MEET THE SPEAKERS

Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco

Keynote Speech | Dec 6

Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco leads the Department of Tourism, tasked with the Marcos administration’s vision of transforming the Philippines into a tourism powerhouse in Asia. Prior to her appointment, she was elected for her 3rd term as Mayor of Liloan, Cebu. Her transformational leadership resulted in Liloan being awarded Top Model Municipality in the Philippines, and receiving more than 40 good governance awards and citations from various award-giving bodies.

President Ferdinand R Marcos, Jr. handpicked Secretary Frasco to lead the DOT in 2022. Significant institutional reforms have since been introduced to the tourism industry through the three-pronged strategy of Connectivity, Convenience, and Equality, focused on reintroducing the Philippines to the world upon the strength of its natural assets, culture and heritage, and multi-dimensional tourism offerings. Towards this thrust, “Love The Philippines’”, the country’s enhanced tourism branding has ...
Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco leads the Department of Tourism, tasked with the Marcos administration’s vision of transforming the Philippines into a tourism powerhouse in Asia. Prior to her appointment, she was elected for her 3rd term as Mayor of Liloan, Cebu. Her transformational leadership resulted in Liloan being awarded Top Model Municipality in the Philippines, and receiving more than 40 good governance awards and citations from various award-giving bodies.

President Ferdinand R Marcos, Jr. handpicked Secretary Frasco to lead the DOT in 2022. Significant institutional reforms have since been introduced to the tourism industry through the three-pronged strategy of Connectivity, Convenience, and Equality, focused on reintroducing the Philippines to the world upon the strength of its natural assets, culture and heritage, and multi-dimensional tourism offerings. Towards this thrust, “Love The Philippines’”, the country’s enhanced tourism branding has also been introduced to expand the country’s value proposition to highlight the Philippines’ many attributes.

Under the National Tourism Development Plan 2023-2028, the DOT has 7 objectives aimed at strengthening the tourism industry, namely:
  1. Improvement of Tourism Infrastructure and Accessibility
  2. Cohesive and Comprehensive Digitalization and Connectivity
  3. Enhancement of Overall Tourist Experience
  4. Equalization of Tourism Product and Development
  5. Diversification of Portfolio through Multidimensional Tourism
  6. Maximization of Domestic Tourism
  7. Strengthening Tourism Governance through Close Collaboration with LGUs and Stakeholders
Under her leadership, the Philippines recorded 2.65 million arrivals in 2022 and generating over Php 1.87 Trillion in tourism revenues and employing over 5.35 Million Filipinos in tourism-related jobs. As of Oct 11, 2023, foreign visitor arrivals have breached the 4 million mark already surpassing the previous year, which translated to over PHP 400 Billion in estimated tourism receipts from international visitors for the period of January to October 2023.

Signaling the Asia Pacific’s confidence in the Philippine tourism, the Philippines was elected Vice President of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly, and Chairman of the Commission on East Asia and the Pacific, as well as Host of the UNWTO Joint Commission Meetings for East Asia and the Pacific and South Asia in 2024.

HON. JOSE FRANCISCO “KIKO” BANTUG BENITEZ, Ph.D.

Keynote Message and Sharing of UK Mission Visit of Creative Industries | Dec 7

HON. JOSE FRANCISCO “KIKO” BANTUG BENITEZ, Ph.D. is the Representative of the Third District of Negros Occidental. He is the Chairperson of the House Committee on Housing and Urban Development, Vice Chairperson of the House Special Committee on Creative Industries, and Member of the Second Congressional Commission on Education.

Congressman Benitez has been championing bills that promote new development paradigms that balance the imperatives of social equity, economy and ecology, and aim to harness technological innovations to ensure sustainable development. He authored bills to address the country’s housing needs; accelerate the digital transformation of our economy, and bureaucracy; adapt our education system to the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution; strengthen creative industries; promote blue economy, circular economy, food security, and sustainable urbanization, to name a few...
HON. JOSE FRANCISCO “KIKO” BANTUG BENITEZ, Ph.D. is the Representative of the Third District of Negros Occidental. He is the Chairperson of the House Committee on Housing and Urban Development, Vice Chairperson of the House Special Committee on Creative Industries, and Member of the Second Congressional Commission on Education.

Congressman Benitez has been championing bills that promote new development paradigms that balance the imperatives of social equity, economy and ecology, and aim to harness technological innovations to ensure sustainable development. He authored bills to address the country’s housing needs; accelerate the digital transformation of our economy, and bureaucracy; adapt our education system to the demands of the Fourth Industrial Revolution; strengthen creative industries; promote blue economy, circular economy, food security, and sustainable urbanization, to name a few.

Congressman Benitez earned his M.A. and Ph.D. in comparative literature (minor in Southeast Asian studies) from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and his B.A. in comparative literature (summa cum laude) and English (cum laude) from Cornell University.

Caroline Couret, Creative Tourism Network

Creative Tourism Global Perspective Plenary | Dec 6

Caroline Couret is the Founder and CEO of the Creative Tourism Network and Barcelona Creative Tourism. She is an expert and consultant in Creative Tourism, creative economy, and cultural policies. She is an external expert and evaluator for the European Union, UNWTO, European Capital of Smart Tourism, and European Regions of Gastronomy. On top of that, Couret is a teacher, lecturer, trainor and an author. She has also coordinated and managed various European cultural projects, events and festivals.

Victor Estrella

Philippine Creative Tourism Situationer Plenary | Dec 6

Victor Estrella earned his MA Archaeology from the University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman. He was an Asian Graduate Fellow at the Asia Research Institute (ARI) of the National University of Singapore (NUS) in 2016, a Writeshop Fellow at the Third World Studies Center (TWSC) of the University of the Philippines Diliman and a Hughes Research Fellow at the Center for Southeast Asian Studies (CSEAS) of the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, in 2018. He served as an intern at the International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property (ICCROM) in Italy in 2021. He currently teaches at the Ateneo de Manila University and the Philippine Normal University Manila.

OIC-Undersecretary Verna C. Buensuceso

Introduction of the Keynote Speaker | Dec 6

Verna is a career executive who has served the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) in various capacities. She has witnessed many firsts -- from being part of the founding team of the Office of Product Development in its creation, to heading the division responsible for the implementation of Luzon programs of the first Philippine Tourism Master Plan, and leading the Technical Working Group that produced the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-funded Environmentally Sustainable Development Plan for Northern Palawan.

From product development and planning, she was tapped to help out in tourism marketing and became the head of the European Marketing Team, after which she assumed directorship of the Market Development Group. In the efforts to establish the Philippines as a center of food and gastronomy, she became Project Director of Madrid Fusión Manila, a gastronomy event that helped create interest...
Verna is a career executive who has served the Philippine Department of Tourism (DOT) in various capacities. She has witnessed many firsts -- from being part of the founding team of the Office of Product Development in its creation, to heading the division responsible for the implementation of Luzon programs of the first Philippine Tourism Master Plan, and leading the Technical Working Group that produced the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-funded Environmentally Sustainable Development Plan for Northern Palawan.

From product development and planning, she was tapped to help out in tourism marketing and became the head of the European Marketing Team, after which she assumed directorship of the Market Development Group. In the efforts to establish the Philippines as a center of food and gastronomy, she became Project Director of Madrid Fusión Manila, a gastronomy event that helped create interest in the Philippines as a culinary destination and inspire the country’s food industry.

