“3rd North Luzon Travel Expo is a testament to the DOT’s commitment to Fostering Sustainable Tourism Development across the Region” – Sec. Frasco
SAN JUAN, La Union – The 3rd Northern Luzon Travel Expo officially opened on November 22, 2024, with a grand untying ribbon ceremony at Mebuyan’s Vessel, Brgy. Panicsican, San Juan, La Union. The event brought together key stakeholders, local leaders, and tourism advocates to celebrate the vast opportunities in North Luzon’s thriving tourism sector. It highlighted the region’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural wonders, and initiatives conveying our commitment to the preservation and conservation of our natural resources, further solidifying its status as a top destination for both local and international travelers.
The formal untying ribbon ceremony was led by DOT Chief of Staff and Undersecretary Shalimar Hofer Tamano, representing Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco with distinguished attendees are DOT officials Undersecretary Maria Rica Bueno, Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, OIC-Assistant Secretary Warner Andrada, and Regional Directors Jovita Ganongan, Evangeline Dadat, Troy Alexander Miano, Richard Daenos, Dara May Cataluña, and Assistant Regional Director Catherine Agustin.
Local officials present were Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David, Vice Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega, Kiel Lanuzo representing Mayor Arturo Valdriz, Board Member Henry Balbin, OIC-Provincial Tourism Julius Manabat, Mr. Tony Tamayo and OIC-Provincial Director Victoria Ordoño.
Private stakeholders from R1 Tourism Council and Tourism Industry Associations.
This symbolic act underscored the collective efforts of various sectors in positioning North Luzon as a hub for sustainable tourism and economic growth.
DOT Undersecretary Shalimar Tamano represented Secretary Frasco at the event, extending the Tourism Secretary’s gratitude to the organizers and stakeholders present and echoing her support for biodiversity conservation. “This event, the North Luzon Travel Expo, is a testament to the DOT’s commitment to fostering sustainable tourism development across the region… This year’s edition hosted here in San Juan, La Union focuses on revitalizing the tourism industry and underscores our commitment to biodiversity conservation. Initiatives such as tree planting and pawikan conservation activities remind us that tourism is not only about promoting destinations but also about protecting the natural and cultural treasures that make these places unique.”
With this year’s NLTEx theme anchored on sustainable tourism, Hon. Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David of the Province of La Union duly emphasized in her speech: “Our natural resources are not merely assets. They are the very foundation of our identity and our future… Sustainable tourism practices are not just a trend… They are a necessity.”
Vice-Governor Mario Eduardo Ortega highlighted the significance of regional unity in fostering tourism growth. He commended the expo for creating a platform that encourages partnerships among provinces, benefiting local entrepreneurs, artisans, and tourism service providers.
After the program, attendees explored the vibrant exhibitor booths, which showcased diverse travel packages and artisanal products. The lively atmosphere fostered networking, idea-sharing, and meaningful partnerships among stakeholders, further strengthening the region’s tourism ecosystem.
The day ended on a high note with a Fellowship Dinner hosted by the Province of La Union at Waves Point. Participants savored a delightful spread of local cuisine while enjoying the relaxed ambiance and scenic surroundings. The dinner served as a perfect setting to forge connections and celebrate the success of the event.
The three-day event served as a platform for provinces across Northern Luzon and participating cities and provinces from Visayas and Mindanao to showcase their unique tourism offerings. # Mario Oclaman //FNS
