MATI CITY, Philippines — The Mindanao Development Authority’s (MinDA) push for sustainable and responsible mountaineering took center stage at the 12th National Tour Guides Convention held in Mati City, Davao Oriental, drawing over 200 tour guides from across the country.
The event marked a pivotal moment for Mindanao’s ecotourism sector as delegates adopted two landmark resolutions, bringing national attention to the island’s environmental advocacy and positioning mountaineering as a key area of growth in Philippine tourism.
Led by Mr. Jason Tan, President of the Philippine Federation of Tour Guides Association, the convention unanimously approved:
- The adoption of MinDA’s National Training Module for Mountain Guides, and
- The proposed creation of a Special Philippine Commission for Mountaineering Sports.
MinDA Director Joey Recimilla explained that the training module aims to standardize mountaineering protocols, emphasizing ecological protection, safety, and community-based tourism. “It is our vision to institutionalize responsible and sustainable mountaineering practices throughout the country,” he said.
Meanwhile, the proposed Commission for Mountaineering Sports seeks to act as the lead national agency for the regulation, professionalization, and promotion of mountaineering as a viable tourism and sports sector.
In a recorded message, MinDA Chairperson Secretary Leo Tereso Magno lauded tour guides for their frontline role in connecting communities and preserving natural and cultural heritage. “You are not just storytellers. You are builders of peace, protectors of biodiversity, and champions of indigenous wisdom,” he said.
Secretary Magno also underscored that the Marcos administration considers tourism a key pillar of economic development, citing alignment with AmBisyon Natin 2040, the Philippine Development Plan, and the National Tourism Development Plan 2022–2028.
The event was organized in collaboration with MinDA, with coordination support from Senior Administrative Assistant V Amor Rey Puno of the Office of the Chairperson and Mr. Milber Cantiberos, President of GUIDE Davao.
The resolutions adopted during the convention signal a strong endorsement for integrating environmental and cultural values into tourism policies—reinforcing MinDA’s mission of “Building a Better Mindanao” through sustainable and inclusive development.