From the head office, Verna was then appointed to head the Department’s Tokyo Office as Tourism Director. During her stint, the Philippines breached the 600,000 mark in Japan tourist arrivals, and improved the country’s standing as a top dive, Study English, and long stay destination for the Japanese market.

She is currently the DOT's OIC-Undersecretary for Tourism Development, overseeing the DOT's Foreign Offices, the Office of Product and Market Development, and the Office of Tourism Development Planning, Research, and Information Management.

Atty. Gio Franco Gomez, Highly Technical Consultant, Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC)

Creative Industries Legal and Policy Framework | Dec 7

Atty. Gio Franco Gomez is a highly technical consultant of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and is currently engaged in limited legal practice. He graduated from the Juris Doctor Program of the De La Salle University - Tanada-Diokno College of Law, garnering the Human Rights Award.

He was previously a consultant for the Regulatory Reform Support Program for National Development or RESPOND, which is a USAID Grantee, specifically for the crafting of the IRR of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA).

He served two years as a Political Affairs Officer and Policy Head of the office of Congressman Christopher "Toff" De Venecia, whom he worked closely with for the writing of ...
Atty. Gio Franco Gomez is a highly technical consultant of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and is currently engaged in limited legal practice. He graduated from the Juris Doctor Program of the De La Salle University - Tanada-Diokno College of Law, garnering the Human Rights Award.

He was previously a consultant for the Regulatory Reform Support Program for National Development or RESPOND, which is a USAID Grantee, specifically for the crafting of the IRR of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA).

He served two years as a Political Affairs Officer and Policy Head of the office of Congressman Christopher "Toff" De Venecia, whom he worked closely with for the writing of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act.

He had previous stints with the Aboitiz Group and the Governance Commission for GOCCs.

MEET THE PANELISTS

Cong. Christopher V.P. De Venecia, Representative, 4th District of Pangasinan

Panelist for Discussion 1 | Dec 7

Rep. Christopher “Toff” Vera Perez De Venecia has taken up the cause of championing the Philippine creative industries and lent it the voice it has sorely needed in Philippine politics. Drawing from his experiences as a TV and film actor, newspaper columnist, magazine editor, theater director, as well as producer and founder of two of Manila’s leading theater companies - - The Sandbox Collective and 9Works Theatrical - - he has trained the attention of the House to the needs of those who valiantly work to promote Philippine arts and culture, and who showcase in every form the magnificence of Filipino artistry. He has championed the development of the Philippine creative industries and principally authored Republic Act 11904 or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, a landmark legislation which seeks to promote economic growth, nation-building, and creativity, with the end-goal of making the Philippines the number one creative economy in the ASEAN region. He is the lead convener of the Arts, Culture and Creative Industries Bloc (ACCIB)...
Rep. Christopher “Toff” Vera Perez De Venecia has taken up the cause of championing the Philippine creative industries and lent it the voice it has sorely needed in Philippine politics. Drawing from his experiences as a TV and film actor, newspaper columnist, magazine editor, theater director, as well as producer and founder of two of Manila’s leading theater companies - - The Sandbox Collective and 9Works Theatrical - - he has trained the attention of the House to the needs of those who valiantly work to promote Philippine arts and culture, and who showcase in every form the magnificence of Filipino artistry. He has championed the development of the Philippine creative industries and principally authored Republic Act 11904 or the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act, a landmark legislation which seeks to promote economic growth, nation-building, and creativity, with the end-goal of making the Philippines the number one creative economy in the ASEAN region. He is the lead convener of the Arts, Culture and Creative Industries Bloc (ACCIB) as well as the Chairperson of the Special Committee on Creative Industries in the 18th and 19th Congresses, both of which provide legislative support to the creative economy.

Among the laws he principally authored are the following:
  • Republic Act (RA) 11961 or the Cultural Mapping Law
  • RA 11960 or the One Town, One Product (OTOP) Philippines Act
  • RA 11726 or the Edades and Bernal Museum Act
  • RA 11194 or the Gabaldon Schoolbuilding Conservation Act
  • RRA 11363 or the Philippine Space Act
Some of the pending measures he mainly authored are as follows:
  • House Bill (HB) 615 or the Freelance Workers’ Protection Bill; HB 1270 or the Eddie Garcia Bill, which aim to advance and protect the rights and welfare of workers
  • HB 613 or the Young Farmers and Fisherfolk Challenge Bill; HB 616 or the Integrated Urban Agriculture Bill; and HB 2684 or the Aqua-Negosyo Program Bill, which seek to promote food and agricultural development
  • HB 1281 or the Creative Incentives Bill; HB 619 or the Philippine Gastronomy and Culinary Heritage Development Bill; and HB 622 or the establishment of the National Museum of Design, which are geared towards further promoting and developing our creative industries.
Among his numerous projects and unprecedented initiatives in the district are the following:
  • www.explorepd4.com (Explore Pangasinan District 4), the tourism and culture website which features MSMEs, tourist sites, and local creatives in the fourth district of Pangasinan
  • Anakbanwa Creative Residency which encourages artists from all over the Philippines to immerse in and collaborate with the community and produce new art forms
  • Galila Arts Festival, a 10-day multi-arts event that celebrates the flourishing creative community in the district
  • Calamansian ed Lekep Butao that offers visitors a unique calamansi-picking experience to help boost farmers’ livelihood
  • San Fabian Biker’s Den and the Tondaligan Beach Boardwalk to help spur tourism in Dagupan City.
Rep. “Toff” obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the Ateneo de Manila University and took public leadership courses at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government.

Quote: “Let us work together in giving our many creative industries the support and recognition they deserve. A creative future should not be left to chance. It is planned, not dreamed. It is organized, not whimsical. It is taken seriously, and not treated as an afterthought. After all, a creative future is safe, sustainable, and happy – for all. Because truly #TheFutureIsCreative.”

Ivan Man Dy, International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS)

Panelist for Discussion 1 | Dec 7

Ivan Man Dy is a cultural tourism professional and founder of Old Manila Walks (www.oldmanilawalks.com) - an NCR-based specialist outfit that operates cultural walking tours around the city's old neighborhoods. He holds two decades of multi-disciplinary experience in the field of cultural heritage including historical research, museum work, interpretation, tourism, publishing and creative applications. Ivan has served in various capacities in advocacy non-profit groups including the Heritage Conservation Society, Museum Foundation of the Philippines and ICOMOS Philippines. He is the author of the book "Deco Filipino: Art Deco Heritage in the Philippines " published in 2020.

Atty. Gio Franco Gomez, Highly Technical Consultant, Philippine Creative Industries Development Council (PCIDC)

Panelist for Discussion 1 | Dec 7

Atty. Gio Franco Gomez is a highly technical consultant of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and is currently engaged in limited legal practice. He graduated from the Juris Doctor Program of the De La Salle University - Tanada-Diokno College of Law, garnering the Human Rights Award.

He was previously a consultant for the Regulatory Reform Support Program for National Development or RESPOND, which is a USAID Grantee, specifically for the crafting of the IRR of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA).

He served two years as a Political Affairs Officer and Policy Head of the office of Congressman Christopher "Toff" De Venecia, whom he worked closely with for the writing of ...
Atty. Gio Franco Gomez is a highly technical consultant of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and is currently engaged in limited legal practice. He graduated from the Juris Doctor Program of the De La Salle University - Tanada-Diokno College of Law, garnering the Human Rights Award.

He was previously a consultant for the Regulatory Reform Support Program for National Development or RESPOND, which is a USAID Grantee, specifically for the crafting of the IRR of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (PCIDA).

