which is an important part of Philippine religious

tradition. The study aims to provide a deeper understanding of the meaning

and significance of Panata in the Philippine context, and how it reflects the

country's cultural and spiritual identity. This study is significant because it

sheds light on the cultural and historical importance of Panata, which is a

unique and distinct aspect of Philippine culture, and its significance in the

country's religious tradition, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding of

the country's cultural and spiritual identity.

According to the study, tourists and cultural experiences that go hand

in hand with the first are known as the tourist life of tourists. Experience is

thought of as learning through transforming various resources worldwide.

Thus, using the frameworks of the tourist experience to manage tourism

brands seems to be the ultimate way that being a tourist helps one acquire

communication skills. The experience then immediately transforms into the

acts and lessons learned or to be learned in the future. Every new encounter

can be experienced, readjusted, and modified. Whether or not they are

touristic, they are a sort of archive of knowledge, customs, feelings, and

experiences that are mobilized to interact with the tourism industry. In this

way, experience is implicitly defined as everything that constitutes a tourist's

existence and becomes the premise of practice. (Vergopoulos, H. 2016).

Foreign Studies

Asis (2014), claims that the Philippines presents a singular example of

popular piety due to its distinctive fusion of indigenous, Spanish, and modern

influences. It highlights the various manifestations of Filipino popular piety,

such as processions, feasts, and local devotions, which are deeply ingrained in

Filipino society's cultural fabric. These traditions usually offer a unique

religious expression by fusing pre-colonial practices with Catholic dogma.

Extended impacts encompass all impacts that result from a specific

cultural experience over the remainder of the participant‘s lifetime. Some

experiences may be quickly forgotten, with little or no extended effect, except,

perhaps, subconsciously. Others, however, stay in our memories for the rest of

our lives, and subsequent experiences may activate those memories. We could

revisit past experiences and discover fresh meaning in them as a result of

subsequent circumstances. Additionally, contextual knowledge from the past

can enhance our enjoyment of future events. In our conceptualization,

individual impacts are not fixed or permanent. Generally speaking, we

anticipate that a significant initial impact will be followed by a gradual fall,

with occasional extended impact spikes possible if the work maintains its

impact or improves on later cultural experiences. (Carnwath, J.D., & Brown, A.

S. 2015 ).

Filipino culture is deeply rooted in traditions shaped by the influences of

colonizers throughout its rich history. The three decades of Spanish rule, along

with earlier Muslim colonization, established Christianity and Islam as two of

the most significant religions impacting the lives of Filipinos and their cultural

practices. These religions have intertwined with ancient traditions, resulting in

a unique religious blend that reflects the strong personal faith of many
Filipinos. In the context of Philippine society, religion plays a central role, not

merely as an abstract belief system but as a framework for experiences, rituals,

ceremonies, and affirmations that provide continuity in life, foster community

cohesion, and impart moral purpose. Religious affiliations, arising from various

denominations in the Philippines, are integral to kinship ties, patron-client

relationships, and connections beyond the nuclear family. Like culture itself,

religion comprises systematic patterns of beliefs, values, and behaviors

acquired by individuals as members of their society. These patterns are

consistent in their expression and occurrence, shared among group members;

however, within all religions, there exists diversity in the interpretation of

principles and meanings. (Li, 2021)

The study discusses the concept of cultural experiences in the context of

cultural heritage tourism, highlighting its significance in shaping tourists'

perceptions and interactions with cultural heritage sites. According to the

study, cultural experiences refer to the personal and subjective experiences of

tourists as they engage with cultural heritage sites, which can be influenced by

various factors such as the site's historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and

the presence of local communities. The authors argue that cultural experiences

are shaped by the interactions between tourists, local communities, and the

cultural heritage site itself, and that these experiences can be transformative,

allowing tourists to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the

local culture and its heritage. (Morel, 2016)

 According to Reisinger and Steiner (2018), baroque churches provide

distinctive cultural experiences that extend beyond admiration for their

architecture. Participation in religious ceremonies, festivals, or spiritual

practices within these churches provides tourists with a deeper, more

immersive cultural experience that enriches their understanding of the local

heritage. This is a component of comprehending how visitors view the location

from the viewpoint of traditional villages as opposed to ordinary villages. The

village has authenticity if it satisfies visitors' specific rural fantasies and

expectations.

The study of Sharma (2024), states that the cultural significance of the

wedding ceremony becomes very helpful through customs and rituals within a

legal framework. This, in fact, reflects better in the exchange of vows in

Baroque churches, wherein the culture of the ritual is closely connected with

the law governing the union. This is because the cultural significance of

Baroque churches, both in structure and the rituals conducted within them,

make them one of the popular destinations for people looking to experience

culture. Also, the study emphasizes the cultural significance of the marriage

ceremony in relation to tourism. The study of cultural meaning for exchanging

vows in Baroque churches could give insight into how the use of cultural

heritage can be used for advancing tourism and benefiting local communities.

This perspective can be used as a means of developing tourism initiatives that

have regard for respecting cultural traditions and add value to those

communities.

According to Yamagishi et. al, (2021), cultural involvement in this

context relates to the process of experiencing cultural phenomenon by tourists

during the tourists‘ every day stay in a host country. These experiences are

critical in ensuring that the tourists involved actually get to know the cultural

heritage site and also feel as though they are connected to it as much as the

locals are.

Tourism experience of taking vows in a Baroque church is an exquisite

cultural tourism experience where the tourists can touch the spirits of the

culture of the place. It is not just a romantic gesture, but it also serves as a

way for the tourists to have a closer look at the Baroque church and its

historical and architectural values in order to enhance their understanding

with and respect towards the locals.

According to Yang (2020), when travelers strongly intend to visit a

location again and recommend it to others, they are more likely to do so.

Tourists' intentions are based on their desire to suggest and revisit. Emotions

play a crucial role in shaping the travel experience, as they can fluctuate

throughout the journey and significantly impact the overall trip. By

thoughtfully incorporating these cultural experiences, couples can create a

wedding that celebrates their backgrounds, engages guests, and fosters a

deeper understanding of their traditions.

 Yonghua and Amin (2023), created a conceptual framework and

discussed the relationship between culture and destination loyalty from a

tourist satisfaction perspective in the light of sustainable tourism. STT will

examine more closely how the role of cultural experiences is perceived by

tourists themselves as they decide whether they will return. Indeed, meeting a

destination's culture through festivals, heritage sites, and other more

traditional local cultural expressions could not only increase tourist

satisfaction but also increase the potential loyalty of those tourists. Thus, the

authors concluded that authentic cultural experience bears a direct causal

relationship with attachment to the destination on one hand and with long-

term destination loyalty on the other hand. These frameworks together

highlight the relevance of inculcation of authenticity in a proper way through

cultural experiences into tourism approaches so as to achieve satisfaction and

develop sustainable tourism.

2.1 ECONOMIC IMPACT

Local Literature

Through improvements in productivity, regional development,

community branding, and local tourism, the culture sector supports economic

growth and innovation in other industries. The relevance of culturally

generated economic opportunities has increased as countries shift from the

physical labor-based industrial model to a new paradigm where productivity

and growth are driven by knowledge and creativity. (Einsiedel, 2023)

 The recent article "Church Surviving on Faith, Not Fees" Mendez (2021),

explores how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected churches in the Philippines

economically and highlights the difficulties they have in continuing to operate

in the absence of customary revenue sources like service and event fees. It

highlights how many churches depend more on contributions and community

support than on business ventures, demonstrating the institutions' durability

both spiritually and financially. The article also looks at how faith keeps

church communities going through hard times, highlighting several steps that

congregations have taken to weather the financial crisis. The essay highlights

the value of spiritual support and communal cohesion, highlighting how

churches manage financial difficulties while carrying out their religious

missions and providing for their members.

Thus, the economic effect of church weddings that take place in Baroque

churches depends on barriers described in the present Veritas Truth Survey

(VTS). These financial issues play a big role in the decisions that couples make,

and may reduce economic activity associated with these sites. The head of the

VTS Bro. Clifford Sorita wishes to encourage teams in the church to popularize

smaller and less expensive ceremonies that are still as meaningful. It can

possibly bring in more couples and generate more receipts from services that

participate within the wedding process- catering and photography for instance,

relevant to support local economies. In addition, Baroque churches could also

be major sites of interest in the tourism industry and they can hence lead to

the development of the economy of the province region. Eighth, architectural

splendor as well as historical value can contribute to the icon identity and

uplift the chances of tourists to visit those areas thereby boosting tourist

revenues. Non-attendance of church weddings because of costs may in a way

affect tourist activities and associated businesses in these places. Therefore, in

promoting church weddings, not only the above-mentioned landmarks are

maintained, but the economic system of the country will also be benefited since

there will be a direct connection between religion and tourism. It is evident

from the VTS survey that economic factors have the potential, if addressed,

towards the upliftment of church weddings hence bringing back again tourists

whose interest is obsessed with these stately churches.

The Vatican News article discusses a significant move by bishops and

religious congregations in the Philippines to divest from coal and other non-

renewable energy sources. This decision is based on their dedication to

environmental stewardship, in line with the principles of Pope Francis in his

encyclical "Laudato Si'." The bishops stress the ethical duty to safeguard the

environment and promote sustainable practices, underscoring the harmful

impact of coal on both the planet and local communities. This action mirrors a

growing recognition and response within the Church concerning climate

change and social responsibility. (Gomes, 2020)

According to Sembrano (2019), this construction of Binondo-Intramuros

Bridge poses questions over the protection of Baroque churches in the

Philippines, particularly the San Agustin Church found in Intramuros, being a

UNESCO World Heritage site. The nearness of this bridge threatens this buffer
zone surrounding historic churches and buildings that are preserved much

more because of their beauty in architecture and cultural heritage. But

heritage advocates have filed concerns over delisting from the UNESCO World

Heritage List against the UNESCO National Commission of the Philippines, or

Unicom. According to Unicom, there has never been a stand by the body

regarding danger listing or delisting. This situation places a bigger premium on

the urgent need to keep these churches not only as a repository of cultural

values but also as inviting for local tourism.

The Baroque churches are not only marriage locations but also a place

for couple tourists. For continued tourism to bring economic activity to the

local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and tour services, these

historical sites must be preserved so that more visitors visit the tourist

attractions, hence increasing the local economy, wherein a cultural identity can

be promoted among Filipinos. This entails the protection of such churches from

trends that may undermine the purity of these congregations in preserving

cultural heritage and economic prosperity.

The book ―The Routledge Companion to Literature and Art by Murphy, N.

et al., (2024), examines the economic impacts of Baroque churches in the

Philippines as popular wedding destinations, highlighting their role in

generating revenue for local communities. The book reveals that these

churches generate significant income from wedding ceremonies, tourism, and

other related activities, contributing to the local economy. The economic

benefits of these churches are substantial, with many communities relying on

them as a key source of revenue. By promoting and preserving these cultural

heritage sites, the book argues that local economies can be boosted, creating

jobs and stimulating economic growth.

In this article, Parrocha (2019), discussed about the efforts done by the

National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), wherein some

significant conservacion-era church- one of which is San Agustin Church de

Manila, needs to be saved from being removed in UNESCO World Heritage list.

Keep these Heritage sites not only because they are part of our history, culture

and heritage but also that where is the local tourism economy without them. In

addition, the protection of UNESCO churches also fosters economic

development at local level by creating jobs and revenue in cultural heritage

related tourism opportunities. This should also improve the economic

sustainability of local areas, as cultural value would translate into residual

income by adding an entry-level sign near these sites.

According to Uy (2021), COVID-19 the wedding industry in the

Philippines experienced remarkable growth, resembling a bubble with its

opulent banquets, extensive guest lists, and extravagant photo shoots that rival

scenes from a movie. The demand for top-tier vendors was so high that couples

had to make reservations years in advance, with some not hesitating to spend

millions of dollars on a single day. However, the onset of the pandemic brought

about significant changes. The regulations prohibiting large gatherings and the

necessity for social distancing prompted couples to opt for more moderate

celebrations, impacting various wedding suppliers and leading to a shift in

bridal gown styles from elaborate, long designs to sleek, short styles. The

livelihoods of suppliers who depend on these celebrations were greatly affected,

as couples had to adjust their plans and dreams. For example, coordinator

fees, caterers, and florists had to adapt their pricing based on the number of

attendees, reflecting the shift towards smaller, more intimate gatherings.

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council's (2024), travel and

tourism in the Philippines will have a record-breaking year, with new highs

expected for tourist expenditure, employment, and economic output. Travel

and tourism now represent more than one-fifth (21.3%) of the country's

economy, underscoring the sector's critical role in supporting the nation and

its local communities. Additionally, the data points to a spectacular year for

employment, with jobs surpassing 9.5 million, or 20% of the workforce,

nationwide, surpassing the peak of 2019. This growth is a testament to the

government's commitment to enhancing tourism infrastructure. Efforts are

underway to upgrade regional airports, which will not only alleviate congestion

at Manila's main airport but also make travel more accessible, demonstrating a

commitment to sustainable growth in the travel and tourism sector. (Tagawa,

2024).

