Calbayog City Convention Center – The 24th UFTE National Annual Tourism Educators Convention 2024 and Research Conference, themed “Tourism and Peace: Sustainable Journeys, Timeless Memories,” continued its second day in Calbayog City on November 20, 2024, with a blend of cultural immersion and insightful discussions. Hosted by Northwest Samar State University and LGU Calbayog, the day showcased the warm hospitality of the Waraynon and highlighted the unique tourism offerings of Calbayog and the wider Samar region.
The event was made possible by the strong support of Hon. Mayor Raymund C. Uy, Hon. Vice Mayor Rex Daguman, and Hon. Gov. Sharee Ann Tan. “Thank you for the soft heart in accepting this invitation,” Dr. Rumar Abaigar, UFTE President expressed gratitude to the host of the national convention.
After kicking off with a Research Conference at Leyte Normal University, the second day of the national convention began with a festive atmosphere, featuring ASCA performances showcasing the vibrant Hadang Festival and traditional folk songs of Calbayog. The day’s program featured two engaging presentations. Mr. Ronald Ricafort, Calbayog City Tourism Officer, presented “Getting to Know Calbayog,” highlighting the city’s rich history as the 19th oldest city in the Philippines and its reputation as the “City of Waterfalls in Visayas.” Through captivating videos, he showcased the city’s diverse attractions, including the Malajog Ridge Zipline, Tarangban Falls, and Isla Pawikan, while emphasizing its unique culinary, arts, cultural experiences, farm tourism opportunities, and local products.
Mr. Marvin R. Piczon, Samar Provincial Tourism Officer, in his presentation titled “Fostering Conscious Travelers’ Approaches for Promoting Responsible Tourism,” explored the “Spark Samar” initiative, a program launched in 2015 to boost tourism in Samar. He highlighted the region’s challenges, including poverty, natural disasters, and insurgency, but also celebrated its achievements, such as the aesthetic lighting of the San Juanico Bridge, the “Secret Kitchen of Samar,” and the development of “Lara,” a brand name for the region’s unique banig bags. Piczon underscored the importance of community-based tourism, highlighting the training of People’s Organizations and the creation of employment opportunities. He also accentuated the international and national awards received by Samar for its unique tourism offerings.
The day concluded with an open forum, heritage tour in Calbayog City, and a cultural fellowship night which is one of the spectacular highlights sponsored by the LGU of Calbayog. The second day of the convention showcased the beauty, culture, and hospitality of Calbayog City and the Samar region, highlighting the region’s potential as a sustainable and responsible tourism destination. The event provided a valuable platform for tourism educators, industry partners, and local officials to share knowledge, collaborate, and explore new opportunities for the growth and development of the tourism sector in the Philippines.
The UFTE National Convention will continue its third day with a Spark Samar Adventure Tour, hosted by Gov. Tan and the Provincial Government of Samar, featuring a torpedo boat ride in Paranas and an adventure to the Sohoton Cave in Basey. The convention will conclude on November 22nd with a Kalanggaman Island Tour.