Author: Martie Gonzales

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—In time for the December holidays, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan formally opened its Christmas Bazaar last December 1, 2022 while the Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony took place the following evening, on December 2, 2022.

The Provincial Government of Pangasinan opened its first ever Christmas Bazaar with a ribbon cutting ceremony with Governor Ramon V. Guico III, Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA) Executive Director Donald James D. Gawe, First District Board Member Apple Joy Bacay-Tolentino, Fifth District Board Member Chinky Perez-Tababa, Provincial Administrator Melicio F. Patague II, Special Assistant to the Governor Von Mark R. Mendoza, and department heads and other provincial government employees. Fr. Jake J. Rovillos was joined by Governor Guico with the blessing of the bazaar booths.

Coinciding with the opening of the Christmas Bazaar, a concert was held later in the evening with performances by local bands Insekto Pares, Paul’s Alarm, and El Fraile. A mini carnival theme park can also be found at the Capitol Beachfront grounds near the Christmas Bazaar where visitors of all ages can enjoy themselves.

Another first for Pangasinan’s provincial government, this year’s Capitol Christmas tree was decorated with ornaments that doubled as pledges from various sponsors. The donations collected from this fund-raising activity will be used for the repainting of the historic Capitol Building.

Alongside the team of Mr. Constantine Visperas from the Events of the North, officials from the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, mayors and representatives from Pangasinan’s 48 towns and cities were joined by fellow Pangasinenses at the Capitol Plaza last December 2 as they formally opened the Capitol Complex’s Christmas lights. The lighting of the Capitol Christmas tree was led by First Lady Maan Tuazon-Guico, together with former Bayambang mayor Dr. Cezar T. Quiambao and the department heads of the provincial government.

Part of the Christmas festivities in the Capitol Complex this year, with the theme, “Paskong ang Galing, ang Ningning” is a parol-making and building decoration competition which encourages provincial government employees to be creative and to foster camaraderie among their colleauges especially amidst the holidays. A video-making contest was also held, where employees must create a two-minute video that depicts and expresses Pangasinan spirit during this Christmas season.

The Christmas Bazaar located at the Capitol Beachfront is open from 8:00 AM to 12:00 MN and will run until February 28, 2023.

/MCDG

Photos: KFC

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The month of December was declared as National Volunteer Month (NVM) by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 55 s. 1998. In partnership with the Philippine National Volunteer Service Coordinating Agency (PNVSCA), the Provincial Government of Pangasinan hosted the NVM National Kickoff last December 1, 2022.

With the theme, Volunteer Now: Spark, Hope, Create Solutions and Respond to Pandemic Challenges, the NVM Kickoff Ceremony included activities such as the TaTAKBOluntir 2022: Run for Bayanihan along the Lingayen Baywalk in front of the Capitol Beachfront and the Volunteer Engagement Forum held at the Sison Auditorium. The NVM and its celebration is a nationwide endeavor to raise awareness and appreciation for volunteerism and to acknowledge that volunteers and volunteer service organizations are development partners.

During the NVM Kickoff Ceremony, Governor Ramon V. Guico III and PNVSCA Executive Director Donald James D. Gawe signed a memorandum of agreement regarding the establishment of a Provincial Volunteers Office, alongside PNVSCA Deputy Executive Director Ela Victoria F. Sarmago, and National Economic and Development Authority Assistant Secretary Greg L. Pineda, Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino, and Provincial Administrator Melicio F. Patague II,  as witnesses. Other officials and attendees present at the ceremony were also invited to sign the PNVSCA manifesto as their way to collectively support and join the cause.

A forum on Public Sector Volunteering was also held the following day, December 2, 2022 at the Provincial Training and Development Center II within the Capitol Complex in Lingayen. Guest speakers were invited to discuss topics such as basic concepts on volunteerism, public sector values, and volunteerism good practices of employee associations.

/MCDG

Photos: KFC

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—A component of the recently concluded North Luzon Travel Fair held at Clark, Pampanga last November 18 to November 20 was a travel exchange between Department of Tourism (DOT) accredited tour operators and travel agencies of Pangasinan and those of the National Capital Region (NCR) from November 21 to 24, 2022.

