As tourism has a multiplier effect—creating not only jobs but also livelihood opportunities through offering of goods and services—sustainability ensures the preservation of destinations, thriving of culture and traditions, and inclusive growth. Moreover, as sustainability measures often involve the community, the locals themselves become part of the meaningful experience of their hometown’s visitors. 

Here are the top sustainable tourism destinations for your next adventures in the Philippines and the communities that you will encounter on an unforgettable journey.

The eco-friendly locals of Mt. Hamiguitan and Mt. Apo in Davao

The Mount Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary in Davao Oriental is Mindanao’s first and only UNESCO World Heritage Site, with attractions such as a pygmy forest where trees are stunted to only about 4.5 feet in height. There are 1,974 endemic plant and animal species that have been identified so far, including carnivorous pitcher plants, the iconic Philippine Eagle, Philippine cockatoo, and golden crowned flying foxes.  The locals are engaged not only in tourism but also in sustainable livelihood programs. One of these is beekeeping using the native stingless bee species called ‘kiyot’. This also helps with pollinating and protecting Mt. Hamiguitan’s vegetation.  

The Mount Apo Natural Park is home to 272 bird species, 111 of which are endemic, including the Philippine Eagle which is the largest in the world. The mountain is also inhabited by several indigenous groups: the Manobos, Bagobos, and Klata who consider it as a sacred mountain. They perfectly demonstrate how to coexist in harmony with the environment. Trek porters are equipped by the local tourism offices to share their knowledge of the mountain and its conservation. 

The artisans of Ilocos, Panay Island, Eastern Visayas, and Central Mindanao

The women of Ilocos, particularly in the towns of Paoay, Vigan, Pinili, down to the towns of Santiago in Ilocos Sur and Bangar in La Union have been weaving from their homes since pre-Hispanic times. Their hand-loomed Inabel fabric, made from cotton blends is made into blankets, table covers, and even apparel, such as bags, shoes, and face masks for the new normal, with traditional designs that have been passed down through generations. 

Panay Island also has a proud tradition of weaving, with several weaving communities across the island. In Aklan, they dexterously weave the fibers of the piña or Red Bisaya pineapple plant into delicate-looking cloth made into home decor and even formal apparel. Aklanon weavers are known for their piña and silk cloth creations that are embroidered with floral designs while the weavers of Iloilo and Antique are known for employing the suk-suk or inlaid weft technique in hablon and patadyong cloth.

Weavers in Eastern Visayas use materials harvested from plants that grow abundantly in their area to craft mats that can be used for sleeping or fashioned into decorative items such as place mats and plant holders or even bags and fans. These materials range from abaca, buri palm, coconut leaves and ribs, rattan and tikog or reed grass, pandan, pawa which is a type of thin bamboo, and seagrass. 

The surfing communities of La Union, Baler, Siargao, Surigao del Sur and Eastern Samar

The surfing hotspots of the Philippines have produced not only a burgeoning tourism industry but also world-class local surfers. Those living in the islands have picked up the sport and the waters of La Union, Baler, Siargao, Surigao del Sur and Eastern Samar have increasingly seen more locals on their boards. These friendly Filipino surfers are the embodiment of the laidback local surfing lifestyle and are also staunch advocates of caring for their marine environment. 

The culinarians of Iloilo City, Bacolod, Zamboanga City, and Davao City

Visiting the different regions of the Philippines is a taste trip, with each province contributing richly to the food map of the country, with recipes that make use of what is easily available in their locality. A cultural awareness of these dishes and the resulting food tourism ensures that not only the recipes are handed down to the next generation but heirloom produce will continue being planted by the local farmers.

Iloilo city is considered as one of the food capitals of the Philippines, with flavorful delicacies such as bowls of La Paz Batchoy noodles and Molo Soup. Negros Occidental is called the Sugar Bowl of the Philippines for its fields of sweet sugarcane. Among their preferred dishes for guests especially those visiting its capital city, Bacolod are Inasal (chicken grilled over hot coals), Piaya (unleavened flatbread filled with muscovado sugar), and Kansi or beef shank with bone marrow cooked in broth flavored with a local souring agent called Batwan.

Seafood abounds in Zamboanga, and their must-try dishes include ingredients such as a crustacean locally called Curacha, Imbao or mangrove clams, snails called Kulo, and Lato — a seaweed that resembles small green grapes, or commonly known as green caviar. Davao is known for its fruits, ranging from pineapples, bananas, sweet pomelos, and the infamous durian. For a memorable meal, try the specialties that make use of fresh seafood such as Kinilaw, the local version of ceviche, and Sinugba or freshly-grilled seafood.           

