Author: Martie Gonzales

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—In continuation of the 2023 Pangasinan Tourism Month celebration this September, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), held the Tongtóngan: See Pangasinan Tourism Conference with the Department of Tourism for Local Tourism Establishments last September 20, 2023 at the Sison Auditorium. This conference ultimately stood as a venue for the province of Pangasinan and the Department of Tourism Region 1 (DOT-R1) to present their tourism agenda and to capacitate tourism players from both government and private sectors about the national accreditation standards. In addition, representatives from the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) were also invited to provide an extensive background on their specific fields and how they could provide assistance to local tourism enterprises.

Hon. Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino represented Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III at the conference, sharing the provincial government’s plans to improve and develop better infrastructure within the province such as the construction of the Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEX) which aims to reduce travel time from eastern Pangasinan to the province’s central and western areas, as well as to better manage traffic during summer when vacationers usually flock to the province.

“We are here… also as customers and clients who rely on your capacity as tourism officers, as stakeholders in the tourism industry. Let us know what is needed. Let us know what needs to be done. Let us know what needs to be improved on,” Vice Governor Lambino said in his speech during the event, further explaining that the provincial government would need the expertise of tourism stakeholders in order to plan more and better programs for the local tourism industry. Vice Governor Lambino also reiterated Governor Guico’s stance on tourism which he acknowledged as one of the major driving forces of the economy.

Present at the event were Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan with guest speakers Ms. Catherine E. Sta. Clara from TIEZA, Engr. Lee Ann Elisterio and Ms. Jo Ann G. Tomeldan from the MARINA regional office, and Ms. Marie Nelna Lantano and Mr. Alex Lazaro from the DOT-R1. Tourism stakeholders from all over Pangasinan took part in the conference where they learned more about TIEZA’s incentives program for tourism stakeholders and MARINA’s policies and requirements in acquiring recreational boat certificates and recreational boat safety certificates. DOT also lectured on the introduction to the updated progressive accreditation system (PAS) and tourism enterprise standards.

These lectures are all imperative to the overall development, improvement, and enhancement of local tourism enterprises and capacity-building of the tourism workforce especially after the repercussions done by the pandemic.

/MCDG-U

Photos: RSR

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—In celebration of this year’s Pangasinan Tourism Month, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), held another session of Tongtóngan: The Governor’s See Pangasinan Listening Tour where Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III led the induction of the newly elected officers of the Pangasinan Tourism Officers Association (PTOA) and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Pangasinan Provincial Police Office (PPO) for the creation and activation of a Tourist Police Unit in the province last September 15, 2023 at the Ceremonial Hall in the Urduja House, Capitol Complex.

Governor Guico was joined by Hon. Board Member Marinor De Guzman (Chairperson for Committee on Tourism, Foreign Affairs and Migrant Workers Concerns), PTCAO Chief Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, Pangasinan PPO Director PCOL Jeff Fanged, and PTOA President and Dasol Tourism Officer Guendoline Bustamante. Local chiefs of police, tourism officers, and other representatives were also present at the event.

In her message, PTOA President Bustamante asserted the PTOA’s active support in all tourism-related programs and activities of the provincial government including but not limited to the likes of Agew na Pangasinan, Pista’y Dayat, Limgas na Pangasinan, Pangasinan Tourism Month, Green Canopy Project through the Kampo Kalangwëran volunteer program, and other related environment projects as well as heritage preservation and cultural education program through farm tours and museum visits. PTOA President Bustamante likewise affirmed the association’s support and active partnership with the Pangasinan, Ang Ganda Mo! promotional series directed by the Regional News Group and other possible partnerships with government agencies and non-government organizations. Database generation, capacity development of tourism officers, tourism orientation for newly designated tourism officers, and lobbying for the creation of plantilla items for tourism officers to ensure continuity of work were also specified by PTOA President Bustamante as the association’s priorities.

Meanwhile, Pangasinan PPO Director PCOL Fanged extended his utmost gratitude to Governor Guico and the provincial government for the formal activation of the province’s Tourist Police Unit after seven years since its original proposal. In turn, PCOL Fanged assured the provincial government and its constituents that the Tourist Police Unit will endeavor to uphold its responsibilities in safeguarding tourists in the province and its tourism communities.