The travel exchange saw representatives from the DOT Region 1, DOT NCR, and tour operators and travel agencies from their respective regions visit select tourism destinations in Pangasinan. With the assistance of the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), the TravEx participants were able to experience various tourism activities as well as taste delicacies unique to the destinations. Their itinerary included a visit to Casa Amarillo (Rosales), Balungao Hilltop Adventure (Balungao), Sts. Paul and Peter Parish Church and Bella’s Puto Factory (Calasiao), Ciudad Elmina (Dagupan City), Our Farm Republic (Mangatarem), and Bued Mangrove Farm and Hundred Islands National Park (Alaminos City).

A business-to-business (B2B) meeting was also held at the Sison Auditorium last November 22, 2022 after the participants were given a heritage tour around the Capitol Complex and at the Casa Real. This became an avenue for Pangasinan’s tour operators and travel agencies to finally convene especially amidst the busy year-end season. Pangasinan’s participants were optimistic that this meeting would highlight Pangasinan and its many tourism products aside from famous destinations like the Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos City and attractions in Bolinao.

“There are a lot of places, destinations na kailangan natin ibenta, ipakilala sa iba para mas ma-appreciate nila ang Pangasinan. And I am happy kasi they are looking into eastern [Pangasinan] which is ‘yon ‘yong medyo hindi pa na-ouout sa market–‘yong ganda ng eastern, ‘yong pagiging unique ng central at pagiging icon ng ating western (There are a lot of places, destinations that we have to sell, to introduce to others so Pangasinan will be better appreciated. And I am happy because they are looking into eastern Pangasinan which is a part that hasn’t been really out in the market yet–the beauty of the eastern, the uniqueness of the central, and the western as an icon),” Ms. Vanessa Fajardo, founder and executive manager of Aerosky International Travel & Tours Agency in Dagupan City, shared before the meeting started. Ms. Fajardo likewise expressed her optimism that the B2B meeting would create more connections and partnerships among Pangasinan and NCR tour operators and travel agencies, further explaining that safe and responsible travels are anchored in the presence of legitimate and DOT-accredited tour operators and travel agencies.

“Iwasan natin ‘yong DIY [tours]… ang destination, it’s not about nag-papicture ka… It’s also to learn, to know (Let’s avoid DIY tours… a destination, it’s not about you took a picture there… It’s also to learn, to know),” quipped Ms. Fajardo when asked about what message she would like to convey to tourists. She emphasized the importance of tourists immersing themselves in the culture of the places they visit and taking with them bits of information of the places that will remain with them even after the trip. “You should know and you should love ‘yong pupuntahan mo (You should know and you should love the place you’re going to).” Being part of the industry for years, Ms. Fajardo highlighted how legitimate tour operators and travel agencies are able to provide this worthwhile experience, being in constant communication with tour guides and whatnot, which is likewise an important link within the tourism industry and a source of livelihood for local communities.

Representing Governor Ramon V. Guico III, Executive Assistant III Atty. Korina Cueva formally welcomed the guests and expressed the Provincial Government’s gratitude to all participants for the arrangement of the Travel Exchange. Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan was also present at the event to discuss an overview of Pangasinan’s tourism industry, tourism products, and current and future tourism, culture, and arts projects.

A presentation of NCR’s tourism industry and tourism products was also discussed by representatives from the DOT-NCR while the B2B meeting proper followed, facilitated by Mr. Ricky Esguerra, seasoned tour operator and tour guide from the Esgala Travel and Tours agency. A total of 13 tour operators and travel agencies from NCR were able to participate in the event. Mr. Hermie Delatado of Dakay’s Travel and Tours expressed his excitement upon learning of Pangasinan’s various tourism offers, sharing that prior the TravEx, he was only aware of the grand basilica in Manaoag and the Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos City.

“I hope magkaroon ako ng maraming bookings going here [in Pangasinan]… That I may have new offerings for my clients (I hope I get many bookings going here [in Pangasinan]… That I may have new offerings for my clients),” Mr. Delatado added on a positive note.

Senior Tourism Operations Officer Ms. Gay Gapas, head of DOT-R1’s Marketing and Promotions Division, represented Regional Director Joseph Francisco “Jeff” Ortega and had been accompanying the TravEx teams since their departure from the North Luzon Travel Fair in Clark City, Pampanga last November 20, 2022. According to Ms. Gapas, Pangasinan tour operators and travel agencies readily promoted the tourism products that the DOT-R1 had been developing with Pangasinan’s tourism stakeholders since 2020, amidst the pandemic. The success of the TravEx gave Ms. Gapas and her team confidence in expecting more foot traffic to Pangasinan and to Region 1, in general.

