Catanduanes Governor Hon. Patrick Azanza and Provincial Tourism Officer Carmel B. Garcia warmly welcomed the delegation upon arrival in Virac.
CATANDUANES, PHILIPPINES — Once known as the Land of the Howling Winds, Catanduanes is now embracing its identity as the Happy Island—thanks in part to a powerful collaboration led by the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines.
From July 8 to 12, 2025, TPB held its Members’ Inspection Tour and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity in the island province as part of its Destination Marketing Assistance for Tourism Recovery Program (DMATRP). This initiative aims to rebuild, restore, and reignite tourism in areas impacted by natural disasters—like Catanduanes, which bore the brunt of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine in 2024.
The five-day tour saw 14 TPB members immersing themselves in the local culture, supporting community initiatives, and exploring the island’s stunning landscapes. They were warmly welcomed in Virac by Governor Patrick Azanza and Provincial Tourism Officer Carmel B. Garcia, who both underscored the island’s readiness to bounce back and thrive.
Turnover of TPB Members’ donated school supplies to Talisoy Elementary School.
Tourism with purpose
The trip was more than just a scenic inspection—it was a mission with heart.
The CSR activities kicked off with school supply donations and an art therapy session for the students of Talisoy Elementary School. The team also handed over protective gear to local agricultural officers engaged in sea turtle conservation, signage for key tourist sites, and new uniforms for community tour guides—strengthening both education and eco-tourism.
Environmental sustainability was also front and center. Participants got their hands dirty with root crop planting at Summit View Park, mangrove reforestation at Batalay Mangrove Ecopark, and a symbolic “One Tourist, One Tree” tree-planting ceremony at the breathtaking Binurong Point.
“This program isn’t just about promotion—it’s about purpose,” said Marge San Jose, head of TPB’s Industry Relations and Services Division. “Through DMATRP, our members become part of a bigger movement that champions resilience, sustainability, and collaboration within the tourism industry.”
TPB members networking with local private sector stakeholders of Catanduanes.
Exploring the island’s heartbeat
In between the impactful CSR efforts, the delegation experienced the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Catanduanes: from the turquoise waters of Tuwad Tuwadan Lagoon and the rolling hills of Cagnipa to the surf haven of Puraran Beach and the historic Bato Church. Island-hopping to Patag Islet, Poseidon’s Rock, and Turtle Island was also on the itinerary, capped off with a traditional latik-making demo—the province’s signature rice cake delicacy.
Building connections for the future
The visit culminated in a Networking Dinner attended by 21 local tourism stakeholders, where TPB members explored potential partnerships and investments to support Catanduanes’ long-term recovery.
TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles said it best: “Catanduanes is not just a beautiful island—it’s a story of strength and spirit. By helping them tell that story to the world, we empower both the people and the place to rise again.”
A nationwide commitment to community
Since 2015, TPB has launched 40 CSR initiatives across the Philippines—and counting. The Catanduanes leg is a testament to the agency’s unwavering commitment to rebuilding tourism through inclusive, community-driven programs that leave a lasting impact.
As Catanduanes steps confidently into its next chapter, it does so with the support of partners who believe in its future. From howling winds to happy hearts, the island is ready to shine.