ILOILO – Tourism development in Iloilo is gaining recognition beyond traditional sightseeing destinations, with four municipalities demonstrating how international event hosting, national conventions, cultural festivals, and religious celebrations can strengthen the province’s appeal to visitors.
The growing importance of event-driven and community-based tourism was highlighted in the 2026 Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) National Tourism Pearl Awards, where Tigbauan, Calinog, Barotac Nuevo, and Leganes earned distinctions for their respective tourism initiatives.
Tigbauan led the provincial awardees after emerging as grand winner in the Best International Event Hosting category at the municipal level, underscoring the potential of towns outside major urban centers to establish themselves as venues for international gatherings.
The municipality also placed second runner-up in the Best Tourism-Oriented Local Government Unit category and earned a finalist distinction in Best Local Events Hosting.
Meanwhile, Barotac Nuevo demonstrated the potential of convention tourism after placing second runner-up in the Best Event Hosting category for its hosting of the National Vegetable Congress in 2025.
Its recognition highlighted how agriculture-related gatherings can form part of a municipality’s tourism offerings, expanding the scope of local tourism beyond conventional attractions.
Cultural and religious tourism also figured prominently in Iloilo’s national recognition.
Calinog secured second runner-up honors in the Best Tourism Event – Cultural Category for its Hirinugyaw-Suguidadonay Festival, while Leganes was named a finalist in the Best Tourism Event – Religious Festival category for its Saad Festival.
The distinctions illustrate the different approaches municipalities are taking to promote their destinations, from organizing major gatherings to showcasing traditions deeply rooted in local communities.
The awards were presented during the ATOP national convention in Ormoc City, Leyte, on October 21.
The Iloilo Provincial Government, through the Office of the Provincial Tourism Officer (OPTO), welcomed the recognition, emphasizing that tourism development requires cooperation among local governments, industry stakeholders, and residents.
“These achievements reflect the collective efforts of local government units, tourism stakeholders, and communities in promoting Iloilo’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and diverse tourism experiences. Their continued commitment strengthens local tourism and underscores the importance of community participation in creating meaningful and sustainable tourism opportunities,” OPTO said in a statement.
The ATOP National Tourism Pearl Awards recognize outstanding initiatives in tourism development, destination management, cultural preservation, and sustainable tourism.
Beyond the distinctions themselves, the municipalities’ achievements highlight opportunities to diversify Iloilo’s tourism offerings by combining event hosting with cultural and religious attractions./PN
