Baguio: The Department of Tourism-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) announced that the region's stakeholders have achieved international standards, as demonstrated by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) tourism awards that the area will receive later this month.
According to Philippine News Agency, DOT-CAR Director Jovita Ganongan emphasized in a media interview that the stakeholders are maintaining efforts to adhere to international standards for client service and are committed to environmental sustainability. She revealed that five notable tourism destinations and facilities in the region are among the recipients of the ASEAN Tourism Awards 2026.
The awardees include the Baguio Country Club's Cordillera Convention Hall recognized as a MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions) venue; the BCC's Infinity Garden as an event venue; Le Monet Hotel in Baguio City for the ASEAN Green Hotel Award; Ganduyan Eco-Trail and Farm Experience for the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award in the rural category; and Tabuk City for the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award.
Ganongan stated that these honors acknowledge excellence, sustainability, and global competitiveness, underscoring the region's commitment to maintaining world-class tourism standards. The annual awards ceremony is scheduled to occur during the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cebu on January 30.
She highlighted that the tourism criteria encompass more than marketing, with a focus on sustainable objectives like supporting communities through 'green operations' and ensuring that local residents gain from tourism. Sustainable practices such as recycling, sustainable consumption, production, energy conservation, and community involvement are integral to the criteria, alongside economic contributions to sustainable development.
Ganongan noted that the region is aligning with international standards, attracting foreign travelers interested in sustainable products. She expressed pride that the region offers tourism village immersions, cultural experiences, and community-based tourism.
