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.
Visitors posing at the See Pangasinan booth located at the Department of Tourism Region 1 Pavilion.
“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.
Ms. Bethy Carolina of Santiago Island, Bolinao teaching Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Malu Elduayan the intricacy of buri weaving.
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.
Pangasinan Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan with two PTCAO staff before the Hibla ng Lahi Fashion Show, dressed in a variety of Abel Ilokano attire with buri accents
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.
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.
Dagop Datëk Visual Arts Exhibit entrance at the lobby of the Casa Real in Lingayen, Pangasinan
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.
(from left to right): Atty. Melanie Lambino, Board Member Vici Ventanilla, Vice Governor Mark Ronald Lambino, Governor Ramon Guico III, Ms. Rosalin Ordoña, Ms. Arabela Arcinue, and other local executives and art enthusiasts
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.
Governor Guico viewing paintings by Ysa Gernale, wife of fellow artist Eman Santos, whose paintings are also featured in the Dagop Datëk Visual Arts Exhibit
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.
Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Malu Elduayan along with Ms. Arabela Arcinue, Ms. Alma Bella Santos, Ms. Nida Vergara, Ms. Erfe Concepcion, and fellow members from the Likët Datëk Group from Urdaneta City, Pangasinan
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.
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.
Representatives from Pangasinan, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and the Department of Tourism Region 1 pose together during the second day of the Philippine Travel Mart
“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.
Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan (in red) along with staff from the Pangasinan Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) at their booth located at the Department of Tourism Region 1 pavilion
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.
Mr. Cris Zuniga with the lucky winner of the See Pangasinan goodies during the Region 1 Festival Hour
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.
Bolinao Tourism Officer Mary C. De Guzman alongside other representatives from the Municipality of Bolinao (photo credit: Department of Tourism Region 1 Facebook Page)
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.
Governor Ramon V. Guico III being shown around the MSPL by management staff, alongside Provincial Administrator Melicio F. Patague II and Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan
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.
Governor Guico checking the water temperature of one of MSPL’s hot spring pools
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.
Governor Guico addressing the stakeholders alongside local officials
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.
Participants at the MSPL pavilion where the Tongtóngan meeting was held
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.
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.
(from left to right) Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Miguel Perez, Governor Ramon V. Guico III, Alaminos City Tourism Officer Miguel L. Sison, Board Member Marinor B. De Guzman, and Alaminos City Councilor Carolyn Dizon-Sison
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.
Governor Guico addressing the members of the Pangasinan Tourism Officers Association (PTOA)
“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 sharing about their tourism endeavors in Bolinao
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.
Governor Guico and Board Member De Guzman listening to speakers from PTOA
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.
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.
PTOA members and PTCAO staff at the peak of Pilgrimage Island where the 56ft statue of Christ the Savior stands overlooking the national park
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.
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.
PTCAO representatives alongside CPS Executive Director Dr. Perla Legaspi, PSU President Dr. Dexter Buted and fellow PSU staff
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.
PTCAO Tourism Operations Officer II Monika Labaupa presenting in front of the participants of the meeting
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.
PTCAO representatives and PSU President Dr. Buted during a tour of the new Golden Lion Hotel
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.
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.
Tongtóngan venue at the Sky Plaza Hotel Function Hall in Natividad
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.
Governor Ramon V. Guico III alongside Mayor Rosita G. Rafael, Board Member Marinor B. De Guzman, Provincial Administrator Melicio F. Patague II, Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, R.Rebs Integrated Eco-Farm owner Richard Rebujio, and other farm tourism stakeholders and LGU Natividad officials
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).”
Governor Guico during his speech at Sky Plaza
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.
(from left to right) Mayor Rafael, Governor Guico and Board Member De Guzman listening to stakeholders during the exchange
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.
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.
Pangasinan Governor Ramon V. Guico III alongside Dr. Eric B. Zerrudo, director of the University of Santo Tomas Center for Conservation of Cultural Property and Environment in the Tropics (UST-CCCPET), Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Maria Luisa Amor-Elduayan, and member-commissioners of the Pangasinan Historical and Cultural Commission (PHCC)
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.