Foreign Literature

Consideration could be given to examining marriage issues from a

different perspective, taking a break from the ongoing debates about whether

divorced and remarried Catholics should be able to receive Communion. This

could involve looking at the impact of social structures on the stability of

couples and families, and what actions the church can take to address these

challenges. Rubio's research has focused on the supportive structures provided

by predominantly immigrant Catholic parishes in the early 20th century, such

as burial societies, loans, and assistance with food and employment. These

historical examples are seen as potential models for modern parishes to

reintroduce and adapt. One suggestion for supporting marriage and family is

for Catholic institutions to provide more generous maternity and paternity

leave for employees, as well as exploring innovative approaches to offering free

or affordable daycare for working parents. This idea was put forward by Jana

Bennett, a theology professor at the University of Dayton. Bennett expressed

concern that ongoing economic difficulties could continue to hinder some

individuals from getting married, potentially leading to a culture where

marriage loses its significance for certain groups, even if economic inequality

improves. (Benevento, 2017)

Daniels and Wosicki (2020), give a thorough review of the wedding

industry in "Wedding Planning and Management," looking at important facets

of organizing and carrying out successful events. The writers examine the

changing patterns in wedding preparation, stressing the value of customization

and taking cultural factors into account for modern weddings. They outline the

responsibilities of different parties involved in the planning process, including

couples, vendors, and planners, and they go over ways to collaborate and

communicate effectively. The book also discusses issues like managing a

budget, organizing logistics, and how outside influences like social media affect
wedding expectations. Daniels and Wosicki's resource is highly beneficial for

professionals and couples alike, as it facilitates a greater grasp of the

complexity involved in wedding management by combining academic

frameworks and practical insights.

According to Ersoz (2019), in recent years, nations have been focusing on

the economic aspects of tourism, making investments and plans to diversify

tourism products to increase their share of the global tourism market and

boost revenue. It's crucial to develop innovative strategies to stay competitive,

utilizing existing resources effectively. Cultural identity plays a significant role

in setting a place apart, and weddings, as cultural phenomena, are considered

within the framework of tourism.

The economic relevance of taking vows in baroque churches is

considerable, particularly connected with the European marriage customs

distinguishing between civil and religious weddings. As the representative of

the Council of European Bishops‘ Conferences Thierry Bonaventura explains,

many European countries have been able to harmoniously implement church

as well as state ordinances on civil partnership and church weddings. This

unity leads couples to elegant and monumental baroque churches, resulting in

a big economic impact for the communities through the related services such

as catering or accommodation services. Furthermore, the quality and form of

legalization of religious marriages are different in European countries which

affects the economic aspect of marriage tourism. Where civil weddings are

required before religious ones, as in France and Germany, it makes financial

sense for the couple to interface with both systems, driving freedom of

structure for wedding tourists. However, where religious marriage is not a legal

marriage, as in Russia or Greece, for example, they probably are not a

particularly important factor. Such connection between the marriage laws and

economic aspect explains the possibilities for maximizing the opportunities of

tourism development based on the cultural value of Baroque church weddings.

In 2022, the economy affected the churches due to six factors: debt,

employment, disposable income, inflation, wages, and social security. Debt is

acceptable, but on the other hand, this encourages people to use mortgage

debt to purchase a new home by taking advantage of low interest rates.

Inflation has raised prices for goods, with the consumer price index showing a

6.2% increase over the previous year. 2022 Social Security recipients will

receive more, with the cost-of-living adjustment adding 5.9% to payments.

Since many churchgoers were secure financially when the stimulus payments

arrived, this has had a good impact on the economic dynamics of churches.

Labour shortage, disruptions to the supply chain, rising inflation, outbreak of

coronavirus outbreaks and many more are the economic uncertainties. Long -

term risks could have an effect on the rising of government and corporate debt

on economies, which has been hampered traditionally to the total credit market

of 320% surpassing debt of GDP. The Bible forbids us from believing that we

have any influence over what is happening to us. (McConnell, S. 2021)

According to McLaughlin (2023), baroque architecture is that type of

grand and dramatic style of Europe popularized during the 17th to 18th
centuries. It comprised the Catholic Church's efforts in bringing people back to

church after the Protestant Reformation. Pretty designs adorning the Baroque

churches are generally provided in the forms of delicate decoration and large

frescoes that inevitably make them not merely prayer houses but also

attractive tourist destinations. They often host weddings and events, which

indirectly helps to boost the local economy. Another economic benefit of the

Baroque churches is that it usually attracts a significant number of visitors

who spend money on accommodation, food, as well as transport services at the

local level. Such sites contribute to preservation, thereby increasing tourism

and generally making a better economic community. Thus, preserving Baroque

churches is essential for both the cultural heritage and the economy.

The book of ―Persecution & Toleration‖ by Johnson and Koyama (2019),

explores the economic impacts of Baroque churches in the Philippines,

specifically in terms of their role in exchanging vows, or wedding ceremonies.

The book examines the status of these churches as popular wedding

destinations, analyzing their economic benefits and challenges. It delves into

the ways in which these churches generate income through wedding

ceremonies, tourism, and other activities, and discusses the potential economic

benefits of preserving and promoting these cultural heritage sites. By

examining the economic impacts of Baroque churches, the book aims to

provide insights into the importance of cultural heritage tourism in the

Philippines and its potential to drive local economic development.

 Cultural and natural assets have an economic influence that goes

beyond creating jobs and revenue. It serves as a growth engine by encouraging

infrastructure investment, encouraging sustainable development, and

supporting the preservation of the environment and cultural heritage. This

diverse impact shows how important tourism is to the growth of the world

economy.

In the article of Yu et al., (2023), wherein the cultural heritage can

contribute much wealth to the experience of visitors, and also beneficially

impacts the local economies. The authors of this paper believe that cultural

heritage tourism is a source of revenue for communities and, at the same time,

provides the visitor encounter not only with historical sites but also with local

traditions. The book illustrates through a number of case studies the potential

of conserving cultural heritage for sustainable economic benefits in the form of

employment and tourism-related business opportunities. Besides that, the

authors point out further that community involvement and sustainability best

maximize these positive economic impacts by appropriately responding to the

local populations' cultural identity and heritage. Finally, the book advocates for

a tourism model in which both economic growth and preservation of cultural

heritage serve to enrich tourist experience and host communities.

Local Studies

According to Aquino et. al. (2022), tourism has played a substantial role

in the Philippines‘ economy in terms of revenue, contribution to the Gross

Domestic Product and a source of employment and income to locals and to the
domestic economy. More pointedly, they argue that through tourism poverty

can be decreased, inequality minimized, infrastructure transformed and

government revenues boosted. Efforts made towards the development of

Information Communications Technology, ICT, for instance, have played

significant roles in the promotion of tourism. It is a fact that historical Baroque

churches can be preserved and promoted as tourist attractions and in this way

it can bring in receipts and new jobs. In addition, aesthetic or cultural interest

of these churches cum historical sites may make people visit the areas hence

boosting their economic growth and development.

The study examines the Philippine Roman Catholic Church's territorial

and administrative structure and transformation in light of its significant role

in the country's economic and social life. The RCC has opportunities to grow its

activities and is involved in many sectors of the national economy. The

importance of the Church in society is demonstrated by objective metrics such

as the number of Catholic parishes, participation in Catholic rites, and

continual attendance at services. In the nation's economic and social growth,

non-profit Catholic organizations are critical since they provide housing, give

financial aid to the impoverished, and inform rural areas. (Balabeykina, O.

2020)

Heritage sites are crucial for preserving the historical narrative of a

community. The history of local heritage, such as those in Surigao City, plays a

fundamental role in shaping cultural identity. Early studies emphasize how

historical awareness enhances efforts to maintain these sites, often tying their
significance to critical moments of national and local history. Key historical

events surrounding the establishment and use of heritage sites underscore

their preservation value. For example, sites that reflect colonial influence or

moments of local resistance are often focal points in heritage tourism and

education. Historical narratives preserved through these sites promote both

national pride and local historical continuity. (Diaz et al., 2024)

According to Gonçalves et al. (2022), destination weddings have a wider

perspective for the host economy, and using evidence demonstrates that they

bring significant direct and indirect economic benefits. There are several key

economic contributions: job creation within the hospitality and service sectors,

spending by the wedding party as well as their guests, and a likelihood of

repeat tourism when the couple returns for anniversaries or family holidays

and high demand for mass tourism amidst peak wedding seasons. In general,

this study tends to emphasize the prospects for destination weddings as a

lucrative segment of the tourism market, in advancing strategic initiatives that

impact the highest economic value

According to Kahambing (2021), COVID-19 outbreaks linked to wedding

receptions pose a greater threat to non-compliant ceremonies. Mass gatherings

have already shown the high communicability of COVID-19, especially at

weddings. Public health practice suggests the avoidance of large gatherings to

mitigate transmission. In the Philippines, policy variations depend on state and

church policies. Catholic weddings are adjusting to the crisis, with factors such

as the baby boom phenomenon and socio-religious beliefs influencing marriage

transitions. However, modifications to mass weddings to suit health protocols

into'masked' weddings are still questionable due to the number of attendees.

Religious authorities prohibit costly and fancy weddings in favor of intimate

ones with fewer attendees, and the wedding industry adapts and popularizes

new wedding trends. Intimate weddings are expected to stay in the foreseeable

future due to the uncertainty of vaccination and cost-cutting measures.

According to Sanchez et al. (2016), a religious event such as a Holy Week

celebration can have a significant economic impact on a local community,

generating revenue and creating jobs. However, the authors also note that the

economic benefits of such an event can be unevenly distributed among

community members, leading to potential negative consequences. Overall, the

economic impact of a religious and tourist event requires careful consideration

of the various factors involved, including the distribution of benefits and the

potential for negative consequences. Furthermore, it is crucial to implement

strategies that ensure the equitable distribution of economic benefits, such as

investing in local infrastructure and supporting small businesses, to maximize

the positive impact of the event on the community. Additionally, measures

should be taken to mitigate potential negative consequences, such as

overcrowding and environmental degradation, to ensure that the event

contributes to the long-term sustainability of the local economy and

community.

Tejado (2018) claims that a great deal of research has been done on the

effects of Spanish colonization on the Philippines, indicating significant long-

term economic, social, and cultural ramifications. Tejado highlights how

colonial authorities prioritized export-oriented agriculture, creating a parallel

economy that consolidated land under regimes, hurting local farmers and

furthering socioeconomic inequalities. Additionally, the Galleon Trade

illustrates how the Philippines' incorporation into global trade networks

hindered the country's ability to diversify its economy internally and increased

its susceptibility to external market forces. The colonial legacy continues to

impact Philippine culture to this day. The introduction of Catholicism and

colonial education, in particular, had cultural consequences that further

influenced Filipino identity and social structures.

According to Trusted (2019), the exchange of Baroque art between

Europe and countries like South America and the Philippines reflects what

different cultures can borrow in terms of artistic styles. It is very evident in the

manner how the Baroque churches shed a semblance both as sacred edifices

and tourist destination venues. The case in point is the churches in the

Philippines, such as Malate Church, which now is a very popular wedding

venue for many brides-to-be from all corners of the country. This boom in

general raises local economic activities because it touches on hospitality

services like wedding businesses, for example, hotels and restaurants as well

as transport services. The recognition of Baroque churches as cultural sites of

enormous significance increases their beauty, and thus more people visit them;

and the locals spend more money. Preservation of these wonderful churches

benefits not only our cultural heritage but also the local economies in terms of
tourism. They are of great significance for cultural experiences as well as

economic growth, mainly because of their history and beauty.

Based on the data, researchers discovered a negative correlation between

marriage and economic expansion, as indicated by the increase in real wages.

As wages decreased, marriage rates rose for both genders. This pattern differed

based on the economic status of men, as men with lower advantages faced

more significant changes in potential alternatives to marriage compared to

their more advantaged counterparts. (Williams & Arguillas, 2024)

Foreign Studies

According to Agrawal et al (2023), the passage discusses the dual nature

of tourism, outlining its potential to boost economies and infrastructure while

also posing challenges to local resources and socioeconomic systems. It

emphasizes the struggle of governments and communities worldwide to

manage the positive and negative impacts of tourism. Additionally, it highlights

the crucial relationship between development, infrastructure, and economic

growth, emphasizing the significance of infrastructure investments in

enhancing a nation's productive capacity and raising living standards.

According to Budovich, L. (2023), with its distinctive and special

qualities, tourism has grown to be one of the biggest and most lucrative sectors

of the global economy in 2023. It has also given rise to changes in geographical

areas. Budovich, L. (2023) has demonstrated the significant impact of religious

tourism on Russia's economy and travel sector. Budovich, L. (2023) came to

the conclusion that religious tourism benefits Russia's economy and travel
sector. Tourists who attend these rituals frequently support local businesses by

spending money on lodging, food, and other services.