“We are open always for B2B meetings. It will definitely help in the recovery of the tourism industry,” Ms. Gapas said, later citing the phenomenon that is “revenge travel” now that travel restrictions have lessened and tourists are rearing to make up for loss time since the onset of the pandemic. “And considering our proximity, our very nice road network, we really expect more tourists to come.”

Local statistics show that one of Pangasinan’s most frequent visitors and tourists come from NCR, the province being readily accessible due in part to the construction of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).

/MCDG & SEAR

Photos: KSS & KFC

CLARK, Pampanga—In partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT) Regions 1, 2, 3, and the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and the Alliance of Travel and Tour Agencies of Pampanga (ATTAP), with support from the Subic Clark Alliance Development Corporation, the first ever run of the North Luzon Travel Fair was held at the SMX Convention Center in Clark, Pampanga last November 18 to November 20, 2022. The Province of Pangasinan was represented by its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) at the said event.

“The Philippines is open. The Philippines is ready to receive tourists and investors from all over the world, and north Luzon is ready to lead the way to light up northern Philippines,” Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco announced proudly as she addressed hundreds of tourism stakeholders present at the North Luzon Travel Fair.

As DOT Secretary Frasco made her rounds, she met with DOT Region 1 Director Joseph Francisco “Jeff” R. Ortega and Bolinao Tourism Officer Mary C. De Guzman, who gifted her a Filipiñana dress made by buri weavers from Bolinao’s Santiago Island and local business Kawayan PH, and fashion specialist Ryan Ciero.

The event, with the theme, “Weaving the Way to Recovery,” featured north Luzon’s rich weaving industry and unique weaving products. The DOT Region 1 invited four weavers to represent each province of the region. Ms. Bethy Carolina, a buri weaver from Santiago Island, Bolinao proudly represented Pangasinan at the travel fair as she deftly  showcased the traditional weaving practice of her town.

An exciting highlight of the event was the Hibla ng Lahi Fashion Show which featured models working the runway clad in modern and chic ensembles made out of Abel Iloko, with buri accessories to complete each look. Pangasinan Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan walked the runway alongside fellow provincial tourism officers from Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union, as well as two representatives from Pangasinan’s PTCAO and other participants from different provinces.

The hosting of the first North Luzon Travel Fair stood as a testament that provinces in northern Philippines are more than ready to not only jumpstart tourism after a two-year hiatus, but to improve and diversify traditional industries to stay relevant and alive in the fast-changing tourism industry.

/MCDG

Photos: MANL, GMRR and MKPT

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office and in partnership with the MAVI Art Gallery, formally opened the Dagop Datëk Visual Arts Exhibit at the Casa Real in Lingayen, Pangasinan last October 24, 2022.

The month of October is declared as Museums and Galleries Month by virtue of Presidential Proclamation No. 798, s. 1991, where it honors and highlights the importance of museums as homes of Filipino culture and heritage, an important aspect in strengthening national identity and pride of place.

Dagop Datëk is a visual arts exhibit, a creative space where colors and people meet. From the Pangasinan word “dagop” which means “to gather” and “datëk” which means “color,” the exhibit serves as a platform for the confluence of art, artists, and the local community. It is a venue for distant, yet meaningful conversation among the “masters” and the locale’s emerging visual artists—an encounter which hopes to foster deep appreciation, learning, and inspiration.

During the exhibit’s formal opening, Governor Ramon V. Guico III was joined by Vice Governor Ronald DG. Lambino and his wife, Atty. Melanie S. Sia-Lambino, Second District Board Member Philip Theodore E. Cruz, Third District Board Member Vici M. Ventanilla, Provincial Administrator Melicio F. Patague II, Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, Binalonan Mayor Ramon Ronald V. Guico IV, and Lingayen Vice Mayor Mac Dexter G. Malicdem, who represented Lingayen Mayor Leopoldo N. Bataoil, Pangasinan Heritage Society, Inc. President Arabela V. Arcinue, owner/proprietor of MAVI Art Gallery Rosalin Borja Ordoña, and other art enthusiasts and patrons.

In his brief speech, Governor Guico emphasized the importance of the presence of art in a community, citing his past endeavor during his last term as mayor in the town of Binalonan during which he prioritized their creative economy and the town’s culture and heritage.

“For me kasi, a developed and progressive community or town should have artworks installed. And ‘yon pong mga kababayan natin doon, should have an appreciation of the arts kasi pag wala pong arts, hindi po makulay ang buhay natin, ‘di ba? (And our townsfolk there should have an appreciation of the arts because without [the] arts, our lives would not be colorful, right?)” Governor Guico shared with the visitors present at the Casa Real.

