Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco met with officials of the LGBTQIA+ beauty pageant, Reyna ng Turismo Pilipinas, on Monday, Nov. 17, to explore a potential partnership aimed at strengthening gender diversity and inclusivity across the Philippine tourism sector.
The meeting underscores the DOT’s commitment to making tourism a welcoming and diverse industry for all.
“Under our helm at the Department of Tourism, we have sought to integrate inclusivity in all of our programs,” the Tourism Chief stated. Secretary Frasco welcomed the discussions, reaffirming the DOT’s dedication to developing tourism initiatives that champion diversity and inclusivity. She cited the recently concluded first-ever Tourism Pride Summit as a testament to the DOT’s efforts to celebrate the significant contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community to the industry.
Reyna ng Turismo Pilipinas, headed by National Director and Reina Hispanoamericana 2025 Dia Mate, was originally launched as a regional pageant in Cavite and has successfully staged three editions. The organization is now gearing up to expand its scope into a national competition.
This expansion intends to gather representatives from provinces and cities nationwide. The pageant serves as a unique platform to highlight local heritage, culture, and tourism, while also celebrating and providing visibility for queer Filipinos.
Also present during the high-level meeting were DOT Undersecretaries Shahlimar Hofer Tamano and Maria Rica Bueno, Director Glenn Albert Ocampo, and Head Executive Assistant Frances Villarino.
Representing Reyna ng Turismo Pilipinas were Director for Operations Mike Mate and Director for Local and National Partnership Keann Feraer.