He served two years as a Political Affairs Officer and Policy Head of the office of Congressman Christopher "Toff" De Venecia, whom he worked closely with for the writing of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act.

He had previous stints with the Aboitiz Group and the Governance Commission for GOCCs.

Jerry Cabalce, Founder and President, Filipino Coffee Institute

Panelist Discussion 1 | Dec 7

Ramon Jerry A. Cabalce is a visionary entrepreneur and a proud native of Batanes, born on November 7, 1986. A graduate of Electronics and Communications Engineering from Adamson Manila University. His passion for promoting the beauty of Batanes led him to establish Batanes Wakay Travel and Tours Incorporated (Wakay Tours) in 2012, a 100% Ivatan-owned travel agency dedicated to showcasing the beauty of Batanes sustainably. Wakay Tours is celebrating its 11th successful year. He has held prominent roles as the Immediate Past Chairman of the Cagayan Valley Regional Tourism Council, Inc. and a Former President of the Region 2 Travel Agencies and Tour Operators' Association, Inc. (R2TATOA).

The founder’s dedication to community empowerment expanded beyond tourism, leading to the birth of Kape Natividad under Kape de Babuyanes Co. Roastery and Café, a humble café that has flourished into a nationwide venture; the Isla Fortunata and Natividad Coffee Roasters...
Ramon Jerry A. Cabalce is a visionary entrepreneur and a proud native of Batanes, born on November 7, 1986. A graduate of Electronics and Communications Engineering from Adamson Manila University. His passion for promoting the beauty of Batanes led him to establish Batanes Wakay Travel and Tours Incorporated (Wakay Tours) in 2012, a 100% Ivatan-owned travel agency dedicated to showcasing the beauty of Batanes sustainably. Wakay Tours is celebrating its 11th successful year. He has held prominent roles as the Immediate Past Chairman of the Cagayan Valley Regional Tourism Council, Inc. and a Former President of the Region 2 Travel Agencies and Tour Operators' Association, Inc. (R2TATOA).

The founder’s dedication to community empowerment expanded beyond tourism, leading to the birth of Kape Natividad under Kape de Babuyanes Co. Roastery and Café, a humble café that has flourished into a nationwide venture; the Isla Fortunata and Natividad Coffee Roasters. Jerry’s realization while visiting Babuyan Islands, observing local farmers unable to process their coffee harvest, sparked a desire to support these farmers, creating jobs and enabling them to value and process their produce, empowering coffee-growing communities in the Philippines.

Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Jerry, a licensed Coffee Q Grader and SCA Certified Professional Coffee Roaster, founded the Filipino Coffee Institute. His aim is to elevate the Philippines' coffee industry through comprehensive education and training programs. His expertise and dedication not only manifest in his business ventures but also in his commitment to empowering local coffee farmers and promoting the country's

Celso ‘Toots’ Jimenez Jr., Tourism Congress of the Philippines

Panelist Discussion 1 | Dec 7

As an event creator and Mover for exhibits of photos arts and sports and tourism, I have found these angles of endeavor to be the moving force in promoting tourism in various fields of exposure and mileage.

The DOTshall become the initiator of creative tourism in many aspects so that there shall be more enthusiasm on this field.

Clang Garcia, Philippine Ambassador, World Food Travel Association

Panelist Discussion 1 | Dec 7

Clang Garcia is a crusader of Philippine Gastronomy Tourism, transforming the landscape of the experience economy by bringing her country's rich culinary cultures to the fore.

In 15 years, she came in a full circle, crafting an ecosystem spawning her mission to fruition through multichannel programs: research and development, cultural food mapping, designing training modules, conducting a series of trainings, product development, gastronomy destination development, content creation, book and video productions, to niche marketing and promotions.

She was able to help a lot of destinations and communities––see the value of celebrating and sharing their rooted flavors and cultures––as a way of preserving and promoting heritage as it...
Clang Garcia is a crusader of Philippine Gastronomy Tourism, transforming the landscape of the experience economy by bringing her country's rich culinary cultures to the fore.

In 15 years, she came in a full circle, crafting an ecosystem spawning her mission to fruition through multichannel programs: research and development, cultural food mapping, designing training modules, conducting a series of trainings, product development, gastronomy destination development, content creation, book and video productions, to niche marketing and promotions.

She was able to help a lot of destinations and communities––see the value of celebrating and sharing their rooted flavors and cultures––as a way of preserving and promoting heritage as it drives local pride and economic activities.

Her work paved the way for curating immersive gastronomic experiences for international gastronomy media, chefs, authors, restaurateurs, and cerebral gourmands.

She is the food and travel host of Cignal TV's DiscoverEats, a top-rating program spotlighting unsung heritage dishes, bearers of traditions, and cultural communities around the Philippines.

She authored Philippine Food Holidays, the first-ever do-it-yourself food guide, to preserve heritage and create a demand for culinary wanderlust to support food heroes and cultural workers affected by the pandemic. It bagged the 29th Gourmand Awards for "Best Food Tourism Book in the World."

Her niche expertise called for a seat at the Council of Advisers of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management for the Master of Science and Doctorate Programs of Tourism and Hospitality Management.

She is the Philippine Ambassador of the World Food Travel Association.

Gil ‘Butch’ Carungay, Focal Person, Creative Cebu Grid

Panelist for Discussion 2 | Dec 7

Butch Carungay is a creative entrepreneur, design advocate and community crusader. An investment banker by training, Butch earned his bachelor’s degree at the Wharton School of Business in Philadelphia and worked in advertising and management consulting in New York before returning to the Philippines in 2000. He’s been an active proponent of the Creative City movement since 2008 when Cebu was first designated as a Creative City by the British Council. In 2019, Butch led Cebu’s successful bid to be designated as a UNESCO City of Design and was a National Consultant for the United Nations Department of Social and Economic Affairs in 2020. In his private capacity, Butch is Managing Director of Zai Design Hive and Chief Reinvention Office of District 32 at Mactan|Cebu. On his advocacy side, he is currently the Focal Point of Cebu City’s UNECO designation, serves on the Cebu City Tourism Commission, and is a convenor of both the Philippine Creative Cities Network and the Philippine UNESCO Trail.

Velma Jane C. Lao, Iloilo Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Office

Panelist for Discussion 2 | Dec 7

Velma Jane C. Lao is currently the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Officer of the Iloilo City Government. As the LEDIP Officer, she facilitates the planning, preparation, coordination and implementation of local economic development and investment promotion plans and programs of Iloilo City. In 2023 the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Office also led the submission of Iloilo City’s bid to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), thus earning the distinction as the first city in the Philippines to be included in the UNESCO list of creative cities for gastronomy.

From 2004-2009, she was a Trade & Industry Development Specialist at the Department of Trade and Industry where she was in-charge of Investment Promotion Services and the development...
Velma Jane C. Lao is currently the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Officer of the Iloilo City Government. As the LEDIP Officer, she facilitates the planning, preparation, coordination and implementation of local economic development and investment promotion plans and programs of Iloilo City. In 2023 the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Office also led the submission of Iloilo City’s bid to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), thus earning the distinction as the first city in the Philippines to be included in the UNESCO list of creative cities for gastronomy.

From 2004-2009, she was a Trade & Industry Development Specialist at the Department of Trade and Industry where she was in-charge of Investment Promotion Services and the development of the Information & Communication Technology (ICT) sector of Iloilo. This has led to the establishment of the first few contact centers in Iloilo which paved the way to what is now a 41,000 full-time employee industry in Iloilo. She was also responsible for the founding of the Iloilo Federation for Information Technology, (IFIT) Inc., a tripartite collaboration of the academe, industry and government with the primary vision of enhancing the skills of Iloilo’s human resources in the field of ICT. IFIT is now at the forefront of bringing in more IT investments in Iloilo and bridging the gap between human resource competency needs and industry requirements.

