SOUTH COTABATO, PHILIPPINES—South Cotabato is buzzing with excitement as it hosts the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) conference from October 9 to 11, 2024. Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr. Thanked all the tourism officers, both from the provincial level and the municipal/city level.
The event held last week was a resounding success, attracting strong attendance from participants and tourism offices nationwide. Organizers expressed their delight at the active involvement of various organizations and associations. This success highlights not only their excellent hospitality but also that more people are choosing to visit our province and tourist destinations. Many more national events are scheduled, promising to bring even greater attention to our region.
“Ginkalipay ko man nga medyo manami ang aton attendance, pero gusto ko lang ipabalo sa tanan, labi na sa aton mga kaupod nga nag-participate kag nag-asikaso sang aton mga tourism officers nationwide, nga naging successful ang aton ginhiwat nga event sang nakaligad nga semana. Congratulations, kag madamo pa gid nga mga national events sa mga organizations kag associations nga naga-sulod diri sa aton probinsya. Isa ina ka indikasyon nga indi lang manami ang aton pag-entertain, kundi mas manamian sila bisitahon ang aton probinsya, labi na gid ang aton nga tourist destination,” the governor stated as he
opened the event at The Farm in Barangay Carpenter Hill, welcoming tourism officials nationwide to collaborate on strategies that enhance the local tourism sector.
Governor Tamayo highlighted the conference’s significance for promoting the province’s rich arts and culture. He emphasized that South Cotabato’s diverse attractions make it a prime location for tourism initiatives.
Francisco Cerbo Jr., Tourism Operation Officer, revealed impressive figures: the province has already generated over 2.2 million pesos from souvenir sales, not including revenue from transportation, hotels, and restaurants.
“Tuman kadamo sang mga participants, Rason Nakaganar ang Probinsya sang masubra ka 2.2 million pesos nagikan sa mga nabaligya nga mga souvenir items, wala pa labot diri ang mga hotels, transportation, and Mga fees sa mga tourist spots, nga gina kadtuan sang mga ATOP participants,” he stated.
“This event not only showcases our tourism potential but also boosts the local economy,” Cerbo said. He noted that large gatherings like ATOP provide vital opportunities for economic gains.
With this conference, South Cotabato not only strengthens its position in the tourism landscape but also paves the way for future collaborations that will benefit both visitors and the local community.