In response to the participants’ spirited and united support to the provincial government’s tourism aspirations, Governor Guico shared with the participants’ the administration’s plans to construct an airport in Bolinao which is timely to the proposed plan of a construction of an international airport in Alaminos City. Governor Guico also shared plans of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan in signing a joint venture agreement with San Miguel Corporation for the Phase 1 of the proposed Pangasinan Link Expressway (PLEX) from the town of Binalonan to Lingayen, while Phase 2 is proposed to link Lingayen all the way to Alaminos City to ease traffic especially during summer when vacationers usually flock to coastal tourist destinations in western Pangasinan.

Governor Guico briefly broached the topic of the construction of a seawall along the Lingayen Baywalk, highlighting the importance of letting nature take its course instead of putting up unnecessary man-made structures especially those without fundamental planning and proper consultation. He underscored the prioritization of the implementation of safety policies and practices at tourist destinations as well. Relative to the improvement of tourism establishments, Governor Guico advised PTOA members to come up with standards that are fair in comparison to the services rendered by local accommodation establishments. In line with his advocacy for cultural heritage preservation, the governor advised LGUs without tourist attractions like islands, beaches, waterfalls, and the likes to consider pursuing cultural mapping in order to establish cornerstone exhibits/museums to promote their respective town or city history and culture. Plans to further develop the town of Lingayen, being the capital of the province, through thorough urban planning were also emphasized.

The event was concluded with a Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum tour for PTOA members.

/MCDG-U

Photos: KFC & RSR

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, headed by Governor Ramon V. Guico III, held a ceremony at the Casa Real on September 8, 2023 to formally inaugurate the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum. The ceremony, led by the Pangasinan Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), were attended by First Lady Maan Tuazon-Guico, Vice Governor Mark Ronald Lambino and his wife, Atty. Melanie Sia-Lambino, as well as League of Municipalities of the Philippines (Pangasinan Chapter) President Lingayen Mayor Leopoldo Bataoil and several local chief executives and congressmen such as 2nd District Representative Hon. Mark Cojuangco, 4th District Representative Hon. Christopher De Venecia, 5th District Representative Hon. Ramon Guico, Jr., and delegates of 1st District Representative Hon. Arthur Celeste, 3rd District Representative Hon. Maria Rachel Arenas, and 6th District Representative Hon. Marlyn Primicias-Agabas.

“This is my first project to be inaugurated under this administration… Our museum is the very first project that I, as a governor, am inaugurating together with our team,” Governor Guico shared in his message. He had recounted to the audience how he had planned to establish a museum in the town of Binalonan as his last project during his time as the town’s mayor but could not do so as he eventually became a congressman. Further expressing his elation, the governor also shared how providential it was that although he could not push through with the establishment of a museum in his town as a mayor, he was able to do so first and foremost as a governor of the province of Pangasinan.

True to his passion for culture and heritage preservation, Governor Guico likewise voiced out his adamant support for the conduct of cultural mapping in Pangasinan towns and cities, highlighting the importance of knowing one’s past as a means to protect and strengthen one’s identity and roots.

“Ang paglulunsad ng Banáan Museum ay isang pagkilala sa kasaysayan at kultura ng buong Pangasinan bilang isa sa pinaka mahalagang lalawigan sa ating bansa at sandigan ng bawat Pangasinense sa kuwento ng pambansang Pilipinas. Halintulad sa pangalan nito, Banáan… gawing lugar ng mga pagtitipon ng mga ideya, sining, kuwento, at kultura ang pook na ito, tampok ang galing at husay ng bawat Pangasinense (The launching of the Banáan Museum is one way to recognize the history and culture of the entire Pangasinan as one of the important provinces of our country as well as the foundation of each Pangasinense in the story of the Philippines. Similar to its name, Banáan… may this be a place for the gathering of ideas, arts, stories, and culture featuring the accomplishments and skillfullness of each Pangasinense),” stated Dr. Emmanuel Franco Calairo, Chairman of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) and Guest of Honor and Speaker at the momentous event. NHCP Chairman Calairo also underscored the significance of the establishment of the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum amidst scarce presence of similar provincial institutions, listing ‘hazards to cultural preservation’ such as industrialization, pandemics, lapse in memory, and misuse of information technology to emphasize the need to take responsibility in heritage preservation.

