2 weeks ago
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DEPARTMENT of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco cited farm tourism's transformational potential for promoting rural development, guaranteeing food security, and maintaining the Philippines' rich cultural legacy.
Frasco made the statement in her keynote speech on Tuesday at the 8th Philippine International Farm Tourism Conference in General Santos City.
"At the heart of farm tourism lies a simple yet powerful idea: our farms are more than just places of production," Frasco said.
"They are living landscapes of culture, history, and sustainability — where traditions are passed down, innovation takes root, and communities find new pathways to prosperity," she added.
The conference, themed "Innovations in Farm Tourism: Cultivating Growth and Sustainability," brought together stakeholders from across the country to share best practices, showcase success stories, and explore new opportunities for growth and innovation.
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One of the success stories highlighted during the conference was Davao's internationally recognized cacao industry, which has become a model for sustainable and inclusive agricultural development.
"Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we recognize farm tourism's vital role in contributing to our nation's prosperity," Frasco said.
"Guided by the National Tourism Development Plan, the Department of Tourism is committed to strengthening this sector through programs that empower local communities and promote sustainable agricultural practices," she added.
Through its support for farm tourism initiatives and promotion of sustainable practices, the DOT seeks to foster a tourism industry that is not only resilient and sustainable but also inclusive, benefiting both local communities and the environment, in addition to tourists.