She is a resource person and facilitator in various national and local trainings and workshops on Local Economic Development, Business Planning, Value Chain Analysis, Results-Based Management (RBM), Women’s Economic Empowerment, Gender Sensitivity, Gender Analysis and Gender Planning & Budgeting and is a member of the National Gender Resource Pool of the Philippine Commission on Women. She is also a Fellow of the Netherlands Fellows Foundation of the Philippines.

She is a graduate of BS in Commerce, Major in Accounting. She finished her Master in Business Administration from the International Academy of Management and Economics (IAME) in 2003 and completed her Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning (DURP) from the University of the Philippines in the Visayas in 2008. She is a recipient of the Learning Exchange sponsored by the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR) to Tokyo and Kagoshima prefectures in Japan. In 2016, she completed her short course on Local Economic Development from The Hague Academy for Local Governance, The Hague, The Netherlands and recently completed her course on Empowering Women through Enterprises from the National Institute for MSME in Hyderabad, India. She is currently taking up her Doctorate Degree in Management major in Development Management at Central Philippine University. She has also passed the Licensure Examination for Environment Planners (ENP) last June 2019.

Joel Pascual

Panel Moderator | Dec 7

Joel Pascual is a graduate of BS Mechanical Engineering from the De La Salle University and has completed his Masters Degree in Business Administration from the same school. As a Professional Mechanical Engineer and an Associate Electrical Engineer, Joel is currently president of Barron Engineering Supplies, an industrial refrigeration firm with operations nationwide.

However, it is in the events industry where Joel has carved out his most significant achievements. With 23 years of experience tucked under his belt, he has steered PEPGroup Inc. into a leading professional events management company with some of the biggest shows throughout the Philippines. In 2018, it became part of Tarsus Group of Companies from London and was then rebranded as PEPTarsus Corp. Then in 2023, the company became part of Informa PLC, the world’s largest events company and shall hence be known as PEPinforma, effectively transforming the company into a global brand. ...
Joel Pascual is a graduate of BS Mechanical Engineering from the De La Salle University and has completed his Masters Degree in Business Administration from the same school. As a Professional Mechanical Engineer and an Associate Electrical Engineer, Joel is currently president of Barron Engineering Supplies, an industrial refrigeration firm with operations nationwide.

However, it is in the events industry where Joel has carved out his most significant achievements. With 23 years of experience tucked under his belt, he has steered PEPGroup Inc. into a leading professional events management company with some of the biggest shows throughout the Philippines. In 2018, it became part of Tarsus Group of Companies from London and was then rebranded as PEPTarsus Corp. Then in 2023, the company became part of Informa PLC, the world’s largest events company and shall hence be known as PEPinforma, effectively transforming the company into a global brand.

As a way of giving back to the events industry, Joel is now serving as chairman of the Philippine Association of Conventions, Exhibition Organizers & Suppliers Inc. (PACEOS) after serving as president for 5 years. He is also a founding director and a lecturer of PhilMICE Academy, the only certification body in the Philippines for professional event organizers.

Kiko Torno

Panel Moderator | Dec 7

  • 18 years background in Advertising (TBWA / Ace Saatchi & Saatchi)

  • Finished 2 courses in SEAFDEC Iloilo

  • 16 years in Sustainable Aquaculture

  • Established a balanced eco system in 7Hectares through Natural Sustainable Methodology

RESOURCE PERSONS

Jerry Cabalce

Coffee Tourism | Dec 6

Ramon Jerry A. Cabalce is a visionary entrepreneur and a proud native of Batanes, born on November 7, 1986. A graduate of Electronics and Communications Engineering from Adamson Manila University. His passion for promoting the beauty of Batanes led him to establish Batanes Wakay Travel and Tours Incorporated (Wakay Tours) in 2012, a 100% Ivatan-owned travel agency dedicated to showcasing the beauty of Batanes sustainably. Wakay Tours is celebrating its 11th successful year. He has held prominent roles as the Immediate Past Chairman of the Cagayan Valley Regional Tourism Council, Inc. and a Former President of the Region 2 Travel Agencies and Tour Operators' Association, Inc. (R2TATOA).

The founder’s dedication to community empowerment expanded beyond tourism, leading to the birth of Kape Natividad under Kape de Babuyanes Co. Roastery and Café, a humble café that has flourished into a nationwide venture; the Isla Fortunata and Natividad Coffee Roasters...
Ramon Jerry A. Cabalce is a visionary entrepreneur and a proud native of Batanes, born on November 7, 1986. A graduate of Electronics and Communications Engineering from Adamson Manila University. His passion for promoting the beauty of Batanes led him to establish Batanes Wakay Travel and Tours Incorporated (Wakay Tours) in 2012, a 100% Ivatan-owned travel agency dedicated to showcasing the beauty of Batanes sustainably. Wakay Tours is celebrating its 11th successful year. He has held prominent roles as the Immediate Past Chairman of the Cagayan Valley Regional Tourism Council, Inc. and a Former President of the Region 2 Travel Agencies and Tour Operators' Association, Inc. (R2TATOA).

The founder’s dedication to community empowerment expanded beyond tourism, leading to the birth of Kape Natividad under Kape de Babuyanes Co. Roastery and Café, a humble café that has flourished into a nationwide venture; the Isla Fortunata and Natividad Coffee Roasters. Jerry’s realization while visiting Babuyan Islands, observing local farmers unable to process their coffee harvest, sparked a desire to support these farmers, creating jobs and enabling them to value and process their produce, empowering coffee-growing communities in the Philippines.

Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Jerry, a licensed Coffee Q Grader and SCA Certified Professional Coffee Roaster, founded the Filipino Coffee Institute. His aim is to elevate the Philippines' coffee industry through comprehensive education and training programs. His expertise and dedication not only manifest in his business ventures but also in his commitment to empowering local coffee farmers and promoting the country's

Connie Atijon, Indag-an Primary Multipurpose Cooperative

Hablon Weaving | Dec 6

Si Mrs Constancia Atijon ay ang owner/manager ng REYDEN,S. Dahil sa kahirapan hindi na niya inabot ang kolehiyo. Nakapagtapos siya ng kanyang sekondarya sa Miagao Vocational School. Nakapag-asawa kay Ginoong Francisco Atijon at biniyayan ng apat na anak. Elementarya pa lamang siya ay natuto na siyang maghabi.

Tita Connie, ang magiliw na tawag sa kanya, ay isang mabait at maalalahanin. Lagi niya iniisip ang kapakanan ng kanyang mga tauhan.

Dahi sa angking kakayahan ay marami na siyang beses na inimbitang bilang maging trainer o resource speaker sa larangan ng weaving. Nakaraaing na rin siya sa ibat- ibang bansa para ipakita ang kanyang kakayahan, Siya ay binigyan nga award ni Governador Arthur Defensor Sr. bilang “Outstanding Ilonggo” in the field of Wearables noong taong 2010.Nakarating na rin siya sa iba”t ibang like Canada, Australia at hongkong para ipakita ang ang kanyang kakayahan sa weaving. Sa kasalukuyan siya ay tinaguriang master weaver ng Hablon.

