BAGUIO CITY – The Cordillera Regional Tourism Investment Forum 2024, held on April 3, 2024, at the Cordillera Convention Hall within the serene premises of Baguio Country Club in Baguio City, marked a significant convergence of minds and ideas aimed at shaping the future of tourism in the region.
Initiated by the Department of Tourism-Cordillera (DOT-CAR), the forum revolved around the theme “Elevating Opportunities: Sustainable Investments in Mountain Tourism,” reflecting the collective commitment to fostering tourism growth while ensuring environmental sustainability and cultural preservation.
One of the pivotal presentations was led by Architect Donna G. Rillera-Tabangin from the City Planning, Development, and Sustainability Office of Baguio. She introduced the “Invest in Baguio” initiative, highlighting a comprehensive study conducted in 2019 to assess the city’s natural carrying capacity amidst increasing urbanization and tourism.
The study underscored the urgent need to address various challenges, including urban decay and environmental degradation, by implementing infrastructure improvements and green initiatives. Baguio envisioned becoming an innovative, sustainable, and net-zero city by 2030, emphasizing the preservation of its cultural heritage and promoting low-impact tourism.
She concluded with a hopeful vision for the transformation of Baguio: “We hope that in 20 years, we get to see a transformed city where you can visit and breathe-in the offerings that’s present here.”
Anthony De Leon, the General Manager of Baguio Country Club, shed light on the tourism potential of Baguio City and the broader Cordillera Region.
Despite facing infrastructure constraints and environmental concerns, De Leon stressed the importance of strategic investments, collaboration with stakeholders, and innovation in unlocking the region’s tourism potential.
Baguio Country Club’s commitment to sustainability and guest satisfaction through environmentally friendly practices and technological
advancements exemplified the private sector’s role in driving responsible tourism. “BCC continues to set the benchmark for hospitality excellence in the Cordillera region and beyond. I guess what we have challenged ourselves in our organization is we always want to be a pioneer in terms of providing the services and facilities.”
Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized tourism’s economic significance for Baguio City while acknowledging the challenges of over-tourism and urban decay. He underscored the importance of stakeholder collaboration and communication to address sustainability issues and ensure responsible tourism practices.
Magalong’s call for strategic planning to sustain air travel to Baguio highlighted the need for cohesive efforts to overcome transportation challenges and enhance connectivity.
Mr. Albert L. Sotelo, CEO of Food Lab INC. and Ozark Bed and Breakfast, presented innovative business concepts and niche tourism markets, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and inclusivity. Through his personal experience catering to niche communities like the LGBTQ+ and retirees, Sotelo showcased the potential for niche tourism in Baguio and the Cordillera region.
His emphasis on sustainable development projects, such as tiny home communities, reflected a holistic approach to tourism that prioritizes environmental preservation and community engagement.
In his closing remarks, Governor James E. Edduba of the Province of Kalinga expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase Kalinga’s unique attractions and underscored the region’s potential for tourism development. Despite infrastructure and budget constraints, Governor Edduba remained optimistic about overcoming challenges through collaboration and strategic investment.
His call for unity among Cordillera provinces echoed the forum’s theme of collective action toward elevating the region’s tourism industry.
Overall, the Cordillera Regional Tourism Investment Forum 2024 served as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation, laying the groundwork for sustainable tourism development in the Cordillera Region. With a shared vision and concerted efforts from both public and private sectors, the region is poised to unlock its full tourism potential while safeguarding its natural and cultural heritage for future generations. By Jackielyn Reyes