The farming communities of Negros Occidental

To experience life on a Filipino farm, visit the 14 farm tourism sites that have been accredited by the Department of Tourism in Western Visayas. These farms highlight the potential of sustainable agriculture that can provide income streams for the communities who profit from both the produce and their eco-tours. Visitors can relax and appreciate the bounty of nature while learning the technology applied to the farming practices suited to the climate and soil conditions of the area.

Travel safely!

All these tourist destinations have health and safety protocols in place to protect locals and visitors alike. Everyone is expected to comply by wearing face masks, regularly washing their hands, and practicing physical distancing.

To check out up-to-date information regarding local destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel, Apple Store, or Google Playstore.

The post These Local Communities are Thriving with Sustainable Tourism in the Philippines appeared first on 7641 Islands of the Philippines.

The Philippines Department of Tourism partners with the Department of Trade and Industry to support the local handicrafts businesses all over the country. Through this partnership, many local producers have been able to reach a wider customer base. Projects include seminars, trade fairs and expositions, along with souvenir stops at popular destinations. Together with creating travel circuits that are based on attractions in each region, the DOT also highlights artisanal products that can showcase the local talent and culture. 

There are many native materials that are transformed into beautiful works of art by Filipino craftsmen.  Here are some of the cool souvenirs that travelers can bring home from the Philippines. 

Baguio’s woodcrafts

Woodworking in the uplands of the Cordillera Region ranges from utilitarian items used at home or in the fields, to ceremonial items used in community celebrations, and spiritual figures called Bulul that serve as house guardians that are passed on from generation to generation. Baguio’s public market and roadside stalls offer many choices of hand-carved wood items to fit your fancy and your luggage space – such as the infamous ‘barrel man’, or larger statues of warriors and animals such as eagles that can serve as a conversation piece in your home.     

The Inabel of Ilocos

The practice of weaving cotton thread into fabric on a wooden loom used to be one of the household duties of many Ilocano women. The hardy Inabel or Abel Iloco, is a soft, simple, pliable fabric with varied unique patterns and designs that can be woven to be big enough for use as blankets, table runners, and even dress material. Some Inabel items that are available at souvenir shops such as the ones in Vigan, Ilocos Sur or even online are tea towels, blankets, shawls, bags, and even made-to-order apparel from young designers who are keen to use this sustainably made and sourced fabric.   

Vigan’s Pagburnayan Clay Jars

Burnay is the Ilocano word for the brown clay pot used by Filipinos even before the Spanish arrived in the country. These earthen pottery pieces were used by early Filipinos as water containers because they help keep the water cool even on a hot day. They were also important household items as containers for salt and rice, or for vinegar, fermented fish paste, and they were vessels for items that were sold to the Chinese in the days of the sea trade. In Vigan, one can visit a pottery shop and learn how Burnay is made using carabao power to mix the mud, and have your own photo opportunity on the potter’s wheel. You can also purchase these thick and hardy jars to use as decorative pieces or planters at home.     

Cebu’s Guitars and Capiz Shells

Guitars that are handmade in Cebu are famous throughout the Philippines because they are durable, affordable, and of high-quality compared to the mass-produced ones in the market. The art of making guitars, which was introduced in the Spanish era, has been passed on through generations of local masters who make these musical instruments by painstakingly shaping the wood into the familiar hourglass shape. These are available at souvenir shops or at family-owned guitar stores, particularly in Lapu-Lapu City, have become local attractions for music lovers of all ages.  

The Visayas is also where dainty Capiz shell art is a traditional handicraft industry. The translucent Capiz, which can still be found adorning windows of heritage homes or painted in the stained glass windows of churches, comes from the shell of a mollusk called the Windowpane Oyster. After the meat has been eaten, the shells are gathered to be used in handicrafts. Local artists use the shells to create magnificent décors such as complicated chandeliers, pretty wind chimes, beautiful floor lamps, or smaller stationery items that can be given away to friends and family back home.  

Barako Coffee from Batangas 

Barako is a Tagalog word that means ‘strong’ and that is a good descriptor for the brew that comes from the coffee beans grown particularly in Batangas and some parts of Cavite. The farmers take pride in their coffee plants, which have been cultivated in their region since the 1800s. Coffee experts describe the taste as woody and smoky with a hint of sweetness from its floral, fruity aroma. Its bold, intense flavor from Liberica beans has been translated into local coffeehouse favorites and even into cakes and pastries. A cup of coffee made from your souvenir bag of ground beans is a great way to perk up on a cold day.

