Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson with the participants and guests at the opening of the Negros Occidental Tourism Week on Monday.* Ronnie Baldonado photo
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson called for a unified commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism at the opening of the 25th Provincial Tourism Week at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central on Monday, Sept. 15.
The future of the province’s tourism industry lies not just in promoting its destinations but in preserving its unique heritage and environment, he said.
“The theme ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation’ is a reminder that the future of tourism depends on our ability to pursue growth while remaining faithful stewards of both our heritage and environment,” Lacson said.
“Let us work together to maximize the potential of sustainable tourism to bring about progress, preserve our identity, and transform Negros Occidental into a destination where culture, nature, and people grow in balance and harmony,” he said.
Lacson also announced that Negros Occidental has been recognized as a finalist in three major categories of the ATOP (Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines) Pearl Awards:
• The Sugar Cultural Landscape of Negros Occidental for Best Institutional Program in Culture and the Arts by a Province
• Terra Madre for Best International Hosting by a Province
• The Negros Trade Fair for Best Local Hosting by a Province
Lacson said these reflect the province’s strong commitment to a tourism model rooted in culture, heritage, and sustainability.
The food and products of the towns and cities of Negros Occidental are on display at the 25th Provincial Tourism Week booths at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central.*