“Lagi ko nga pong sinasabi hindi na po mabubuhay ang kasaysayan dahil wala na po iyan. Tayo po ang bubuhay ng kasaysayan, tayong mga buhay (I always say that history will not live because it’s already gone. We make history live, we who are alive),” Chairman Calairo added.

The unveiling of the museum marker and the ceremonial ribbon cutting followed, after which the guests were given a tour around the galleries.

Present at the event were also Department of Tourism Region 1 Director Jeff Ortega, National Museum OIC Director Paolo Mar Chan, Dr. Eric Zerrudo of the University of Santo Tomas Graduate School – Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (USTGS-CCCPET), Pangasinan Heritage Society President Arabella Arcinue, Dr. Perla Legaspi of the Center for Pangasinan Studies, department heads and chiefs of hospitals of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan led by Provincial Administrator Melicio Patague II, and other representatives from local higher education institutions and agencies.

The Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum has eleven (11) galleries, one of which is the ASIN Gallery, a revolving exhibit currently housing the Kaluyágan Exhibit featuring artworks by various celebrated Pangasinan artists such as Master of Art Maestro Romeo MananQuil, University of the Philippines Professor Emeritus at College of Fine Arts Nestor Vinluan, Visual Olympian and Monumentalist Joe Datuin, Mr. Paco Santos, and members of local artist groups such as Bolinao Artist Group, Inc. (BAGI), Likët Datëk, PanagAsinan Artist Guild (PAG), Pinankakasakëy Artist Circle (PAC), and Sarag Mi.

The museum is also equipped with a Museum Shop where numerous products by Pangasinan MSMEs are featured and sold.

The museum is officially open to the public this September 11, 2023. Admission is free for the whole month of September in celebration of this year’s Pangasinan Tourism Month. Visits to the museum can be booked online via the See Pangasinan Website.

/MCDG-U

Photos: RSR

PASAY CITY, Philippines—The Province of Pangasinan, represented by the Pangasinan Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), joined the 34th Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) from September 1-3, 2023 at the SMX Convention Center Manila, SM Mall of Asia.

The PTM is the biggest annual travel fair that aims to promote travel destinations around the country. Organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA), actively supported by the Department of Tourism (DOT), Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), and many tourism enterprises, tourism stakeholders, and media partners, the PTM has been celebrated for 34 years, with the 2023 celebration marking the second year of its run since the easing of restrictions amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Around 300 exhibitors from all 17 regions of the Philippines reportedly joined the PTM. Alongside the PTCAO, the Alaminos City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office also joined the event, as well as tour operators and two DOT-accredited accommodation establishments: The Monarch Hotel from the town of Calasiao and the Puerto Del Sol Beach Resort from the town of Bolinao.

“By its very essence, the Philippine Travel Mart exemplifies the ideal approach to ensure the continued strength of our tourism sector that is coordinated, collaborative, inclusive, market-driven, and proactive… Aside from the economic benefits that can be derived… we must not lose sight of PTM’s invaluable potential to demonstrate to the whole world the distinct Filipino brand. Not just our natural wonders, but our history, our culture, and values as well,” DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco relayed to the audience as President Ferdinand “Bong Bong” Marcos couldn’t attend the event.

In her own message, DOT Secretary Frasco expressed her utmost support and gratitude to PHILTOA and the TPB, as well as all participants and guests for another successful run of the event. “We all love our country. We all love the Philippines. And it is this common ground upon which we come together to continue to support Philippine tourism,” the Secretary stated.