Since his inauguration as the 31st governor of Pangasinan last June 29 2022, Governor Guico has expressly and consistently voiced out his support for the province’s tourism industry and its culture, heritage, and art. Last September, in celebration of Pangasinan’s Tourism Month, Governor Guico visited Natividad, Alaminos City, and Mangatarem where he listened and had dialogues with various tourism stakeholders during the conduct of Tongtóngan: The Governor’s See Pangasinan Listening Tours. In each visit, Governor Guico encouraged local communities to champion their respective town’s and city’s culture and heritage, likewise supporting the establishment of public parks and museums where youths can learn more about their province and their identity as Pangasinense.

The exhibit is housed at the Casa Real, the future Pangasinan Provincial Museum. This is the first art exhibit hosted at the Casa Real that showcases works by four (4) National Artists for Visual Arts namely Federico Aguilar Alcuaz (2009), Arturo Luz (1997), Hernando Ruiz Ocampo (1991), and Abdulmari Asia Imao (2006). Works by notable Filipino artists like Manuel Baldemor, Angel Cacnio, William Cadag, Nell Campos, Eduardo Castrillo, Eberle Catampongan, Rafael Cusi, Ysa Gernale, Joseph Hilario, Joel Mahilum, Jun Martinez, Lauro Memje, Adrian Morales, Angel Moreno, Romulo Olazo, and Eman Santos are also displayed at the exhibit.

The art exhibit is open to the public on Mondays to Saturdays, from 9AM to 4PM and will run from October 25 to December 16, 2022.

/MBRR & MCDG

Photos: KFC

PASAY CITY, Philippines—After two years of postponement due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the long-awaited 33rd Philippine Travel Mart (PTM) was successfully held at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City last September 30 to October 2, 2022. The three-day event was made possible by the Philippine Tour Operators Association Inc., Department of Tourism (DOT) Philippines, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, BPI, Air Asia, Turkish Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, PLDT Enterprise, and the GUEST (Go on an Unforgettable Experience through Sustainable Tourism) App.

“The PTM provides an opportunity for everyone to learn a great deal about what the Philippine tourism industry has to offer in this new era of travel,” DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco shared in her speech delivered via video message. A notable feat of this year’s PTM was the participation of all 82 provinces of the Philippines, a first after several years since the launch of the country’s longest-running travel trade exhibition in 1994.

The province of Pangasinan, represented by its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), joined the PTM alongside the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur and La Union at the Department of Tourism Region 1 pavilion. Since before the pandemic, Pangasinan has been a regular participant of the PTM, with some of its towns and cities represented by their respective tourism officers. Alaminos City Tourism Officer Miguel L. Sison and staff Mr. Reynaldo T. Livara Jr. accompanied the PTCAO throughout the event.

The Pangasinan booth caught the eyes of many visitors, most of whom were tourists eager to visit ecotourism sites as the PTCAO promoted the province’s new birdwatching tourism circuit mainly in Alaminos City, Bani, Lingayen, Mangatarem, and Balungao.

Meanwhile, during the second day of the PTM, Mr. Cris Zuniga, a native of Dagupan City, seasoned journalist, and former ABS-CBN news anchor, assisted the DOT-R1 in hosting the Region 1 Festival wherein each province of the region was introduced in a trivia contest featuring fun facts about them. While this was taking place, PTCAO representatives manned the Pangasinan Food Tasting Booth where they featured local food products such as calamansi crinkles from San Fabian’s Calamansian ed Lekep-Butao, Romana Peanut Brittle from Mangaldan, and Capito’s bocayo pastillas from Dagupan City.

This year, the Municipality of Bolinao, represented by Tourism Officer Mary C. De Guzman and staff from the Bolinao Tourism Office, won the Best Booth Award under the municipality/city category. Their booth, conceptualized and designed personally by Bolinao Vice Mayor  Richard Celeste, in cooperation with the Bolinao Artist Guild (BAGI), Inc., headed by Mr. Wenn Pidlaoan Licuanan, was made of buri ornaments handcrafted by Bolinao weavers from Santiago Island. According to the Bolinao Tourism Office, they wanted the design of their booth to showcase Bolinao’s rich and diverse marine resources while also standing as a testament that anyone and everyone has the potential to be creators of something beautiful.

