Joefel Relos, president of the Lapus-Lapus Floating Cottage Association in Sagay City, Negros Occidental, is a dedicated community leader and a central advocate for sustainable ecotourism.
Raised in a fishing family, he self-funded his vocational education and remains a deeply hands-on leader in the local conservation movement today.
He is a certified guide who has completed intensive training, including a seven-day paddling course, to better serve the area’s ecological interests.
Beyond environmental work, Relos also champions Slow Food principles as a means to preserve local culinary heritage.
The Lapus-Lapus floating cottages in Sagay City,*Ronnie Baldonado photos
He effectively bridges the gap between environmental protection and community livelihood by overseeing eco-tours and sustainable tourism initiatives at the Lapus-Lapus Local Conservation Area.
A father of two married to a teacher, he remains deeply rooted in his heritage. Even in his personal life, he continues to honor his roots by preparing traditional kinilaw for his family in the authentic fisherman’s way.*
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