Lake Tourism Concepts and Practices for Tadlac Lake, Gunao Lake, and Tikub Lake

Tadlac Lake, Gunao Lake, and Tikub Lake have embraced tourism development, but their foundations for initiation and establishment need further exploration and investigation. These small lakes are notable destinations, yet their tourism institutions hinder them. Thus, this article delves into the three small lakes in the context of Lake Tourism, defining key concepts and enumerating their fundamental components. Lake Tourism’s central idea is introduced from a politically philosophical-relativist perspective, emphasizing a subjective, qualitative stance. Methodologically, the research relies primarily on the author’s extensive research, supported by other articles, reports, and official documents, to expand tourism development scholarship. The inferences on tourism components’ impediments are: (i) Tadlac Lake has been established and functional but underutilized since it still maintains issues in achieving Lake Tourism. (ii) Gunao Lake has potential but has been dysfunctional and untapped since it intends to institute Lake Tourism but has yet to commence. (iii) Tikub Lake has been developed and is functional, but underutilized, since it is still completing its Lake Tourism. These stumbling blocks must be addressed to unlock the potential for tourism development and contribute to the municipal economy and communities in the long run. The government authorities must spearhead efforts for the three small lakes, as they often have stronger financial capacity and mechanisms. This government’s underpinning is a critical ingredient in enhancing Tadlac Lake, Gunao Lake, and Tikub Lake—to a large extent, progress in Lake Tourism continues to be defined by the actions or inactions of the municipal government. Thus, the government defines and shapes the tourism development in the three small lakes.