The Department of Tourism (DOT) officially inaugurated its year-long tour program for ASEAN 2026 delegates on Thursday, January 22, 2026. The program kicked off with a deep cultural immersion in Bohol, marking the first in a series of curated experiences designed to showcase the Philippines’ premier destinations.
The inaugural tour hosted over 80 delegates from the energy sector, who were in the country for the Special Senior Officials Meeting on Energy (SOME), organized by the Department of Energy.
The tour was centered on the theme Handumanan—a Cebuano word meaning “memory” or “keepsake.” The itinerary framed Bohol’s historical and cultural landmarks not just as relics of the past, but as living elements that define the province’s modern identity.
The delegation began their journey at the National Museum of the Philippines–Bohol. Key highlights included:
National Artistry: A tribute to the works of Boholano National Artist Napoleon Abueva, emphasizing the province’s profound impact on Philippine contemporary art.
The Spirit of Recovery: Exhibits detailing the 2013 7.2-magnitude earthquake, focusing on the massive conservation and restoration efforts that have since become a global model for heritage resilience.
Delegates explored Bohol’s spiritual history through its “Sacred Spaces,” visiting:
Santa Monica Parish Church (Alburquerque): A Spanish-era marvel built in 1842 that remains a vibrant center of local worship.
Baclayon Church: Renowned as one of the oldest stone churches in the Philippines, celebrated for its unique architectural features and historical weight.
The tour concluded at the Bohol Bee Farm, a pioneer in sustainable and community-based tourism. Delegates participated in hands-on cultural activities, including:
Culinary Demos: Learning to prepare local delicacies like ube biko and kalamay.
Craftsmanship: Interactive sessions in chocolate making and traditional raffia weaving.
“These curated tours are designed to leave a lasting ‘handumanan’ in the hearts of our ASEAN neighbors,” the DOT stated. “By showcasing the intersection of our history, our art, and our sustainable future, we are positioning the Philippines as a premier destination for high-level regional gatherings.”
As the lead agency for the Committee on Hospitality, Tours, Site Enhancements, and Events, the DOT will continue to roll out diverse, curated itineraries across the Philippine archipelago throughout 2026 to coincide with the ASEAN regional meetings.
