TOURISM Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. on Monday (May 19) discussed strengthening the convergence between the two economic sectors, reinforcing the Philippines’ identity as a global destination for gastronomy and farm tourism.
At the meeting held at the Department of Agriculture (DA) Central Office in Quezon City, Secretary Frasco outlined a multi-pillar convergence framework, emphasizing the vital role of agriculture in enhancing tourism experiences.
“Under this administration, we understand that the President’s priorities fall well within our alignment, it being agriculture and also tourism. And therefore, our convergence can very well position the Philippines as a global destination for gastronomy and agricultural tourism, providing enormous benefits to our farmers while also being able to provide unforgettable and enriching visitor experiences,” Secretary Frasco said.
The proposed convergence framework is anchored on four key pillars: gastronomy tourism development, farm tourism expansion, infrastructure and connectivity, and local supply chain for tourism.
Citing the vital link between agriculture and tourism, with “food being part and parcel of every tourism experience,” Secretary Frasco expressed appreciation for the opportunity to strengthen collaboration between the DOT and DA.
“At every touchpoint of tourism, agriculture plays a role—whether the tourist is partaking of our accommodation or resort offerings or a leisurely activity in a destination or shopping during their visit to the Philippines and around the country. Agriculture and the role that you play is ever important, which is why I’m very grateful for the invitation from Secretary Kiko (Francisco Laurel). And I relish the opportunity to have a convergence between our two agencies,” the Tourism Chief added.
Other collaborative areas discussed during the meeting included the joint support for the Gastronomy Tourism Roadmap, the Slow Food Movement and upcoming Terra Madre Asia-Pacific in Bacolod, the Farm Tourism Development Board, the promotion of food products and regional dishes, the development of agri-tourism circuits, alignment of efforts with the DOT’s National Accommodation Standards, and the expansion of Halal and Muslim-friendly tourism.
“We’re also hopeful that, by way of this convergence, this can support our President’s vision for the transformation of Philippine tourism from the one-dimensional approach of fun to the multi-dimensional approach of the Filipino identity, culture, heritage, and all the other products that we’re able to offer, including our produce, as well as our farm tourism sites. Overall, we are very optimistic that by way of our partnership, we would be able to further expand opportunities for our local stakeholders and see the Philippines’ ascension as a preferred destination,” Secretary Frasco ended.
DA officials present included Undersecretaries Engr. Roger Navarro, Dr. Constante Palabrica, and Dr. Joseph Lopez; Assistant Secretaries Michael J. Garcia and Dr. Benjamin Albarece; Director Junibert De Sagun; Director Joseph Manicad; and Food Terminal Inc. President Joseph Rudolf Lo.
Joining Secretary Frasco were DOT Undersecretaries Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Verna Buensuceso, and Maria Rica Bueno; Assistant Secretaries Judilyn Quiachon and Ronald Conopio; Directors Paulo Benito Tugbang and Arlene Alipio; and Head Executive Assistant Frances Jan Villarino.
Editor’s Note: This article has been sourced from the Department of Tourism – Philippines Facebook Page.
