The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, under the Department of Tourism (DOT), successfully concluded the Albay leg of its Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Marketing Enhancement Program. This initiative, in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Albay and DOT Region V, aimed to empower local communities with skills in digital marketing, content creation, and sustainable tourism practices.
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The program focused on equipping local tourism stakeholders to promote Albay’s unique culture and natural attractions effectively. TPB visited seven communities, each highlighting distinct offerings:
- PHILCERAMICS Association (Tiwi): Displayed stunning ceramic products, including lamps and home décor.
- Tabaco Cutlery Makers Association (TACUMA): Showcased finely crafted cutlery.
- Malilipot Abaca Weavers: Demonstrated intricate traditional abaca weaving.
- Libon Eco-Tourist Guides Organization (LET’S GO): Offered farm tours and eco-tourism experiences.
- Jovellar Underground River Guides & Boatmen: Provided eco-conscious river tours, showcasing biodiversity.
- Galuda Farm (Polangui): Featured local specialty foods like santan coco jam, kalamay, and pili nuts.
- Puto Makers (Oas): Introduced the iconic Puto de Oas rice cakes.
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Participants also enjoyed cultural and culinary highlights, including a cooking demonstration of the traditional Bicolano dishes Tinutungan na Manok and Pinangat. A guided tour of the Jovellar Underground River allowed attendees to immerse themselves in Albay’s ecological treasures.
To support typhoon recovery in Albay, the program opened with the “Musika Para Sa Bikol: Himig ng Bayanihan” fundraising concert on December 6, 2025, at the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation. Featuring artists like Kim Ji-Soo, Gene Loves Jezebel, and Fra Lippo Lippi, the concert celebrated the Filipino spirit of bayanihan, with proceeds going to relief efforts.
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“The success of the Albay leg is a significant step in promoting sustainable tourism as a driver of local economic growth,” said TPB at the conclusion of the program last December. The board plans to expand the program in 2025 to other areas, including Zamboanga, Lake Sebu, Davao, Cordillera, Sorsogon, and Northern Samar.
This initiative continues TPB’s mission to empower communities while positioning the Philippines as a sustainable and inclusive travel destination.
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