By Charmaine Odong Pangan
TAGAYTAY CITY, Cavite, Philippines — The Department of Tourism (DOT) recognized tourism stakeholders, businesses, and partner agencies across Calabarzon for their significant contributions to the region’s tourism growth and development during the 2026 Calabarzon Tourism Excellence Awards on Wednesday, September 16.
DOT Calabarzon Regional Director Maritess Castro highlighted the vital role of tourism establishments, businesses, agencies, and other stakeholders in strengthening the region’s tourism sector, noting that their initiatives not only contribute to its continued growth but also encourage more visitors to explore, appreciate, and take pride in local destinations.
Themed “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,” the Tourism department simultaneously held its Tourism Summit and the Calabarzon Tourism Excellence Awards, highlighting its commitment to advancing the region’s tourism industry through innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
“This significant gathering reflects our collective commitment in advancing the tourism industry of Calabarzon through innovation, collaboration and excellence. As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, digitalization and artificial intelligence becoming increasingly important in enhancing destination management, improving visitors experiences, strengthening tourism enterprises and expanding opportunities for our communities,” Director Castro stated.
During the program, plenary speakers shared valuable insights and ideas on emerging trends, digital innovations, and transformative strategies that can shape the future of tourism in the region.
The event also provided a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, strengthening efforts to enhance Calabarzon’s competitiveness as a premier tourism destination in the country.
The director added, “Our pursuit of modernization must always be anchored on the values of responsible tourism, and the unique identity of our region, equally significant is the tourism excellence awards, which recognizes the outstanding accomplishments and exemplary contribution of our tourism stakeholders. This recognition is a testament to the dedication, professionalism, creativity and unwavering commitment of those who continue to elevate the standard of tourism in Calabarzon.”
During the event, DOT recognized its key partners for their valuable contributions to strengthening tourism in the region, including travel and tour associations, government agencies, and influencers.
Several municipalities and cities were also honored for their notable tourism performance, particularly in terms of same-day tourist arrivals, overnight stays, and overall same-day tourism destinations.
Among the awardees was the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Calabarzon, recognized for its vital role in disseminating timely and accurate information and in amplifying the region’s tourism initiatives, helping showcase Calabarzon as a dynamic, competitive, and thriving destination for visitors.
Meanwhile, the agency also honored its partners for their invaluable support and contributions to the successful staging of the Central Philippines Tourism Expo (CPTEx) last June 2026, with Calabarzon serving as the host region. (COP/PIA CALABARZON)