According to Daineko et al. (2021), church building in Russia can have a

significant social effect by fostering a sense of community and social cohesion,

providing a space for social and cultural activities, and promoting interfaith

dialogue and understanding. However, it can also lead to negative

consequences such as disputes over land use and property rights, conflicts

between different religious groups, and unequal distribution of resources.

Overall, the socio-cultural impact of church building in Russia requires careful

consideration of the social, cultural, and economic factors involved. Moreover,

it is essential to strike a balance between the benefits of church building, such

as promoting social cohesion and community engagement, and the potential

drawbacks, such as conflicts and unequal resource distribution. By doing so,

church building in Russia can become a positive force for social change,

promoting greater understanding and cooperation among different religious

and social groups, and contributing to the overall well-being of Russian society.

According to Dellova et. al. (2021), cultural heritage tourism has greatly

benefited the local communities in Yogyakarta, Indonesia in terms of economic

significance. According to the findings, tourism has brought income and

employment opportunities to the inhabitants enabling the development of its

economy. Concretely, it stated that tourism has led to an increase in the

demand for relative local products and services hence leading to enhanced local

entrepreneurship and small business ventures. In addition to this, the study

also indicates that through demand for taxes and fees, tourism has created

employment opportunities which have boosted government revenue.

The profit that is gotten from cultural heritage tourism can be used in the

conservation and marketing of Baroque churches as tourist attractions. For

example, money, which is earned through tourism, can be used for the

preservation of the church, including historical ones, and giving people jobs,

thus helping the local economy. Besides, it opens up the tourism aspect

because these churches are culturally endearing sites that visitors will come to

in large numbers hence boosting the economy by spending their monies in the

region.

According to Erlank (2014), the socio-economic implications of the white

wedding tradition in early 20th-century South Africa. The study explained how

weddings functioned not only as personal milestones but also as significant

cultural and economic events that reflected societal values. Erlank discusses

the influence of colonial and racial dynamics on wedding practices, highlighting

how the white wedding became a symbol of aspiration and status among

different social classes. The author analyzes the emotional and affective

dimensions associated with weddings, emphasizing their role in constructing

identities and reinforcing social hierarchies. Through historical context, the

paper illustrates how weddings were intertwined with broader economic

conditions, affecting consumption patterns and social relationships. Erlank‘s

work underscores the complex interplay between effect, culture, and economy,
revealing how weddings served as a site for negotiating social meaning in South

Africa.

The study recognises the role of church in today's economy and how

society and governments can optimize its influence in various sectors. It

concludes that churches play a significant role in developing the societies in

which they are established, hence contributing towards economic development.

The study also recommends that churches identify areas of importance in the

economy, such as the manufacturing industry, so that they channel resources

towards establishing enterprises that improve the nation" 's Gross Domestic

Product. To encourage church-run establishments to expand, the Zimbabwean

government should also offer them particular incentives. Not all churches were

included in the study, and the results must be interpreted in their context.

(Mabwe, L., Dimingu, C., & Siyawamwaya, F. 2018)

According to Ostrikova, et al. (2022), the Great Fire of London in 1666

was crucial with respect to Baroque style churches in England. This event

sparked the rebuilding of churches and states thus boosting the tourism

industry in the area. The paper focuses on the economic factors which

hindered the construction of Baroque churches with special reference to the

revenue from tourism. This is applicable in the discussion of exchanges of vows

in Baroque churches whereby tourism brings returns for the respective

communities. This study focuses on the significance of the historical

background of Baroque churches in England and the contribution they have

had in the growth of tourism. Understanding the method of construction of

Baroque styles of churches in England lets the researchers develop concrete

knowledge of how the churches can boost the economic facet of tourism. From

this perspective, the idea of how to promote the paradigm of cultural heritage

tourism relevant in a historical context while providing a positive experience to

locals and respecting their history seen within exchanging vows in Baroque

churches.

The study of Soberón (2024), discusses how the entwinement of familial

ties, care, and the cultural interpretations of happiness was to be found during

the Novohispanic Baroque. The research observation indicates how the family

relations contributed towards the socialization of rituals and celebrations,

particularly those related to marriage, in the baroque churches that depicted

cultural grandeur. The traditions, therefore, fostered community ties and at the

same time bore significant rippling effects on the economy since such weddings

go on to stimulate tourism industries and patronize the artisans thus fostering

a sustainable culture and economic ecosystem.

The wedding industry holds a significant position in both U.S. society

and economy. Dealing with internal and external challenges is a major concern

for the industry. Overcoming the current intense competition and declining

marriage rates is crucial for driving industry growth. This study aims to

uncover the reasons behind these challenges and propose effective solutions to

address them. Our research indicates that the rapid advancement and use of

technology have led to increased wedding costs, impacted the labor market,

and influenced societal values. Therefore, it is essential for small businesses to

collaborate with the U.S. government to stimulate industry growth. (Wu &

Koudou, 2018)

2.2 LOCAL COMMUNITIES

Local Literature

In the book of Carson (2017), they explore the complex dynamics of

cultural encounters in tourism settings. The book focuses on the innovative

ways in which local communities present their cultural history through

creative practices, turning customs into performances for visitors. The editors

show through a number of case studies how these exchanges promote

appreciation and understanding between guests and hosts. The essay explores

how communities manage their identities and traditions in response to visitor

expectations, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in cultural tourism.

The book highlights the potential for tourism to empower communities while

enhancing the visitor experience by addressing the economic, social, and

artistic aspects of cultural tourism.

It was stated by De la Cruz (2023) that local Communities describes the

people of Bohol, Philippines who benefit from the tourism that is brought by

the visitation of such historical churches. These historical products could be

maintained and marketed to help in the development of revenue base and job

opportunities for the various communities across the globe. The aspect of the

vows to be exchanged in Baroque churches for instance, the exquisite churches

in Bohol; hold the impression through its aesthetic value in attracting tourist

traffic hence enhancing economic returns. This historical and architectural

experience associated with weddings can be significant for historians,

architects, newlyweds, tourists, and wedding guests who become interested in

the mystery and charm of the Churches of the Philippines, which in turn will

bring additional income and jobs for Filipinos, and also promote the world‘s

cultural values and non-material heritage and spiritual legacy of Filipinos.

According to Dimasaryo (2023), it was stated that the 500th anniversary

of the arrival of Christianity was celebrated by the Philippines in 2021.

Currently, more than ninety-one percent of the population identifies as

Christians, with Catholics comprising eighty-two percent. Approximately seven

percent of the population are Muslims, and just over one percent are animists.

The Philippines boasts the third largest Catholic population globally, with over

81 million followers, ranking behind only Brazil and Mexico. It is also one of

the two predominantly Christian nations in Asia, alongside East Timor.

Spanish missionaries introduced Catholicism to the Philippines, and their

influence is still evident, such as in the design of church statues. Filipinos are

known for their spirituality. Attendance at Mass is high, and there is a strong

and palpable devotion to the Black Nazarene and Our Lady. For instance, one

parish held eight Masses on a Sunday. The people are characterized by their

joy and remarkable kindness, generosity, and hospitality. Additionally, there

are highly active parish councils, primarily led by lay members, with significant

involvement from women.

According to Salas (2024), the Baroque churches in the Philippines blend

European and Filipino architectural styles and hold significant historical and
cultural value. They serve as living symbols of faith, resilience, and cultural

fusion. These churches are admired for their enduring architecture and play

crucial roles in local communities as historical landmarks, spiritual centers,

and contributors to economic development.

De Guzman (2023) stated that the COO, Maria Margarita Montemayor

Norgrales, emphasized the significance of the institution's support of and

contribution to local communities as an element of the nation's unique charm.

Local communities are the lifeblood of tourism. The greatest way to understand

a destination's actual essence is to meet locals and immerse yourself in their

culture. Over the years, the TPB has consistently empowered local

communities throughout the Philippines. Through the Community Based

Tourism (CBT) Marketing Enhancement Program, local communities can learn

about the ins and outs of unique experiential tours and develop their

marketing and branding skills. It also enables direct communication between

them and visitors from the area.

According to Jenn & Leon Travel (2023), the San Agustin Church remains

a place of worship and is a well-liked tourist and pilgrimage attraction. It

serves as evidence of both the colonial past that influenced the Philippines and

the long-lasting influence of Christianity in that country. The public is welcome

to visit the San Agustin Church for both religious services and sightseeing. Its

interior can be explored, its history can be studied, and its architectural and

artistic features can be appreciated.

 According to Jose (2018), the very significant ingredient of local community

identity, hence community cohesion. This symposium brings scholars,

practitioners, and members together to share their challenges and

opportunities in the preservation of Philippine cultural heritage in the face of

modernization and globalization. According to Jose, locals need to take

responsibility for their own cultural heritage since they know or have

information as well as traditions defining their identities. Engagement of local

residents in heritage conservation encourages ownership and pride to be taken,

and that cultural practices and histories are passed along generations.

Discussions made in the symposium suggest involvement of communities in

heritage in efforts and how active participation can lead to sustainable

practices in culture suited for both the communities and the society at large.

Remo (2018) stated that the economic effect of wedding tourism in the

baroque churches is massive in the Phils, as tourism accounted for P3.35

trillion in 2017 or 21% of the GDP as estimated by the WTTC. These churches

with historical and architectural interest make it easy to attract local and

international tourists as a couple hence increasing tourist-related service

deficits such as accommodation, food and transport. This inflow revitalizes

local economies, especially those heritage church locations, hence contributing

to the enhancement of infrastructure and accompanying services. The statistics

show that tourism provides jobs for 2.3 million people directly in the

Philippines such as the hotel industry, airlines and other establishments. The

trend in weddings in baroque church architecture has led to more job

opportunities in weddings and event organizing companies, kitchens and

photography companies, and has also promoted the construction of private

houses to cater for increasing demand. Since the tourism industry was

expected to grow by 5.9% per year, baroque church weddings add to the

foundations for future economic progress and important historical traditions.

According to Wise (2024), the Baroque churches of the Philippines are a

significant cultural and historical treasure. The author highlights the unique

architectural style and historical significance of these churches, which are a

testament to the country's rich cultural heritage. The article encourages

readers to explore and appreciate these churches, which are not only important

tourist attractions but also a source of national pride. Moreover, the

preservation and conservation of these churches are crucial for maintaining the

country's cultural identity and promoting a sense of national unity. By

recognizing the importance of these cultural landmarks, the Filipino people can

take pride in their heritage and work towards preserving it for future

generations, while also promoting cultural tourism and economic development.

Foreign Literature

Abarkley (2023) stated that the church is important in fostering social,

spiritual, and emotional well-being within the local community. Beyond its

functions, the church is a source of hope and compassion, supporting families

and the community. Through the power of unity and love, this creates an

environment that transcends cultural boundaries, guided by scriptures that

emphasize unity in the community. Aside from this, the church is a place
where people can cultivate their lives and deepen their relationship with God,

which can create positive change in the community and environment.

According to Aulet and Vidal (2019), while considering the connection

between a place's religious significance and its monumental worth, religious

history might serve as a conduit for the ancient ideals associated with a

territory's identity. The underlying assumption of this assessment is that, as of

just now, many aspects of the church's architectural legacy have completely or

partially lost their usefulness as places of worship. After outlining the

connection between religious places' material and immaterial legacy and how

tourism may or may not aid in the preservation of these qualities.

In the book of Bajec (2020), it explores the significance of local

communities in Slovenian rural development, highlighting their potential to

drive economic growth and improve the quality of life in rural areas. By

empowering local communities, rural development can be more effective, as

they are better equipped to identify and address specific local needs. The book

argues that local communities can play a crucial role in revitalizing rural areas

by promoting social cohesion, preserving cultural heritage, and fostering

entrepreneurship and innovation. By supporting local initiatives and

community-led projects, rural areas can become more attractive and

sustainable, ultimately contributing to the overall development of Slovenian

rural regions.

According to Bretan (2021), in the 17th century, Polish Baroque

advancements, particularly in architecture, reflected the importance of family

and religion in Polish life. While Baroque is known as a European art and

architectural style, its influence in Poland also encompassed politics,

philosophy, and evolving cultural values. Art historians describe this unique

Polish culture as "Sarmatism" or "Sarmatian Baroque," highlighting its distinct

characteristics such as dynamic tension and exaggeration, while emphasizing

its homegrown intellectual and aesthetic elements alongside formal foreign

influences.

In the book of Edgell (2019), the ideas and methods required to advance

the growth of sustainable tourism. The book places a strong emphasis on the

necessity of striking a balance between social, economic, and environmental

aspects in order to design responsible and pleasurable travel experiences.

Edgell talks about many approaches that stakeholders—policymakers,

companies, and communities—can take to guarantee that tourism supports

local economies in a beneficial way while protecting cultural and natural

resources. He also discusses issues like over-tourism and climate change,

promoting creative fixes that strengthen community bonds and improve visitor

involvement. By means of case studies and real-world examples, Edgell

presents a road map for attaining sustainability in the tourism sector,

emphasizing its importance for posterity and the industry's heritage.

