TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) - - The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 2 has chosen the century-old pottery-making industry of Santa Maria, Isabela as the highlight of Cagayan Valley’s entry to the 31st Philippine Travel and Tour Expo, held recently at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City,.

At the DOT Region 2’s booth, Tourism Regional Director Troy Alexander Miano said an exclusive and live pottery-making demonstration charmed visitors, offering them an immersive journey into the cultural tapestry that defines the region. 

“This strategic initiative underscores Region 2's unwavering dedication to championing cultural and creative tourism, integral elements within its diverse portfolio,” Miano said.  

The ‘Madweng’ pottery, believed to be over a century-old industry, is a unique indigenous tradition in an Ibanag community in Santa Maria town using non-metallic clay deposits. The potters still use their bare hands in shaping earthenwares up to now.

Traditional pottery-making serves as the main livelihood of the people of the town, aside from farming. 

Last year, the pottery-making industry of the said town was included in the tourism circuit that is being promoted by the DOT for the province of Isabela, showcasing live demonstrations and historical narration on how the industry became part of people’s lives. 

“The pottery-making experience is seamlessly woven into the majestic Isabela Tourism Circuit, a carefully crafted itinerary by the DOT in collaboration with various LGUs across Isabela province,” Miano said. 

Miano also said the travel and tour expo serves as a pivotal platform and avenue to share the distinctive cultural heritage of the Cagayan Valley Region with a broader audience. 

“This reinforces its standing as a must-visit destination for those in search of an authentic and enriching travel experience,” he added. 

No less than Tourism Secretary Christina G. Frasco led the promotion of the Cagayan Valley’s tourism destinations, highlighting the pottery industry during the expo.

Meanwhile, local enterprises, including the products of micro, small, and medium enterprises in the region, were also promoted in the expo. 

“This expo exemplifies collaborative synergy between the region and the Department of Tourism, fostering sustainable tourism and economic growth,” Miano added. 

With the extensive promotion and the emergence of new destinations, Miano believed that more visitors would come to the Cagayan Valley Region this year. (OTB/PIA Region 2 with reports from DOT 2)