ORMOC CITY (PIA) — The Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) Pearl Awards bring the spotlight on outstanding tourism destinations and innovative local government initiatives as tourism stakeholders gather for the 27th ATOP National Convention in Ormoc City.
The ATOP Pearl Awards recognize exemplary tourism programs and practices that help strengthen local economies, preserve cultural heritage, sustain livelihoods, and promote inclusive and sustainable tourism development.
Ma. Catherina Apostol, OIC regional director of the Department of Tourism 8 (DOT-8), said the awards serve as more than a recognition of achievements, as they also provide a platform for sharing effective tourism practices that other destinations can adapt to their respective needs.
“Behind every recognized initiative are tourism teams that identify community needs, overcome challenges, build partnerships, and develop programs that deliver tangible benefits to local residents,” Apostol said.
She encouraged the awardees to use their recognition as an opportunity to inspire other destinations to pursue innovative solutions while ensuring that tourism creates wider economic opportunities, decent livelihoods, and sustainable development.
Local tourism officers and government units play a crucial role in this effort, given their knowledge of community traditions, heritage, natural attractions, and other resources that can be developed into meaningful tourism experiences.
Through partnerships with local communities, businesses, and other stakeholders, tourism officers help transform these resources into opportunities that generate income and create lasting benefits for residents.
DOT also highlighted its “Discover More to Love” campaign, which encourages travelers to explore more Philippine destinations and appreciate the country’s diverse cultural, natural, and recreational attractions.
ATOP, or the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines Inc., was established to provide local government tourism officers with a unified platform for professional growth, knowledge sharing, and strategic collaboration.
By driving sustainable destination management and high-impact regional promotions, ATOP members continue to champion the economic and cultural development of communities nationwide.
The 2026 ATOP National Convention in Ormoc City provided tourism stakeholders with an opportunity to exchange ideas and strengthen collaboration in developing destinations that are competitive, resilient, welcoming, and deeply connected to their communities.
The gathering also reinforced the importance of ensuring that tourism development goes beyond attracting visitors and promoting destinations by creating meaningful experiences, preserving heritage, and improving the lives of local communities. ( Photo Courtesy PIA)
