Understanding Trends in Inclusive Travel for People with Disabilities in Laiya, Batangas: Basis for a Tourism Accessibility Development Plan

This study assessed the status of inclusive travel for persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Laiya, Batangas, Philippines, as a basis for proposing a Tourism Accessibility Development Plan. Anchored on the Social Model of Disability and Inclusive Tourism Theory, it examined the destination in terms of the 5 A’s of tourism (attractions, accessibility, accommodation, activities, and amenities), the barriers perceived by PWDs, and their travel inclusivity trends. Employing a descriptive mixed-methods design, the study involved 81 PWDs and their accompanying caregivers or family members selected through purposive sampling. Data were gathered through a validated four-point Likert-scale questionnaire with open-ended items and analyzed using frequency, percentage, weighted mean, standard deviation, Spearman’s rank-order correlation, and thematic analysis. Results showed that respondents agreed that Laiya is accessible across all five components, with amenities (WM = 3.136) and accommodation (WM = 3.048) rated highest and tourism activities (WM = 2.849) rated lowest, particularly the adaptability of water activities. The most frequently reported barriers were the lack of ramps or elevators (87.65%), limited discounts or promotions (60.49%), lack of assistance from staff or other people (59.26%), and the absence of sign language interpreters (59.02%). Respondents nonetheless strongly agreed on their satisfaction, intention to revisit, and likelihood to recommend Laiya, and accessibility factors were strongly and significantly related to travel inclusivity trends (ρ = 0.689, p < .001). The study concluded that Laiya offers a generally accessible tourism environment, but gaps in mobility infrastructure, communication support, staff assistance, and financial accessibility continue to limit the full participation of PWDs. A Tourism Accessibility Development Plan addressing these gaps was proposed for implementation by tourism authorities, local government, and resort operators.