Governor Guico and participants during the presentation of the mockup of the designs and curatorial content for the Phase 1 of the museum development project
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.
Governor Guico, Dr. Zerrudo and distinguished members of the UST-CCCPET and PHCC having a discussion about the expansion of the Casa Real
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 located in the heart of Lingayen, Pangasinan
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.
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.
PTCAO Tourism Planning and Product Development Division head Mr. Edward Muego and San Nicolas Tourism Officer Ms. Emelyn Manangan accomplishing tasks during break time
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.
Participants from Pangasinan listening to the lecture on Standard Local Tourism Statistics System
The seminar also included a familiarization tour around select tourism sites in Santiago, San Esteban and Candon City which served as an example of Tourism Circuit development, one of the key lessons shared during the training.
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.
Representatives from Pangasinan and La Union during their familiarization tour in Santiago, Ilocos Sur
PANGASINAN—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through its Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), joined the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 1 Office, headed by Regional Director Francisco Joseph R. Ortega, as well as birdwatching experts, local tour operators and a group of bikers as they conducted the second leg of the department’s Exploration and Simulation Tour in the province last August 29 to September 3, 2022.
The exploration and simulation tour participants along with Bani Tourism Officer Rommel Dulay and staff in Bani, Pangasinan.
In continuation of their birdwatching exploration tour last August 11 to August 13, representatives from the DOT-R1 and PTCAO invited local tour operators and bikers to assist in the conduct of a simulation tour so that they may experience the activities offered in various tourism destinations first-hand. Birdwatching experts Mr. Ivan Sarenas and Mr. Michael Agbayani Calaramo of Northwestern University joined the group once more as they led the birdwatching exploration part of the tour. Participants of this activity were also given the chance to taste some of Pangasinan’s known delicacies in the towns and cities they visited as part of the province’s thrust to promote its gastronomy tourism.
Known as “dinuguan” in Filipino or “baguisen” in Pangasinan, this heirloom dish is famously served at the Mesa de Amor in Lingayen, Pangasinan. Baguisen is usually made of pork offal or meat usually simmered in a mix of pig’s blood, garlic, chili, and vinegar to achieve its trademark soft and chewy texture and its rich and spicy flavor. Taking into consideration some customers’ dislike of pig’s blood in this known dish, the cooks at Mesa de Amor serve their baguisen without pig’s blood while still expertly achieving its piquant salty, soury and faintly spicy taste.
The 5-day tour began in Bani and Sual in western Pangasinan. While Bani was previously visited for its birdwatching sanctuary in Bangrin Marine Protected Area, the town also has bike trails that bikers and cyclists frequent as well as a favorite local snack in the form of palitaw con yema. In Sual, amateur or seasoned bikers are said to visit the town’s Lagalag Trail often because of its smooth pathways yet challenging climb and descent. The group also discovered that some migratory bird species fly along Sual’s wooded area, making for an interesting note for birdwatching enthusiasts.
In central Pangasinan, the group paid a visit to the towns of Aguilar, Mangatarem, Lingayen, Bayambang, and San Fabian. Lingayen and Mangatarem were included in the previous birdwatching exploration tour alongside Bani, where birdwatching experts Mr. Sarenas and Mr. Calaramo were elated to see a variety of bird species thriving in the two towns’ woodlands and the former’s beachside. The visit to Lingayen, in particular, highlighted the town’s culinary treasures such as heirloom dishes prepared and served at Mesa de Amor, a local restaurant known for its rustic ambience and traditional Filipino and Pangasinan menu.
Together with Bayambang’s Tourism Officer Mr. Rafael Limueco-Saygo, the exploration and simulation tour participants look up at Bayambang’s famous landmark – the 50.23 meter bamboo statue of St. Vincent Ferrer, the town’s patron saint. The statue has been dubbed as the tallest bamboo sculpture in the world, earning a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records.
