CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) — The Department of Tourism (DOT)-10 is intensifying the promotion of cultural and adventure tourism in Northern Mindanao to highlight the region’s heritage and natural attractions.
DOT-10 Regional Director Marie Elaine Unchuan discussed the agency’s efforts to improve tourism and support economic growth during the “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” forum, a live-streamed interview organized by the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-10 on March 4.
Unchuan said the DOT introduced the Philippine Experience Program, which provides travelers with opportunities to explore cultural and adventure activities, including indigenous traditions, culinary heritage, and ecotourism.
In 2024, the Philippines hosted over 5.9 million international visitors, maintaining its status as a tourism market in Southeast Asia.
Unchuan further highlighted the DOT’s efforts to create a seamless travel experience for local and international visitors.
“We are committed to making the Philippines not just a preferred destination but a seamless and world-class travel experience,” she said.
The DOT launched the Cruise Visa Waiver Program to simplify entry for cruise passengers and introduced the Balik-Bayani Tourism Program to help overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) reintegrate into the country through tourism-related employment and business opportunities.
In Northern Mindanao, DOT has led infrastructure projects to improve the tourism experience, including road developments and tourist rest areas in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, and Initao, Misamis Oriental.
The region hosted several major tourism events in 2024, such as the 2nd Mindanao Tourism Expo in April, VIP Tours in July, and eco-tourism programs in Camiguin, including the Camiguin Isle Bike Tour and the 4th Northern Mindanao Dive Festival. Camiguin’s marine biodiversity gained international attention following visits by National Geographic underwater photographers David Doubilet and Jennifer Hayes.
Unchuan stated that by promoting both established and emerging destinations, the DOT aims to ensure that all regions benefit from a strong and inclusive tourism economy.
She also highlighted the tourism sector’s role in job creation, noting that over 16.4 million Filipinos are employed in tourism, with 670,000 in Northern Mindanao.
Unchuan reiterated that DOT remains focused on supporting cultural and adventure tourism as a driver of economic growth. (VJTB/PIA-10)