/MCDG

Photos: PTCAO, Department of Tourism Region 1

MANGATAREM, Pangasinan—Pangasinan Governor Ramon V. Guico III met with representatives from the Department of Energy and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 1, Manleluag Spring Protected Landscape (MSPL) and LGU Mangatarem for the third Tongtóngan: The Governor’s See Pangasinan Listening Tours last September 28, 2022.

The third Tongtóngan listening tour saw Governor Guico in a dialogue with the DENR Region 1 and MSPL representatives which focused on the responsible conduct of tourism activities in protected areas as well as necessary interventions to continuously and sustainably preserve the environment and wild life within and surrounding MSPL. Present at the meeting were Sangguniang Panlalawigan Board Member Philip Theodore Cruz, Special Assistant to the Governor Von Mark R. Mendoza, Provincial Administrator Melicio F. Patague II, Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer (PTCAO) Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer (PENRO) Marlyn Bando, Mangatarem Mayor Ramil P. Ventenilla, and other local officials.

In a brief presentation, PENRO staff Gleshly Dee U. Castillo detailed the history and development of the MSPL throughout the years, starting in the 1960s. Due in part to its hot spring and rich biodiversity, the MSPL has been recognized as one of Pangasinan’s known ecotourism sites, collectively developed in partnership with the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, the Department of Tourism, LGU Mangatarem, and the Team Energy Foundation. PENRO Bando also detailed the current facilities of the MSPL as well as a quick overview of the site’s status in terms of tourist arrivals, accumulating roughly 49,000 visitors yearly.

In his message, Governor Guico shared how it was his first time visiting MSPL and further elaborated how the site was important to the local tourism industry.

“Importante ang turismo dahil ito ‘yong makakapagbigay ng pinaka mabilis na employment at pagkakakitaan sa ating mga kababayan (Tourism is important because this is what gives our townsfolk the fastest source of employment and income),” Governor Guico stated.

Concerned by recent border/boundary disputes between Pangasinan and neighboring provinces arising, Governor Guico asked the officials present if there had been any similar problems in Mangatarem. He likewise elaborated the issue surrounding Barangay Malico in San Nicolas and how this was being claimed by Nueva Vizcaya.

“We will never give up Malico, San Nicolas to Nueva Vizcaya. We will fight for it,” Governor Guico declared.

Issues and concerns such as old facilities, inadequate utilization of space, lack of personnel and security, insufficient funds for upkeeping and site development, unpaved roads hindering accessibility to the site and barangays around it, and environmental hazards such as wildfires caused by locals burning in nearby forest areas were raised during the Tongtóngan proper.

In response, Governor Guico called for the assistance of local chief executives for the formulation of sustainable livelihood programs for locals to take part in and likewise be discouraged from practicing harmful and dangerous activities in the forest areas. He also proposed various activities that can be done in MSPL such as horseback riding, ATV riding, camping (especially for boy scouts and girl scouts), and an educational “tree tour.” While MSPL has since ceased the acceptance of overnight stays since the onset of the pandemic, Governor Guico suggested the construction of tree houses where visitors can further immerse themselves in nature. Governor Guico urged the MSPL management to collaborate with private investors such as the Palafox Associates, a known multi-disciplinary firm in the Philippines that specializes in architectural design and urban planning. With regard to assistance in managing the Daang Kalikasan, Governor Guico advised the officials of LGU Mangatarem who were present to set up a business establishment (e.g., a café) somewhere along the Daang Kalikasan where they can earn funds to help sustain the scenic road once the authority over the said road has been duly transferred to Mangatarem by the Department of Public Works and Highways.

The Tongtóngan meeting ended successfully with an acknowledgement of all concerns and issues as well as comments, suggestions, and a renewed and strengthened partnership and collaboration for the development of MSPL and other ecotourism sites in the province of Pangasinan.

/MCDG

Phots: KFC

ALAMINOS CITY, Pangasinan—In continuation of the Provincial Government of Pangasinan’s project, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) entitled, “Tongtóngan: The Governor’s See Pangasinan Listening Tours,” Governor Ramon V. Guico III, alongside local officials, joined the Pangasinan Tourism Officers Association (PTOA) for their third general assembly held at Quezon Island, Hundred Islands National Park in Alaminos City last September 23, 2022.

While the first Tongtóngan tour in Natividad saw Governor Guico sharing an exchange with farm tourism stakeholders, the second tour saw him listening to the concerns of PTOA members. Coincidentally, this is the first PTOA general assembly since after local elections and the first time that Governor Guico will be meeting the association.

