MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA) -- The Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Office (PTCAO) unveiled key achievements to fortify Lanao del Sur's tourism sector.
During the first semester meeting of the Provincial Tourism, Culture and Arts Council (PTCAC) on May 29, Tourism Operations Officer Abdullah M. Acmad reported PTCAO's engagement in promotional campaigns for the province's cultural products, both locally and abroad.
These included participation in the Bangsamoro Foundation Day in Cotabato City, where recognition was earned for their cultural booth and float competition entries. Further, the Bangsamoro and Meranaw cultures were showcased by PTCAO at the Philippine Travel Mart and the Philippine Independence Day celebration in New York.
"We have also organized the Association of Lanao del Sur Tourism Officers. This is because we saw the need to unify our tourism officers in the province. We are speaking of 39 municipalities and one city, so they need an association to discuss what they can do and how they can improve the tourism landscape in our province," he said.
The PTCAO additionally convened meetings with various sectors of the tourism value chain to address pertinent issues, challenges, and emerging trends. These discussions engaged stakeholders from the transportation sector, tour operators, and peace and order agencies.
"We also have capacitated 30 micro-entrepreneurs and provided them with P30,000 financial assistance. We gave them training on managing their finance and business, with financial assistance of P30,000 to augment their operations. Our partners from the Ministry of Trade, Investments and Tourism and the Department of Trade and Industry gave the training," he added.
 |
| Abdullah M. Acmad of the Provincial Tourism, Culture, and Arts Office, disclosed that meetings were successfully held with key sectors of the tourism value chain, a priority set during last year's first-semester meeting to tackle sector-specific issues, challenges, and emerging trends. (Photo by DCC/PIA-10) |
To further preserve and promote Meranaw's cultural heritage, the PTCAO developed the Paninggalan (legacy) learning module, launched the Meranaw Academy, and trained thirty young tourism advocates as tour guides.
Also, to bolster the promotion of local cuisines and tourism sites, the PTCAO organized an inter-LGU culinary festival and photography contest during the Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok. This annual event in July commemorates the province's founding anniversary.
Provincial Tourism Focal Ahmad Nour-al-Dinn A. Tamano Jr. said the newly established PTCAO takes inspiration from Republic Act 9593, the Philippine Tourism Act. This office is mandated to develop a local tourism plan to identify challenges and determine the programs, projects, and activities needed for community development and economic growth.
 |
| Lanao del Sur Tourism Focal Ahmad Nour-al-Dinn A. Tamano Jr. highlighted during the Provincial Tourism, Culture, and Arts Council meeting that under the Philippine Tourism Act, regional and national entities are responsible for creating tourism strategies and enhancing community outcomes. This foundation led to the establishment of the Provincial Tourism Office. (Photo by DCC/PIA-10) |
Looking forward
Among this year's planned initiatives include creating promotional concept stories to highlight the province, developing eco-tourism in Lake Sebu, expanding the 'Okiran Tano' project by incorporating 'langkit' weave into school uniforms, and providing training for accommodation and restaurant staff on delivering excellent Filipino service.
Additionally, for the upcoming Pakaradiyaan o Sarimanok celebration, there will be an exhibition of Meranaw cultural sport called 'Kasipa sa Ranaw,' an inter-school culinary food festival, a food photography contest, and a tourism video contest. (APB/PIA-10 Lanao del Sur)
No comments