Assessing Competitiveness and Sustainability in the Tourism Industry of Negros Occidental

Abstract. This study examined the competitiveness and sustainability of the tourism industry in Negros Occidental, Philippines, in response to the limited localized evidence on how accredited tourism attractions are perceived in terms of these two interconnected dimensions. Using a quantitative descriptive correlational design, the study gathered data from 283 tourism personnel from 26 Department of Tourism accredited attractions in 13 cities through a validated researcher made questionnaire covering activities, amenities, accessibility, and awareness. Frequency, percentage, mean, Mann Whitney U test, Kruskal Wallis H test, and Spearman rho were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed that the tourism industry in Negros Occidental was perceived as very competitive and very sustainable overall, with particularly strong ratings in unique activities, quality amenities, accessible facilities, and visible sustainability practices. Most profile variables showed no significant differences in competitiveness and sustainability, indicating a generally shared perception across educational attainment, length of service, employment status, and type of attraction. However, significant differences emerged in sustainability when respondents were grouped by position, specifically in accessibility and awareness, suggesting that organizational role influences how sustainability is perceived and experienced. These results imply that tourism destinations in the province already exhibit strong market appeal and responsible tourism practices, but they still require more consistent role based sustainability communication, stronger internal coordination, and continued investment in accessibility and visitor experience. The study contributes empirical evidence that may guide destination managers, policymakers, and tourism stakeholders in strengthening long term tourism development in Negros Occidental. Keywords: Competitiveness; Sustainability; Tourism Development; Tourism Industry