SAN JUAN, La Union (PIA) — The 3rd North Luzon Travel Expo, held from November 21 to 23, 2024, in this picturesque town, underscored the importance of biodiversity conservation and responsible tourism.
Organized by the Department of Tourism (DOT), the event brought together over 23 exhibitors, including local government units, private tourism stakeholders, environmental organizations, and indigenous communities.
This year’s expo showcased eco-friendly travel practices and strategies for preserving North Luzon’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Activities included expert-led product presentations on sustainable tourism and community-based tourism models designed to empower local communities.
Cultural performances and heritage exhibits further emphasized the connection between cultural preservation and environmental stewardship.
In her message, Evangeline Dadat, officer-in-charge of DOT Region 1, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to positioning La Union as a leading agri-tourism destination by 2025.
“We are not only helping promote La Union’s agri-tourism sites and destinations, but we also collaborate with local partners for training initiatives,” she said.
She added, “This has been an integral part of our plan since its inception, ensuring that the province achieves its vision as a top agri-tourism hub.”
La Union Governor Raphaelle Veronica Ortega-David highlighted the significance of sustainable tourism, stating, “La Union hosting this event reminds us that tourism is not just an economic driver but also a responsibility. We must ensure that our natural and cultural wealth is preserved for future generations.”
To translate awareness into action, the expo organized community-driven conservation activities.
During the soft opening, DOT officials led a ceremonial tree-planting activity along the shores of Brgy. Panicsican to contribute to biodiversity restoration and climate change mitigation.
Beach and coastal clean-up drives mobilized volunteers, including tourists, locals, and students, who collected over two tons of trash, emphasizing the need for clean and sustainable tourist destinations.
The event also featured a Pawikan Beach Run, where over a hundred environmental and sea turtle advocates participated, campaigning for the protection of endangered species.
One of the expo’s highlights was a familiarization tour showcasing La Union’s unique culture and identity.
Forty participants, including members of national travel and tour associations, DOT Regional Office staff, key tourism stakeholders, influencers, and vloggers, joined the tour.
The program focused on reducing waste at tourist sites, ensuring equitable access to eco-tourism opportunities, and implementing policies to protect North Luzon’s fragile ecosystems.
The North Luzon Travel Expo was more than just a showcase of the region’s beauty—it was a call to action for stakeholders to balance economic growth with environmental preservation.
Its first launch, which was staged at SMX in Clark, Pampanga, showcased tourism potential through cultural presentations, local products, and industry collaboration, promoting sustainable growth and heritage preservation.
Meanwhile, the second travel expo in Baguio City fostered collaboration to enhance Northern Luzon’s tourism value chain and expand its reach to local and international markets.
As La Union aims to become the “Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025,” its role as host reaffirmed its commitment to a sustainable future for its people and its natural heritage. (AMB/KJCR, PIA La Union)