Along with Governor Guico were Board Member Marinor B. De Guzman (Chairman for Committee on Tourism, Foreign Affairs and Migrant Workers Concerns), Alaminos City Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Miguel Y. Perez (representing Alaminos City Mayor Arth Bryan C. Celeste), Dasol Mayor Rizalde “Sadong” J. Bernal, Alaminos City Councilor Carolyn D. Sison, and other local officials.

After the welcome remarks delivered by PTOA President and Balungao Tourism Officer Cromwell M. Hernandez and the activity orientation by Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, Vice Mayor Perez passed along Mayor Celeste’s message, highlighting Alaminos City’s goal to become a tourism hub by 2030, during which they envisioned an airport to be constructed in the city in order to cater to tourists and travelers from Visayas and Mindanao. Meanwhile, Board Member De Guzman shared that while it was her first time to travel to the Hundred Islands National Park, it was amazing to her that Pangasinan is indeed blessed to have not only a beautiful mountainside as she mentioned in Natividad during the first Tongtóngan tour, but also pristine and world-class islands and beaches as seen in the national park.

“Tourism will be a priority industry of Pangasinan,” Governor Guico reiterated during his speech, having consistently mentioned this since his inauguration as governor last June 29, 2022 and adding his vision for Pangasinan to be a premier province worthy of international recognition. He also called for PTOA to “Be creative” in their effort to boost tourism in their respective towns and cities, emphasizing the importance of history, culture and arts as tourism products. A list of recommendations he offered to PTOA included prioritization of preservation of destinations as well as championing sustainability and a green environment, better facilities and trained staff, and construction of public parks to introduce individual town’s and city’s history and culture, among others.

Bolinao Tourism Officer Mary C. De Guzman raised concerns such as lack of tourism facilities like restrooms and water sports tourist hub as well as their plans to construct a tourist rest area inspired by that of the Department of Tourism. She also underscored the importance of having a Tourism Code to put into perspective each town’s and city’s tourism-related plans. In true spirit of camaraderie, Ms. De Guzman likewise invited new PTOA members to consult the association’s older members should they need assistance in their respective tourism endeavors. Afterward, San Carlos City’s designated tourism officer Ruby Ballesteros shared plans to improve promotions for the city’s bamboo industry as well as for the recently declared Minor Basilica of St. Dominic de Guzman Parish. Meanwhile, in relation to the issue of lack of plantilla items and permanent positions for tourism officers, San Fabian Tourism Officer Jonathan C. Gacosta expressed his concern for the discontinuity of tourism programs caused by the possible transition of local chief executives. Aside from that, he shared San Fabian’s plan to put up a Visitors Assistance Desk at the San Fabian Beach but also their need for tourism vehicles for better transportation of their tourists. Another concern was raised by Dasol Tourism Officer Guendolin C. Bustamante as she asked Governor Guico and accompanying officials about the shortage of salt in the province as Dasol is known for its vast salt farms with salt being one of their town’s known tourism products.

To all of these concerns, Governor Guico and the officials present provided their insights and suggestions such as the capitalization of history and culture in Bolinao and San Carlos City, the improvement of public markets where tourists can learn about a specific area’s gastronomy tourism and where they can readily purchase pasalubong, the construction of convention centers near tourism-related establishments for the maximum utilization of these, capitalizing on the utility of bamboo that would likewise generate work for locals and the practice of bamboo propagation for sustainability. Governor Guico also discussed to the participants that the provincial government of Pangasinan had given the Center for Pangasinan Studies ample budget to conduct research on Pangasinan’s salt industry and the feasibility of the construction of an “Asin Center” for continuous learning of salt not only for academics and concerned stakeholders such as local salt farmers, but also for interested tourists and travelers.

Governor Guico called for the assistance of Board Member De Guzman as well, particularly in the formulation of a legislation that would require local chief executives to create plantilla items for their tourism officers in reference to Republic Act No. 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009, which recognizes “tourism as an engine of investment, growth and national development.”

The successful dialogue concluded with Governor Guico assuring the PTOA members of his full support for their future projects and programs that will enliven and strengthen tourism in their respective towns and cities.

As part of their general assembly and to be acquainted with the new members of PTOA, Alaminos City Tourism Officer Miguel L. Sison prepared a short tour for the members that saw them visiting the well-known Pilgrimage Island and trying out various activities available on Quezon Island.

/MCDG

Photos: KFC

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) and the Center for Pangasinan Studies (CPS), conducted a joint collaborative meeting with the Pangasinan State University (PSU) to discuss partnership opportunities for the province and the state university, particularly on tourism, culture and arts programs on September 21, 2022.