Davao’s Malagos Chocolates

While growing cacao is an agricultural practice in many parts of the Philippines, Davao is hailed as the country’s Chocolate Capital and the entire Davao Region as the Cacao Capital of the Philippines. One of the frontrunners of the industry in the region is the award-winning Malagos Chocolates brand which uses high-quality beans from a sustainable source for a “tree to bar” chocolate journey. Its latest award was for its 100% Premium Unsweetened Chocolate that won four Golds and one Bronze at the 2020 World Drinking Chocolate Competition organized by the International Chocolate Awards. The products offer a rich, velvety, melt-in the-mouth chocolate experience that makes it a perfect gift for the chocoholics in your circle. 

Manila’s South Sea Pearls Shops

There are many high-end jewelry stores located at the malls selling a sundry of pearls and other gems. But for those who want to have the element of a bargain when they shop for their jewelry and accessories can visit the bazaars of Manila, where one can find an assortment of South Sea Pearls from Palawan and some parts of Mindanao sold at stalls beside cellphone accessories and rubber shoes. There, one can browse through their collections of luminous necklaces and dainty earrings while asking for the “final price” that the vendor can offer.     

Davao Oriental’s Virgin Coconut Oil 

Touted to have many health benefits, virgin coconut oil is produced from fresh or mature coconuts, without undergoing chemical refining, bleaching or deodorizing. VCO products that are available in the Philippines come in oil and capsule form or even as cosmetics. While coconuts grow abundantly all over the country, Davao Oriental is poised to become a big exporter of coconut products overseas, with 18 Virgin Coconut Oil processing centers set to rise within the year. Modern production at the processing plants such as the one of Oriental Golden Coco Inc., ensure high quality through multiple microfiltration processes for additional purity to result in products with that wonderful fresh coconut aroma and flavor in what is called the “purest and healthiest” form of coconut oil. 

Cordillera’s Heirloom Rice

Heirloom rice varieties have been grown in the Cordillera Mountains for centuries, and studies have found that there could be about 500 traditional varieties of rice that are indigenous in the region and are mostly being planted for personal or family consumption through generations. So far, there have been 88 varieties that have been identified and studies have shown these to have higher nutritional content. Try this heirloom rice with your next meal and have it the Filipino way by eating with your hands for a more authentic experience. 

The Philippines’ Alcoholic Drinks

Imbibe the spirit of the Philippines through its choice of alcoholic concoctions. A short story by the late Don Alejandro Roces who is a National Artist of the Philippines for Literature, cheekily says, “We Filipinos Are Mild Drinkers”. This is offset by the local distilled drinks such as Don Papa Rum, a premium aged single-island rum from the sugar cane fields at the foot of Mt. Kanglaon in the Visayas. Coconut Wine called Lambanog is another potent brew obtained from the distillation of naturally fermented coconut sap. Modern version of this celebratory drink now has added flavors. Travelers can bring this home to European countries if they are for personal consumption while restrictions in Muslim countries may apply. 

Liliw, Laguna’s Native Slippers 

The town of Liliw in Laguna is known for its slipper industry, with local artisans crafting the footwear from abaca which grows abundantly in the area. These comfortable and colorful house slippers are perfect for keeping your feet warm while relaxing at home and they make great handcrafted gifts – just make sure that the recipient gives you a coin in return as Philippine superstition says that if you don’t get one, you might get into a quarrel. 

Filipino Designer’s Modern Filipiniana

Young Filipino designers are rediscovering local woven fabrics and reimagining them for use as modern apparel in order to support traditional industries and local communities. While the National Dress of Barong Tagalog (long-sleeved embroidered formal shirts) for men and Baro’t Saya (that literally translates to blouse and skirt, made from fine pina cloth) for women are still worn on important occasions, designers such as the ones at Filip + Inna are coming up with stunning garments that make use of handmade woven material, beading, and embroidery that can be worn at the office or even at the beach.  Bring home something old, something new with gorgeous designs that will make you stand out in a crowd. 

More Treasures to Unbox

The Philippines is a haven for those who want to enjoy local culture through tangible items. Rattan is one of the indigenous materials that are used for traditional packaging, the leaves are dexterously woven into shopping bags called bayong and boxes that are used to store items in the home. Banig, or woven mats are another Filipino woven product, used for sleeping or as bags and home accents, while abaca bags are fashionable and summery all year long. Wooden utensils are utilitarian and decorative items, which can be found both on the dining table or if in their supersized form, hanging from the walls of the dining room.  For those who want to try their hand at a little Filipino cooking, local brand Mama Sita offers condiments and sauces to help capture that local palette. 

