ILOILO – The Iloilo provincial government is crafting a comprehensive blueprint to turn Pan de Azucar Island in Concepcion town into one of the country’s premier eco-tourism destinations, marrying economic growth with environmental protection.
Through its “Turista sa Barangay” program, the province convened a multidisciplinary scoping team on Aug. 8 at the Tambaliza Gym to assess the island’s tourism readiness and identify interventions that balance development with conservation.
Led by Provincial Tourism Officer Bombette Marin, the core team included representatives from the Provincial Culture, Arts, History, and Tourism Office; Planning and Development Office; Environment and Natural Resources Office; Health Office; Agriculture Office; Engineer’s Office; Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions Center; Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office; and Public Information and Community Affairs Office.
The session focused on four key areas — economic viability, environmental sustainability, social equity, and governance — covering the island’s three barangays: Tambaliza, Macatunao, and Taloto-an. Issues raised included infrastructure gaps, environmental threats, and the need for stronger community engagement.
“Are we all united in our vision to transform Pan de Azucar into a premier eco-tourism destination? The full support of the community and all relevant sectors is essential for us to achieve this goal,” Marin stressed, calling for firm commitment from local leaders and stakeholders.
Famed for its towering Mount Pan de Azucar, pristine beaches, vibrant dive sites, and the striking Lumpatan rock formation, the island is seen as a natural fit for eco-tourism.
The planned declaration of the island as an official eco-tourism site aligns with Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.’s push to develop local communities as prime gateways for tourists.
Officials said the goal is to create a thriving tourism hub that safeguards the island’s biodiversity while generating long-term livelihood opportunities for residents./PN