Reena Gamboa

Slow Food | Dec 6

Reena Gamboa is the president of Aguinaldo Alicia Agricultural Corporation which manages a sugar farm and a tourism recreation center named Casa A. Gamboa. It is an 89 year old art deco house built by her grandparents and was once visited by General Douglas McArthur. It is also the office of the Slow Food Community of Negros. The Earth Market, which is a monthly event managed by the Slow Food Negros Community is held at Casa A. Gamboa.

Reena graduated in 1985 with a degree on the Bachelor of Arts, particularly Social Science at the Ateneo de Manila University. She is finished her law degree, Juris Doctor, at the University of St. La Salle in 2011. She also has a handicraft business named Whimsy by Silay Export making laminated home accessories. They are also available at Casa A. Gamboa. Because of the many projects of the Slow Food Community of Negros in partnership with the Department of Tourism, the provincial government of Negros...
Reena Gamboa is the president of Aguinaldo Alicia Agricultural Corporation which manages a sugar farm and a tourism recreation center named Casa A. Gamboa. It is an 89 year old art deco house built by her grandparents and was once visited by General Douglas McArthur. It is also the office of the Slow Food Community of Negros. The Earth Market, which is a monthly event managed by the Slow Food Negros Community is held at Casa A. Gamboa.

Reena graduated in 1985 with a degree on the Bachelor of Arts, particularly Social Science at the Ateneo de Manila University. She is finished her law degree, Juris Doctor, at the University of St. La Salle in 2011. She also has a handicraft business named Whimsy by Silay Export making laminated home accessories. They are also available at Casa A. Gamboa. Because of the many projects of the Slow Food Community of Negros in partnership with the Department of Tourism, the provincial government of Negros Occidental, the Congressman of the Third district of negros occidental(congressman Kiko Benitez ), the office of Senator Loren Legarda, NCCA, and now, the mayor of Bacolod City, the community has helped form other communities in the Visayas. Today, she , together with their members, are working on Slow Food Community Experiences to share their advocacy of good, clean and fair food.

Kathryn Fanlo

Wearable Art Davao | Dec 6 & 7

Kathryn "Kay" Mendoza Fanlo is a well noted Dabawenya artisan and founder of the kathrynfanlo brand. Our accessory pieces consists of intricately crafted neckpieces, earrings, bag and scarf accessories.

We describe our creations as a rich fusion of Mindanaoan indigenous influences and contemporary design. In making the accessories we play with various materials such as glass beads, semi precious stones, fresh water pearls, metal, wood, and other mediums where we can incorporate with clay.

Our founder traces her craft when as a child she would play with her mom's pieces of clothing and beading materials rather than toys.

During her high school days, her mom, a dressmaker, entrusted her to do various ...
Kathryn "Kay" Mendoza Fanlo is a well noted Dabawenya artisan and founder of the kathrynfanlo brand. Our accessory pieces consists of intricately crafted neckpieces, earrings, bag and scarf accessories.

We describe our creations as a rich fusion of Mindanaoan indigenous influences and contemporary design. In making the accessories we play with various materials such as glass beads, semi precious stones, fresh water pearls, metal, wood, and other mediums where we can incorporate with clay.

Our founder traces her craft when as a child she would play with her mom's pieces of clothing and beading materials rather than toys.

During her high school days, her mom, a dressmaker, entrusted her to do various bead works for gown orders. In college, she sells beaded necklaces and earrings on the side. A means to sustain and subsidize her daily needs.

In 2018, she won the Habi Kadayawan Style and Fashion showcase under the hobbyist/artist category.

With an aim to support Mindanaoan culture and put great value on the work of indigenous people, the kathrynfanlo brand currently partners with the Mandaya tribe of Davao Del Norte highlands to produce uniquely created scarves.

The community program provides sustainable livelihood and motivates the younger generations of local weavers to enliven a rich culture and proud heritage.

Her pieces are showcased in a stand alone store/boutique located at the Likha Gift Shop at Acacia Hotel, Lanang Davao City.

Catherine Taleon, Balay Tablea

Chocolate Experience (Iloilo) | Dec 6

Catherine Villalobos Taleon is the proud owner of Balay Tablea and serves as the President of the Integrated Entrepreneurs of Iloilo Province Inc. She is also recognized for her leadership role as the Secretary of the Regional Cacao Council and as a Board Member of UPDI (Cacao).

Catherine's commitment to the development of the cacao industry is evident through her roles as an ATI Resource Person for Cacao and Coffee, a DTI Resource Person for Cacao, and an AMAD Resource Person for Cacao. Her extensive knowledge and dedication have been acknowledged with various awards, including being a recipient of the DOST Best Set-up Adaptor in 2019 and 2020.

Catherine's influence extends internationally as the Philippine representative to events such as IFEX, Seoul Food (Korea), DOT (Guam), Silk Road (China), and DA (Thailand). Notably, she served as...
Catherine Villalobos Taleon is the proud owner of Balay Tablea and serves as the President of the Integrated Entrepreneurs of Iloilo Province Inc. She is also recognized for her leadership role as the Secretary of the Regional Cacao Council and as a Board Member of UPDI (Cacao).

Catherine's commitment to the development of the cacao industry is evident through her roles as an ATI Resource Person for Cacao and Coffee, a DTI Resource Person for Cacao, and an AMAD Resource Person for Cacao. Her extensive knowledge and dedication have been acknowledged with various awards, including being a recipient of the DOST Best Set-up Adaptor in 2019 and 2020.

Catherine's influence extends internationally as the Philippine representative to events such as IFEX, Seoul Food (Korea), DOT (Guam), Silk Road (China), and DA (Thailand). Notably, she served as the #SheMeans Business Representative to the UN General Assembly (Facebook, 2020), highlighting her significant contributions to the business and agricultural sectors.

Her pursuit of excellence is evident through her attendance at prestigious seminars and training programs, including the Great Women Project, KMME Graduate, DOST recipient for Cacao Product Development, Kakao Konek Seminars, and Connected Women Training under the Philippine Commission on Women's WEE Project. Catherine has also been honored with the DTI Heritage Award for Cacao, further solidifying her stature as a distinguished figure in her field.

Rennel Lavilla

School of Living Traditions: Panay Bukidnon | Dec 6

Rennel S. Lavilla is a member of the Panay Bukidnon, an indigenous cultural community in Central Panay Island, Western Visayas, Philippines. As an indigenous youth, Rennel specializes in the construction of traditional instruments such as subing (jews harp), tikumbo (bamboo idiophone), and litgit (bamboo fiddle). He is also skilled in the binanog (hawk-eagle) courtship dance as well as a sought-after musical accompanist playing various indigenous rhythms on the agong (gong) and tambol. Moreover, he is also a trained panubok (embroidery) artisan demonstrating intricate forms of needlework designs and patterns. Currently, Rennel is pursuing his Bachelor in Education Studies at the University of the Philippines Open University (UPOU).

Clang Garcia

Gastronomy Tour | Dec 6

Clang Garcia is a crusader of Philippine Gastronomy Tourism, transforming the landscape of the experience economy by bringing her country's rich culinary cultures to the fore.

In 15 years, she came in a full circle, crafting an ecosystem spawning her mission to fruition through multichannel programs: research and development, cultural food mapping, designing training modules, conducting a series of trainings, product development, gastronomy destination development, content creation, book and video productions, to niche marketing and promotions.

She was able to help a lot of destinations and communities––see the value of celebrating and sharing their rooted flavors and cultures––as a way of preserving and promoting heritage as it...
Clang Garcia is a crusader of Philippine Gastronomy Tourism, transforming the landscape of the experience economy by bringing her country's rich culinary cultures to the fore.