Lewis (2015) stated that the founders of America saw churches as a

crucial institution in American society because they believed that religion was

essential for instilling self-restraint and community awareness, which are

necessary for the success of self-government based on republican ideals. While

churches have indeed played a role in promoting virtue, research in social

science has demonstrated that they also offer both direct and indirect economic

and social benefits to communities. Churches make significant contributions to

communities through direct economic support, provision of social services and

community involvement, education and training in civic skills, as well as

reducing levels of deviant behavior. These contributions have a positive impact

on communities both directly and indirectly, ultimately contributing to political

stability and the overall well-being of communities in the long run.

According to Plaitt (2022), the local communities are the convents and

their inhabitants in colonial Mexico where nuns were active and even rebellious

despite the authoritarian gender system and male chauvinism of the church.

Its Significance to Tourism Relevant authorities with social interconnection to

the different historic churches should ensure that the history and culture

associated with these churches are preserved, thereby advancing the economic

benefits that can be obtained from tourism, and the worth of the historical

legacy associated with these edifices.

Roque (2022) cites storytelling as an element of cultural heritage tourism

that activates community involvement. He believes that among locals, telling

stories becomes a critical mechanism through which they can transmit

historical, customary, and cultural practices to the tourists and build

immersive experiences to improve the tourist experience. According to Roque,

the involvement of local communities in the storytelling process would help

preserve their identity and empower them economically since tourism and local
business would be attracted by the authentic narratives presented by these

communities. Showing the true stories of communities can lead to sustainable

tourism which respects and celebrates cultural heritage yet provides economic

benefits. This system, therefore, focuses on harmony between tourists and the

residents. Thus, tourism initiatives are well informed about the true

community personality and the various aspects of the culture.

According to Sitlhou and Kuthar (2023), there is violence against Meitei

Christians as a result of the continued violence in Manipur, India. They

become vulnerable even within their group. Being the biggest ethnic group,

they view themselves most of the time as a "minority within a minority," and

they are threatened by groups closer to other forms of religious organizations.

This has shed light to how important cultural heritage is in conflict situations,

the churches targeted and destroyed for destroying safe spaces of community

gathering and worship. These attacks on churches also influence local tourism,

which generally depends on cultural sites as a way of attracting visitors. In

case the violence lingers, then it would scare away the tourists and smite local

economies that rely on tourism. Their protection is essential because the

cultural sites are vital aspects of community identity and history. The

protection of churches, therefore, may help build trust again for local

communities in a tourists' environment for which their deep culture is featured

and not the conflict they are exposed to.

Local Studies
 According to Magboo et. al. (2023), cultural heritage sites in the Ilocos

Region have significant value, contributing to the preservation of cultural

identity, promotion of tourism, and economic development. The authors

highlight the importance of these sites in fostering community pride, social

cohesion, and a sense of belonging among residents. Overall, the Ilocos

Region's cultural heritage places are valuable and need to be carefully managed

and conserved to guarantee the community's future advantages. Involving local

communities in the conservation and management process is also crucial

because it gives them the authority to take charge of their cultural property

and guarantees that their demands and concerns are met. By doing so, the

cultural heritage sites can continue to serve as a source of community pride

and identity, while also promoting sustainable tourism and economic

development that benefits the local population.

According to et al. (2020) that the wedding tourism resource of various

cities and municipalities in Cavite, but particularly focused on the involvement

of local communities in this niche area of tourism. The authors point out that

an appropriate alliance between the different stakeholders, such as government

agencies, business owners, and residents, maximizes economic benefits from

the wedding tourism industry. In this regard, active participation in planning

and promotion by local communities facilitates the realization of a more vibrant

wedding industry, generating a source of income but also attaining community

identity and cohesion. This research advocates for strategies that empower
local communities to shape their tourism offerings for sustainable economic

development.

According to Prill-Brett (2016), to fulfill advantages and privileges, as well

as to exhibit their cultural beliefs. policy ideas on how to strengthen current

marriage laws and their registration for the benefit of Indigenous peoples are

examined, along with difficulties pertaining to the registration of customary

marriages. The question of whether marriage belongs in the public or private

sphere is one of the main points of contention surrounding the topic. Marriage

is generally viewed as a contract between two equal and independent people

who will thereafter share responsibility for procreating and raising the next

generation of citizens who will support society, making it an institution that is

commonly considered to be the cornerstone of civilization. These artifacts not

only reflect the artistic achievements of the local community but also provide

insight into the cultural and historical contexts in which they were created.

They continue to inspire admiration and study for their beauty and complexity.

According to Buted and Felicen (2023), cultural heritage sites in the

Ilocos Region have significant value, contributing to the preservation of cultural

identity, promotion of tourism, and economic development. The authors

highlight the importance of these sites in fostering community pride, social

cohesion, and a sense of belonging among residents. Overall, the value of

cultural heritage sites in the Ilocos Region requires careful conservation and

management to ensure their continued benefits to the community.

Furthermore, it is essential to involve local communities in the conservation

and management process, empowering them to take ownership of their cultural

heritage and ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed. By doing

so, the cultural heritage sites can continue to serve as a source of community

pride and identity, while also promoting sustainable tourism and economic

development that benefits the local population.

According to Cobilla (2022), the cultural resource beneficiaries are the

indigenous people in Tabaco City who have an essential relation to the

resources being recorded. It is important to note that these local communities

are culturally endowed and have greatly contributed in the preservation and

marketing of the cultural features in the region.

The two topics of its importance and Its Significance to Tourism because

the two of them focus on the importance of cultural history and local society in

the development of the tourism industry. More so, heritage culture assets

captured in the study including Baroque churches, are strategic tourist

attractions that could potentially funnel back revenues to citizens hence the

need for responsible tourism practices for community benefit.

In the dissertation of Cornelio (2017), delves into the important role that

religious institutions play in encouraging civic involvement in local

communities. The study focuses on the ways that Iglesia ni Cristo, a well-

known religious organization in the Philippines, encourages its followers to

take an active role in social concerns and community development. According

to Cornelio, having a religious connection gives people a framework for taking

part in group activities that improve social cohesiveness and build communal
relationships. In addition to providing for the urgent needs of the community,

the church fosters a sense of community among its members through a variety

of outreach initiatives, including social assistance and disaster relief. The study

emphasizes how religion may serve as a catalyst as well as a source of spiritual

guidance.

According to De Castro et. al (2014) indicated that the survey participants

are in agreement that the church plays a role in improving peace and order,

with an average score of 3.79. Churches help reduce crime and misconduct

within communities and among local young people. Decreased levels of crime

and misconduct contribute to safer, more stable, and more productive

communities, which in turn promote economic growth by attracting new

residents and expanding businesses. Several studies have shown that

churches can help reduce crime and misconduct, thereby contributing to the

economic advantages of a safer community. However, there were specific

aspects that received only an agreement rating and were statistically proven to

reduce crime rates, particularly in terms of decreasing levels of assault,

burglary, larceny, and drug use, with an average score of 3.45. They also

contribute to community investment for poverty alleviation (3.32), increased

property values (3.29), job creation for the community (3.28), and the

promotion of community growth, job opportunities, and overall economic

vitality (3.24), while the aspect of being a cultural asset that contributes to

local distinctiveness and is integral to the communities and destination

received the lowest average score of 3.20 and was rated the least.
 Gueco et al., (2019) stated that San Agustin Church Museum adjoins the

San Agustin Church, known as the Philippines' oldest church. The heritage

attraction should seek to work in harmony with the local community. Visitors

should not be allowed to use the heritage asset at the expense of locals.

Heritage attractions can also have important economic multiplier effects

throughout the local community. Regarding the local community, the San

Agustin Church Museum is considered to observe sustainable practices as they

help the local community attract visitors, which benefits business

establishments and small businesses near the church museum and creates

income for the locals and other companies. The church museum also benefits

from the establishment near the attraction because after they visit a restaurant

or souvenir shop, they see the church museum to tour around the church.

(Gueco, I. et al., 2019)

According to Lamarca (2017), the two Baroque churches in the Ilocos

Region, that is Paoay Church and Sta. Maria Church has to be conserved

properly as UNESCO World Heritage sites. They were constructed during the

Spanish colonial period and having numerous laws and ordinances that protect

these historical buildings serves no purpose if implemented inadequately.

While laws are sufficient for their conservation, their implementation varies,

and participation on the side of the local government is more often than not

limited by the financial constraints that surround them. It is important to

include parish priests in these preservation efforts, as it would be hard to

achieve success without their thorough knowledge and interest in the

preservation of such monuments.

These churches-cathedral represent not only stunning items of Baroque

architecture but play very important roles in local tourism and community

identity. In attracting visitors for weddings and religious events, they

contribute directly to the local economy and increase cultural awareness

among residents and tourists. This would not only preserve the historical value

of these sites but also boost tourism-a source of economic benefits for a local

community-and ensure that these cultural treasures were still vibrant parts of

local life.

Foreign Studies

According to Costanzo et al. (2021), historic churches, including Baroque

churches, require preservation in order to maintain valuable artworks, such as

frescoes. Their research study has shown that the usage of traditional methods

to evaluate the indoor conditions will not be able to notice some dangers

related to mold growth or even unhealthy humidity levels. A stronger risk

assessment might identify specific risks towards the structure of the church

and its art, thus taking critical relevance for the preservation of these cultural

assets. These churches are not only important to history but add economic

value to local communities. Costanzo et al. (2021) point out that these well-

preserved Baroque churches are tourist attractions and increase the local

economy as visitors spend at restaurants, hotels, and other shops within the

local community. Communities that invest in preserving these churches are

creating opportunities for economic prosperity while fostering rich cultural

resources.

According to Delgado (2024), the relationship between Baroque churches

and local communities in rural areas, revealing how these grand architectural

structures were often built as a result of community efforts and collective

identity. The author argues that the construction of Baroque churches was not

just a top-down imposition of religious authority, but rather a collaborative

process involving local communities, who saw these churches as symbols of

their cultural heritage and spiritual identity. By examining the role of local

communities in the construction and maintenance of Baroque churches, the

study sheds light on the ways in which these sacred spaces reflected and

shaped the social, economic, and cultural dynamics of local communities.

A Ember, et. al., (2021) offers valuable insights into how marriage customs

are shaped by and shape local communities. It emphasizes that although

marriage is almost universal, the specific customs surrounding it vary greatly

across different cultures. For example, around 65% of societies have elaborate

wedding ceremonies, with some, like the Hopi community, holding multi-day

celebrations, while others may have minimal or no formal rituals. Economic

transactions related to marriage, such as bride price or bride service, are

prevalent in roughly 75% of cultures, reflecting the significance of marriage in

establishing social ties between families. Furthermore, many communities have

rules governing whom one can marry, with practices of endogamy (marrying

within a specific group) and exogamy (marrying outside a specific group)

influencing local customs. Family structures also vary significantly; some

cultures prioritize nuclear families, while others emphasize extended family

arrangements, impacting social dynamics and support systems. In summary,

marriage customs adapt to local economic, social, and environmental contexts,

demonstrating the intricate interplay between culture and community in

shaping family life. (Ember, et. al., 2021)

Li and Hunter (2015) present a conceptual model, "Community Involvement

for Sustainable Heritage Tourism: A Conceptual Model," emphasizing the

crucial role local communities play in the growth and sustainability of heritage

tourism. The authors contend that in order to create tourism experiences that

are not only financially feasible but also environmentally and culturally

sustainable, community involvement is crucial. Through proactive community

engagement in the development and administration of tourist initiatives,

stakeholders may guarantee the preservation of sites' heritage value while also

yielding mutual benefits to the community. Li and Hunter stress that local

communities may improve the authenticity of tourism products by sharing

their own perspectives and expertise about their cultural heritage.

Micelli and Lo Faro (2021) stated that one of the biggest issues of our day

is the sustainable reuse of the built heritage. In order to obtain consistent

approaches for the conservation and transfer of its value, both material and

immaterial, religious heritage in particular needs robust survey strategies and

analysis. Prior to conservation efforts, knowledge assessments support the

latter's exploitation, focusing not only on material restoration procedures but

also on the values it holds for the region and its inhabitants.

The study of Sharma and Bhat (2022) investigated how community

involvement can enhance sustainable tourism strategies through the lens of

social and environmental innovation. The authors summarize that the local

community is still a key actor whose insight and desire have to be the guiding

principle for the tourism initiative. It presents case studies of active community

participation and the good outcomes those communities will go on to enjoy-for

instance, in increased local employment, cultural preservation, and better

environmental management. Not only is this approach good for the tourism

industry; it also makes for stronger local identities and greater economic

resilience within communities, according to the authors, who argue for policies

more inclusive of such engagement and participation.

