The Calesa: Its Cultural and Socioeconomic Significance

Abstract

The calesa a horse-drawn carriage is an age-old mode of transportation still in use in Vigan City. This study described the cultural and socio-economic significance of the calesa from the point of view of tourists. calesa owners, and cucheros. The 'calesa' business is dominated by males who are married, have finished high school; and live in Vigan and its neighboring towns of Bantay and Caoayan. The average income for the 'calesa's' daily operation is 150 which according to the respondents is not enough to meet the needs of the family. However, during peak seasons, respondents earn up to P700 a day There are more domestic than foreign tourists catered to by the 'calesa' business. Most of them are young female professionals who have finished higher levels ofeducation and visit Wigan in big groups. The culural and socio-economic significance of the 'calesa' is at very high level as perceived by the respondents. The most pressing problem of the 'calesa' business is the instability of income due to the seasonality ofpassengers. The respondents acknowledge the city and provincial governments effort in sponsoring programs that boost tourism in the city. The researchers recommend the holding of activities and programs to be sponsored by the city government and other concerned agencies like: training for 'cucheros' and owners on Vigan history and culture; personality development and strategies in handling situations involving people with diverse cultures; attractive livelihood package for 'cucheros' and owners; support for the maintenance and breeding of horses; 'calesa' festival and exhibits; effective tourism packages; more reasonable taxes; more comfortable uniform for 'cucheros'; strict implementation of traffic ordinances; and, standardization of 'calesa' fare.