In 15 years, she came in a full circle, crafting an ecosystem spawning her mission to fruition through multichannel programs: research and development, cultural food mapping, designing training modules, conducting a series of trainings, product development, gastronomy destination development, content creation, book and video productions, to niche marketing and promotions

She was able to help a lot of destinations and communities––see the value of celebrating and sharing their rooted flavors and cultures––as a way of preserving and promoting heritage as it drives local pride and economic activities.

Her work paved the way for curating immersive gastronomic experiences for international gastronomy media, chefs, authors, restaurateurs, and cerebral gourmands.

She is the food and travel host of Cignal TV's DiscoverEats, a top-rating program spotlighting unsung heritage dishes, bearers of traditions, and cultural communities around the Philippines.

She authored Philippine Food Holidays, the first-ever do-it-yourself food guide, to preserve heritage and create a demand for culinary wanderlust to support food heroes and cultural workers affected by the pandemic. It bagged the 29th Gourmand Awards for "Best Food Tourism Book in the World."

Her niche expertise called for a seat at the Council of Advisers of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde School of Hotel, Restaurant, and Institution Management for the Master of Science and Doctorate Programs of Tourism and Hospitality Management.

She is the Philippine Ambassador of the World Food Travel Association.

Jojo Vito

Masskara Mask Making | Dec 6

Meet Jojo Vito, a true polymath making waves in Bacolod City. Not only is he an esteemed educator across three distinguished universities—University of St. La Salle, STI West Negros University, and La Consolacion College Bacolod—but he's also a visionary entrepreneur at the helm of Jojo Vito Designs Gallery.

Jojo Vito Designs Gallery isn't just a name in fine furniture; it's a global phenomenon, celebrated for its exquisite furnishings and, notably, its unique souvenir products. The gallery's masks, in particular, have captured hearts worldwide, finding their way to various corners of the globe. Jojo Vito's innovative designs have not only earned him accolades in the business realm but have also secured him the prestigious SME of the Year award from the Department of Trade and Industry.

But that's not where Jojo Vito's story ends. Beyond the lecture halls and boardrooms,...
Meet Jojo Vito, a true polymath making waves in Bacolod City. Not only is he an esteemed educator across three distinguished universities—University of St. La Salle, STI West Negros University, and La Consolacion College Bacolod—but he's also a visionary entrepreneur at the helm of Jojo Vito Designs Gallery.

Jojo Vito Designs Gallery isn't just a name in fine furniture; it's a global phenomenon, celebrated for its exquisite furnishings and, notably, its unique souvenir products. The gallery's masks, in particular, have captured hearts worldwide, finding their way to various corners of the globe. Jojo Vito's innovative designs have not only earned him accolades in the business realm but have also secured him the prestigious SME of the Year award from the Department of Trade and Industry.

But that's not where Jojo Vito's story ends. Beyond the lecture halls and boardrooms, he's a celebrated travel and lifestyle blogger, awarded locally and internationally for his captivating content. Notably, his work has been featured numerous times in both local and international media platforms, including appearances on shows hosted by celebrities like Pia Wurtzbach, Jessica Soho, the Korean Broadcasting Network, CNN, and many more.

Engr. Aloysius Mapalo

Baguio: Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts | Dec 7

As the City's Supervising Tourism Officer, he made it possible for Baguio’s tourism industry to reach greater heights. Under his leadership, Baguio was the first LGU in the country to craft a tourism recovery and resiliency plan, thus the safe restart of domestic travel and early recovery of local economy amidst the pandemic.

He initiated the city’s successful bid to be recognized as an ASEAN Clean Tourist City for two consecutive award seasons. He innovated city events and tourism activities, now looked up to by other LGUs as a benchmark.

He is also known as a primary mover in sustaining Baguio’s distinction as a UNESCO Creative City, making him a sought after resource person on cultural development and creative economy nationwide. He was a regional recipient for Lingkod Bayan Award, and recently adjudged as the Most Outstanding Tourism Officer in The Philippines in the 2023 Pearl Awards of the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines.

Mary Ann Colmenares

Negros Pottery | Dec 7

Mary Ann Feria Colmenares runs a second- generation Bacolod-based homestyle brand that has evolved from a purely ceramic manufacturing company established in 1973 to a social enterprise that utilizes indigenous materials with clay. A pioneer in ceramic manufacturing in Negros, the original company which was known as Anaware Ceramics has transitioned into a social enterprise that produces products using mixed-media with clay as its base component.

Aside from being an entrepreneur, she is also the President of the Association of Negros Marketing Cooperative, the Chairperson of the Provincial SME Development Council the Vice President of the Provincial Council for Women and the Vice President for Advocacy of the Association of Negros Producers.

Anabelle Monteverde Calleja

Quezon Buri (Paglalala) | Dec 7

Anie is a Cultural Worker, Researcher, Writer, Tourism Planner, and Developer. She earned a Graduate Diploma in Tourism Development and Management and Master of Science in Tourism Development and Management at UP Diliman Asian Institute of Tourism. She is currently taking her Doctorate in Sustainability.

She authored the “Nilala: Tradisyunal na Sining at Industriya ng mga Kababaihan ng Mauban, Quezon, a project grant from the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Head Researcher of Pakaedupen e Dumaget (Buhayin ang Dumaget/Reviving Dumaget) published by the NCCA in 2018 & 2022.

A recipient of several recognitions in the field of tourism, culture and arts from reputable agencies such as the:
  • Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (for the Pearl Award for Most...
Anie is a Cultural Worker, Researcher, Writer, Tourism Planner, and Developer. She earned a Graduate Diploma in Tourism Development and Management and Master of Science in Tourism Development and Management at UP Diliman Asian Institute of Tourism. She is currently taking her Doctorate in Sustainability.

She authored the “Nilala: Tradisyunal na Sining at Industriya ng mga Kababaihan ng Mauban, Quezon, a project grant from the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Head Researcher of Pakaedupen e Dumaget (Buhayin ang Dumaget/Reviving Dumaget) published by the NCCA in 2018 & 2022.

A recipient of several recognitions in the field of tourism, culture and arts from reputable agencies such as the:
  • Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (for the Pearl Award for Most Outstanding Tourism Officer of the Philippines, 2012)
  • Department of Tourism Regional Office (2017-2018)
  • Provincial Government of Quezon Province (2014-2018)
  • Maubanin Association of Eastern USA (2016)
  • Aliw Award Foundation’s Special Award 2018 in Arts and Culture
  • Sacred Heart College (HS) Alumni Association Inc. (Alumni Achievers Award for Culture, 2019).
Featured in “Juana Says, Woman Making Change in Tourism” during the 2021 National Women’s Month Celebration on the Achievements and Experiences of UP Women Alumni in the Tourism Industry was her story as a Tourism Officer. She is the recipient of the Exceptional Women Award 2022 of DOT CALABARZON.

