“From Fitness to Footfall: The Role of Physical Education Programs in Advancing Sports Tourism in Laguna, Philippines”
Journal Type:Research Article
Subject:Education
Subject Field:Education Journal
Volume:198, Issue: 1, June, 2026
Publish Date:June 4, 2026 4:08 am
Pages:463-474
Download:15
Views:12
Abstract
In the pursuit of regional growth, the province of Laguna has long been recognized as a premier destination for recreation. This study explores the vital synergy between institutional PE programs and regional tourism development. It investigates how grassroots athletic training cultivated within the academic framework transforms into a powerful driver of economic and social activity.
Using a mixed-methods approach, the researchers engaged 300 diverse stakeholders to map the journey from "fitness to footfall." The findings reveal a "competency-resource paradox": while Laguna boasts exceptional coaching expertise, a critical need for facility modernization persists. Currently, tourism in the province is primarily "delegation-driven," providing a significant 25% revenue boost for local transport and hospitality sectors. Despite this clear economic impact and a deep sense of community pride (94% agreement), a significant communication gap remains between educational institutions and local government units.
To bridge this divide, the researchers propose a Collaborative Framework centered on "Strategic Event Leveraging." By synchronizing school athletic calendars with provincial festivals and establishing shared-use facility agreements, Laguna can evolve into a sustainable, world-class sports tourism hub. Ultimately, this research underscores that investing in Physical Education is not merely an academic mandate but a strategic investment in the province’s collective prosperity.