04/07/2025
𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗹𝗼𝗶𝗹𝗼 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗸𝘀, 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗛𝘂𝗯𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝗺
As a vital step toward inclusive tourism development, a Community Tour Guiding Seminar was organized by the Department of Tourism Region VI, in partnership with the Iloilo City Government and SM City Iloilo. The program aimed to equip aspiring tour guides with the tools and knowledge needed to professionally showcase Iloilo’s rich cultural, historical, and commercial landmarks.
Held from June 23 to 29, 2025, the intensive weeklong training equipped 27 participants with practical guiding techniques, service excellence skills, and insights into local tourism products.
As part of their hands-on learning experience, participants joined a mock tour that featured the different landmarks and tourist destinations in the city. Part of the itinerary was the soon-to-reopen Iloilo Central Market and Iloilo Terminal Market—two iconic public markets currently undergoing transformative redevelopment through a public-private partnership between the Iloilo City Government and SM Prime Holdings.
Once completed, these revitalized spaces are set to become vibrant attractions in Iloilo City’s cultural and culinary tourism circuit, showcasing authentic Ilonggo flavors, local craftsmanship, and a reimagined public market experience that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation.
With the successful completion of the Community Guiding Seminar, these community tour guides are now ready to take center stage in promoting the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Iloilo City, recognized globally as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
The seminar was designed to empower them with practical skills, cultural knowledge, and tourism principles that reflect the best of Ilonggo hospitality.
Under the guidance and evaluation of esteemed tourism professionals and trainers, participants underwent a comprehensive curriculum covering a range of vital topics essential to effective and impactful tour guiding.
These included a Tourism Overview presented by Mr. Artemio P. Ticar; insights into Local Tourism Products by Mr. King Erlano; and a discussion on the Basic Principles in the Outdoors, Flora and Fauna of Iloilo City by Mr. Aris Cristales. The Bureau of Fire Protection Region 6 facilitated a session on Basic First Aid and Emergency Response, while Dr. Maria Amihan Tamayo Panes led a module on The Filipino Brand of Service Excellence. Finally, Ms. Monika Aliguas Navata Labaupa shared her expertise on the Roles and Responsibilities of Tour Guides, Development of Related Tour Guide Communication Skills, Human and Customer Relations, Practical Application of Tour Guiding Techniques, and the National Code of Ethics for Professional Tour Guides.
Ms. Erlyn S. Alunan, Western Visayas Regional Guide, was also present as an evaluator, lending her expertise and support throughout the program.
With a shared goal of elevating the city’s tourism capacity, this initiative aims to develop community-based tourism professionals who are well-versed in Iloilo’s historical narratives, biodiversity, cuisine, and service excellence—ensuring memorable and meaningful experiences for both local and international visitors.
The graduation marks a milestone not only for the 27 newly trained guides but also for the city’s continuing commitment to inclusive, grassroots tourism development.
As Iloilo strengthens its identity as a premier cultural and culinary destination, these community guides will serve as vital ambassadors of the city’s charm, pride, and warm hospitality.