Maria Natividad Ocampo-Castro

Pastillas Wrapper Making | Dec 7

MARIA NATIVIDAD OCAMPO-CASTRO. ADVOCATE AND ARTIST OF TRADITIONAL ARTS: PABALAT OR BORLAS DE PASTILLAS SKILLS :
  • Thirteen years of practice in the Art of Paper Cutting (Pabalat / Borlas de Pastillas), Fruit Carving
ACHIEVEMENTS:
  • WORKSHOP FACILITATOR in PRESTIGIOUS Schools and Colleges (Private and Government Sector) in Manila and Provinces “BORLAS DE PASTILLAS”
  • Nominee- “PARANGAL PARA SA TRADISYUNAL NA SINING LIKHANG KAMAY 2022“ Sponsored by : BULACAN CULTURE AND ARTS COUNCIL

Caroline Couret

One-on-One Coaching on Developing Creative Tourism Products/Destinations | Dec 7

Ms. Caroline Couret is the Founder and CEO of the Creative Tourism Network and Barcelona Creative Tourism. She is an expert and consultant in Creative Tourism, creative economy, and cultural policies. She is an external expert and evaluator for the European Union, UNWTO, European Capital of Smart Tourism, and European Regions of Gastronomy. On top of that, Ms. Couret is a teacher, lecturer, trainor and an author. She has also coordinated and managed various European cultural projects, events and festivals.

Butch Carungay

Cebu Creative City for Design | Dec 7

Butch Carungay is a creative entrepreneur, design advocate and community crusader. An investment banker by training, Butch earned his bachelor’s degree at the Wharton School of Business in Philadelphia and worked in advertising and management consulting in New York before returning to the Philippines in 2000. He’s been an active proponent of the Creative City movement since 2008 when Cebu was first designated as a Creative City by the British Council. In 2019, Butch led Cebu’s successful bid to be designated as a UNESCO City of Design and was a National Consultant for the United Nations Department of Social and Economic Affairs in 2020. In his private capacity, Butch is Managing Director of Zai Design Hive and Chief Reinvention Office of District 32 at Mactan|Cebu. On his advocacy side, he is currently the Focal Point of Cebu City’s UNECO designation, serves on the Cebu City Tourism Commission, and is a convenor of both the Philippine Creative Cities Network and the Philippine UNESCO Trail.

Anton Diaz

Travel Content Creation | Dec 7

Anton Diaz is a food and travel digital creator, entrepreneur, and advocate. He is the founder of Our Awesome Planet, a leading food and travel blog in the Philippines with over million followers. He started the blog in 2005 as a love letter to his four sons, and it has since become a platform for him to share his passion for food, travel, and family. He promotes the food and travel secrets of a destination, and inspires Filipinos to live an awesome life in Christ.

Anton is a strong advocate for Filipino cuisine and culture. He has been featured in numerous publications and television shows, and he has spoken at events around the world about the importance of promoting Philippine tourism. In 2015, he was awarded the Tourism Star Award for Media from the Department of Tourism. He was recently awarded as one of the Inspiring Tourism Entrepreneurs Award 2023 by Go Negosyo....
Anton Diaz is a food and travel digital creator, entrepreneur, and advocate. He is the founder of Our Awesome Planet, a leading food and travel blog in the Philippines with over million followers. He started the blog in 2005 as a love letter to his four sons, and it has since become a platform for him to share his passion for food, travel, and family. He promotes the food and travel secrets of a destination, and inspires Filipinos to live an awesome life in Christ.

Anton is a strong advocate for Filipino cuisine and culture. He has been featured in numerous publications and television shows, and he has spoken at events around the world about the importance of promoting Philippine tourism. In 2015, he was awarded the Tourism Star Award for Media from the Department of Tourism. He was recently awarded as one of the Inspiring Tourism Entrepreneurs Award 2023 by Go Negosyo.

In addition to his work on Our Awesome Planet, Anton is also the managing partner for the Gyud Food Market at UP Diliman, and Mamonaku Kohi Japanese-inspired Coffee Shop in Gyud Food. He is also the founding director for the inaugural Manila Food & Wine Festival.

Jennifer Tupas

House of Weaving Traditions: Lake Sebu | Dec 7

Dr. Jennifer B. Tupas, a luminary in the fields of cultural preservation, sustainable tourism, and community-based engagement, has devoted his professional journey to forging a profound connection between his cultural heritage and the wider world. A distinguished figure, he has seamlessly blended his passion for education, cultural advocacy, and public service throughout his illustrious career.

Currently serving as the Municipal Tourism Officer for the Local Government Unit of Lake Sebu since January 5, 2021, Dr. Tupas strategically utilizes his position to advance his advocacy for cultural preservation. In this pivotal role, he spearheads initiatives that not only showcase the rich cultural tapestry of the T'boli people but also contribute to the sustainable development of tourism in the municipality.

Prior to his current position, Dr. Tupas held the esteemed role of Principal I at the Department of...
Dr. Jennifer B. Tupas, a luminary in the fields of cultural preservation, sustainable tourism, and community-based engagement, has devoted his professional journey to forging a profound connection between his cultural heritage and the wider world. A distinguished figure, he has seamlessly blended his passion for education, cultural advocacy, and public service throughout his illustrious career.

Currently serving as the Municipal Tourism Officer for the Local Government Unit of Lake Sebu since January 5, 2021, Dr. Tupas strategically utilizes his position to advance his advocacy for cultural preservation. In this pivotal role, he spearheads initiatives that not only showcase the rich cultural tapestry of the T'boli people but also contribute to the sustainable development of tourism in the municipality.

Prior to his current position, Dr. Tupas held the esteemed role of Principal I at the Department of Education (DepEd) South Cotabato from June 2017 to January 4, 2021. During this tenure, he played a pivotal role in shaping educational landscapes while seamlessly integrating his passion for culture and arts into the school environment.

Dr. Tupas's journey within the educational sector extends further back, with roles such as Senior Education Program Specialist (Social Mobilization and Networking) at DepEd South Cotabato from March 3, 2013, to June 2017, and Division Culture and Arts Coordinator from January 13, 2014, to March 4, 2017. His influence reached the grassroots level as a Classroom Teacher under the Provincial School Board from October 18, 2004, to July 5, 2004, showcasing his early commitment to community development.

In his pursuit of knowledge and expertise, Dr. Tupas embarked on a continuous academic journey. Currently undergoing a postgraduate program, he is pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Tourism Development Management at the University of the Philippines, Diliman. Simultaneously, he is working towards a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Management from Notre Dame of Marbel University, Koronadal City, positioning himself at the forefront of educational scholarship.

Beyond his dedication to cultural preservation, Dr. Tupas's academic laurels include a Master of Arts in Education majoring in Educational Management, earned in March 2010, reflecting his holistic approach to education, combining administrative acumen with a deep understanding of pedagogy.

His commitment to culture is not only rooted in his professional roles but is also evident in his Graduate Diploma in Culture and Arts Management, obtained from the Institute for Culture and Arts Management, National Commission for Culture and Arts, Intramuros Manila, in March 2001.

A proud alumnus of Notre Dame of Marbel University, Koronadal City, Dr. Tupas earned his Bachelor in Secondary Education major in Physical Education in March 1999, laying the foundation for a career that seamlessly blends education, culture, and community development. As a torchbearer for cultural preservation and sustainable tourism, Dr. Tupas continues to leave an indelible mark on the intersection of academia, cultural heritage, and community well-being.

In addition, he serves as a consultant at Holy Child Central Colleges, contributing his expertise to further enhance educational and cultural initiatives in the institution.

Chef Waya Araos-Wijangco

Palengke Tours | Dec 7

Chef Waya Araos-Wijangco has been in the F&B industry for over 20 years working in catering and restaurants. Coming from a background in development, she uses her restaurant work as a launchpad for various advocacies, championing better equality for women in the workplace, sustainable restaurant operations, inclusive employment for PWDs and better relationships with farmers, suppliers and food purveyors. She was founding president of Open Hand School, a vocational school for young adults with special needs. The school focused on training for inclusive employment in hospitality. Her cuisine is influenced by travel, but grounded by local produce, technique and sensibility. She is currently Executive Chef and owner of Gypsy Baguio by Chef Waya.

