6 Western Visayas tourism industry players awarded for gender equality
By Tara Yap
ILOILO CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT) awarded six tourism industry players in the Western Visayas region for gender equality as part of the National Women’s Month celebration.

AWARDEES of the Icons of Sustainable Tourism Awards and Recognition (ISTaR) with Department of Tourism (DOT)-6 Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez during the awarding in Iloilo City on March 25. (DOT-6)
DOT-6 Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez led the awarding for the Icons of Sustainable Tourism Awards and Recognition (ISTaR) in a ceremony on Monday, March 25, in this city.
“We take pride not only in Western Visayas’ breathtaking destinations but also in its people – the heart and soul behind every success story that shapes our tourists' experiences. Here’s to our awardees who will stand as shining examples of our commitment to tourism that loves,” said Rodriguez.
Awarded for hospitality and tourism services were Richmonde Hotel Iloilo General Manager Nathalie Lim and Claribel Casimero, president, Boracay Island Travel Agency and Tour Operators Association.
Nathalie Lim, general manager of Richmonde Hotel Iloilo, was awarded for hospitality and tourism
services.
Awarded for cultural tourism and creative industry was Villaflor Javier of the San Ramon Abaca Handcraft Association in Malinao town, Aklan province and Herminia Reyes of Good Shepherds Food Inc. of Buenavista town, Guimaras.
Awarded for eco-tourism was Anna Mae Claro of the Barangay IV-A Mangrove Eco-Trail in Victorias City, Negros Occidental.
The lone male awardee was Severino Pacete of Silay City, Negros Occidental for tourism education.
“This prestigious recognition highlights those who embody the essence of sustainable tourism with a passion that resonates with our ‘Love the Philippines’ ethos – where every effort counts in nurturing an inclusive and equitable industry,” Rodriguez added.