The tourism industry plays a crucial role in the sustainable development of Occidental Mindoro, making it imperative to have a robust tourism code that ensures the protection and promotion of its unique tourism products, the local community, and the environment. With the successful realization of the Sustainable Tourism Master Plan for the province and its municipalities, we are now closer to aligning all areas toward a more sustainable approach to tourism.

On March 3-4, 2025, in the initiative of the Vice Governor and Chairperson of the Committee on Tourism, Hon. Anecita Diana C. Apigo-Tayag, a Public Consultation and Workshop on the Sustainable Tourism Code was conducted in the Capitol Training Center in Mamburao. It was attended by different tourism stakeholders from the Provincial Tourism Council, Municipal Tourism Offices, Uniformed Personnel, National Agencies, and People’s Organizations. This activity aimed to refine and strengthen the draft of the revised tourism code, which was already presented to the body. The initiative, supported by Ms. Chen Mencias and Mr. Louie Mencias, proved invaluable for discussions on enhancing sustainability within the tourism and environmental sectors.

Throughout the two-day workshop, key topics were covered, including the establishment of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) and the fortification of Municipal Tourism Offices. These discussions aimed to address critical reforms and laws to ensure the long-term sustainability of tourism and environmental protection. An open forum during the event allowed stakeholders to provide feedback, leading to crucial revisions that further strengthened the draft tourism code and made it more effective in promoting responsible tourism practices.

The Provincial Government of Occidental Mindoro, through the Provincial Tourism Office, remains committed to the revision of the existing tourism code, which was originally adopted in 2014. Given the evolving trends in tourism and the growing demand for sustainability, this timely update will provide much-needed guidance to boost the province’s tourism industry while preserving its natural resources and cultural heritage.

The revised tourism code will serve as a comprehensive framework to guide the province toward a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty of Occidental Mindoro.