The Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the largest business organization in the country, has launched the inaugural PCCI BizTour Awards, recognizing the significant contributions of five enterprises and organizations to the tourism industry.
The awardees include Pearl Market Shopping in Greenhills for Souvenir Shopping category; Lakbay Museo x Food Wanderer for Cultural Activity category; Surfing in Siargao for Sports and Adventure Tourism category; Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar for Unique Accommodations category; and Butanding Watching in Donsol for Eco-Tourism category.
The BizTour Award stands as a symbol of PCCI’s appreciation for the awardees' outstanding contributions and hopes that it will serve as a motivation for them to continue their exceptional work in the years to come.
“This award is a true testament to the innovations, unwavering commitment, and exceptional experiences that these stakeholders have offered to both local and foreign tourists, not only setting a benchmark for excellence but also inspiring others in the industry which is significant as the industry bounces back from the effects of the pandemic,” PCCI Director for Tourism Samie Lim said.
According to Lim, PCCI President George T. Barcelon and the PCCI Tourism Committee have initiated a search to laud and recognize tourism enterprises for their outstanding contributions and commitment to improving travel experiences.
During the conceptualization stage, the PCCI Tourism Committee decided to focus on the MSME tourism players who capitalize on their creativity, commitment, and love to develop, promote, and share their unique attractions and activities.
Unlike the major tourism attractions operated by the large corporations, PCCI believes that these MSMEs have not been given enough attention and recognition that they deserve.
“As the country’s single voice of business, we will continue to encourage and partner up with the government and other stakeholders to mobilize specific amount for investments such as airports, transportation, road access, accommodations, improve facilities of the attractions, and create more activities that will keep tourists longer and most importantly, to generate jobs for the Filipino people,” Lim said.
Meanwhile, Barcelon, in a statement, said he thought of launching the award to give recognition to the players in the tourism industry who are considered as one of the main drivers in fast-tracking local economic development.
“Recognizing these tourism stakeholders is not just about acknowledging their contributions to the economy; it is about celebrating the human spirit of hospitality, entrepreneurship, and cultural exchange,” Barcelon said.
“By supporting these enterprises and organizations, we are investing in the future of our nation, fostering economic growth, promoting cultural understanding, and paving the way for a more sustainable and interconnected world,” he added.
The BizTour award was presented by Lim, Barcelon, and the 49th Philippine Business Conference & Expo Chairman Felino A. Palafox, Jr. last Oct. 25 at the Grand Ballroom, Manila Hotel.