According to Solarska-Komarchuk (2019), the community near a Baroque

church reflects the area's rich history and artistic heritage linked to this

architectural style. Baroque churches are known for their detailed designs,

ornate details, and dramatic elements, creating a feeling of awe and respect.

The examination of the artwork that depicts the church's original appearance

also displays the unique architectural style, which was created by

reinterpreting local temple-building customs and drawing inspiration from

Western European Baroque and modern defense needs. This involves analyzing

the works of artists who showcased the Illyrian Church's cultural and creative
uniqueness through art history, culture, and biography, demonstrating the

church's significance as a prominent landmark in the neighborhood.

Tan (2021) stated that the participation of people in local communities in

various forms can be very powerful in improving the management of cultural

heritage sites in a decentralized state context. In Southeast Asia, a government

form in which decentralization will give less powerful parties, especially local

communities, more equal channels to negotiate with other parties, as seen in

Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya municipality, began to support more local

communities. In the case of Georgetown, when the Penang state government is

opposed to the federal government, they will create more responsive policies

with the locals to counter the federal government's power. The proposal from

this study is that to develop participation in the quality management of

cultural heritage sites by the World Heritage Philosophy, all parties must

promote the development of a more decentralized state model.

According to Verma, S. et. al. (2022), indigenous peoples living in the

zones where Baroque churches are situated. Some of these communities have a

historical and cultural relationship with the churches and, therefore, their

existence is bound with the cultural significance of these structures depicted in

the story. Another important stakeholder is the local communities whose

welfare is boosted by the economic effect generated by this activity. Through

direct spending on the tourist attractions that include Baroque churches as

venues for wedding ceremonies and receptions, these tourists contribute to the

creation of employment opportunities in the locality and contribute positively to

the local economy of the region hence enhancing the local sense of ownership

of culture and historical destinations.

2.3 Tourist

Local Literature

De Vera (2019) states that visitors can experience Philippine heritage not

only in textbooks and museums but also in the nation's exquisitely preserved

historical places. According to the Department of Tourism (2019), travelers

think of the Philippines as having azure oceans, tropical beaches, and

hospitable locals. Actually, this is the main goal of the It's More Fun in the

Philippines campaign, which promotes the nation's beautiful travel spots. The

nation's history and cultural narratives are rarely highlighted, despite the fact

that it draws in customers with images of our natural resources and

picturesque scenery. This is in spite of the rich history of the Philippines. The

nation served as the primary trading hub for Southeast Asia as early as the

1500s, and later for the trans-Pacific galleon trade. Its food, culture, and cities,

which have Baroque cathedrals and Catholicism, are all products of the three

centuries of Spanish colonization. These outside influences helped create the

distinctive Filipino culture of today, which coexists with indigenous groups

dispersed over coastal regions and mountain ranges. (De Vera, 2019)

According to Guardian (2024), the unveiling of a new world heritage

marker at the Miagao church in the Philippines aims to promote cultural

heritage tourism and raise awareness about the site's historical significance.

Guardian's report highlights the importance of preserving and promoting

cultural heritage sites, such as the Miagao church, which is a significant

tourist attraction and a symbol of the country's rich cultural identity.

Moreover, the recognition of the Miagao church as a world heritage site can

also have a positive impact on the local economy, as it can attract more

tourists and generate revenue for the community. This, in turn, can lead to the

creation of jobs and entrepreneurship opportunities, as well as the

development of local infrastructure, such as accommodations, restaurants, and

souvenir shops. Furthermore, the promotion of cultural heritage tourism can

also contribute to the preservation of the country's cultural heritage, as it

raises awareness about the importance of protecting and conserving cultural

sites for future generations. By promoting cultural heritage tourism, the

Philippines can work to create a sustainable and equitable tourism industry

that benefits both residents and visitors, while also preserving the country's

rich cultural identity.

According to Ichimura (2020), the Philippine Baroque churches are not

only beautiful but also indicative of resilience and adaptability. The reason they

are termed "earthquake Baroque" is that it is such a seismically active country.

The structures of religion are engineered in such a way that it can take shocks

from earthquakes; thus, they have solid foundation support and are composed

of thick walls. People visit such historic monuments with the intent of learning

about the Philippines' previous time and how they connect their cultures and

natures through these structures. These churches have a significant

importance not only in their aspect but also as tourist attractions. They attract
tourist visitors who want to see their unique architecture and participate in

events like weddings, which keeps their traditions alive. It is a kind of history,

culture, and resilience that makes these churches unique for tourists

(Ichimura, 2020).

Ilocos Norte's status as a top tourist destination in the Philippines was

confirmed by the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office (INTO) reporting 3,003,963 day

visitors in 2018, which is 33.91% higher than the 2017 figures and 1,056%

higher than the 2012 tourist arrivals. The San Agustin Church in Paoay, a

UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracted the most visitors with 509,449,

followed by the Malacañang of the North with 387,118 visitors, Kapurpurawan

Rock Formation in Burgos with 286,998 visitors, and the Paoay and Culilli

Point Sand Dunes with 276,483 and 229,677 visitors, respectively. Ilocos Norte

was honored with the Grand Prize as the best tourism-oriented province in the

ATOP-DOT Pearl Awards last year, a prestigious recognition jointly presented

by the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines and the Department of

Tourism. (De Guzman, 2019)

Majority of Filipinos in the Philippines, Catholicism has been the

cornerstone of their national identity. Catholic principles have influenced

Filipino society ever since the Spanish brought Catholicism throughout their

300-year colonial era. . Currently, the Philippines has one of the biggest

Catholic populations in Asia, and its century-old churches have witnessed wars

and survived natural calamities. Despite the fact that the Philippines

experiences year-round sunshine, churches are one of the greatest places to go

during the rainy season. The custom of pilgrimage tours, or Visita Iglesia, is

widely observed by Filipinos, particularly during Holy Week in March or April

each year. This entails a day tour to visit various churches as a pilgrimage

while repeating the Stations of the Cross at each site. (Larena, E. 2024)

According to Lezama (2019), the ideal wedding location is crucial for the

magic of a wedding. While having the ceremony and reception in your

hometown is sensible, a destination wedding takes the event to a new level. The

Philippines, with its beautiful tropical scenery and luxury resorts, is a great

destination for a dream wedding. A baroque church can provide an

extraordinary setting, blending beauty, history, and spirituality, enhancing the

overall experience for the couple and their guests.Particularly in areas with

Baroque art and architecture and including regional customs or culinary

experiences that showcase the Baroque influence in the area, a Baroque

wedding may be a breathtaking and culturally rich event. Think about things

like guest accessibility, nearby attractions, and the mood you want to create

when choosing a wedding venue that doubles as a tourist destination.

Everyone engaged may have a remarkable experience as a result.

Litonjua (2016) addresses the role that churches occupy in the

Philippines, acting as spiritual centers and landmarks of religion. As a book, it

focuses on the unique role assumed by these churches within their loca and

highlights the expressions of faith as joyous forms found in Philippine religious

practices. Litonjua pays attention to the historical depth and architectural

splendor that these churches carry, thus attracting tourists for an

understanding of the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Philippines. Through

its well-endowed religious life, the visitor encounters the local habits,

traditions, and identity of the Filipino people. The author argues that

responsible tourism should respect and enhance the spiritual and cultural

values and history of these churches so they always become meaningful

sanctuaries for worship and exploration.

Getting married in the Baroque churches in Cebu has become a major

feature for tourists who are in search of spiritual and cultural adventures. The

Our Lady of the Simala Shrine now attracts 2,000-3000 devotees a day thereby

turning into a pilgrimage since some are reported to have received miracles or

those who testify touching inspiring stories. This liberates the tourist

experience and translates the business of exchanging vows to touch the

community of faith and culture. The economic significance of religious tourism

in the development of local enterprises directly related to the shrine has been

also noted, especially with regard to local and foreign travelers. Likewise, there

have been a great number of couples who wanted to renew their vows in front

of the marvelous Baroque architecture of the Archdiocesan Shrine of San

Miguel Arcangel. The 8th Winter Escapade tour program to Cebu implies that

having vows in them, visitant churches extend not only cultural blessings but

also economic advantages to locals.

Ron and Timothy (2019) explores the intricate relationship between

"Contemporary Christian Travel: Pilgrimage, Practice, and Place," the

motivations and experiences of tourists engaging in Christian travel,

particularly pilgrimage. The authors analyze how contemporary pilgrims seek

spiritual fulfillment and connection to their faith through travel to sacred sites.

They discuss the various practices associated with Christian pilgrimage,

emphasizing the significance of place and the transformative potential of these

journeys. By examining case studies from around the world, Ron and Timothy

highlight the diversity of experiences among tourists, illustrating how personal,

communal, and spiritual dimensions intersect in the context of religious travel.

Foreign Literature

Cultural heritage tourism offers tourists a unique and enriching

experience, allowing them to immerse themselves in the local culture, engage

with the community, and participate in authentic cultural exchange. This type

of tourism enables tourists to build social capital, as they interact with local

residents, artisans, and craftspeople, and contribute to the preservation of

cultural assets. Through cultural heritage tourism, tourists can gain a deeper

understanding and appreciation of the local culture, fostering a sense of

connection and responsibility towards the community they visit. (Childs, 2015)

The interconnectivity between tourism and spiritual sites or in certain

baroque churches, such as the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona has become a lot

more complicated. New trends show that the opening of cultural attractions in

Southern Europe continue to attract tourists who are fascinated to visit these

places infringing with worshippers‘ devotion. This clash was witnessed during a

Saturday evening Mass at the Sagrada Familia as the security checks, and the

tourists took shots of the worshippers. Rev. Jose Maria Turull of the Basilica
and General Manager of the Sagrada Familia said that while the church

attracts millions of tourists because of its architectural design, there are also

faithful who want to pray without interruption. Such tension is typical of

churches that are increasingly found facing the dual purpose of religious

centers and historical sites. Since approximately 330 million people visit civil

religious sites per year, spirituality is essential. Measures such as having two

different corridors for visitors at St Peter Basilica or excluding the tourists

during the time of prayer has been adopted so that worshippers feel that they

are in a sacred place. When spirituality of both the locals and the tourist is

prioritized, churches within the baroque style can foster an atmosphere of

exchanging one‘s vows amidst the historical splendor while enhancing what

tourists can bring to a region without destroying their sanctity.

According to Moe and Pretroman (2014), The church in Timişoara has

been recognized as a historical monument since 1964. The city's historical

center features numerous baroque-style structures, such as the Roman

Catholic cathedral in Union Square and the neighboring Statue of the Holy

Trinity. Unlike many Western European towns, Timişoara has only a few

baroque specimens. Guided tours are available to provide insights into the

history, architecture, and significance of these structures, making the visit

more enriching for tourists.Choosing a wedding location that doubles as a

tourist destination can create a unique and memorable experience for you and

your guests.
 Wedding tourism involves a travel concept where a couple, along with

their guests, journey to a foreign location for their wedding. This type of

tourism is also referred to as 'Marriage Tourism' or 'Destination Weddings' and

encompasses honeymoon travel as well. Businesses in the travel and tourism

sector greatly benefit from wedding tourism. It is estimated that the annual

spending on destination wedding tourism amounts to US$16 billion, and the

revenue share of wedding tourism in the overall industry is expected to grow in

the years to come. The increase in the availability of hotels, resorts, cruise line

stop-offs, and flight connectivity in these often exotic locations has made it

more convenient for couples to tie the knot at their desired destination.

(Kumar, 2018)

The rich historical and cultural backgrounds of baroque churches make

them important tourist destinations that impact visitors' experiences. Because

these experiences can elicit emotional reactions and cultivate a deeper

appreciation for art and architecture, tourists' psychological participation is

essential. Immersion experiences that link visitors to the historical accounts

and artistic manifestations of the era are frequently offered by baroque

cathedrals. (Ryan & Zhang, 2024)

Richard Sharpley (2018) explores the intricate relationship between

tourism and cultural heritage in "Tourism, Tourists, and Society," emphasizing

the importance of heritage tourism to the travel experience. In her analysis,

Sharpley looks at how historical narratives and cultural identities can be

engaged with by tourists through heritage tourism, influencing how they see
both the location and their social environment. The advantages and

disadvantages of historic tourism are covered in the text, including the effects

on local communities and the possibility of cultural commodification. Sharpley

emphasizes the significance of sustainable approaches that respect and

conserve cultural heritage while improving the visitor experience by examining

several case studies. In the end, the book emphasizes the necessity of a fair

strategy that recognizes the importance of historic tourism in promoting

intercultural understanding.

Smorvik (2020) considered the motivations and experiences of tourists

visiting one of Rome's most famous churches at holiday times. Specifically, the

study seeks to explore how, besides being a place of worship, the Basilica is

also an important cultural landmark that attracts visitors who seek authentic

encounters with local traditions and religious practices. Smørvik said tourists

interact with the Basilica in different ways like participating in religious

ceremonies and appreciation of historical and architectural values, and such

interactions are focused in the study on how these actually entail enriching the

experience of a tourist. These encounters enrich cultural and spiritual

experiences that make visits by tourists an engagement with the local

community and its traditions. The results would imply that balanced tourism

and preservation of cultural integrity are of relevance as well so that the

Basilica could be a relevant place for both locals and tourists in general.