Not only did the PTCAO promote Pangasinan’s popular destinations and emerging ones, such as the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum set for its official inauguration this September 8, 2023, the office also brought local products like bocayo pastillas, pure calamansi juice, bangus relleno pandesal, and brown rice nutty bars to showcase the province’s all-time and new favorite food products.

/MCDG-U

Photos: PTCAO

/MCDG-U

Photos: PTCAO

Established in 2016 and known as the research and development arm of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, the Center for Pangasinan Studies (CPS) leads the conservation, enrichment, and development of interdisciplinary studies on arts and culture, literature and language, history, education, tourism, trade, and business economics of Pangasinan. Through the collaboration and partnership of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, the University of the Philippines, University of Luzon, PHINMA – University of Pangasinan, Lyceum – Northwestern University, Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation, Universidad de Dagupan (formerly Colegio de Dagupan), Pangasinan State University, and the University of Eastern Pangasinan, the CPS has since achieved various notable feats in their research and activities in the local, national, and international levels.

In celebration of National History Month this August, the CPS is launching its official website. The new CPS website shall feature all of the center’s programs and projects, research and publication materials, announcements about conferences, trainings, and workshops, as well as lecture and webinar series.

Registration and updates for the most awaited 2023 International Conference on Pangasinan and Bulosan Studies this November 27-29, 2023 are also readily available on the website for those who want to join the said conference.

You may access the CPS website here: https://centerforpangasinanstudies.com/

/MCDG-U

Video: MBRG

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, headed by Governor Ramon V. Guico III and through the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), conducted the blessing ceremony of the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum at the Casa Real earlier today, August 25, 2023.

The ceremony was led by Fr. Allan Abuan from the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan. “As we open this museum, let it be a spiritual exercise for us that we are able to connect, we become more compassionate, to feel, especially with the past, and that it allows us to contemplate and to be more prayerful,” Fr. Abuan said in his sermon. Fr. Abuan likewise shared how Governor Guico expressed his passionate advocacy for Pangasinan cultural heritage when they first met, noting how this passion manifested in the form of the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum.

With assistance from PTCAO staff, Fr. Abuan and guests, which consisted mostly of Governor Guico’s executive assistants, and department heads and chiefs of hospitals of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, were guided around the Casa Real premises, through the museum’s eleven (11) galleries, and administrative offices. The Banáan museum guides also provided the guests with a preview tour after the ceremony.

The formal inauguration of the Banáan Pangasinan Provincial Museum is scheduled on September 8 and its doors will be officially open to the public on September 11. Visits to the museum during Pangasinan Tourism Month in September will be free but strictly by online reservation. Updates regarding how to book tours at the museum will be posted on the official Pangasinan Tourism Facebook Page.

/MCDG-U

Photos: RSR

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The historic Sison Auditorium in Pangasinan recently played host to the momentous Dynamic Youth National Convention last July 15, 2023. The convention was organized by Dynamic Youth, a national organization established in 1954 to promote cultural enrichment among Filipino-Chinese members and foster stronger relations between the Filipino and Chinese communities. This prestigious event not only celebrated culture and unity but also served as a testament to Pangasinan’s status as a premiere destination for events such as conferences, seminars, and conventions.

Nestled in the heart of Lingayen, the capital of Pangasinan, Sison Auditorium stands as a beacon of cultural heritage and architectural excellence. Named after Governor Teofilo Sison, a prominent figure in Pangasinan’s political history, the auditorium provided an ideal setting for an event dedicated to celebrating culture and unity.

The event was graced with the attendance of 88 participants from various regions of the Philippines, including the National Capital Region (NCR), Davao, Tarlac, and Dagupan City. The convention commenced with a memorable tour of the iconic Capitol Building, allowing participants to delve into the province’s rich history and the building’s architectural features. After the tour, as the delegates entered the auditorium, they were greeted by an enchanting reception hosted by the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) and by the Capitol Dancers, who mesmerized the guests with their vibrant cultural dance performance called Binislakan.

A highlight of the convention was an engaging unity dance where participants joyfully joined performers on stage performing “Kinang Pilipinas” or “Shine Philippines.” The song celebrated the resiliency of the Filipino people, capturing our unwavering spirit and ability to thrive amidst adversity. Furthermore, a momentous turnover ceremony between the Dagupan Chapter and the Iloilo Chapter of the organization was also conducted.

