The Las Piñas City government and the Department of Tourism-National Capital Region (DOT-NCR) conducted on Saturday, April 29, a tourism guidebook orientation to increase awareness and showcase the rich culture and history of the city.
The orientation was held at the Excelsior Hotel in Las Piñas City, attended by DOT- NCR Regional Director Sharlene Zabala-Batin and Project Development Officer Bamba Ramos among others.
Paul San Miguel, head of Las Piñas Tourism and Cultural Office (Photo from Las Piñas PIO / MANILA BULLETIN)
Las Piñas Tourism and Cultural Office (TCO) Head Paul San Miguel said the city's TCO is a newly created division in the local government tasked with implementing programs and initiatives to promote the city’s culture and history.
He said the office was formed by Mayor Imelda Aguilar who wanted to present the city's heritage to local and foreign tourists.
The tourism officer cited the famous Bamboo Organ, which was constructed in 1816 and can be viewed in St. Joseph Parish Church in the city. The organ has been recognized in 2003 by the National Museum of the Philippines as the "only surviving and functioning 19th-century Bamboo Organ in the country."
He noted that the organ is usually visited by students conducting study tours, along with local and foreign tourists.
San Miguel said promoting the history and rich culture of the city will also help in economic growth.
Batin, for her part, said the DOT-NCR will help support and promote the local government unit's tourism.