Each church's visitor experience is essential, but a more comprehensive

plan is needed to draw in new guests and motivate current ones to visit other
churches. According to the Historic Religious Buildings Alliance and the

Church Visitors and Tourism Association, these are organizations provided by

the Networks. They are vital for sharing, promoting best practices, and sharing

information. A range of programs, from short walks to long-distance pilgrim

trails and bicycle routes, are listed on the CVTA website. Encouraging visitors

is one of the simplest ways to extend the use of places of worship. If done well,

it can have minimal impact on the building's character or the congregation's

use of it. Moreover, promoting a broader appreciation of the building's

architectural and historic value not only enhances the visitor experience but

also helps safeguard the building's fabric in the future. (Taylor, J. 2018)

According to Urrows (2017), during the Baroque period, Western

missionaries brought the pipe organ to China, which became an important part

of church ceremonies. These musical instruments connected Chinese and

European cultures, and they were often found in Baroque-style churches.

Today, tourists visiting these churches are attracted to the unique combination

of music, history, and architecture, which gives them a chance to experience a

blend of Chinese and Western traditions. In a similar way, Baroque churches

around the world, including those in the Philippines, attract tourists with their

grand designs, musical elements like pipe organs, and rich cultural history.

These churches are often used for weddings and other special events, making

them popular tourist spots that not only showcase beautiful art and

architecture but also help preserve local traditions and contribute to tourism

(Urrows, 2017).
Local Studies

The Philippines has the potential to attract tourists through religious

tourism, which involves pilgrimage to sacred sites as an act of worship. Being

the only predominantly Christian nation in Asia, the Philippine government

aims to boost tourist arrivals, particularly among Catholics worldwide, to visit

the numerous stunning churches across the islands and experience the

liveliness of Filipino Catholicism. Tourists engaging in religious tourism would

be intrigued by the large congregations attending services, especially on

Sundays, when masses are typically held three times in the morning and three

times in the afternoon. However, what appears to be missing from religious

pilgrimages in the Philippines is a visit to churches that could be considered

non-traditional, as their structures are not distinct entities and their

architecture does not resemble the typical style. (Aguilar & Lineses, 2019)

According to Austine et al., (2023), pilgrimage tourism in selected

diocesan shrines and parish churches is driven by a range of motives,

including spiritual, cultural, and social factors, which influence tourists'

experiences and behaviors. Esplanada's study provides insights into the

complexities of pilgrimage tourism, highlighting the need for a deeper

understanding of tourists' motivations and the role of religious sites in

promoting cultural heritage and tourism development. Esplanada's research

provides valuable insights for stakeholders seeking to develop sustainable and

culturally sensitive tourism initiatives that respect the spiritual and cultural

significance of these sites. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of

considering the diverse needs and expectations of tourists, as well as the

potential impacts of tourism on local communities and the environment, in

order to create a more holistic and responsible approach to pilgrimage tourism

development.

Borromeo et al., there is a probe about the resources of Cavite cities and

municipalities in providing wedding tourism looking at its appeal to tourists.

The authors cited that rich cultural heritage and diversified wedding venues,

such that their services, including catering and event planning, had a great

appeal on couples and their families. The research suggests that effective

marketing plans will promote these resources, thereby attracting more tourists

to hold weddings and other wedding activities in Cavite. There is also an

involvement of the community in the development and promotion of wedding

tourism since it pertains to local economic benefits but conserves the culture of

the people.

According to Castillo, Bansil, and Garcia (2015), heritage tourism

contributes to the appeal of historical sites such as the old Taal church in

Batangas, Philippines where their study emphasizes that the cultural and

historical elements of these heritage sites are needed to attract tourists

particularly those who are drawn to the unique experience to hold weddings in

such historically rich venues; whereas, the authenticity of the site, its

architectural significance and the presence of historical artifacts provide a

meaningful backdrop that enhances the ceremonial experience for couples and

guests. These aspects are critical to create a heritage-driven tourism experience

where the setting is not just a venue but an immersive cultural encounter and

for Baroque churches used as wedding venues and that the historical depth

offers a distinct sense of place that cannot be replicated in modern locations

that makes them highly attractive to couples seeking culturally significant

destinations for their nuptials.

Gonzalez, M. (2016) finds that tourism has significant social, economic,

environmental, cultural, and artistic impacts. Tourists contribute to preserving

local culture and arts, improving the local economy, and enhancing

environmental conditions. However, problems like lack of funding, trash

disposal, and transit accessibility impede the growth of the tourism industry.

In order to enhance infrastructure and encourage heritage tourism, the report

recommends more collaboration between the public and commercial sectors.

Lartey S. (2024) stated that tourists who want to visit the Philippines

because of the country‘s cultural and political attraction, to explore and

discover the different terrains and culture of the country. ―The Importance of

Philippine Baroque Churches to Tourism‖ since tourists would naturally be

interested in the Philippine Baroque churches not only because of its

architectural uniqueness but also of religious and historical value. This may

promote tourism as the couples may decide to get married in these historical

churches hence boosting the country‘s economy and embracing the cultures of

the ancient times.

According to Oasay and Williams (2021) the visitors perceived that the

San Agustin Church and Malacañang of the North's design represent their
period's architectural style. The former portrayed Spanish culture, and the

latter portrayed Filipino culture. The authenticity of the local natural

surroundings of the two sites also added to the visitors' experience. Visitors'

experiences engage their senses, especially their sense of sight. The site visit

also allows them to move conveniently from one place to another. Furthermore,

the visitors consider visiting these cultural heritage sites a positive experience,

making them feel that they are partially responsible for preserving Filipino

culture. This study also confirms that the perceived authenticity of cultural

heritage sites is positively related to visitors' experience. This is important as it

could become a foundation for how the different sectors of the tourism industry

or service providers can enhance their visitors' experiences.

According to Tan (2018), The Church's pastoral concern for tourists

today includes meeting their spiritual needs through various methods, such as

providing pastoral care for religious tourists and using sacred art and

architecture as teaching tools. "Religious tourism" combines secular travel and

religious pilgrimage, attracting both religious and nonreligious tourists to

locations with historical and cultural significance also incorporating to plan

activities for visitors to explore the local sites before or following the wedding,

taking into account travel limitations and local laws. During tours, newsletters,

and social media, tell tales about the church's history and its community

service. Put up educational signs or plaques outside the church that explain its

background and importance.

 The Cagayan Valley region of the Philippines is the focus of Tao-Ing

(2022)' Journal article, "Tourist Behavior and Intention to Revisit the Religious

Sites: The Case of Cagayan Valley Region, Philippines," which examines the

factors that impact visitor behavior and the intents of visitors to return to these

places. They discover that several factors, including visitor happiness, cultural

relevance, and individual motives, have a big influence on how likely it is for

visitors to return. To encourage return visits, the study emphasizes the

significance of boosting the visitor experience through better services and the

promotion of cultural heritage. The authors' identification of these crucial

factors offers significant insights for tourism stakeholders seeking to enhance

the local economy and maintain religious sites as essential elements of cultural

tourism.

Foreign Studies

In "The Heritage Tourist: An Understanding of the Visitor Experience at

Heritage Attractions," Kempiak et al. (2017) explore the various aspects that

visitors have at historical locations. The study highlights how crucial it is to

comprehend how tourists engage with cultural assets and their motives and

expectations. Through a comprehensive analysis of many heritage attractions,

the writers pinpoint crucial elements that impact the comprehensive visitor

experience, including emotional immersion, educational significance, and the

genuineness of the heritage showcased. The results show that a better

understanding of these components can improve heritage site management and

marketing, which will eventually result in a more fulfilling and meaningful

experience for visitors. This study adds to the larger conversation on heritage

tourism by establishing a link between visitor happiness and cultural

preservation and appreciation.

According to Kolomiiets (2024), New Spanish Baroque architecture has

been the driving force in cultural identity and historical context, particularly in

Mexico. Beyond an artful achievement, these styles let out artistic and cultural

traits in their time and reflect as vital parts of cultural heritage that attract

tourists. The New Spanish Baroque has often been found by tourist visitors as

the perfect focal point related to the right cultural designs and monumental

structures, as these provide deep insight into the age's rich history and artistic

expression. As a result, these buildings can also highlight the tourism

experience since they connect the tourists to the historical narratives of the

regions they visit. The study promotes the appreciation and development of

New Spanish Baroque architecture as a ground for tourist involvement with

local culture and history. Tourists can be attracted to visit a place, thereby

developing tourism in ways that celebrate cultural heritage while infusing

economic benefits into local communities based on the perception of these

architectural achievements. Because these buildings often tend to host events

important to individuals, such as weddings, they become even more important

to the locals and tourists, thus adding value to tourist attractions (Kolomiiets,

2024)

The positioning and visibility of wedding churches in contemporary

Japan reflect the significance of Christian weddings in people's lives. While

some may view them as mere backdrops for ceremonies or photographs, the

active participation of individuals in Christian wedding rituals suggests a

deeper level of engagement. Visual elements undoubtedly contribute to the

Japanese experience, but contemplation cannot be divorced from the

customary actions and rituals associated with these spaces. The visual and

ritual aspects of Christian wedding environments are interconnected and

cannot be fully understood in isolation. (LeFebvre, 2022)

According to Oliveira et. al (2020) tourists are interested in cultural and

heritage aspects to gain the cultural and historical value of the Baroque

churches in the region of Apulia in Italy. The idea of exchanging vows in

Baroque churches is important to tourism since it also provides tourists with

the unique and real cultural value of the region as well as engaging tourists to

get more acquainted with the local traditions, history, and values which in turn

leads to the creation of more job opportunities in related industries. This is

related to cultural and historical value and tradition in the area since tourists

are interested in the beauty, history, culture and tradition of the region hence

the importance of creating a bond between the tourists and the local people.

Rajesh (2014) details how perceptions of tourists, destination image, and

satisfaction interrelate to determine destination loyalty. The research puts

forward that the perceptions that the tourist has toward a destination are

formed by one's experiences as well as the marketed image. According to the

author, satisfactory tourists lead to greater loyalty because tourists who are in

some way satisfied will most likely give positive recommendations and return.
Emphasis is placed on marketing and customer service strategic initiatives that

would positively contribute to enhancing the overall tourist experience, which

would lead to loyalty and sustainable economic benefits for the destination.

The study by Sun et al. (2024) highlights the growing popularity of

church tourism due to the religious, artistic, and historical significance of

churches. The destination image of churches is crucial in tourism marketing.

Most current literature focuses on conventional techniques to understand how

tourists perceive churches as travel destinations, emphasizing general

descriptions, visitor experiences, architecture, and surrounding environments

by encouraging guests to take time to explore the local culture, cuisine, and

attractions around the wedding date. The study's findings can aid church

leaders in developing sustainable tourist plans and promoting the growth of

church tourism. A church's visibility can be increased and more people will be

interested in its history, architecture, and community if it is promoted as a

tourist site.

According to Mostafa Rasoolimanesh et al. (2021), MTEs—which are

distinguished by their emotional involvement, novelty, and personal

relevance—have a big impact on travelers' happiness, loyalty, and plans to

return. Positive experiences at heritage sites often lead to word-of-mouth

promotion and repeat visits, making them key drivers in heritage tourism

marketing and site management.

Church buildings are increasingly popular tourist destinations, some

considered high-profile places or primary nuclei. In Great Britain, church

architecture is among the six most popular tourist destinations, while Notre-

Dame Cathedral in Paris is Europe's most visited tourist attraction. In Western

Europe, tourists visit churches more often during their travels than they

usually do at home. The blurred lines between pilgrimage and tourism

challenge the Catholic Church's ability to transmit the Christian faith in

religious tourism effectively. Pilgrimage and tourism overlap, with pilgrims and

tourists using the same infrastructure for travel, combining pilgrimage with

family vacation, visiting other tourist attractions, and having alliances with

other cultural institutions. While scholars continue to establish similarities,

some authors prefer to separate their meanings. The Church's efforts to

transmit faith in religious tourism should focus on specific Christian elements

in site promotion and visitor experience cultivation. (Tan, J. 2019)

According to Turci and Aragrande (2023), the translation of cultural

heritage in Italy's Ducato Estense region plays a crucial role in promoting

heritage tourism, as it enables the preservation and communication of the

region's rich cultural identity to a diverse audience. The study examines the

translation strategies employed in the Churches and Palaces of the Ducato

Estense, highlighting the importance of cultural mediation in facilitating the

appreciation and understanding of cultural heritage sites. Effective translation

not only enhances the tourist experience but also contributes to the

sustainable development of heritage tourism, as it allows local communities to

share their cultural identity with a broader audience while preserving their

unique cultural heritage for future generations.

