TPB highlights responsible tourism at 2025 Members’ Night

The Tourism Promotions Board Philippines gathered more than 300 members and partners from across the tourism value chain on Nov. 18, 2025, for the TPB Members’ Night 2025: Community in Action held at Solaire Resort North.

The event, themed “Creative Upcycling,” underscored the agency’s commitment to responsible tourism and climate action in line with its strategic direction for the coming years.

TPB Chief Operating Officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles described the gathering as an opportunity to reflect on shared contributions in 2025 and renew commitments to sustainable, community-centered tourism.

“Tourism becomes truly meaningful when it uplifts communities, protects our natural heritage, and is pursued with purpose,” she said. “The impact is real, and it proves the power of tourism when driven by intention and responsibility.”

Nograles pointed to member-led initiatives that strengthened local economies, supported community recovery after calamities, and advanced sustainable tourism practices.

She cited the value of familiarization tours and invitational programs in destinations such as Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Sur, Tacloban City, Samar, Davao, Ilocos, Palawan, and Negros Island.

These initiatives supported cultural preservation, biodiversity protection, and destination resilience, which are key pillars of TPB’s responsible tourism model.

She also acknowledged member participation in corporate social responsibility programs in La Union, Batanes, and Catanduanes, where volunteer work aided the revival of vulnerable destinations and the restoration of local livelihoods.

As part of its expanded environmental advocacy, TPB announced its support for the Philippine Tarsier Foundation in line with the country’s participation in World Expo 2025 Osaka.

The partnership aims to advance conservation efforts for the Philippine tarsier, one of the nation’s most endangered species.

This initiative complements TPB’s broader sustainability practices, including minimizing single-use plastics during familiarization tours, promoting reusable materials, and organizing CSR programs that encourage climate-responsive tourism.

The evening also featured the launch of the TPB Membership Recognition Program, which honors members for leadership in responsible tourism, market innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity.

In the Tamaraw category for top domestic performance, Neomace Travel and Tours and Ilocos Heritage Tours were recognized.

The Tarsier category, which highlights environmental sustainability, was awarded to Evasion Tropicale Inc. and Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort.

Hilton Clark Sun Valley Resort received the Tandikan category award for fostering an inclusive workplace.

“These recognitions reflect the direction TPB and its partners aim to pursue: tourism growth grounded in responsibility, creativity, and care for the environment,” Nograles said.

In her closing remarks, she emphasized the long-term vision for Philippine tourism.

“Our mission is far from over. We will continue to refine our practices, strengthen our climate initiatives, and pursue tourism that not only thrives but also protects. Together, we can ensure that the destinations we love endure for generations.”