From Guiding to Stewardship: Eco-tour Guides Trained in Malay

Malay, Aklan- Reinforcing its commitment to promoting responsible and sustainable tourism, the Department of Tourism Region VI in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Malay, Aklan through its Municipal Tourism Office, successfully conducted the Eco-tour Guides Training, equipping tourism frontliners with enhanced knowledge and skills in delivering meaningful, responsible, and environmentally conscious guiding experiences.

The training brought together participants who underwent comprehensive sessions designed to strengthen their competencies in eco-tour guiding, with emphasis on destination interpretation, effective storytelling, and a deeper appreciation of the natural resources that form part of the tourism experience.

Serving as resource speakers were Ms. Monika Navata-Labaupa, who shared her expertise in tour guiding, and Mr. Anthony Arbias, who focused on the flora and fauna of the destination. Their sessions provided participants with practical insights and a greater understanding of how natural attractions can be interpreted and presented to visitors while maintaining respect for the environment.

Beyond developing technical competencies, the training underscored the vital role of tour guides as stewards of the environment. As among the first points of interaction between visitors and destinations, eco-tour guides can influence tourist behavior by promoting responsible practices, raising awareness about biodiversity, and encouraging visitors to appreciate and protect natural resources.

The discussions highlighted that sustainable tourism goes beyond attracting visitors. It also means preserving the ecological integrity of destinations, protecting biodiversity, supporting local communities, and ensuring that tourism resources remain available for future generations. Through responsible guiding, tourism can become a platform for conservation while creating meaningful experiences for both visitors and communities.

The successful conduct of the Eco-tour Guides Training highlights DOT Region VI’s continued commitment to developing a skilled, responsible, and environmentally conscious tourism workforce — one that understands that every tourism experience carries with it a shared responsibility to protect, preserve, and sustain the destinations we proudly share with the world.

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