PTCAO is a department under the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, mandated to be the primary planning, programming, coordinating, and implementing office in the development and promotion of the tourism industry and the various cultural affairs concerns in the province in accordance with R.A. 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009.
Background
Starting as a division of the Office of the Governor in 2002, the Pangasinan Provincial Tourism & Cultural Affairs Office was eventually institutionalized as a department in 2015 thru the Provincial Ordinance no. 184-2014. Owing to Pangasinan’s abundant natural and cultural heritage and the promise of socio-economic growth in the tourism industry, the provincial government identified tourism development and promotion and cultural preservation as a major development thrust. More than ever, the continuing influx of tourists and the need to establish sustainable tourism development push the provincial government to provide the necessary organizational and developmental framework. The province then declares tourism as a product and service-oriented industry that could generate employment, income, and investments to the people and to the province as it impacts the social growth and cultural affirmation of everyone.
Our Vision
By 2031, Pangasinan is the premier coastal and country destination in the country.
Our Mission
To perform our tourism mandate with excellence, dynamism and innovation, and a commitment to good governance; bound by our mission to develop tourism as a major and sustainable socio-economic activity; generating community awareness and support on tourism; promoting Pangasinan heritage and the development of its arts and culture; securing equal opportunity and inclusive tourism development; and strengthening partnership building and collaboration for all stakeholders – leading to a Pangasinan that is a premier province to experience life at its best.
Functions
- Formulation of policies, conceptualization and implementation of plans, programs and projects in tourism and product development and promotions;
- Supervision of various cultural affairs that promotes the cultural heritage growth of the province;
- Coordination with LGUs and national government agencies for the integration of the provincial tourism and cultural agenda thru development plans;
- Development and conceptualization of new products, tourism projects and investment opportunities that will enhance tourist sites, facilities and services;
- Supervision of provincial government tourism-related facilities;
- Monitors standards and accreditation of tourism-related establishments and services;
- Formulation and implementation of an integrated tourism marketing and promotions campaign;
- Institutionalization of community participation; and
- Networking and linkages
Structure and Divisions of the Department
- Tourism Planning and Product Development Division
- Tourism Services and Promotions Division
- Cultural Affairs Division
- Tourist Assistance and MICE Services Division
- Museum Services Division
- Administrative and General Services Division
Programs and Services
1. Tourism Product Development and Enhancement
a. Development of Tourism Clusters. (Planning for development of infrastructure, facilities and destinations); Financial Assistance to LGUs to support festivals and events; Technical Assistance to LGUs to develop tour circuits; CLUP review and the tourism agenda; Development of new tour packages.
b. Standards and Accreditation Campaign. Monitoring and Evaluation of Tourism Enterprises and Tourist Attractions. c. Market Research; Regular Generation of Statistical Data from Accommodation Establishments, Tourist Attractions and MICE facilities (recording and reporting)
2.Sustainable Tourism thru Natural and Cultural Heritage
a. Special Projects for Pangasinan Historical & Cultural Commission.
b. Pangasinan Museum Project
c. Secretariat Services for Center for Pangasinan Studies
d. Cultural Mapping
e. Special Events. Planning and organizing of provincial-led events; Special Event Assistance for provincial-supported activities; Reservation/management of provincial MICE facilities (Sison Auditorium and Provincial Training and Development Center)
3. Tourism/Cultural Human Resources Development
a. Capability Building Activities for Tourism Stakeholders/ Cultural Workers
b. Institutional Support and Incentives Program for tourism /cultural organizations
4. Tourism Promotions and Information Services
a. Implementation of marketing and promotions campaign; Media tour and assistance; publication of promotional materials, website and social media.
b. Regular Tourist Assistance Program. Tour coordination services; Tour guiding services; Tourist assistance desk services.
c. Coordination and Linkages
Frontline Services
The Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office offers various tourism services designed to assist Pangasinenses and local & domestic tourists to enjoy their visit to the province. Technical assistance and support services may also be availed by local government units and the private sector. This is in line with the provincial government’s thrust to raise the level of awareness and appreciation of Pangasinenses for their rich natural and cultural heritage and to promote Pangasinan tourism to local, domestic and foreign tourists.
1. Provision of Tourism, Culture and Arts Information/ Data
2. Tour Guiding Services
3. Reservation Services (Sison Auditorium and Pangasinan Training & Development Center)
4. Capitol Tourist Assistance and Pasalubong Center
5. Special Events Organizing or Assistance
