The
Philippine Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), the marketing arm of the Department
of Tourism (DOT), launched recently the first Sustainable Community-Based
Tourism Recognition (SCBTR) as part of its "Sustainable Tourism"
campaign.
In
keeping with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs) of the United Nations, and the National Tourism Act of
2009, which recognizes sustainable tourism development as key to national
socioeconomic development, the SCBTR highlights different forms of tourism such
as ecotourism, which focusing on areas that promote environmental conservation
and appreciation of nature; culture tourism, which promotes heritage and
encourages participation in cultural activities; and adventure tourism, which
offers a full adventure travel experience.
TPB
will identify the best sustainable tourism destinations of the country with the
assistance of DOT Regional Offices and recognize three winners according to a
set of criteria that includes community participation, benefit sharing, tourism
resources conservation, partnership and support from within and outside the
community, local ownership, management and leadership, communication and
interaction among stakeholders, quality of life, scale of tourism development
and tourist satisfaction.
The
recognized sites must also practice sustainability through preservation,
conservation and protection of the environment and community; provide a unique
local experience; practice ecological balance and sustainable organic farming;
promote artisanal products in the community; empower cultural pride; share
cultural heritage; offer immersive and experiential activities; and elicit
overall interest from visitors.
Winners
will receive incentives and grants for the enhancement of sites and tourism
products and services; trainings and seminars; and progress monitoring and
assistance from TPB to obtain support from organizations such as the United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Slow Food
International and The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority
(TIEZA) for the development of community programs.
The
destination will also be promoted digitally, featured in international and
domestic travel fairs and shows participated in by DOT / TPB, and endorsed for
a possible partnership with the former Secretary of the Philippines' Department
of Environment and Natural Resources, Ms. Gina Lopez.
This
first-of-its-kind recognition is initiated by TPB in support of Tourism
Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat's overarching direction in striking balance
between tourism business and social responsibility.
Aside
from acknowledging sustainability efforts and achievements, TPB also hopes to
reaffirm the commitment of local government units, non-governmental
organizations, and private sectors in the tourism industry in implementing
sustainable tourism related-initiatives.
Moreover,
TPB hopes to showcase and promote domestically and internationally the
country’s unique tourism products, inspire stakeholders to share sustainable
practices, and draw potential investors for the enhancement and development of
sustainable tourism sites and attractions.
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