𝗖𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗯𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗪𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻 𝗩𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘆𝗮𝘀 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺!

Iloilo City, Iloilo – The Department of Tourism Region 6 held its yearly prestigious awards and recognition program for key tourism players, tourism champions, and stakeholders, at the Grand Xing Imperial Hotel, Iloilo City on December 9, 2024. The theme for this year was “Tourism and Peace”, which aligns with the UNWTO celebration of World Tourism Day 2024 and honored the efforts of those in the tourism sector. This event included a General Assembly for Tourism Officers of Western Visayas, a recognition ceremony for the regional nominees of the Philippine Tourism Award, and the Pagdáyaw 2024: Western Visayas Tourism Awards.

𝙒𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙣 𝙑𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙖𝙨 𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙢 𝙊𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙧𝙨’ 𝙂𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝘼𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙡𝙮: 𝘼𝙣 𝘼𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙡𝙖𝙜𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙄𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙨 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙄𝙢𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙢 𝙋𝙧𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙨

The activities of the Pagdáyaw 2024 commenced in the afternoon with a General Assembly of Western Visayas Tourism Officers.

DOT Regional Director Crisanta Marlene P. Rodriguez in her message said that the assembly serves as an opportunity to reflect on these accomplishments and learn from the best practices that brought these successes to life. Our program highlights examples of how collaboration with stakeholders, sustainability efforts, and innovative strategies have transformed ideas into impactful initiatives. From Sipalay City’s journey toward peace and sustainability to the celebration of Aklan’s piña fiber fashion, we have proven that Western Visayas is at the forefront of Philippine tourism.

Tourism is ever-changing, and the dynamic needs of our visitors require us to continuously upgrade our skills and services, adapting to trends such as cultural tourism, adventure tourism, and sustainable practices. We must ensure that every tourist experience in Western Visayas is one that creates lasting memories and builds goodwill toward our region and our people.

Assistant Regional Director Phoebe Zelie C. Areño presented the Western Visayas Tourism Situation showing an increase in tourist arrivals and tourist receipts in 2023.

Speakers for the assembly were tourism officers sharing the Best Tourism Practices of each province in the region.

Sustainable Tourism

Sipalay City Supervising Tourism Officer, EnP Jerick H. Lacson talked about the importance of Harmony in Tourism: Sipalay Cities Journey Towards Peace and Sustainability, the city is a champion in its tourism programs and projects having been awarded in the local, national and international scene.

Culture

Province of Capiz Tourism Officer Alphonsus D. Tesoro talked about Culture and Governance: The Capiz Experience, showing a video of the cultural experience one can enjoy in the seafood capital of Panay.

Creative Tourism

Aklan Provincial Tourism Officer Ms. Roselle Q. Ruiz shared the journey of the Piña Fiber Handloom from Aklan to the World wherein she talked about the importance of the pineapple fiber considered to be a Provincial Cultural Treasure.

Fun, Foodie, Friendly Iloilo

The tagline for the Province of Iloilo is a brainchild of Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr. leading towards promoting the Tourism where one has to experience Ilonggo Hospitality thru Fun, Festivals, and Food to taste from native delicacies to its Flavors and experience the warmth and Friendly Ilonggo Hospitality.

Festival

Antique’s charm takes you from the mountains to the seas and an event they call Binirayan. Now on its 50th celebration of Culture, Heritage and the Antiqueño Spirit of love and unity. This is the talk of newly minted Officer in Charge and Festival Director Irish Mae Manlapaz. Promoting the Promising Province, West of Panay Island.

Adventure Tourism

Provincial Economic and Development Officer and Concurrent Provincial Tourism Officer Francis E. Gentoral talked about the Thrills and Trails: Unleashing the Potential of Adventure Sports of Guimaras.

It was indeed a learning experience for tourism officers and participants and delegates of the Pagdáyaw 2024. As Regional Director Rodriguez further said, ‘Together we can further elevate Western Visayas as a leading destination that exemplifies peace, sustainability, and world-class hospitality, giving our tourists and guests countless reasons to truly LOVE THE PHILIPPINES.’