The Dynamic Youth National Convention 2023 at Sison Auditorium, Pangasinan, served as a remarkable showcase of not only the organization’s dedication to promoting cultural enrichment but also the province’s status as an outstanding venue for hosting significant gatherings. The event left participants inspired and hopeful, leaving a lasting impression of Pangasinan as a welcoming and culturally vibrant destination for future events.

/MTLC

Photos: KFC

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), together with the Provincial Government of Pangasinan through the Center for Pangasinan Studies (CPS), conducted a 3-day local history and heritage training workshop last June 20-22, 2023, held at the Sison Auditorium in Lingayen.

Dr. Perla Legazpi, Executive Director of Center for Pangasinan Studies, welcomed the participants while Ms. Carminda Arevalo presented the overview of the training syllabus. With over 150 participants from different LGUs and HEIs in Pangasinan, the event focused on 6 lectures: Sources on Local History Research, Professionalizing Local History and Heritage, Agents of Deterioration, Identifying, Documenting, Surveying, and Marking Historic Sites and Structures, Handling Heritage Issues, Case Studies of the NHCP-HPD, and Local History and Heritage Planning and Programming. The lectures were delivered by the representatives from NHCP including Mr. Gerwill I. Cruz, Mr. Josef Alec D. Geradilla, Mr. Rommel R. Aquino, Ms. Juvelyn D. Niervres, and Ar. Genissa O. Villegas. Pangasinan Governor Ramon V. Guico III, known for being an advocate for the province’s culture and heritage, also joined the seminar and was able to listen to some of the lectures.

“You know, heritage, culture, history, arts–these are very important things. Hindi lang po lahat ng bagay ay puro infrastructure, social services (Not all things are purely infrastructure, social services),” Governor Guico emphasized in his speech. Addressing engineers and architects who represented various LGUs at the seminar, Governor Guico likewise shared how he strictly follows the Building Code and Highway Code, highlighting the value of respecting both the safety and aesthetic aspects of spaces in the province. Governor Guico connected this with the significance of knowing their town’s or city’s history and heritage structures so that these would not be mistakenly demolished in the event of constructing new buildings and/or roadways.

Meanwhile, other activities included fieldwork and presentation of outputs on Survey and Documentation of selected Historic and Heritage Sites in Lingayen, Practical Demonstration of Repainting and Rehabilitation of Historical Markers, and open forums.

The event successfully concluded with the awarding of certificates to the participants.

/JBT & MCDG-U

Photos: KFC

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—After more than a hundred individuals signed up since the official launching of the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office’s (PTCAO) volunteerism program Kampo Kalangwëran last June 12, 2023, the first batch of volunteers successfully underwent a two-day museum guide training from June 15-16, 2023 held at the Casa Real. This activity is part of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan’s preparation for the official opening of the province’s first ever Provincial Museum—Banáan.

With the expertise and guidance of Associate Professor Eric B. Zerrudo, PhD, Director of the UST Graduate School-Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (USTGS-CCCPET), the first batch of Kampo Kalangwëran volunteers were provided lectures on the extensive history of museums in the Philippines, as well as the work undertaken in such institutions which gave volunteers substantial background necessary for their guiding. Dr. Zerrudo also facilitated a series of mock tours around the museum alongside PTCAO in order for the volunteers to incorporate and practice all that was taught in their lectures during the first day of the training. The volunteers enthusiastically showcased their public speaking skills and newly gained knowledge as they traversed Pangasinan’s rich history and culture in the galleries of the Banáan. Around thirty (30) volunteers and PTCAO staff were conferred with certificates for successfully graduating from the museum guiding training.

The Banáan Museum has been a project in the making for more than a decade, according to Dr. Zerrudo and PTCAO Chief Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan. While the Casa Real has since been the site of a handful of art exhibits after its rehabilitation in 2016, the formation of the Pangasinan Provincial Museum was in line with Governor Ramon V. Guico III’s thrust to prioritize the preservation and promotion of the province’s cultural heritage. Dr. Zerrudo and his team from the USTGS-CCCPET led the research, conceptualization, development, and curation of the Banáan Museum, with the PTCAO closely assisting in their endeavors.