2.4 Environment

Local Literature

According to Cole (2022), couples are increasingly opting for eco-friendly

weddings, and the wedding industry has been quick to adapt to this trend.

Choosing a location close to home can reduce the wedding's carbon footprint,

but it is still possible to have an eco-friendly destination wedding with careful

transportation planning. There are many lovely venue alternatives available,

including garden wedding locations in Metro Manila by select locations that put

an emphasis on sustainability, such as those with recycling initiatives,

renewable energy sources, or natural areas like parks or gardens.It takes

careful planning and decisions that reduce environmental effect to create an

eco-friendly wedding. Couples can design a stunning wedding that reflects their

values and supports environmental sustainability by implementing these

techniques.

The Tubbataha Natural Reef, the Banaue Rice Terraces, Baroque

churches, and colonial-era homes are just a few of the Philippines' many

UNESCO World Heritage sites. However, urbanization, neglect, infrastructure

development, changes in land use, and ignorance have put these ancient sites

at risk. Extreme weather events, climate change, and temperature, can

significantly harm historic buildings, cultural landscapes, and traditional land

practices. The National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 was responsible and

designed to preserve and conserve these places, even with the adverse hazards

of the global climate crisis. The loss of species and biodiversity is also
impacting traditional ecological knowledge. Groups of people are being

uprooted from their ancestral lands and hallowed sites. The climate problem is

causing billion-dollar losses to the economy, and to preserve cultural heritage,

solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation must involve ethnic and

indigenous people. (Doron, R. 2023)

Gonzales (2023), discusses an expected tourism boom in the Philippines

with wider implications such as environmental. The article is heavily based on

economic impacts, however, more often than not, tourism expansion creates

pressures in terms of environmental factors-in terms of resource consumption,

pressures towards effective waste management systems, and increased

degradation of sensitive ecosystems. Sustainable tourism practices are very

important as the nation prepared for this expansion to manage surging footfalls

around these areas to not harm nature. The article silently touched upon the

need for policies which ensure that economic development and environmental

conservation go hand in hand, thereby promoting models of tourism that

ensure the continued survival of biodiversity and livelihood and that there

would be no untimely natural destruction for the next generation.

The book discusses how environmental factors, such as natural disasters

and climate change, threaten the cultural heritage of churches in the

Philippines. Environmental degradation, such as pollution and deforestation,

may also be addressed as a challenge to preserving these cultural resources.

The chapter might explore the importance of preserving the natural

environments surrounding churches, which are often closely tied to the

cultural heritage of these sites. The role of environmental conservation in

protecting churches and their cultural significance may be highlighted,

including the need for sustainable tourism practices and disaster risk

reduction measures. Overall, the chapter may emphasize the importance of

balancing environmental conservation with cultural resource management

goals to protect the cultural heritage of churches in the Philippines. (Henson,

2020)

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has issued a

pastoral letter titled "A Call for Unity and Action amid a Climate Emergency

and Planetary Crisis," demonstrating the Philippine Catholic Church's

commitment to addressing the climate emergency. In this letter, all dioceses

and institutions are urged to decline donations from extractive industries and

to divest from fossil fuels, emphasizing the Church's moral obligation to care

for the environment. The bishops are advocating for sustainable practices and

urging financial institutions to embrace eco-friendly policies. The CBCP has a

historical precedent of addressing environmental issues, dating back to 1988,

making it one of the first bishops' conferences to directly confront climate

change. The urgency of their message is underscored by the Philippines'

susceptibility to natural disasters and environmental deterioration, prompting

bishops such as Bishop Allan Casicas and Archbishop Ricardo Baccay to take

action against harmful mining practices that jeopardize local ecosystems. This

proactive stance aligns with the sentiments expressed in Pope Francis's

encyclical, *Laudato Si‘*, which echoes the CBCP's longstanding concerns

about environmental degradation. Overall, the actions of the Philippine Church

signify a shift in focus towards prioritizing ecological integrity as part of its

mission, acknowledging that all communities have a shared responsibility for

the Earth. (Maximiano, 2022)

The Philippine baroque churches that are heritage listed with UNESCO

are particularly good examples of the creative ways in which this architectural

aesthetic was able to deal with environmental issues, particularly those arising

from natural disasters. Despite the great constructive boiling of structures

raised between the 16th and 18th hundreds, such as San Agustin Church of

Manila, Miagao Church of Iloilo, Paoay Church of Ilocos Norte, and Santa Maria

of Ilocos Sur, show beings as buttresses from the Filipino people who, in rank

of using beam and post adequately, simulated present materials, adobe, and

coral to sound construction. Most of these features are functional, but they

also complement the physical appearance, thus attracting touristic attention

regarding the attractiveness of these areas and their history. Details of the

architecture like the use of ochre color or the facade of Miagao Church or the

location of Santa Maria Church dramatically on a slope gives testimony to

resilience in the face of various challenges and integration of the buildings to

the existing environment. As they make their choices, to start a new life in the

house of worship, the visitors come in contact with many cultural assets that

these churches represent, thereby helping in the course of conservation and

socially responsible stewardship of the cultural and physical environment

within this domain of cultural tourism.

 In the news article by M. Ribaya titled "Endangered: Saving Manila's

Remaining Heritage Structures Comes with Roadblocks" The issues

surrounding the preservation of Manila's ancient architecture are covered

(2022, April 14). It draws attention to how urgently these historic buildings

must be protected because urbanization and modernizing pressures are

putting them in danger. The article lists a number of challenges, such as

insufficient money, inefficient bureaucracy, and competing stakeholder

interests. It highlights the significance of enlisting community support and

increasing public awareness in preservation efforts, as well as the government's

and non-governmental organizations' roles in preserving Manila's cultural

legacy. In the end, the essay advocates for a cooperative approach to historic

protection, acknowledging that keeping these buildings intact is crucial for

promoting tourist and economic growth in addition to maintaining cultural

identity.

With millions of tourists visiting the Philippines each due to its rich

natural and cultural history, tourism has grown to be a major contributor to

the country's economy. However, there are both beneficial and bad effects on

the environment as a result of the tourism industry's explosive rise.

Degradation of natural resources is one of the biggest effects of tourism on the

environment in the Philippines. The demand for resources, including land,

electricity, and water, has increased in tandem with the rise in visitor numbers.

Because of this, these resources have been overused, which has caused
deforestation, power outages, and water shortages. Furthermore, natural

ecosystems have been destroyed as a result of the development of hotels,

resorts, and other tourist amenities. (Dominic Rielo Amayun, 2023)

According to Silva (2017), there are more than 1,170 churches in the

Philippines, some of them that go over 100 years. The churches are significant

because they reflect the history and culture of the country. Despite having

suffered damages due to some natural calamities and being neglected, some

churches were restored. Some tourists visit these beautiful churches not only

because they possess such beauty but also because they are historical sites

holding great events like weddings. The churches are, therefore, important

aspects in tourism in the Philippines.

The main attractions of the churches include their unique styles, especially

for the Miag-ao and Paoay Churches. Rather than a source of being a great

tourist attraction, they prove to be testament to the strength of the local

communities and their faith. In going to see these Baroque churches, tourists

can connect with the local culture, hence making them integral attractions for

locals and visitors alike (Silva, 2017).

Foreign Literature

According to Artland. (2023), the elaborate and theatrical style of the

Baroque art was displayed mainly in the church, palaces and other government

buildings that were meant to invoke emotions in people as well as amazement.

These architectural surroundings played an important role in the Baroque style

since they allowed for such elements as the dramatic use of the light, passion,

and motion depicted in Baroque art.

The interior of Baroque churches resembles theaters: facilitation of experiences

and the emergence of an interest in theatrerican churches has become an ideal

for lovers to have their weddings in an extraordinary atmosphere. This has

major impacts on tourism because people usually visit these areas that contain

the couple‘s attractions and improve the economic fortunes of that region

through spending while at the same time helping in the conservation of history.

According to Baloch (2022), tourism development can promote economic

development. However, it is also a major threat to environmental integrity, and

its prudent implementation is necessary to balance economic growth with

environmental protection. Therefore, the research emphasizes the need for

appropriate balance in tourism development and environmental protection

toward sustainability. In this regard, the authors have focused on showing key

determinants that influence this balance such as local community

participation, regulatory frameworks, and promoting the environmental

practices so that it highlights how tourism must evolve towards sustainable

practices that provide protection to natural resources and biodiversity.

According to Correa (2021), San Agustin is a popular wedding location

in the Philippines due to its exceptional qualities reflecting the environmental

conditions of the time. The church features Baroque altars, crypto-collateral

chapels, a monastery with cloisters, arcades, and gardens, and tromp l'oeil

style ceiling paintings. It was the first church built on the island of Luzon.
Good architecture should not only prioritize durability, function, and beauty

but also promote joy and environmental focus.The temperature and amount of

natural light in the church may change with the seasons. Make appropriate

plans for both comfort and style. Baroque church weddings may be incredibly

poignant events that combine the setting's beauty with the occasion's

significance to create enduring memories for the couple and their guests.

The book highlights how various religious traditions engage with

environmental issues, emphasizing the role of spirituality in promoting

ecological awareness and sustainable practices. Through a series of essays by

leading scholars, the text explores themes such as the moral responsibilities of

faith communities toward creation care, the integration of ecological concerns

into religious teachings, and the potential for interfaith collaborations to

address global environmental challenges. The editors advocate for a nuanced

understanding of how religion can both influence and contribute to ecological

stewardship, ultimately presenting a framework for integrating spiritual and

ecological goals in the pursuit of sustainability. (Jenkins, 2017)

Environment concerns such as pollution, climate change and loss of

biodiversity are more important than ever, one of the roles of the church is to

advocate and practice environmental practices. Churches have a distinct

opportunity and have a moral obligation to lead by and encourage their

congregations to take action to preserve and conserve the environment for

future generations. Involvement of church in environmental conservation is not

just a simple optional add on the life of being a Christian, but a fundamental
expression of faith. Taking care of earth is a another form of worship or a way

of thinking God for His creation.Churches can significantly impact our planet's

health and future generation's well - being , fulfilling their call to be faithful to

God's creation we can achieve this if we embrace the role of the church and the

people. (Justice and Peace, 2014)

The book "Nature in the Built Environment" explores the complex

relationship between the natural world and human-made environments. It

examines the global politico-economic and geographical factors that shape this

relationship, including the impact of urbanization and development on the

environment. The book likely discusses the ways in which human activities,

such as urban planning and development, affect the natural environment and

the consequences of these impacts. It may also explore the ways in which

environmental concerns are addressed in the context of urban planning and

development, including policies and practices aimed at mitigating the negative

effects of human activity on the environment. Overall, the book provides a

comprehensive analysis of the intersection of nature and the built

environment, highlighting the need for sustainable and environmentally

conscious approaches to urban development. (Njoh, 2020)

In a recent press briefing by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the

Philippines (CBCP), Bishop Pablo Virgilio David highlighted the intensified

environmental protection efforts of the Philippine Catholic Church. By 2025,

the CBCP plans to divest from financial institutions involved in

environmentally harmful activities, particularly extractive industries, using a

"scorecard" system to identify such banks. Bishop Gerardo Alminaza

emphasized the importance of engaging in dialogue with these institutions to

encourage them to adopt eco-friendly policies, leveraging their positions as

depositors and shareholders. Furthermore, the CBCP endorsed the "10 million

solar rooftops challenge," which aims to promote solar energy adoption among

Filipino households as a sustainable alternative. During the recent 128th

CBCP Plenary Assembly, the "Ecology Desk" was elevated to an "Integral

Ecology Ministry," with the goal of strengthening ecological initiatives across

dioceses. Currently, 68 out of 85 dioceses have established ecology desks, but

only 29 are actively functioning. The CBCP also plans to issue a pastoral

statement focusing on combating plastic pollution and supporting solid waste

management efforts. This comprehensive approach reflects the Church's

commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility in

addressing ecological challenges in the Philippines. (Saludes, 2024)

According to Sheriff and Juliao (2023), Spanish Baroque architecture,

which became popular between the mid-1600s to the mid-1700s, was marked

by ornate ornamentation and emotional appeal. This is because the Catholic

Church tried to regain people towards it, since it faced Counter-Reformation.

Ornate ornamentations were made of stone, gold, and marble, but the

materials used were simple like brick. These churches are not only the source

of great spiritual experience but also indicate how powerful the Church could

be. People like to visit these churches because of their beautiful designs and

wonderful history, especially on the occasion of important marriages. The

beautiful churches are not just in terms of their structure but also in terms of

the building which has integrated with the community and for tourism.

Married couples who choose them to hold their ceremonies connect with the

place's history and culture. These help in preserving the traditions, and the

local area tourist industry makes money off the people who go there to see the

art and history in the buildings (Sheriff & Juliao, 2023).

