At the National Ecotourism Summit held in Pasay City, Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco emphasized the critical need to balance tourism growth with the conservation of natural resources. This balance, she argued, is essential for enhancing livelihood opportunities and ensuring sustainability. The summit, which took place on December 16, 2024, at Conrad Manila, saw the handover of the National Ecotourism Development Council (NEDC) chairmanship from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to the DOT.
Frasco highlighted the importance of biodiversity conservation, stating that it is a fundamental right of all Filipinos. The summit aimed to unite various stakeholders, including government agencies, local government units, and private sector players, under the banner of sustainable and regenerative tourism. The DOT encourages tourists not only to visit destinations but also to engage deeply with local heritage and culture, fostering a greater appreciation for ecotourism sites.
Frasco quoted a popular saying, ‘We cannot protect what we don’t love,’ to underline the importance of encouraging tourists to develop a love for the Philippines, thereby promoting responsible tourism. She suggested that tourists should leave places better than they found them, through activities like coastal and underwater cleanups.
The NEDC, established by Executive Order 111, is the key policy-making body for ecotourism in the country, comprising department secretaries, private sector representatives, and non-government organizations. As the new chair of the council, the DOT is committed to rigorously implementing the National Ecotourism Strategy and Action Plan 2024-2028. This plan focuses on developing and marketing ecotourism products that reflect Filipino culture and values, as well as promoting ecotourism and building resilient, climate-responsive infrastructure at ecotourism sites.