On the part of the PSU, President Dexter R. Buted presented the different initiatives of the state university, such as food technology innovation, research and development and tourism and hospitality management programs. Dr. Buted also shared a research he conducted on community-based tourism and the creation of a cultural development academy which could potentially help the province in implementing programs anchored on tourism and cultural development.

The PTCAO on its end shared some programs which could potentially be co-implemented with the PSU, such as the Capitol Heritage Docent Program, Coastal-Clean Up and Youth and Community Volunteerism Program and Capacity-Building on Visual and Performing Arts, Museology, and Heritage Conservation, among others. The PTCAO also shared that part of the partnership is the co-sharing of facilities for various tourism, culture and arts-related programs, projects and activities.

After briefly discussing its objectives and organizational composition, the CPS also shared its existing and new projects, such as the implementation of research projects on the revitalization of Pangasinan traditional industries, which include salt-making, brickmaking, blacksmithing, and pottery. Earlier, the CPS invited the PSU to be part of its consortium; the partnership will be formalized through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), tentatively slated to be signed in the first week of October. The PSU shared its research and development agenda as well as other opportunities for collaboration, including provisions for funding and technical assistance.

After the joint meeting, Dr. Buted provided the PTCAO and CPS with a brief tour of the newly constructed PSU Golden Lion Hotel. The facility, which is set to be opened this coming October, will not only offer quality hospitality service to local and non-local guests and tourists, but will also serve as a practical laboratory for hospitality students of the PSU, allowing them to be more equipped in the fields of both hospitality and tourism management.

The PSU expressed its full support for the PTCAO and the CPS and their respective programs and projects. Both parties emphasized the need for collaboration and partnership in order to holistically contribute to the development of the province.

/NDG Jr.

Photos: KSS

NATIVIDAD, Pangasinan—In celebration of Pangasinan’s annual Tourism Month this September, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), launched Tongtóngan: The Governor’s See Pangasinan Listening Tours this September 20, 2022. 

The Pangasinan word “tongtóngan” means “purposeful talk or discussion.” Tongtóngan is a program that provides a collaborative and consultative platform for the provincial government headed by Governor Ramon V. Guico III and the province’s key tourism players and stakeholders. Alongside the valuable consultations and dialogues, it is also an opportunity to visit and promote tourism destinations in the province. The first of these tours saw Governor Guico visiting Natividad, a town in eastern Pangasinan headed by Mayor Rosita G. Rafael. 

A site visit at R.Rebs Integrated Eco-Farm officially started the tour, where Governor Guico, Board Member Marinor B. De Guzman (Chairman of the Committee on Tourism, Foreign Affairs and Migrant Workers Concerns) and Provincial Administrator Melicio F. Patague II met with Mayor Rafael, Director Rogelio C. Evangelista (DPA of the Agricultural Training Institute-Regional Training Center I), and the 1-Samahan ng Itinataguyod ang Kaunlaran ng Agri-Turismo (1-SIKAT) headed by Ms. Lea A. Santiago, owner and manager of Our Farm Republic in Mangatarem.

The event proper took place at the Sky Plaza Hotel Function Hall where PTCAO Head Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan provided the orientation of the activity as well as the introduction of the participants, with the assistance of PTCAO Tourism Operations Officer II Monika Aliguas N. Labaupa as facilitator.

“Tunay na mapalad ang ating bayan sapagkat tayo ay pinaligiran ng iba’t ibang mga natural na likas yaman na siyang nagsisilbing turismo (Our town is truly blessed because it is surrounded by various natural resources that serve as tourism),” Mayor Rafael expressed in her welcoming remarks as she also cited tourism sites in Natividad such as Maranum Falls, Sky Plaza and R.Rebs Integrated Eco-Farm.

Meanwhile, in her own message addressed to the farm tourism stakeholders and other local participants at the event, Board Member Marinor De Guzman asserted: “Hindi lamang natin paiigtingin ang pagtatanim kundi palalakasin din po natin ang turismo hindi lamang sa kabundukan, hindi lamang sa karagatan. Palalakasin din po natin pati na rin sa kapatagan (We won’t only strengthen farming but we will also strengthen tourism not only in the mountains, not only in the seas. We will also strengthen [tourism] in the fields).”

