Bontoc, Mountain Province – The Bontoc Municipal Government is the only Local Government Unit (LGU) in Mountain Province that was awarded for its programs and undertakings in advancing the tourism industry in the municipality.
The Department of Tourism – Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT- CAR) conferred to Bontoc LGU a Plaque of Recognition of its initiatives and efforts in advancing the Tourism Vision of developing a globally competitive tourism industry anchored in the principles of sustainable tourism, promoting inclusive growth and supporting community-based tourism.
The award was received by Bontoc Mayor Franklin Odsey and Tourism Officer Caren Ringor-Guinayen during the Tourism Recognition and Awards Ceremony and Launching of Regional Tourism Tagline held at the Baguio Country Club Convention Hall, Baguio City on December 5, 2018.
Mayor Odsey expressed his gratitude to the DOT- CAR for recognizing the efforts and initiatives undertaken by the municipal government.
“This recognition serves as a challenge and a motivation for Bontoc to continue striving in boosting the tourism industry of this capital town. The advancement of tourism in Bontoc is one of my priority programs,” the mayor remarked.
He likewise lauded the concerned offices and stakeholders in efficiently and effectively implementing tourism and cultural- heritage programs of the Bontoc LGU that resulted in the promotion and enhancement of tourism activities even in the far-flung barangays of Bontoc. This, he said, with the support and cooperation of all stakeholders to include the community, barangay officials, tour guides, business establishments and partner agencies.
Similarly, Guinayen thanked the officialdom of Bontoc and its partner stakeholders for their all-out support that led to the realization of improved tourism development.
These include the adoption the three–year Municipal Tourism Development Plan, provision of assistance to barangays in the conceptualization of their local tourism ordinances, support to local tourism related activities, provision and coordination of training and seminars to tourism establishment and tour guides, implementation of community-based tourism activities, continuous validation and promotion of existing and potential tourism sites, and conduct of researches on the rich culture and traditions of Bontoc.
Meanwhile, Bauko Mayor Abraham Akilit received a Plaque of Recognition for his initiative and steadfast support in advancing Tourism Vision of developing a globally competitive tourism industry of Bauko. Ridgebrooke Hotel located in Bontoc, Sagada Homestay and Sagada Tour Guides also received recognition for being DOT accredited for four to five years.
By Alpine L. Killa
