The Department of Tourism’s (DOT) celebrated tourism program, the Philippine Experience Program (PEP), wrapped up an exhilarating 10th leg, putting a spotlight on the Caraga region’s promising tourism potential. DOT Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco expressed profound gratitude to Caraga’s local governments and warm-hearted people for their active involvement in the vibrant, three-day showcase, held from Oct. 28-30.
“Caraga is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes and rich history, from the captivating Lusong Cold Spring in Cabadbaran to Siargao’s iconic Cloud 9,” said Secretary Frasco during the welcome dinner in Bayugan City. She lauded Caraga’s incredible array of experiences—from Surigao del Sur’s enchanting Enchanted River to Butuan City’s historical charm—each destination contributing to the region’s dynamic tourism landscape.
Exploring the Emerging Destinations
The PEP delegation, comprising local and national officials, members of the diplomatic community, media, influencers, and tourism stakeholders, embarked on an unforgettable journey through Caraga, kicking off in Butuan City. In addition to the unthreaded destinations to behold, the group indulged in an array of local dishes and enjoyed cultural performances narrating the story of the Caraganons through music and dance. Delegates explored the Butuan Archaeological Park and marveled at the ancient Balangays, showcasing the region’s rich maritime heritage.
Their exploration continued with a scenic Agusan River cruise and an up-close look at balangay replicas—symbols of Caraga’s enduring cultural legacy. Evenings were filled with local feasts, live performances, and bustling trade booths highlighting the unique offerings of Agusan del Norte. The welcome dinner was graciously hosted by the Provincial Government of Agusan del Norte with the Municipal Local Government Units, Vice Governor Enrico Corvera warmly welcomed all the delegates, while Agusan del Norte Governor Ma. Angelica Rosedell Amante-Matba also shared a heartfelt video message.
Culture and culinary delights
Day 2 brought delegates to Cabadbaran City, known for its colonial houses and scenic Puting Bato Viewing Deck, where they soaked in panoramic countryside views. Guests were treated to traditional delicacies like Cab-Cab, Puto Balanghoy, and Butter Garlic Sweet Spicy Uwang. Cabadbaran’s leaders, Mayor Judy C. Amante and Vice Mayor Rey G. Jamboy, joined by 2nd District Agusan del Norte Representative Dale Corvera and other key officials, extended their appreciation to Secretary Frasco for her dedicated support in making Caraga a prime destination for ecotourism.
Mayor Amante shared the importance of being able to take part in the PEP, “It is with great pride and heartfelt gratitude to be among the selected LGUs to take part in the PEP of the DOT, an initiative that holds deep significance to the promotion and showcase of our rich heritage and natural resources not only for our city and for barangay Puting Bato but for future generations as well, who will bear witness to our vision of realizing the Puting Bato Nature Reservation Eco and Cultural Development Project or Puting Bato Eco Park.”
“Our vision for the Puting Bato Eco Park project is ambitious but achievable; we aim to transport it to a premiere ecotourism destination. At the same time, we are committed to protecting and enhancing the surrounding ecosystem, ensuring the biodiversity that thrives here will continue to flourish for years to come, the Puting Bato Eco Park project is not just about building infrastructure or attracting tourists, at its core, this project is about empowering our community, particularly the indigenous people of the area to become sustainable and self-reliant to economic opportunities that may flourish from this project. By investing in this project, we are investing in the future of our barangay and the well-being of every family that calls it home,” shared Amante.
She added, “This is the first time that a secretary of the Department of Tourism went to Barangay Puting Bato, [Sec. Frasco’s presence] signifies [her] commitment to help communities like ours build a brighter, more sustainable future through tourism; for that, we are very thankful.”
Amante continued, “This is not only a sure, long-term sustainability project, but also provides a sense of ownership and pride for our community members. This project represents something even more meaningful; it represents hope and demonstrates what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. Thank you, Sec. Frasco, let’s look forward to the exciting journey ahead for Bgy. Puting Bato’s future tourism development includes the view deck, the road networks, and various infrastructures of Bgy. Puting Bato Eco Park. Thank you very much for visiting us.”
As the evening unfolded, the delegation traveled to Bayugan City for a colorful trisikad ride to the Lope A. Asis Memorial Gymnasium. Bayugan City Mayor Kirk Asis played host to participants of the PEP, which featured Bayugan’s finest local produce, complemented by a bounty of seafood and fresh fruits. Local artisans displayed proudly crafted items, capping off a memorable day.
Majestic landscapes
The final day took the PEP team to Bega Falls Ecotourism Park in Prosperidad, where Secretary Frasco joined locals in traditional music, sharing a joyful connection with Caraga’s vibrant culture. The tour culminated at the D.O. Plaza Government Complex, alive with festive colors and flavors from Agusan del Sur’s 13 municipalities, offering a delicious spread of indigenous delicacies and handicrafts.
Sec. Agusan del Sur Governor Santiago Cane, Jr., Prosperidad City Mayor Frederick Mark P. Mellana, and other local officials and tourism stakeholders warmly welcomed Frasco and delegates of PEP Caraga.
In his speech, Gov. Cane thanked Sec. Frasco for her active support in developing the province’s tourism sector and said, “I am thrilled that you are leading a department of the national government tasked to promote love for the Philippines. I am very thankful for all the infrastructure projects that the DOT has poured into Agusan del Sur, which are being implemented and will be implemented through the DPWH because those road constructions lead to tourist destinations. Dapat ganyan ang mga secretaries ng ating national government, alam niya kung anong kailangan ng mga local government units.”
Cane added, “Sana all lahat ng secretaries parang si Sec. Frasco, may puso para sa mga local government units, kasi po, galing din siya sa local government, being a former mayor of your city. On behalf of the province of Agusan del Sur, I express my excitement and deepest gratitude to be considered for the pilot area for the DOT’s flagship project, the PEP. This genuinely remarkable initiative showcases our stunning landscapes and vibrant heritage; for years, we have been aiming to improve our tourism sector and foster tourism practices that raise awareness and instill appreciation and pride in our provinces’ natural wonders and local traditions.”
Secretary Frasco emphasized Caraga’s unique place in Philippine tourism, highlighting how tourism has driven poverty reduction in the region. “Tourism here isn’t just about the sights but the soul of our people, the richness of our food, our cultural traditions—elements that make the world fall in love with the Philippines,” she said.
With much anticipation for the future, PEP Caraga was excited, fueled by the promise of growth and development for the region’s tourism sector.
