The Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA)–College of Economics and Management (CEM), Pili Campus, conducted a training-workshop for barangay leaders titled “The Path to Sustainability: Steps to LGU Calabanga’s Ecotourism Destination Development” on October 28, 2025, at the Conference Room of the Municipal Office of Calabanga, Camarines Sur.
In partnership with the LGU Calabanga Tourism, Culture, and Arts Office, headed by Ms. Miel S. Bongon, Senior Tourism Officer, the activity aimed to equip local leaders with the knowledge and skills to maximize the municipality’s natural assets—such as its coastal areas and proximity to Mount Isarog National Park through structured planning and the promotion of existing attractions, including agri-tourism farms.
Distinguished CEM faculty members delivered a series of comprehensive presentations focused on enhancing Calabanga’s destination and identity branding. Prof. Jessel Anne P. Rodriguez, OSAS Director, discussed the principles of community-based tourism, while Mr. Ardolf B. Arce presented insights on entrepreneurship in ecotourism. Ms. Riena Joy B. Mediado and Mr. Neobel R. Colar shared their expertise on emerging business opportunities and the delivery of high-quality ecotourism services. This was followed by a lecture on best practices in ecotourism by Ms. Corazon Villamor.
In addition, Mr. Enrique Antonio F. Villamor and Ms. Mia Bella R. Fresnido presented a lecture on ecotourism destination marketing and future trends, drawing from their valuable experiences gained through the APO Training Course on Strategic Planning for Sustainable Ecotourism.
The activity was also graced by Assoc. Prof. Richard Castor of CBSUA – Calabanga Campus, and Hon. Philip B. Dumalasa, Mayor of Calabanga, expressed his appreciation for CBSUA’s continuing support and encouraged participants to nurture a prosperous future through thoughtful, sustainable, and inclusive ecotourism development. | 𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘱𝘩𝘰𝘵𝘰𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘉𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘦 𝘎. 𝘙𝘪𝘤𝘢𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘵, 𝘌𝘚𝘋 𝘚𝘵𝘢𝘧𝘧