Taking all of what had been shared by Mayor Rafael and Board Member De Guzman, Governor Guico expounded on the need to improve roads and infrastructure to improve accessibility within and around the province, further citing the on-going Pangasinan East-West Expressway project. In addition, Governor Guico expressed his support in the construction of public parks in the province’s towns and cities that may stand as valuable sources of culture and history for locals and visitors alike.

Tongtóngan fosters the bottom-up approach wherein decision-making starts from the bottom of the hierarchy rather than from the top. In this way, the activity began with a dialogue among Governor Guico and the farm tourism stakeholders who were present, particularly the members of 1-SIKAT, who expressed concerns regarding irresponsible environmental stewardship such as deforestation and improper waste management, insufficient or interrupted water supply, and the need for land rehabilitation. Speaking on behalf of 1-SIKAT, Ms. Santiago also shared the group’s advocacy to encourage students to visit farms and learn about the process and the agricultural sector, thus highlighting the importance of developing farm tourism in the province. Vice Mayor Rodrigo L. Rafael also suggested the installation of a cable car along Sky Plaza, explaining that this would make travel to the said uphill destination easier for visitors. He also voiced out his concern to rehabilitate Maranum Falls as climate change has continuously affected the strength of flow of water at the site.

The fruitful discussion ended with Governor Guico assuring the stakeholders that he would work closely with officials involved with their concerns, especially with the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan in terms of legislation and necessary intervention.

Tongtóngan: The Governor’s See Pangasinan Listening Tours coincides with this year’s United Nations World Tourism Organization theme, “Rethinking Tourism,” in celebration of a more empowered, more sustainable and more inclusive future for tourism in Pangasinan’s local communities.

/MCDG

Photos: KFC

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—A special meeting was held for the presentation of the proposed design for the upcoming Pangasinan Provincial Museum to be housed in the Casa Real in the province’s capital town Lingayen last September 1, 2022.

The University of Santo Tomas – Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (UST-CCCPET), headed by its director Dr. Eric B. Zerrudo, presented the mockup of the designs and curatorial content for the Phase 1 of the museum development project to Governor Ramon V. Guico III and the member-commissioners of the Pangasinan Historical and Cultural Commission (PHCC). The provincial government sought the technical assistance of the UST-CCCPET Team to look into the narratives of the province’s history and culture and come up with a workable concept.

Eleven (11) galleries have been identified where each gallery presents different themes and curatorial execution. The themes include Pangasinan’s pre-colonial to contemporary history, natural heritage, the Pangasinan religious traditions, language and literature, luminaries and national artists, and festivals to name a few. Governor Guico also provided his input for the new direction of the Provincial Museum that led to expanding the plans for a bigger Casa Real complex.

The meeting concluded on a high note with a directive from the governor to the finance committee present therein to allocate funds for the execution and interpretation of the proposed designs that will become part of the Phase 2 of the museum development project.

With the profound vision and strong support of Governor Ramon V. Guico III, the Pangasinan Provincial Museum at the Casa Real will soon be completed, and with God’s grace this institution will continue to preserve and promote the cultural heritage and identity of Pangasinan until its proposed formal launching and opening in 2023.

The Casa Real or the “Royal House” was built during the Spanish colonial period to serve as the first provincial capitol of Pangasinan and the Court of First Instance where the Alcalde Mayor resided and held office as governor and judge. The Casa Real also became a school during the American period and also served as the office of the Japanese soldiers during the Japanese Occupation in World War II.

Due to its being “an outstanding and unique example of civic architecture from the Spanish and American colonial period” and being a silent witness to the historical events of the town and the province as well, the Casa Real was declared as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute in 2002.

/NJMD

Photos: CAD

SANTIAGO, Ilocos Sur—Representatives from Pangasinan’s Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), along with the province’s local tourism officers, joined a week-long capacity building seminar organized by the Department of Tourism Region 1 last August 22 to August 26, 2022.

The seminar, facilitated by Ms. Carminah Garcia and Ms. Faeroe Jeanne Fontanilla from the department’s Tourism Development Planning, Research, and Information Management Office, aimed to encourage continuous development and learning among tourism officers, especially those who are newly appointed, as well as their respective staff. The training consisted of 4 main modules, mainly: DOT Thrusts and Directions, Roll-out of the Devolved Functions of the Department of Tourism, Orientation on Local Tourism Planning, and Training for the Standard Tourism Statistics System.

This training is a timely and imperative action and response to the evolving tourism environment in the Philippines following the challenges brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. The training also served as a refresher with regard to the conduct of various tourism management practices and the use of tourism statistical data.

/MCDG

Photos: CCB and Ms. Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan