LAOAG CITY -- The province of Ilocos Norte is set to host the 20th national convention of the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) on October 2-5.
With an estimated 1,500 delegates all over the country, Senior Provincial Board member Matthew Marcos Manotoc said the event is another big feat for the province following its successful hosting of the Region 1 Athletic Association Meet.
“We are glad to welcome you all in the province and experience the warmth and hospitality of the Ilocanos,” Manotoc said.
At present, Provincial Tourism Officer Ianree Raquel said they are gearing up for the big event as he enjoined all tourism stakeholders to help sustain the growing tourism industry here.
He said Ilocos Norte has become one of the country’s top tourist destinations with more than three million day visitors recorded in 2018.
The Ilocos Norte Tourism Office reported 3, 003, 963 day visitors in 2018, 34 percent higher than in 2017.
Last year, Ilocos Norte won the grand prize for best tourism-oriented province in the ATOP-DOT Pearl Awards.
This most-coveted recognition is jointly presented by the ATOP and the Department of Tourism. (PNA)