Travel safely!

All these tourist destinations have health and safety protocols in place to protect locals and visitors alike. Everyone is expected to comply by wearing face masks, regularly washing their hands, and practicing physical distancing.

To check out up-to-date information regarding local destinations that are open and the safety protocols and requirements needed for each location, you may visit philippines.travel/safetrip or download the Travel Philippines app at app.philippines.travel, Apple Store, or Google Playstore.

The post Bring Home Memories and a Piece of the Philippines With You appeared first on 7641 Islands of the Philippines.

The island nation’s lead tourism agency is taking this opportunity to innovate further and develop its destinations, ensuring safe, more fun, and sustainable tourism for both local and foreign visitors. The Philippines recently unveiled its ‘More Fun Awaits’ campaign highlighting new tourism products and packages to explore, each with its own distinct set of adventures.

Plan your trip

With new and improved local destinations equipped with comprehensive safety protocols and procedures, the Philippines is more than ready to provide a safe and pleasant experience for visitors. Travelers may enjoy a range of adventures from north to south, which are now more accessible thanks to new and upgraded infrastructure such as regional airports and roads that connect tourists to the country’s gorgeous islands and their unique experiences.

Travelers may select from a range of destinations in the Philippines with various activities and tourism circuits to enjoy. The beautiful beaches lead to an underwater paradise, teeming with colors from diverse marine life. On land, the mountain ranges beckon to explorers with lush forests and trails that lead to breathtaking waterfalls and rapids. All of these can be experienced with a hearty serving of local cuisines from hosts, home cooks, and chefs, who will be the first to ask the quintessential Filipino greeting, “Have you eaten?”

Get ready to cross these places off your vacation bucket list on your next trip to this tropical paradise:

Relish the seascape: Powdery white sands, crystal-clear seas, and unspoiled natural resources characterize the beaches of the Calaguas group of islands in Camarines Norte. These lovely surroundings provide the ideal backdrop for spectacular sunsets and quiet nights under the stars.

The Mercedes Group of Islands, also located in this region, feature turquoise oceans and a serene atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. Caramoan Island is the crowning beauty of the region, with a 4,000-hectare limestone forest rich in biodiversity, as well as stunning white sand beaches, tranquil lakes, deep caves, coves, and abundant marine life. It is a fantastic diving location for experienced divers.

Boracay, considered one of the world’s best beaches, is also set to reopen. Its beaches, known for its powdery white sand and crystal blue waters, have been rehabilitated to preserve its natural beauty.

Dubbed nature’s “Last Ecological Frontier,” Palawan is famed for its enchanting coves and caves. Tubbataha Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage site and sanctuary for more than 600 species of fish, as well as numerous species of sharks, whales, and dolphins, is a must-see for anyone interested in diving deep into underwater experiences, as is Coron Bay, which is home to many WWII shipwrecks. There are so many beaches to choose from, with island-hopping adventures from dreamy El Nido to picturesque Coron as well as a thrilling boat ride on the Puerto Princesa Underground River, which has been named one of the new Seven Wonders of Nature.

Tourists seeking more water adventure may head to Surigao del Sur, which has attractions ranging from the multi-tiered Tinuy-an Falls in Bislig City to the Hinatuan Enchanted River Underwater Cave Systems. Siargao Island is also known for its idyllic island life and world-renowned barrel waves, which draw surfers from all over the world.

Batangas is also a beach lover’s paradise, with the azure waters of Nasugbu, Calatagan, and San Juan villages only a short drive from Manila.

Reconnect with nature: The Philippines has a diverse range of ecological assets. The Turtle Project in La Union, the Barobaybay Mangrove Ecopark and Marine Conservation in Northern Samar and bird watching tour in Ilocos Norte all have indigenous flora and fauna on exhibit. The scenic mountain environment of Baguio encourages visitors to wander around its public parks or harvest strawberries in neighboring La Trinidad.

Discover history and culture: The Philippines is a nation steeped in culture and history. And there are tourism sites that connect visitors to its heritage. Cebu City, the country’s oldest city, is home to many artifacts from its illustrious past, including the 500-year-old statue of the Sto. Nino de Cebu, which was given as a baptismal gift to the local chief’s wife by the first Spanish explorers headed by Portuguese Ferdinand Magellan.

Visiting Tam-Awan Village in Baguio will expose travelers to cultural performances and rituals that highlight the ancient customs and spiritual beliefs of the indigenous population of the Cordilleras.

