THE Department of Tourism (DOT) convened its third Regional Directors’ Meeting on Thursday, December 5, at the DOT Central Office in Makati City. The event gathered regional heads from across the country to discuss challenges, celebrate achievements, and advance sustainable and inclusive tourism development.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the regional directors for their unwavering dedication and outstanding contributions to the tourism sector. She underscored their pivotal role in shaping the future of Philippine tourism and aligning it with the DOT’s vision of growth, innovation, and sustainability.
Chief of Staff and Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano opened the meeting with a powerful message emphasizing unity and innovation as essential drivers of success. The gathering also featured a keynote address by Reena Gamboa, President of the Slow Food Philippines Movement, who introduced the global Slow Food Movement. This initiative champions “good, clean, and fair” food, advocating sustainability, cultural preservation, and community-based tourism.
Assistant Secretaries Gissela Marie Quisumbing, Sharlene Zabala Batin, and Judilyn Quiachon provided updates alongside reports from regional offices, highlighting significant accomplishments and strategies. Key discussions included Eastern Visayas’ growing cruise tourism, Davao Region’s expanding air services, and the Cordillera’s award-winning best tourism village, among others.
Editor’s Note: This article has been sourced from the Philippines Department of Tourism Facebook Page.