In Bayambang, the group was introduced to the town’s fast-rising industry and product – bamboo. The town itself is known for being the site of the tallest bamboo structure in the world, with the St. Vincent Ferrer bamboo statue looming over the town from the St. Vincent Ferrer Prayer Park just a little ways away from the town proper. The group also had the chance to visit the CS First Green AID Inc., a factory that masterfully produces engineered bamboo and an array of other bamboo products that Bayambang is steadily being recognized for.
Meanwhile, in San Fabian, the group paid a visit to another notable destination for biking enthusiasts – the Biker’s Den. San Fabian itself is known to have bike trails that are regularly patronized by bikers from all around Pangasinan, and even those from nearby provinces. The surrounding lush greenery became a point of interest for birdwatching as well, where accompanying birdwatching experts noticed that the birds in San Fabian’s woodlands have readily learned how to adapt to the environment despite the community’s noises and other disruptions known to scare birds away.
The participants of the exploration and simulation tour along with San Fabian Tourism Officer Jonathan Gacosta and staff at the Biker’s Den premises
The last two days of the tour saw the group traveling to eastern Pangasinan where they visited Binalonan, Rosales, Urdaneta City, Villasis, Asingan, Balungao, San Quintin, Natividad, and San Manuel. While western Pangasinan is known for its vast coastline, eastern Pangasinan boasts seemingly endless sceneries of the picturesque mountainside and abundant ecotourism sites such as rivers and waterfalls.
History, culture and arts enthusiasts often flock to Binalonan, Rosales and Urdaneta City in Pangasinan’s Fifth District as they are known for their local museums and parks, all of which stand as tributes or in homage to their respective artists and litterateurs. Deterred by the worsening weather brought about by Typhoon Henry at the time of their supposed visit to Antong Falls in Sison, the group visited Villasis and Asingan instead, where they saw Reotutar’s Garden and Resort and the Dairy Box of Bantog Samahang Nayon MPC respectively.
Alongside Alaminos City, Binalonan is also known for its longganisa industry, its product distinguishable by its larger size and often meaty and garlicky taste compared to Alaminos City’s small and savory “toothpick” longganisa.
Amidst the cloudy weather and occasional drizzles, the group was still able to visit destinations such as San Manuel, Dipalo River in San Quintin, the Sky Plaza in Natividad, and Mt. Balungao. New bird species were discovered during their stop at Dipalo River and Mt. Balungao, adding more to the list of 150 bird species previously recorded from the first bird exploration tour conducted last August 11 to August 13, 2022.
A scaly-breasted munia (Lonchura punctulata) seen from the viewfinder of a spotting scope, a portable telescope usually mounted on a tripod and used by professional birdwatchers or birdwatching enthusiasts.
Special Acknowledgments:
Mr. Ivan Sarenas, Mr. Michael Agbayani Calaramo, Bani Tourism Office, Sual Tourism Office, Aguilar Tourism Office, Lingayen Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, Mangatarem Tourism Office, Manleluag Spring Protected Landscape, Bayambang Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, San Fabian Tourism Office, Binalonan Tourism Office, Rosales Tourism Office, Urdaneta Tourism Office, Villasis Tourism Office, Reotutar’s Garden and Resort, Asingan Tourism Office, Dairy Box of Bantog Samahang Nayon MPC, Balungao Tourism Office, Natividad Tourism Office, San Manuel Tourism Office, and San Quintin Tourism Office.
PANGASINAN—The province of Pangasinan, through the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, joined the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 1 Office, headed by Regional Director Francisco Joseph R. Ortega, and birdwatching experts as they conducted a Birdwatching Exploration Tour in the province last August 11 to 13, 2022.
