The Philippine Tourism Awards recognize outstanding contributions that shape Cordillera’s vibrant tourism landscape. This prestigious event celebrates exceptional enterprises, inspiring individuals, and world-class destinations that exemplify the best of what the region has to offer. With a focus on honoring those driving the industry forward, the nominees from the Cordilleras stand out for their commitment to showcasing the region’s rich culture, natural beauty, and innovation.
In the Tourism Pillars Awards – Enterprise Category, the Baguio Country Club, Easter Weaving Room, and Mountain Lodge take center stage. The Baguio Country Club has long been a historic landmark, offering a blend of luxury, comfort, and history to visitors. The Easter Weaving Room, renowned for preserving traditional Cordilleran weaving techniques, continues to promote local craftsmanship and culture. Meanwhile, Mountain Lodge is a cozy retreat that provides tourists with a tranquil escape, surrounded by Baguio’s cool climate and scenic beauty.
For the Tourism Pillars Awards – Individual Category, three individuals are highlighted for their contributions. Mr. Anthony de Leon of Baguio Country Club is recognized for his leadership in elevating the hospitality experience, while Miss Corazon A. Nacionales, a regional tour guide, is lauded for her dedication to sharing the region’s history and culture. Mr. Ramoncito A. Cabrera of Camp John Hay Leisure, Inc. is acknowledged for enhancing one of the region’s most iconic leisure destinations.
When it comes to accommodation, Le Monet Hotel and The Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay are nominated for Hotel of the Year. Le Monet Hotel offers a luxurious escape within the natural beauty of Camp John Hay, while The Forest Lodge combines comfort and nature for both leisure and business travelers. In the MICE Venue of the Year category, Baguio Country Club is recognized as a premier venue for meetings, conferences, and exhibitions, providing world-class facilities in the heart of the city.
The nominees for Resort of the Year are The Manor at Camp John Hay and Baguio Country Club. The Manor is celebrated for its luxurious blend of nature and modern amenities, while the Baguio Country Club offers a historic and relaxing retreat. In the Tour Operator of the Year category, Agetyeng Travel and Tours is nominated for its immersive and authentic Cordilleran experiences.
The Tourism Association of the Year nominees include the Sagada Innkeepers and Homestay Association (SIHA), which promotes sustainable tourism while preserving the cultural beauty of Sagada, and the La Diyang Haven Community Association, known for enhancing tourism through authentic homestay and slow food experiences. For Tour Guide of the Year, regional tour guides Mr. Arturo Alhambra, Mr. Ariel Layugan, and Mr. Adrian Fernandez are recognized, alongside community tour guide Ms. Jacquiline Equinio, for their dedication to providing meaningful and informative experiences for visitors.
The Tourism Frontliner of the Year category highlights Ms. Shauna Indra Salina Curran and Mr. Andrew D. Piñero for their exceptional service to the tourism industry. The Tourism Product – Destination of the Year (Provincial) award nominee is the Province of Apayao, known for its unspoiled landscapes and unique cultural heritage. Baguio City, with its vibrant arts scene and rich cultural tapestry, is nominated for the City category, while Paracelis (Simma’bot Hundred Hills), La Trinidad, and Sagada are nominated in the Municipal category for their scenic beauty and cultural significance.
In the eco-tourism sector, Balbalasang Eco-Village, the Municipality of Pasil, and Barangay Tawang, Balbalan in Kalinga, alongside the Municipality of Bauko in Mt. Province, are nominated for Eco-Tourism Destination of the Year. The Likha Award: Art Tourism Destination of the Year sees Baguio City and the Province of Kalinga as nominees, highlighting their vibrant art scenes and cultural preservation efforts.
Under the Pamana Award: Living Cultures Destination of the Year, the Municipality of Pasil, Lubuagan, and the entire Province of Kalinga are nominated for their dedication to preserving their living traditions and indigenous cultures. The Salo-salo Award: Food and Gastronomy Tourism Destination of the Year goes to the Municipality of Pasil, Kalinga, which is celebrated for its unique culinary heritage.
In the Tourism Product – Enterprise category, Pines International Academy, Inc. is nominated for English as a Second Language (ESL) School of the Year, while North Haven Spa is recognized for its wellness services under the Filipino Brand of Wellness Enterprise of the Year. Finally, Ms. Liza Agoot, from the Philippine News Agency, is nominated for Tourism Journalist of the Year, celebrating her contributions to tourism storytelling and media.
The Cordilleras’ diverse and rich cultural heritage, paired with its innovative tourism efforts, makes the region a standout at this year’s Philippine Tourism Awards. These nominees are more than just names on a list—they are the heartbeat of a thriving industry that continues to uplift the Philippine tourism landscape on both a national and global stage. As we celebrate their achievements, we are reminded of the vital role they play in promoting and preserving the beauty and culture of the Philippines. – Carl Taawan
