TOURISM MONTH

Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, the Municipality of Leganes in Iloilo Province eagerly awaited the annual celebration of National Tourism Month. Since its inception in 2017, this event has become a cornerstone for the community, highlighting Leganes' rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the municipality successfully hosted the event in 2020, 2021, and 2022 with necessary safety adjustments.
As the tourism industry recovered, Leganes held its festivities from September 8 to 25, 2023, under the theme "Tourism and Green Investment."
This theme aimed to spark discussions on reimagining tourism for sustainable growth, development, and business opportunities in the municipality. Locals and visitors eagerly anticipated exploring Leganes' diverse attractions and experiences, emphasizing the journey towards a greener, sustainable future.
Green tourism, also known as sustainable or eco-tourism, focuses on minimizing the environmental impact of tourism while promoting conservation and benefiting local communities.
The 2023 celebration centered on key aspects of green tourism: Conservation Efforts, Eco-friendly Practices, Low-impact Activities, Economic Sustainability, Community Involvement: impact, Cultural Preservation, Respecting Local Culture, Education and Awareness.
The 2023 National Tourism Month in Leganes featured various activities aligned with these principles. The event began on September 8 with the virtual launch of FACES 2, an online beauty and advocacy contest for local youths, promoting green tourism..
On September 17, nearly 1,000 cyclists participated in the "BisikleTour" Fun Ride, promoting green and sustainable tourism by reducing fossil fuel use. The ride highlighted farm destinations and the environmental benefits of biking.
A clean-up drive: "Revive the Graciano Lopez-Jaena Eco-Park" done on September 18, involving various clubs and elementary students. This initiative aimed to restore the eco-park, which was established in 2007 from a former dumpsite.
"Laro ng Lahi," held on the same day, involved secondary schools in traditional Filipino games, fostering cultural appreciation among the youth.
The Leganes Culture, Arts, History, and Tourism Office held their 3rd quarterly meeting on September 20, approving the Tourism Development Plan for 2023-2025 and discussing green tourism advocacy.
Site Guide Training commenced on September 21, equipping participants from various sectors with skills to perform their jobs as front-liners in tourism which was concluded with “The Get Go” activity.
The "Bugal sang Leganes 2" Product Expo ran from September 22 to 24, showcasing local products and boosting local commerce. The Finals Night of FACES 2 on September 22 highlighted young advocates for sustainable tourism.
The Fiesta del Rio 1st Invitational Bankathon concluded the celebration.with a bang. Generous sponsors and active participation from locals enriched the celebration, fostering a sense of pride and connection among the community's culture, history, and natural beauty.
The National Tourism Month Celebration in Leganes had profound social, cultural, and economic impacts. It strengthened community bonds, revitalized cultural pride, and boosted the local economy.