Still rooted in centuries-old traditions, the UNESCO-listed Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao and the Sagada eco-tourism regions allow visitors to engage with locals and get insight into their daily lives.

Taking a horse-drawn carriage trip through Vigan’s heritage homes on cobblestone streets is a pleasurable way to see the city. Handcrafted items such as woven blankets, sculptures, and ceramics are also available to purchase as souvenirs.

A sugar trail goes through Negros, Iloilo, Capiz, and Antique for a delectable journey. While visiting this part of Western Visayas, travelers will see ancient churches, eat heirloom dishes, and appreciate Spanish-era heritage homes that showcase the country’s history.

Get a thrill for adrenaline: Central Visayas’ magnificent combination of mountains and beaches is excellent for adventure. Trekking the trails of Osmena Peak will reward you with a spectacular view as well as a refreshing plunge in the Kawasan Falls. The world-famous Chocolate Hills are seen from a view deck in Carmen, Bohol, or from the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park’s “surf zipline,” which provides a 230-foot-high aerial view of the hills.

Another enjoyable activity is touring the country on two wheels. The MoTOURismo Pilgrimage Caravan is designed to encourage motorbike enthusiasts to explore Cagayan Region’s open roads, with a scenic itinerary that travels through Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, Isabela, and Cagayan and culminates at the magnificent Pagudpud Aquaduct in Ilocos Norte. In Davao, visitors may ride a bike suspended mid-air or experience the sky swing at the Eden Nature Park and Mountain Resort.

Experience a culinary adventure: The Philippines offers a diverse range of cuisines passed down through generations of home cooks using locally sourced ingredients. Tourists are in for a treat as the country’s bustling dining scene promises a delightful culinary adventure.

Being an archipelagic state, the Philippines has direct and easy access to seafood. Tropical fruits are also abundant all year due to the number of countryside farms. Eco and agro excursions are offered to take visitors to the source of food production, from mangroves and fishing villages on the islands to farms that cultivate climate-adapted local products.

One does not have to travel far to enjoy a taste of the Philippines’ culinary masterpieces. Local chefs expertly represent a wide range of regional cuisines at many of Manila’s exquisite restaurants, transforming the city into a global gastronomic paradise. On the other hand, culinary excursions in Bohol are ideal for tourists who want to sample traditional Filipino farm-to-table cuisine. It includes a trip to a bee farm, strawberry field, mushroom house, and a floating lunch buffet on a Loboc Riverboat ride where guests are encouraged to eat Filipino-style with their hands.

Ready for the world

As travel resumes in the new normal, the Philippines’ Department of Tourism (DOT) is preparing to welcome visitors once again, revealing its plans through the #MoreFunAwaits campaign.

Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat says, “We want to show our preparations for travelers, including newly-developed circuits with new exciting activities, destinations, and tourist attractions that have been developed in our regions. Through this campaign, we are also showing that the safety and well-being of tourists are our priority. Our tourism workers are well trained in enhanced health and hygiene protocols, and tourism establishments have also implemented safeguards in their premises to protect their guests and employees.”

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has recognized the DOT with a SafeTravels Stamp for its implementation of “global standardized health and hygiene standards” that will guarantee safe travel during the COVID-19 pandemic. SafeTravels is the council’s seal of approval certifying compliance with its global health standards to allow for safe travels.

Hotels, airlines, restaurants, tour operators, attractions, transportation, and airports will be able to use the stamp as proof that they conform to the WTTC’s health and safety standards. The WTTC is an international association that represents leaders in the worldwide travel and tourism sector.

As a result, the DOT has stepped up accreditation, conducting comprehensive inspections and assessments to guarantee that only businesses certified by the DOT are permitted to operate, and welcome visitors provided they conform to globally recognized health, safety, and hygiene standards.

The Philippine government’s Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) is continuously upgrading its procedures to ensure the safety of Filipinos and foreign visitors traveling to the country.

The Clark International Airport in Pampanga

In Pampanga, the new terminal in Clark International Airport was also recently opened. Inspired by the slopes of Mt. Arayat and the Filipino Christmas lantern, the new terminal provides fast, safe, and efficient air travel services such as contactless self-check-in and bag drop, advanced docking guidance system, and even contactless ordering for pre-flight dining. As the “gateway to the North,” it will help boost tourism recovery by expanding connectivity to various local destinations.

There’s a lot more to see and do in the Philippines, with world-class locations waiting to welcome visitors once travel is allowed. Visit http://www.philippines.travel/safetrip for a list of activities, get the latest information and travel warnings about the Philippines or download the Travel Philippines app from Google Play and Apple Stores.

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