The Banáan Museum is set to be officially opened later this year.

/MCDG-U

Photos: PTCAO-TSPD

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Sison Auditorium was filled with pride and historical significance last June 12, 2023 as the province commemorated the 125th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood and paid tribute to the life of Don Daniel B. Maramba, the esteemed 7th Governor of Pangasinan, known as the “Grand Old Man” of Pangasinan. Don Daniel B. Maramba, a distinguished figure in Philippine history, served as an assemblyman, senator, and a Katipunero under the name “Baga.”

With the theme, “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan,” the province came together for a solemn wreath-laying ceremony where Mr. Alikhan Maramba, a descendant of Don Daniel B. Maramba, along with PNP Pangasinan Provincial Director PCol. Jeff E. Fanged and Governor Ramon V. Guico III, offered their respects.

Mr. Alikhan Maramba, representing the Maramba Clan or the Don Daniel Maramba Council in Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Provincial Government of Pangasinan for organizing the prestigious commemoration and honoring his “Laki Daniel.” As a gesture of gratitude, he presented Governor Guico III with a book entitled, “Daniel Maramba: His Life and Times,” written by the eldest son of Don Daniel B. Maramba, Felix D. Maramba, Sr., during the centennial anniversary of his father.

Governor Guico III expressed his deep gratitude for Don Daniel B. Maramba’s contributions to Pangasinan and the entire Philippines. He emphasized that, much like Don Daniel Maramba, who fought against oppression during his time, modern-day challenges such as poverty persists. In response, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan is establishing a local college to equip Pangasinenses, particularly the youth, with the knowledge and skills necessary to overcome these obstacles. Governor Guico III also revealed plans to celebrate another local hero during next year’s Independence Day celebration, aiming to inspire and learn from their exemplary lives. He stated, “All of us should think of the past, act on the present, and secure the future. We want to take care of the present, learn from the past, and secure the province of Pangasinan.”

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) likewise presented the 125th anniversary commemorative coin of Philippine Independence and Nationhood to the Provincial Government of Pangasinan. This set of commemorative coins, featuring the latest digital printing technology, includes 100 piso, 20 piso, and 5 piso denominations. These coins are the first colored non-circulation commemorative coins produced by the BSP.

The event also marked the launch of Kampo Kalangwëran, a volunteer program conceptualized by the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), led by PTCAO head Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan. Kampo Kalangwëran aims to engage the youth in supporting the provincial government’s thrust in the protection, development, and promotion of Pangasinan’s natural and cultural heritage, while learning more about their communities and the importance of volunteerism in their overall personal and communal growth. More than a hundred volunteers enthusiastically signed up via the Kampo Kalangwëran Google Form.

Be sure to follow the Pangasinan Tourism Facebook Page and the Kampo Kalangwëran Facebook Page for more updates.

/MTLC

Photos: KFC

VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur—The recently concluded Region I Tourism Stakeholders’ General Assembly, held at Hotel Linda Suites last May 23, 2023, marked a significant milestone in the collaborative efforts of the tourism industry in the region. The assembly, attended by representatives from various sectors including Accommodation, Local Government Units (LGUs), Travel and Tour Agencies, Tour Guides, and other tourism-related entities, focused on addressing concerns, sharing updates, and fostering a unified vision for the future of tourism in Region I.

The assembly commenced where each sector was gathered through a breakout session to discuss pressing concerns, share updates, and celebrate achievements. This collaborative approach allowed stakeholders to engage in productive conversations and find practical solutions to the challenges faced by the industry.  In addition to addressing sector-specific issues, the assembly also included an election for sectoral associations.

A notable aspect of the assembly was the assessment of the Republic Act 9593, known as The Tourism Act of 2009. This initiative allowed stakeholders to provide their valuable input and feedback on the act, ensuring that it remains relevant and effective in the ever-evolving landscape of the tourism industry.

