ATOP’s 9th national convention

ILOILO CITY, Oct. 3 (PNA)-- Thousands of delegates coming from various parts of the country converge in Iloilo for the four-day national convention of the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) that will kicked off yesterday evening here.

The annual gathering, which is now on its ninth year, evolves on the theme “Tourism today…Coping with Climate Change.’

Discussions during the conference would focus on tourism situationer and coping with the business climate, emerging trends in the industry, opportunities and concerns.

It will also be highlighted by the giving of recognition to best tourism practices in the country with four components namely Best Tourism Officer of the Philippines, Best Tourism Event, Best Tourism Organization (provincial level) and Best Tourism Event (month-long or weekly celebration).

Aside from the conference program, delegates will have the chance to partake of Iloilo’s delicacies prepared by the Iloilo Hotels, Resorts and Restaurants Association (IHRRA) during the food festival and experience Ilonggo hospitality given the accommodation provided by the Iloilo City Conventions and Visitors Bureau (ICVB).

They will also be treated to various festivals in Panay, particularly the festivals in Antique, Iloilo and Guimaras during the parade of festivals.

Likewise, they will have an opportunity to visit one of the emerging destinations in Guimaras the Lumbija Wildlife Research Resort and pass by Trappist Monastery for some pasalubong.

Iloilo City tourism officer Benito Jimena said the city is aiming for a bigger hosting such as the Ad Congress which could accommodate 5,000 delegates with the help of various hotels and tour operators here.