San Juan made history after emerging as grand winner in the highly urbanized city category for Best Tourism-Oriented local government unit (LGU) – the highest honor during the 26th Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines Pearl Awards on Oct. 2 here.
The annual ATOP Pearl Awards recognize outstanding practices, innovations and initiatives of local government units that significantly contribute to the promotion and development of Philippine tourism.
Mayor Francis Zamora, during his acceptance remarks, invited tourism officers to visit San Juan and experience its famed hospitality and historical trail as he congratulated all the winners.
‘I am proud to see our tourism officers working hand in hand to promote Philippine tourism and highlight the unique beauty and strength of each LGU,’ said Zamora who also serves as president of the Metro Manila Council.
Over a thousand tourism officers from towns and provinces as well as from component, independent and highly urbanized cities participated in the event that celebrates the best in Philippine tourism governance and innovation.
The Association of Tourism Officers-National Capital Region bagged the Best Tourism Organization (Regional Level), affirming the collective strength and leadership of Metro Manila’s tourism sector.
Also declared grand winners are Las Piñas for Best Tourism Promotion Video, Muntinlupa for Best Institutionalized Culture and Arts Program, and Pasig for Best Practices on Sustainable Tourism.
Quezon City bagged the Best Event Hosting: International Event and Best Tourism Event: Religious Festival awards.