The birdwatching exploration team on the lookout for various bird species at the Manleluag Spring Protected Landscape in Mangatarem
Alongside a team from the DOT-R1, representatives from the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources Region 1, birdwatching experts Mr. Ivan Sarenas and Mr. Michael Agbayani Calaramo of Northwestern University, and chosen local tourism offices joined the 3-day activity. The team was also accompanied by Ms. Imelda Favi, tour operator and owner of local travel agency Athena Travel and Tours.
The first day of the Pangasinan leg of the DOT’s Birdwatching Exploration Tour kicked off in the town of Bani, where the Bangrin Marine Protected Area and Bani Communal Forest are located. The said sites are known hotspots for birdwatching enthusiasts who endeavor to catch even a glimpse of more than a hundred varieties of indigenous and migratory birds that pass through the surrounding bay. Before sundown, the team traveled to Alaminos City and settled in Bued Mangrove Park, witnessing various birds agilely flying through the mangroves, their calls echoing from above and beyond the treetops in the evening darkness.
A great egret (Ardea alba) mid-flight | Great egrets have been noted to be one of the migratory bird species that pass by the bay in the Bangrin Mangrove Protected Area in Bani, Pangasinan
The following day, the team traveled to the town of Mangatarem and positioned themselves at the Manleluag Spring Protected Landscape (MSPL) before daybreak. The hiking trails and sheer vastness of MSPL are ideal albeit challenging spots for birdwatching as visitors have to be absolutely careful in taking steps across the leave-covered grounds so as not to frighten or raise alarms for passing birds.
The third and last day of the exploration tour saw the team travel to Lingayen first, where they stayed along the Lingayen Baywalk before visiting the sand bar at Barangay Estanza. The team also made the trip to the town of Balungao where they hiked Mt. Balungao where they saw and heard an estimated 40 bird species, including a rare sighting of a violet cuckoo (Chrysococcyx xanthorhynchus) and a honey buzzard raptor (Pernis ptilorhynchus).
According to the DOT-R1, the team had identified, seen and heard approximately 150 types of bird species in the aforementioned destinations.
The birdwatching exploration team posing among the lush greenery of Mt. Balungao
This activity is in line with the DOT’s Tourism Product and Circuit Development Project. The Birdwatching Exploration Tour is one of many such tours that aims to assess the readiness and marketability of particular tourist destinations in given tourism circuits. Such activities also aim to help tour operators and travel agencies to develop tour packages of Pangasinan destinations that can be readily promoted to a variety of consumers.
Special Acknowledgments:
Mr. Ivan Sarenas, Mr. Michael Agbayani Calaramo, Department of Energy and Natural Resources (DENR) – Ilocos Region, Bani Tourism Office, Alaminos City Tourism Office, Mangatarem Tourism Office, Manleluag Spring Protected Landscape, Lingayen Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, Balungao Tourism Office, and Athena Travel, Tours and Events Inc.
LINGAYEN, Pangasinan—The Provincial Government of Pangasinan, led by Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III, formally opened the Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson Exhibit at the historic Casa Real in Lingayen, Pangasinan earlier today, August 12, 2022.
Members of the United Tomelden Clan alongside Hon. Mayor Leopoldo N. Bataoil, Hon. Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino and Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III after unveiling the portrait of Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson by Van Zachary Turingan of San Carlos City
In celebration of the National History Month this August, the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, through the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, paid tribute to the life and works of Geronima Tomelden Pecson, the first elected female senator of the Republic of the Philippines by organizing an exhibit featuring her works and contributions. The event was attended by Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III, Vice Governor Mark Ronal DG. Lambino (Chairperson on the Committee of Education, Culture and Arts) and his wife, Atty. Melanie S. Sia-Lambino (member of the National Board of the National Federation of Women’s Clubs of the Philippines), Board Member Marinor B. De Guzman (Chairperson for the Committee on Tourism, Foreign Affairs and Migrant Workers Concerns), Board Member Apolonia “Apple” DG. Bacay, Board Member Vici M. Ventenilla, Provincial Administrator Melicio F. Patague II, representatives from LGU Lingayen headed by Mayor Leopoldo N. Bataoil, LGU Lingayen and Vice Mayor Mac Dexter G. Malicdem, and family members of the United Tomelden Clan (UTC).
Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino delivering the welcome remarks
“I would project my work, rather than myself,” Hon. Vice Governor Mark Lambino said as he began his welcome remarks, quoting the famous words from Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson herself. Vice Governor Lambino continued by illustrating Senator Geronima Pecson through her works and recognitions, highlighting her work as a suffragist and being one of the founders of the National Federation of Women’s Clubs (NFWC) in 1921.
Mr. Dyxon Lix A. Dizon proudly delivering his speech, sharing with the audience fond memories of Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson and their clan
After the welcome remarks, Mr. Dyxon Lix A. Dizon, the representative of the Unified Tomelden Clan, shared with the audience fond memories of Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson, as well as acknowledging the initiative of former president Fidel V. Ramos for issuing Executive Order No. 375 on October 1996 to create a special committee to take charge of the preparations for the centennial birth anniversary of Geronima Tomelden Pecson and thus making her life and endeavors as a public servant known to Filipinos.
Mayor Leopoldo N. Bataoil gleefully delivering his speech while regarding the members of the UTC
Hon. Mayor Leopoldo N. Bataoil also shared fond memories of his relatives in the UTC and emphasized how Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson’s life and works influenced the greatness of not only Lingayen, but also the entire Philippines.
Governor Ramon V. Guico III addressing the audience after arriving from a separate engagement in Manila
Relieved to have arrived at the event despite a delay in a separate engagement in Manila, Hon. Governor Ramon V. Guico III arrived just in time to join the celebration.
“I cannot emphasize enough, the importance of history, heritage and culture… the only treasure that can’t be taken from us,” Governor Guico expressed. He also highlighted how Pangasinan is not only rich in natural resources, but in human resources as well as he recounted how Pangasinan has produced leaders such as Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson, former president Fidel V. Ramos and even former president Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, whose roots can be traced back to Binalonan, Pangasinan, and many others.
Governor Ramon V. Guico III presenting the Plaque of Appreciation to Mrs. Alejandra Batecan-Tomelden, the oldest member of the United Tomelden Clan
Part of the ceremony was the unveiling of a portrait of Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson which was commissioned by the UTC from visual artist Mr. Van Zachary Turingan of San Carlos City, Pangasinan. The UTC donated the said artwork to the Provincial Government of Pangasinan, a significant turnover as it coincided with the celebration of this year’s National History Month with the theme: “Our History Continues.” Through this turnover, the colorful and successful life that Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson led as well as her contributions to the Republic of the Philippines will continue to be remembered and revered.
(L-R) Board Member Marinor B. De Guzman, Atty. Melanie S. Sia-Lambino, Vice Governor Mark Ronald DG. Lambino, Governor Ramon V. Guico III, and representatives from the United Tomelden Clan at the ceremonial ribbon cutting of the Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson Exhibit
After formally opening the Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson Exhibit, the guests were welcomed to take a look around the exhibit, where a mural of Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson painted by Ms. Lyantra Kryzelle Pasion from Calasiao, Pangasinan was also featured.
Governor Ramon V. Guico III and guests at the exhibit viewing
Senator Geronima Tomelden Peson was born in December 19, 1896 in then-Barrio Libsong in Lingayen, Pangasinan. She was an educator, legislator and suffragist. She is also famously known for being the first woman and first Filipino to be elected in the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Board, likewise being the first woman to be part of a governing body of a United Nations Agency.
While Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson’s life was full of colorful and successful achievements, the Saray Matalunggaring ya Bibii ëd Awara’y Pangasinan: An Exhibit Featuring Senator Geronima Tomelden Pecson simply gives visitors a sneak peek into the story behind this outstanding woman and her huge contributions in the lives of people that can be felt even to this day.
The exhibit is open every Mondays to Saturdays at 9AM to 4PM in the Casa Real, Lingayen, Pangasinan.
