TACLOBAN CITY – Eastern Visayas reaffirmed its growing reputation as a premier tourism destination after bagging eight major recognitions at the prestigious 2025 Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) Pearl Awards held in Baguio City on October 2.
The awards were presented during ATOP’s 26th National Convention, which honors outstanding tourism practices and innovations by local government units (LGUs) across the country.
Among the winners were the provinces of Samar and Northern Samar, as well as Ormoc City, whose tourism programs were cited for their creativity, sustainability, and community impact.
Samar province emerged as a standout, winning Best Tourism Promotions Video (Provincial Level) and Best Tourism Gifts or Non-Food Souvenirs (Provincial Level) for its Lara brand. The province also secured 1st runner-up for Best Practices in Sustainable Tourism (Provincial Level).
Northern Samar, meanwhile, brought home the Best Practices in Community-Based Tourism (Provincial Level) grand prize for its Lalaguna Mangrove Eco Park Association.
Ormoc City capped off the region’s victories with three awards: 1st runner-up in Best Events Hosting (International Event, Independent/Component City Level), 1st runner-up in Best Practices in Community-Based Tourism (Independent/Chartered City Level), and 2nd runner-up in Best Tourism Gifts or Non-Food Souvenirs (Independent/Component City Level).
DOT-Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes praised the awardees, saying their achievements prove the region has LGU-led programs that are not only innovative but also nationally competitive.
“These recognitions show that our tourism sector is thriving because of the creativity and commitment of our LGUs,” Tiopes said. “I hope these wins inspire more LGUs in Eastern Visayas to showcase their own tourism initiatives in future ATOP Pearl Awards.”
Launched in 2005, the ATOP Pearl Awards is an annual collaboration between ATOP and the Department of Tourism that recognizes exceptional LGU-led tourism initiatives. The awards highlight best practices that strengthen the industry, promote sustainable development, and inspire other communities nationwide.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
