Ilocos Norte won its sixth “Best Tourism-Oriented Local Government Unit” with its second runner-up finish in the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines and Department of Tourism’s (ATOP-DOT) Pearl Awards for Best Tourism Practices 2024 in Koronadal City yesterday, October 10.
The province won the top award in 2023 and 2018 and now has four (4) runner-up finishes in the said category since 2016.
The ATOP-DOT Pearl Awards, which recognizes the pioneering projects of local government units toward the development of the country’s tourism industry, was part of the ATOP 25th National Convention.
Ilocos Norte has been recognized for its wide-ranging efforts to boost tourism, enhancing its status as a prime destination in the country. The province’s strategic promotion of its attractions has drawn both local and international visitors. Also, its focus on sustainable tourism blends nature, culture, and innovation, has ensured long-term preservation of the province’s heritage.
Under the Metro Ilocos Norte Master Development Plan, infrastructure improvements have made the province more accessible to tourists. The provincial government’s commitment to cultural preservation is likewise evident through events, preservation projects, and community engagement.
Moreover, collaboration with stakeholders has fueled sector growth, while safety measures have been implemented to ensure a secure experience for visitors. Efficient data reporting between local government units and the Department of Tourism further strengthened coordination and transparency in the province’s tourism initiatives.
In 2023, Ilocos Norte experienced a notable tourism surge, surpassing the previous year’s figures, with tourism receipts reaching P 8.9 billion. Day visitors climbed to nearly 3.6 million, while returning visitors made up 52% of total arrivals. Foreign tourist numbers rose by 51%, and air travel saw a substantial 67% increase, signaling strong recovery and growth in the province’s tourism sector.
In addition to the main award, Ilocos Norte was named the grand winner in the Best Tourism Promotions-Brochure category. The winning brochure, styled as a passport, featured QR codes that provide instant access to tourism information through mobile phones.
Other notable entries from the province included second runner-up finishes in the Best Tourism Promotions-Video category for “Raise Your Flag,” featuring beauty queen Catriona Gray, and in the Best Tourism Event-Festival category for the “Tan-ok ni Ilocano: Festival of Festivals.”
The awards were accepted by the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office, led by its Officer-in-Charge, Mr. Xavier Ruiz.
In his State of the Province Address last October 8, Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc reiterated the province’s commitment to tourism, stating:
“We have continued our initiatives to improve infrastructure, develop and enhance tourist attractions, and promote our province globally.
Natatangi ang Ilocos Norte. We believe Ilocos Norte tourism is second to none, and we aim to etch our position as a premier tourist destination in the country.”
Ilocos Norte, along with the Suba Sand Dunes of Paoay, is also nominated in the Tourism Destination of the Year category at the upcoming 2024 DOT Philippine Tourism Awards.
(Source: Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte – Communications & Media Office)