Velma Jane C. Lao, Iloilo Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Office

Iloilo: Creative City for Gastronomy | Dec 7

Velma Jane C. Lao is currently the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Officer of the Iloilo City Government. As the LEDIP Officer, she facilitates the planning, preparation, coordination and implementation of local economic development and investment promotion plans and programs of Iloilo City. In 2023 the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Office also led the submission of Iloilo City’s bid to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), thus earning the distinction as the first city in the Philippines to be included in the UNESCO list of creative cities for gastronomy.

From 2004-2009, she was a Trade & Industry Development Specialist at the Department of Trade and Industry where she was in-charge of Investment Promotion Services and the development...
Velma Jane C. Lao is currently the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Officer of the Iloilo City Government. As the LEDIP Officer, she facilitates the planning, preparation, coordination and implementation of local economic development and investment promotion plans and programs of Iloilo City. In 2023 the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) Office also led the submission of Iloilo City’s bid to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), thus earning the distinction as the first city in the Philippines to be included in the UNESCO list of creative cities for gastronomy.

From 2004-2009, she was a Trade & Industry Development Specialist at the Department of Trade and Industry where she was in-charge of Investment Promotion Services and the development of the Information & Communication Technology (ICT) sector of Iloilo. This has led to the establishment of the first few contact centers in Iloilo which paved the way to what is now a 41,000 full-time employee industry in Iloilo. She was also responsible for the founding of the Iloilo Federation for Information Technology, (IFIT) Inc., a tripartite collaboration of the academe, industry and government with the primary vision of enhancing the skills of Iloilo’s human resources in the field of ICT. IFIT is now at the forefront of bringing in more IT investments in Iloilo and bridging the gap between human resource competency needs and industry requirements.

She is a resource person and facilitator in various national and local trainings and workshops on Local Economic Development, Business Planning, Value Chain Analysis, Results-Based Management (RBM), Women’s Economic Empowerment, Gender Sensitivity, Gender Analysis and Gender Planning & Budgeting and is a member of the National Gender Resource Pool of the Philippine Commission on Women. She is also a Fellow of the Netherlands Fellows Foundation of the Philippines.

She is a graduate of BS in Commerce, Major in Accounting. She finished her Master in Business Administration from the International Academy of Management and Economics (IAME) in 2003 and completed her Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning (DURP) from the University of the Philippines in the Visayas in 2008. She is a recipient of the Learning Exchange sponsored by the Council of Local Authorities for International Relations (CLAIR) to Tokyo and Kagoshima prefectures in Japan. In 2016, she completed her short course on Local Economic Development from The Hague Academy for Local Governance, The Hague, The Netherlands and recently completed her course on Empowering Women through Enterprises from the National Institute for MSME in Hyderabad, India. She is currently taking up her Doctorate Degree in Management major in Development Management at Central Philippine University. She has also passed the Licensure Examination for Environment Planners (ENP) last June 2019.

Kalel Demetrio

Mixology using Filipino Ingredients | Dec 7

Chef KALEL DEMETRIO award winning beverage artist and proprietor of KALEL DEMETRIO PROJECTS, a business consultancy group which focuses on F&B management, Events, and Trainings. He is also a co-founder and Brand Ambassador of DESTILERIA BARAKO, and co-founder of Agimat at Ugat Foraging distillery bar.

He is considered a Rockstar when it comes to bridging the gap between gastronomy and mixology. He has developed his craft without sacrificing his approach to sustainability, dedication to foraging and working with marginalized indigenous groups. Starting out as the beverage director for CYMA, Chef Kalel would get his first deepdive into spirits as a brand ambassador of Destileria Limtuaco & Co. He would later develop his brand LiquidoMaestro and siphon his consultancies and bar openings under his name....
Chef KALEL DEMETRIO award winning beverage artist and proprietor of KALEL DEMETRIO PROJECTS, a business consultancy group which focuses on F&B management, Events, and Trainings. He is also a co-founder and Brand Ambassador of DESTILERIA BARAKO, and co-founder of Agimat at Ugat Foraging distillery bar.

He is considered a Rockstar when it comes to bridging the gap between gastronomy and mixology. He has developed his craft without sacrificing his approach to sustainability, dedication to foraging and working with marginalized indigenous groups. Starting out as the beverage director for CYMA, Chef Kalel would get his first deepdive into spirits as a brand ambassador of Destileria Limtuaco & Co. He would later develop his brand LiquidoMaestro and siphon his consultancies and bar openings under his name.

When people talk about premium and the most creative Philippine-made spirits or well-crafted beverage lineup using fine local ingredients, you can bet that Chef Kalel Demetrioʼs name will be thrown into the conversation. He has built his reputation in the local beverage industry as the mad scientist /albularyo in a lot of concept specially the popular Poblacion haunt Agimat at Ugat ForagingBar , pouring elixirs into any glassware and not even a glassware sometimes that may come with chilling incantations. It is a brand that Kalel consistently lives up to, supported by his advocacy of “championing local produce in our country.” He has been recognized for his dedication to bringing the best of the Philippinesʼ natural abundance, ethnic, indigenous, and traditional food culture, and passion of Filipino people to the food and beverage industry. Kalel has built a strong reputation in the industry for harnessing and nurturing bartender and F&B talent across Asia.He has created industry platforms for professionals to showcase their skills, learn from each other, and build lasting bonds. He has led core R&D in alcohol and beverage concepts and ingredients and driven all beverage management at iconic venues and events. His unique approach to sustainability, dedication to foraging,and work with marginalized indigenous communities comes from Kalelʼs drive and passion for these areas.

Analyn Dulpina, Lokal Lab

Siargao's Creative Tourism Experience | Dec 7

Analyn Dulpina, aged 47, was born on April 5, 1976, in Isidro Surigao del Norte. She is a distinguished graduate of Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Surigao Education Center. Surigao city

For a decade, Analyn dedicated her skills at Caraga Regional Hospital. Despite her nursing background, she discovered her true passion lies in farming. In 2013, she founded Bayatakan Farm and took a transformative step towards agricultural pursuits.

Her commitment to agriculture led to her role as the Federated President of the United Siargao Island Farmers and Fisherfolks Association in 2015. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Analyn became a Gawad Saka farmer in both 2018 and 2019 at the provincial and regional levels. Her excellence extended beyond, earning her the title of the Most Outstanding Rural Woman at the national level in 2019...
Analyn Dulpina, aged 47, was born on April 5, 1976, in Isidro Surigao del Norte. She is a distinguished graduate of Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Surigao Education Center. Surigao city

For a decade, Analyn dedicated her skills at Caraga Regional Hospital. Despite her nursing background, she discovered her true passion lies in farming. In 2013, she founded Bayatakan Farm and took a transformative step towards agricultural pursuits.

Her commitment to agriculture led to her role as the Federated President of the United Siargao Island Farmers and Fisherfolks Association in 2015. Recognized for her outstanding contributions, Analyn became a Gawad Saka farmer in both 2018 and 2019 at the provincial and regional levels. Her excellence extended beyond, earning her the title of the Most Outstanding Rural Woman at the national level in 2019.

Not only has Analyn received accolades, but she actively contributes to the community. As a founder of Lokal Lab Siargao Inc., she plays a pivotal role in community development, embodying a dedication to both farming and fostering local initiatives.


PHILIPPINE CREATIVE TOURISM CONGRESS 2023

with the support of

Copyright 2023 Philippines Department of Tourism

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