DOT, DA advance cultural heritage by showcasing local produce in tourism
By Trixee Rosel
At A Glance
- Initiatives include the Gastronomy Tourism Roadmap, Slow Food Movement, halal tourism development, and the Terra Madre Asia-Pacific event in Bacolod.
- The collaboration seeks to uplift rural livelihoods and promote local produce as a key part of the country's cultural heritage and tourism strategy.
Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. welcomes Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco at the DA Central Office in Quezon City on May 19, 2025, to discuss efforts to promote local agricultural products as key components of the country’s tourism offerings.
The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) have committed to strengthening the country’s tourism industry by ensuring a stable and affordable supply of local agricultural products that reflect the nation’s cultural heritage and meet growing visitor demand.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco unveiled a multi-pillar framework centered on gastronomy tourism, farm tourism development, infrastructure enhancement, and stronger local supply chains to deliver authentic experiences to both domestic and international travelers.
Frasco emphasized agriculture’s vital role in shaping the visitor experience—from hotel and resort dining to purchasing local goods and engaging in cultural activities—positioning the Philippines as a premier destination for gastronomic and farm tourism.
Among the key initiatives are support for the Gastronomy Tourism Roadmap, promotion of regional dishes and native products, advocacy for the Slow Food Movement, the hosting of the Terra Madre Asia-Pacific event in Bacolod, development of agri-tourism circuits, and expansion of halal and Muslim-friendly tourism services.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. highlighted the need to address supply challenges by equipping farmers with cold storage facilities, food processing centers, ice plants, seeds, greenhouses, livestock, and aquaculture support.
He also proposed the creation of agri-tourism trading posts in major tourism destinations to directly connect farmers with chefs, hotel suppliers, and tourists—streamlining logistics and boosting rural income.
The DA is awaiting the DOT’s identification of priority tourism areas and partner local government units to align resources and investments efficiently.
Officials said this joint effort aims to uplift farming communities while enhancing the country’s tourism offerings.
DOT and DA affirmed that expanding access to local produce and highlighting the country’s cultural roots are central to promoting sustainable and inclusive tourism growth.