During the afternoon session, conversations from the breakout sessions were shared with all attendees. Additionally, provincial tourism updates from Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan were presented, showcasing the achievements and upcoming projects in each province. Ms. Ma. Luisa Amor-Elduayan, Pangasinan’s Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office Head, generated excitement as she announced the impending opening of the highly anticipated Banaan Museum in Pangasinan.

The assembly also featured Ms. Julie Pearl Brion, Department of Tourism Region 1 Consultant. She presented the draft of the Region 1 Tourism Development Plan for 2023-2028, outlining strategies and initiatives aimed at maximizing the region’s tourism potential.

The assembly concluded with the dazzling Tourism Stakeholders’ Night, where attendees showcased their mesmerizing inabel attire, a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region. Hon. Joseph Francisco R. Ortega, the Regional Director of the Department of Tourism Region I, expressed his sincere appreciation to everyone and facilitated the induction of the Region 1 Tourism Association Council.

The night continued with delightful performances from each province, highlighting their unique talents and cultural richness. Pangasinan was recognized with the Best Presentation award, embodying the spirit of #PangasinanAngGaling.

The Region I Tourism Stakeholders’ General Assembly has not only strengthened the bonds among industry players but has also rejuvenated the region’s tourism landscape. With a shared vision, comprehensive plans, and commitment to excellence, Region I is poised to flourish as a premier tourism destination in the Philippines.

/MTLC

Photos: GMS

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—Coinciding with the celebration of Filipino Food Month (Presidential Proclamation 469) and Pista’y Dayat 2023, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office and in partnership with the Department of Tourism Region 1, GMA Regional TV, and the Señor Tesoro College School of Culinary Arts, conducted the Ponsia – Pista’y Dayat Culinary Challenge at the Sison Auditorium, Lingayen, Pangasinan last April 30, 2023.

Ponsia is a Pangasinan term for “feast,” a fitting title to celebrate, promote, and preserve the rich culinary heritage of the province. Representing Pangasinan’s six districts, the culinary competition was participated by six talented chefs and their respective sous-chefs. Each team was challenged to prepare a three-course meal: a seafood-based appetizer or soup, a meat-based main dish, and a tropical-themed dessert featuring Pangasinan sweets, fruits, or dairy products. Despite the three-hour time constraint, all participants successfully prepared a three-course meal exhibiting their unique cooking styles and ingenuity of recipes.

The event was also attended by various public figures which include Ms. Clang Garcia, a Philippine culinary heritage explorer, chronicler, curator and TV host of Discover Eats on Cignal TV, and celebrity chef Jose Sarasola who is known for his appearances on GMA programs. Simultaneous with the live competition, Chef Sarasola demonstrated his cooking skills, highlighting Pangasinan’s best bagoong and aquatic riches including shrimps and crabs which appropriately illustrated the rich bounties of Pangasinan’s seas. He likewise served as one of the judges for the culinary challenge, together with Chef Kevin Navoa (co-owner of internationally-recognized fine dining restaurant Hapag) and Mr. Jorron Lee Monroy (CEO and Creative Director of Black House Multimedia Production and director of several GMA series).

At the end of the competition, Chef Nerissa Mae Navarro and Sous-chef Kaira Estrada of Happy’s All-Day Breakfast in Rosales, Pangasinan emerged victorious, securing the first place title. Chef Striessand Casallo and Sous-chef Jydrei Romasoc from The Munch Lab in Alaminos City clinched second place, while the third place honor went to Chef Dahlia Daroya and Sous-chef Arman Alcaide of Arem’s Place in Binmaley, Pangasinan.

Ponsia served as a means to showcase the creativity of Pangsinan chefs while preserving the province’s cultural heritage. The event not only highlighted the province’s culture and culinary heritage, but also became a platform for local entrepreneurs to showcase their products, businesses, and promote local goods.

Ponsia competition was a resounding success, effectively underlining the significance of preserving and celebrating the culinary heritage of Pangasinan.

/SEAR

Photos: KFC