The Department of Tourism (DOT) is mourning the passing of heritage and cultural tourism advocate Ramon Hofileña.
In a statement, the DOT conveyed its condolences to the family of Hofileña who was recognized as the father of heritage conservation in Silay, Negros Occidental.
Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat also acknowledged Hofileña’s great contribution to heritage preservation and cultural tourism, especially in his hometown in Silay.
Hofileña is the owner and curator of the Hofileña Museum which was the first heritage house in Silay City to be opened to tourists.
“A trip to this heritage city would not be complete without a visit to the Hofileña Ancestral House where visitors used to be toured by Sir Mon himself. The Annual Cultural Tour of Negros that he organised for 40 years instilled pride of place for Negrenses,” Puyat said.
“We salute him for sharing his time and talent for the promotion of Filipino art, culture and heritage,” she added.
The museum said Hofileña passed away on Thursday, July 29. He was 87.
In a Facebook post, Silay City Mayor Mark Golez also mourned the passing of Hofileña which he called a “legend” who has passion for the arts, culture, and history.
Golez said Hofileña was awarded the “Tourism Lifetime Achievement Plaque” by the DOT–Region VI for his excellent contribution to the Tourism Industry.
“Since his return from the States in the 1970s, he has been into a life-long campaign to restore and protect our Negrense Cultural Heritage,” he said.
“We truly lost a legend here in Silay City, but we know that an angel is now guiding us in heaven. He is an inspiration to many and his legacy will surely remain forever,” Golez added.