Cordillera Tourism Gains ASEAN Spotlight with Five Major Awards for Sustainability and Excellence

The Cordillera Administrative Region has further strengthened its reputation as a leading sustainable tourism destination in Southeast Asia following multiple recognitions at the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards 2026, recently held in Cebu City. Five tourism sites and facilities across the region were honored, reflecting the Cordilleras’ growing alignment with global tourism benchmarks and its ongoing commitment to responsible, inclusive, and high-quality visitor experiences.

These accolades have positioned the Cordillera Administrative Region as a model for sustainable tourism development within the ASEAN community. Recognition was granted across diverse categories, ranging from meetings and events infrastructure to green accommodation, rural tourism, and urban cleanliness, underscoring the breadth and depth of tourism excellence achieved across the region.

Excellence in Meetings and Events Infrastructure Recognized

Among the award recipients, the Cordillera Convention Hall at the Baguio Country Club was conferred the ASEAN MICE Venue Award under the Exhibition Venue category. This recognition highlights the venue’s ability to meet international standards for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions, an increasingly important segment of the tourism industry.

The award reflects the venue’s capacity to support large-scale professional gatherings while maintaining quality service, modern facilities, and operational efficiency. As business events continue to play a key role in tourism-driven economic growth, this recognition reinforces the Cordillera Administrative Region’s competitiveness as a destination for both domestic and international events.

Further strengthening Baguio Country Club’s presence at the awards, Infinity Garden, also located within the property, received recognition under the Event Venue Category. The award underscores the venue’s suitability for hosting a wide range of events, from corporate functions to social gatherings, within a setting that blends natural aesthetics with functional design.

Environmental Responsibility Highlighted Through Green Hotel Award

Sustainability efforts within the region’s hospitality sector were also acknowledged, with Le Monet Hotel in Baguio City earning the ASEAN Green Hotel Award. This recognition emphasizes environmentally responsible practices, including energy efficiency, waste management, water conservation, and community engagement.

The award demonstrates how sustainability principles have been integrated into hotel operations without compromising guest comfort or service quality. As travelers increasingly prioritize eco-conscious accommodation, the recognition of Le Monet Hotel signals the Cordillera Administrative Region’s responsiveness to evolving global tourism expectations.

Community-Based and Rural Tourism Celebrated

Rural and community-driven tourism initiatives were brought into focus through the recognition of Ganduyan Eco-Trail and Farm Experience in Sagada, Mountain Province. The site was awarded the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award under the Rural Category, highlighting its role in promoting responsible tourism while preserving natural landscapes and cultural traditions.

This recognition reflects the importance of community participation in tourism development. Through immersive experiences rooted in agriculture, ecology, and local heritage, Ganduyan Eco-Trail and Farm Experience exemplifies how rural tourism can deliver economic opportunities while safeguarding environmental and cultural integrity.

The award also reinforces the Cordillera Administrative Region’s strength in offering authentic, experience-based tourism that resonates with travelers seeking meaningful connections with nature and local communities.

Urban Sustainability and Cleanliness Recognized in Tabuk City

Urban tourism excellence was acknowledged with Tabuk City receiving the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award. This recognition honors the city’s efforts in maintaining cleanliness, safety, and sustainable urban management practices that enhance visitor experience.

This marks the second time Tabuk City has earned the ASEAN Clean Tourist City Award, reinforcing its consistent commitment to high standards in urban tourism governance. The recognition reflects effective collaboration between local government units, tourism stakeholders, and community members in creating a welcoming and well-managed destination.

Regional Commitment to Quality and Cultural Preservation

The achievements of the Cordillera Administrative Region at the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards 2026 were attributed to a strong regional commitment to quality, sustainability, and cultural preservation. The awards highlight how tourism development across the region has been guided by respect for indigenous heritage while meeting internationally recognized standards.

The ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards are regarded as among the highest regional distinctions, honoring destinations and facilities that promote responsible tourism and inspire traveler confidence throughout Southeast Asia. Recognition under this program signals credibility, reliability, and long-term sustainability within the competitive ASEAN tourism landscape.

Cordillera Showcased at Love the Philippines Regional Showcase

Beyond the awards ceremony, the Cordillera Administrative Region’s tourism strengths were further highlighted during the Love the Philippines Regional Showcase, held in conjunction with the ASEAN Tourism Forum from January 26 to 30. The event provided a platform for regional destinations to present their unique offerings to ASEAN tourism ministers and industry leaders.

During the showcase, the diverse contributions of the Cordillera provinces of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, and Baguio City were presented, demonstrating how each area enriches the national tourism landscape. Emphasis was placed on the region’s indigenous creativity, cultural heritage, and distinct visitor experiences.

Indigenous Heritage and Creative Expression Spotlighted

The Cordilleras’ cultural identity was highlighted through presentations that showcased indigenous artistry, traditional practices, and living heritage. These elements were positioned as central to the region’s tourism appeal, fostering deeper appreciation among ASEAN leaders and tourism stakeholders.

The showcase emphasized how cultural preservation and tourism development have been aligned, ensuring that economic benefits are balanced with respect for ancestral traditions and community values.

Diverse Tourism Offerings Strengthen Regional Appeal

The event also underscored the Philippines’ wide range of tourism offerings, with curated presentations covering culture, nature and adventure, gastronomy, wellness, and other niche markets. The Cordillera Administrative Region’s role within this broader national tourism framework was clearly articulated, highlighting its contribution to experiential and sustainable tourism segments.

Through its participation in the ASEAN Tourism Forum and related showcases, the Cordillera Administrative Region reinforced its position as a destination capable of delivering diverse, high-quality experiences that appeal to both regional and global travelers.

A Growing Model for Sustainable Tourism in ASEAN

The multiple recognitions received by the Cordillera Administrative Region at the ASEAN Tourism Standards Awards 2026 reflect a maturing tourism ecosystem built on sustainability, community engagement, and international standards. From urban centers to rural landscapes, the region’s tourism development approach continues to balance growth with cultural and environmental stewardship.

As ASEAN destinations increasingly compete on quality and responsibility, the Cordillera Administrative Region’s achievements serve as a benchmark for sustainable tourism development across Southeast Asia.

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