T’BOLI, South Cotabato – From February 15 to 21, 2025, the Department of Tourism Region 12 (DOT 12), in collaboration with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tboli, organized two batches of a Community Guiding Seminar at Barangay Salacafe, Tboli, South Cotabato.
The seminar gathered local guides from prominent tourist attractions, including Lake Holon and Hidak Falls, with the goal of enhancing their skills in guiding tourists while promoting sustainable tourism. Participants were trained on essential guiding techniques, environmental conservation, and cultural interpretation to better communicate the historical and ecological significance of their respective sites to visitors.
By equipping local guides with advanced knowledge and best practices, the initiative aims to improve the overall tourist experience while reinforcing the community’s role in advocating responsible tourism. The event underscored the importance of preserving the natural beauty of Tboli’s landmarks while simultaneously providing economic opportunities for the guides.
The Community Guiding Seminar was a significant step toward integrating the local community into the sustainable development of tourism in the region. It highlighted the need for a balanced approach where tourism growth aligns with the conservation of cultural heritage and natural landscapes, ensuring that future generations continue to benefit from the area’s rich resources.
The success of the program reaffirms the commitment of DOT 12 and LGU Tboli to fostering a tourism industry that is both economically viable and environmentally sustainable. Further capacity-building initiatives are expected to follow, strengthening the role of community stakeholders in shaping the future of tourism in South Cotabato.
