26/11/2025
11 I 26 I 2025
LOOK | HTM Department Concludes Capacity-Building Activity Under Project TOURIST in Brgy. Ili, Conner, Apayao
The Hospitality and Tourism Management Department of Apayao State College successfully conducted its extension activity under Project TOURIST (Training Opportunities Uplifting Resources and Innovative Skills in Tourism) at Barangay Ili, Conner, Apayao.
The event brought together key stakeholders, including members of the Barangay Local Government Units, representatives from the Conner Municipal Tourism Services Office, ASC-RDE staff, the Conner MLGU representative, and community partnersโall united in strengthening local tourism initiatives.
Esteemed resource speakers enriched the capacity-building activity with timely and relevant insights:
โข Ms. Aprilyn Dela Cruz โ Sustainable Tourism
โข Mr. Shariff B. Eboy โ Destination Management
โข Mr. Leandro B. Allaโ Introduction to the proposed Community Technical Working Group (CTWG) for Brgy. Ili
The activity forms part of the continuing efforts to revitalize the tourism industry in the community, empowering local stakeholders with strategies, knowledge, and collaborative frameworks essential for sustainable tourism development.
In her message, Ms. Devorah Bernardino, Executive Assistant for Tourism of the Conner MLGU, expressed her optimism for the future of Barangay Iliโs tourism development. She emphasized that with strengthened community collaboration, strategic planning, and continued capacity-building efforts, Brgy. Ili has the potential to become the โSagada of Apayao.โ
She underscored that the communityโs natural charm, cultural richness, and emerging tourism initiatives position it as a promising destination that could one day mirror the appeal, serenity, and visitor draw of the famed Sagada. Her remarks reinforced the MLGUโs commitment to supporting local tourism programs that foster sustainable growth and elevate Conner as a competitive destination in the province.
Meanwhile, Barangay Chairman Amado Padeway extended his heartfelt gratitude to Apayao State College for bringing the capacity-building activity to their community. He acknowledged that the initiative has โposed the challenge to revive the tourism industry in Barangay Ili,โ inspiring local leaders and stakeholders to work together in revitalizing their untapped tourism potential. Chairman Padeway affirmed the barangayโs full support for programs that strengthen community participation and promote sustainable tourism development.
Project TOURIST reaffirms ASCโs commitment to community partnership, innovation, and inclusive growth in the tourism sector.
โ๏ธLBA