Bohol’s tourism shines at the 4th Sandugo Tourism and Travel Expo
Tagbilaran City—The 4th Sandugo Tourism and Travel Expo, a highlight of the month-long Sandugo Festival, successfully concluded its three-day run from July 25 to 27 at the Island City Mall (ICM). Under the theme “Bohol: One Island, Endless Discoveries”, the expo showcased the province’s rich heritage, thrilling adventures, and commitment to sustainable tourism.
Organized by the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office (BPTO), the event drew significant crowds and featured more than 20 exhibitors, including resorts, travel agencies, and local government units.
A celebration of sustainable and resilient tourism
The expo served as a platform to promote Bohol as a resilient and sustainable travel destination, particularly in its role as the Philippines’ first and only UNESCO Global Geopark.
Emphasizing heritage: A key message throughout the expo was the importance of preserving the island’s unique cultural and natural heritage.
Community engagement: The event showcased Bohol’s progress in sustainable and regenerative tourism, which focuses on community engagement and ecological responsibility.
Exhibitors highlight Bohol’s best
Attendees discovered a wide array of travel packages and promotions from some of Bohol’s premier destinations and tour operators.
Top performers: The exhibitors’ hard work was recognized at the closing ceremony. Danao Adventure Park won Most Visited Booth (LGU), while Dagohoy World Travel was awarded Hall of Famer for being a three-time winner.Showcasing local artistry: The Tubigon Raffia Gallery was awarded Best Booth (Corporate), showcasing the best of Boholano craftsmanship and artistry.
River experiences: For those seeking aquatic adventures, Loboc River Resort won Most Visited Booth (Corporate), while Rio Verde Floating Restaurant was named Best Destination Booth.
Boosting the local economy
Beyond promoting attractions, the expo also generated substantial economic activity for local businesses.
- Robust sales: Exhibitors like the Municipality of Alburquerque reported strong sales, reflecting the public’s eagerness to support local enterprises. Exhibitors like the Municipality of Alburquerque reported strong sales, reflecting the public’s eagerness to support local enterprises. The total sales of all exhibitors reached ₱1,714,245.00.
- Product promotion: The event also featured local products, such as artisanal sea salt (“asin tibuok”) and handcrafted items, which helped boost local production and income.
The successful event reaffirmed Bohol’s status as a leading travel destination in the Philippines. The expo’s focus on sustainable, community-driven tourism practices promises to keep the island’s natural and cultural wonders flourishing for generations to come.
