TRAVEL | Boracay's Rehabilitation: A Double-Edged Sword Impacting Tourism

"While Boracay's rehabilitation has successfully addressed critical environmental issues, it has also transformed the island's identity."

Boracay, a jewel in the Philippines' tourism crown, has long been celebrated for its pristine beaches and vibrant nightlife. However, the island's rapid development led to significant environmental degradation, prompting the Philippine government to take decisive action. In April 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered a six-month closure of Boracay to address these environmental concerns, describing the island as a "cesspool" due to untreated sewage being discharged into the sea. 

ARTICLE | The Power of Perceived Value: Unlocking the Psychology Behind Consumer Choices

Abstract | Perceived value is a psychological and marketing concept that plays a pivotal role in how individuals and brands position themselves in competitive landscapes. This article explores how perceived value influences consumer decisions, the underlying mechanisms, and its applications in personal branding and self-worth.

How do premium brands justify selling products at a markup of hundreds or even thousands of dollars compared to their lower-cost alternatives? The answer lies in perceived value—a consumer's subjective assessment of a product's worth, shaped by branding, marketing, and external influences. This principle extends beyond commodities to how individuals project and evaluate their own self-worth.