LAUREL, Batangas (PIA) – The Department of Tourism (DOT) feted tourism industry players in the Calabarzon region through the Philippine Tourism Awards and Calabarzon Tourism Excellence Awards.
Considered as the highest and most prestigious citation in Philippine tourism, the PTA is part of the DOT’s initiative to honor local government units, academe, private companies, and other stakeholders that have shown excellence in the development and promotion of the country’s tourism sector.
According to DOT Regional Director Marites Castro, the PTA has two main categories: the Tourism Pillar Awards, which provide special recognition to individuals, enterprises, and destinations that have contributed to the Philippine tourism industry and the 50-year establishment of the Philippine Department of Tourism.
“Giving recognition plays a crucial role because it inspires people to strive more, it also changes their outlook when it comes to tourism. While some may think that tourism is easy, it actually requires commitment, dedication, and the collaborative effort, especially from our LGUs,” Castro said.
On the other hand, the Tourism Industry Awards is a national recognition for both private and public sectors involved in the development and promotion of the Philippine tourism industry, further categorized into institutional, individual, media and tourism product.
Hailed as the Tourism Destination of the Year, Calamba City through its Cultural Affairs, Tourism and Sports Development Department (CATSDD) Head Karla Boholano said the local government recognizes the distinction as a testament to their relentless efforts in promoting the city’s cultural heritage.
“It is an honor, a great privilege for the local government of Calamba, under the leadership of our Mayor Ross Rizal. This is a proof that we continue to uplift the tourism industry in the city of Calamba,” she added.
Boholano said that when they were invited to join the PTA, they set their sights on heritage tourism and improved its health and wellness tourism sector to boost Calamba’s claim as the hot spring resorts capital of the Philippines.
In addition to Calamba, the city of Biñan was also awarded as the Tourism Destination of the Year for its efforts in promoting the importance of embracing culture and heritage as a foundation for a progressive future.
Overall, 24 LGUs, hotels, resorts, and companies in the Calabarzon region have received PTA distinctions from the DOT Region IV-A. (CO/PIA-4A)