Compared to the outer climate, the indoor atmosphere is typically more

stable and experiences less and slower fluctuations. The materials that make

up the indoor elements (like stone ashlars, clay-based materials, timber

coffered ceilings, stuccos, and deck slabs) and the artwork they contain (like

sculptures, paintings, and frescoes) adjust and become acclimated to these

temperature and humidity levels, which allows them to withstand the test of

time.(Varas, 2014)

Local Studies

Events for tourists cause the environment to be destroyed by

contaminating all of its essential components. Waste causes pollution, and the

community bears a heavy burden from the pollutants it produces, creating an

unsatisfactory impression and a complex issue in tourist destinations.

Excessive urbanization, unsafe and low-quality construction, and over-tourism

cause the deterioration of an area. (Blanco, I. et al., 2023).

The study on disaster preparedness of historic churches in the province

of Cavite, Philippines, highlights the importance of protecting these cultural

heritage sites from natural disasters. In terms of environmental impact, the

study notes that floods can be avoided if government policies and regular water

level monitoring are implemented. Additionally, earthquakes can cause damage

to the historical churches, and routine structural inspections are necessary to

ensure their stability. The study emphasizes the need for sustainable tourism

development that prioritizes the preservation of cultural and historical

significance, while also considering environmental factors such as flood control

and earthquake resilience. By adopting environmentally friendly practices and

disaster risk reduction measures, the historic churches in Cavite can be

protected for future generations, while also promoting sustainable tourism and

community development. (Elayda & Tabuyo, 2023)

According to Peracullo and Quindoza (2022), since the 1970s, open-pit

mining activities in the Philippines have raised questions about the concept of

the "Church of the Poor," a term used by the Catholic Church in the

Philippines to describe its prophetic mission. In addition to mining, numerous

other environmentally harmful industries operate in the country's poorest

regions, despite the fact that the Philippines is prone to disasters and is one of

the world's most vulnerable countries to the severe impacts of the climate

crisis. As a result of environmental degradation, many Filipino Catholic

organizations and communities have joined together in various campaigns to

tackle the issue. This article explores a situation in which a faith-based

community took on the challenge of addressing the environmental issues that

their community has faced and continues to face. The community's

environmental activism offers a practical model for rethinking ecological care in

order to promote the "flourishing of all," in response to Pamela McCarroll's call

to advance discussions on how practical theology can move beyond

anthropocentrism while prioritizing social justice.

Pilapil-Añasco and Lizada (2014), discussed the transition towards

sustainable tourism in the Philippines aimed at improving the visitor

experience as well as attenuating the negative impacts of tourism on the

natural ecosystem. This thus highlights the importance of environmental

considerations within tourism policies and practices in the research work and

encourages the adoption of sustainable measures such as the reduction of

wastes, conservation, and responsible resource utilization. The development of

a sustainable tourism framework, according to the authors, provides protection

of rich biodiversity and environmental heritage while stimulating economic

growth in the tourism sector of the Philippines.

The importance of the church in advancing ecological sustainability in

the Philippines is discussed in "Toward the Sustainable Management of

Ecosystems for the Filipino Church," written by Rojo and Bacolod Christian

College in 2014. The authors contend that through its teachings and

involvement in the community, the church is in a unique position to inspire

environmental stewardship. They discuss different approaches to incorporating

sustainable practices into church operations and outreach programs,

highlighting the value of advocacy and education in helping members of the

congregation develop an ecological conscience. In the context of the Philippines,

this article emphasizes the need to match spiritual principles with sustainable
development objectives by focusing on the church's ability to act as a catalyst

for environmental management.

The colonial past of the Philippines has had a significant impact on its

architectural legacy. The Philippines lacks large temples with Indian, Khmer, or

Burmese influences, despite the fact that the countryside is still dotted with

the region's distinctive folk architecture—light buildings with high-pitched

roofs and erected on stilts—unlike its neighbors in Southeast Asia. Rather, a

huge stone church filled with Catholic symbolism may be found in the middle

of practically every town beyond architecture; the authenticity of practices and

traditions within these churches can vary. Local interpretations of Catholic

rituals often incorporate indigenous beliefs and customs

Nearly all of these churches are still in existence and continue to be used. Their

tenacity is a silent testament to the devotion of those who look after them.

(Santillan & Manalo 2018).

According to Shovkun and Myron (2023), the environment referred to is

the obligatory natural and cultural landscape of the Chernihiv region involving

the and containing wooden churches inextricably linked with the area's history,

culture and traditions. Especially, it stresses on the need to protect such

churches as a part of cultural and historical identity, noting their relevance as

the tourist objects and the possible role in the corresponding development of

regional tourism. The wooden churches of the Chernihiv region, with their

unique cultural and historical significance, can be connected to the topic of

"Exchanging Vows in Baroque Churches: This work focuses on explaining and

analyzing its origins, evolution and its relevance especially to tourism. The

Baroque and rococo style detail in the church construction, similar to the

Ukrainian wooden churches of Chernihiv, looks aesthetically and artistically

appealing which makes these churches a favorite wedding destination among

tourists. Since these are the cultural and historical churches, their cultural

and historical values that are also their aesthetic value can serve the purpose

of tourist attraction hence promoting the economy of the area through tourism.

Churches in the Philippines are examples of heritage buildings renowned

for their structural strength and long-term viability. Natural disasters,

however, can bring about unfavorable outcomes. Many buildings, notably

churches that date back hundreds of years, were constructed utilizing

traditional techniques due to the nation's varied past. Research reveals that the

strength of these churches is influenced by various factors, including their

history, skeletal system, building materials, and unique elements. This aims to

evaluate the structural integrity of a century-old Filipino Church, focusing on

its purpose and contribution to the structure. The Philippines' architecture

blends religion, regional traditions, social characteristics, and resources. The

study plans to create design standards for influential churches, considering

factors affecting their structural integrity. (Soliman, E. M. 2019).

According to Tallara (2023), churches of the Philippines did the shift to

online religious activities within the COVID-19 pandemic period to still

continue practicing their religion in spite of not being able to go into the

churches. This is how technology and religion blend to justify its existence-
even in such constrained circumstances where traditional practices are out of

the question. Exchange vows against the lyrical architecture of historic

Baroque churches: it runs along that line where an adaptation would reflect

how such beautiful and significant spaces continue to play a vital role both in

faith and tourism, though many religious practices are transferred to the online

world.

The Philippines' Baroque churches are considered not only as places of

prayer but also as forms of tourist attraction because of their cultural and

historical importance. In this context, the decision of couples to take their vows

in these churches may not be a personal and family affair but a backhand way

of indirectly supporting local tourism in the course of ensuring the on-going

heritage of churches, (Tallara, 2023).

Foreign Studies

Water vapor condensation on the inside surfaces of cultural heritage is

undesirable and can cause mold growth, destruction of the mural paintings,

etc. This article presents the calculation of water vapor condensation in Horni

Polubne's Baroque Church of the Birth of St. John the Baptist, Czech Republic,

in the Jizera Mountains. This church was chosen because of its severe weather

on the exterior and disfavourable interior conditions. A computation of the

temperature distribution was performed in 2016 and 2018 for the details of the

windows, window sills, and masonry under the windowsills. A 2-D numerical

model for this part of the construction was used to compute the temperature.

This computation used air temperatures measured in the church's interior and
exterior. Results showed almost no condensation in 2016 in the construction

details mentioned above. It was the year without extreme and quick changes in

the weather. On the other hand, the year 2018 was prosperous, with extreme

changes in the weather. During the first five months of 2018, the condensation

of water vapor was present approximately twenty times. (Beran, P., & Maděra,

J. 2019).

According to Di Giovine et. al. (2020), pointed out the environment is

perceived as an important component of tourism development in the

Philippines. It explains that it should be noted that measures can be taken to

reduce the adverse effects of tourism that include pollution, destruction of

habitats and climate change that threatens the landscape and wildlife of the

Philippines.

Tourism has emerged as a boom industry in many countries around the

world and the internet as we consider has played a significant role in this

boom, and it is therefore important to look at the internet in relation to tourism

and in particular the following; Their Significance to Tourism. It is therefore

necessary that all the remaining historical churches and their surroundings be

well preserved to conserve the cultural and environmental value of the areas.

Measures should be taken to popularize rational and environmentally friendly

behavior of tourists in these regions to preserve the above mentioned cultural

and natural values for future generations.

The presence of tourists at the church of San Juan del Hospital in

Valencia, Spain, contributes to environmental degradation, specifically through

increased temperatures, relative humidity, and CO2 concentrations, which

negatively impact the coating materials and paints in the church, ultimately

affecting the heritage site's conservation and the surrounding environment.

Additionally, the large number of visitors can lead to increased energy

consumption, waste generation, and pollution, further exacerbating the

environmental impact. The increased foot traffic and human activity can also

cause wear and tear on the site's infrastructure, leading to erosion and

degradation of the surrounding ecosystem. Overall, the environmental impact

of tourism on heritage sites like the church of San Juan del Hospital highlights

the need for sustainable tourism practices and conservation efforts to mitigate

these effects and preserve the site for future generations. (Galiano-Garrigós et

al. 2024)

The research, titled "Public Perception of the Influence of Religious

Practices on the Environment," delves into the impact of religious activities on

the environmental attitudes and actions of worshippers. It emphasizes that a

large number of people view their religious communities as playing a crucial

role in promoting environmental conservation, with most expressing a wish for

their spiritual leaders to take a more active stance on ecological issues. The

study suggests that religious teachings often stress the moral responsibility to

protect the environment, which can inspire worshippers to adopt sustainable

behaviors. However, the research also points out gaps in knowledge and action,

indicating that while there is a strong inclination towards environmental

stewardship, many individuals feel disconnected from actionable initiatives

within their religious institutions. Overall, the findings highlight the potential

for religious organizations to leverage their influence in nurturing greater

environmental awareness and promoting proactive measures among their

members. (Gareiou et. al., 2021)

A comprehensive seismic assessment approach was created by Limoge-

Schraen et al. (2015), with the goal of determining how vulnerable these

important architectural sites are. Their research offered a methodical way to

evaluate the structural soundness of Baroque churches in relation to seismic

hazards.The authors outlined particular elements, such as the characteristics

of the materials and the building methods common to the Baroque era, that

add to the vulnerability of masonry constructions. Their results highlight the

necessity of focused conservation plans in order to shield these cultural

treasures from future earthquakes. This study adds to the expanding corpus of

information about the relationship between structural engineering and heritage

conservation, highlighting the significance of preventative actions in preserving

historic buildings.

This study discusses the intersection of Baroque artistic principles and

today's environmental exhaustion. Patino Romero contends that the ornate and

excessive nature of art during the Baroque civilization has corollaries within

today's sort of social ecological crises. The author underlines how it will

influence current debates on the environment by urging an opening of

reflections about the aesthetics of other times in history. To sum up, the paper

requires further interaction with the intricacies of art to further strengthen

sustainability attempts and consequently mitigate the modern environmental

challenges. (Patino Romero, J. L., 2024)

According to Sasam et. al (2021), the process of restoring the

environment around a church encompasses not only enhancing the physical

space but also promoting sustainability. The text also delves into the specific

task of determining the fractal dimensions of the retablos in San Miguel de

Archangel Church in Argao, Cebu, by utilizing both old and new photos. It

mentions the use of the thresholding effect, a fundamental image processing

technique, to convert the photos into binary, thus facilitating the calculation of

the fractal dimension and providing a straightforward view. Additionally, the

text points out that the church's restoration efforts, including the gilding of the

gold leaf and irregularities, are conceptually imprecise, emphasizing the

importance of handling historical objects appropriately. Furthermore, it

underscores the significance of this approach in enabling religious

communities to exercise greater caution when restoring historic church

buildings.

According to Shinde, K. and Ols, D. (2020), the interaction between

tourism and the environment has drawn the most attention and produced

fundamental conceptual frameworks for understanding these relationships.

However, there is a significant lack of information regarding the influence of

religious values on the beneficial and bad effects of tourism on the

environment. Environmental issues are only briefly mentioned in the

connections between religion and tourism. In terms of the relationship between

religion and the environment, while the allure of nature and moral demands for

environmental stewardship are clear, there are still few studies on how the

different elements that support these relationships actually interact in the

physical world.

According to Zhang (2024), the redevelopment of the historic Chinese

Baroque area of Harbin, which has a blend of Russian and traditional Chinese

architecture, is to establish a popular tourist zone, but the project failed in that

regard. Over 15 years have elapsed since the beginning point, in which many of

the historic buildings have stood vacant, and whereas the community once

thrived there, new shops and restaurants built during the construction period

stand largely unused. This would mean that renovation of old buildings alone

cannot be a panacea unless coupled with the saving of the local culture and

community to help facilitate tourism. This is a very common case that exists in

the other historical attractions, like the Baroque churches. People are drawn to

such places because of architectural majesty and for the culturally real

experience. If the aim of the redevelopment focuses on modernization and the

development fails to preserve the culture and the spirit of the place, it may

certainly lose its attraction to the visitors (Zhang, 2024).