ILOILO CITY, Aug 8 -- Iloilo City is set to highlight its various historical, cultural and tourism landmarks to the delegates of the national convention of the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) and Pearl Awards.
Iloilo City Tourism and Development Officer Junel Ann P. Divinagracia on Tuesday said over a thousand delegates composed of tourism officers and local chief executives with their respective Tourism councils and barangay officials are expected to attend the 18th ATOP Convention set here on October 4-7, 2017.
Aside from showcasing the Dinagyang Festival and the recent developments here, the city is also set to showcase tourism and historical landmarks.
The Office of Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has coordinated on Tuesday with the Iloilo City Council for the convention activities, particularly the ATOP Grand Parade of Festivals set on October 4, 2017, 3:00 p.m.
The parade route will showcase to delegates the historical, cultural and tourism landmarks of the metro, including the Iloilo City Hall, Central Business District where heritage buildings such as International Hotel and Serafin Villanueva Building are located, the Arroyo Fountain and Casa Real, the Iloilo River and the historical Muelle Loney, among others.
Earlier, Department of Tourism-6 regional director Helen Catalbas said hosting the event is an opportunity to showcase the region’s best tourism practices, products and services.
The ATOP Pearl Awards recognizes the best of Philippine tourism industry, particularly in the following categories: Best Tourism Event, Best Tourism-Oriented LGU, Best Tourism Month/Week Celebration, Most Outstanding Tourism Officer, and most Outstanding Tourism Council/Club/Organization/Association. (Maricyn A. De los Santos/PNA)
