UP AIT-ATOP Collaboration Makes its Second Stop
The Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) and the University of the Philippines Asian Institute of Tourism successfully conducted Phase 2 of the 3-leg Capacity Development Program. Held in General Santos City, there were about 60 ATOP Members in attendance from the Mindanao Cluster on August 28-29, 2025. “Future Proofing Local Tourism Through Policy, Planning and Innovation” was held at Venue 88 with the ATOP Team led by Dr. Noel S. Daquiaog, ATOP Executive Vice President, with Dr. Jomelyn M. Abuan, ATOP National Treasurer, Mr. Elric M. Batilaran, ATOP Secretary General, Ms. Baicarima I. Pacasum, ATOP Muslim Mindanao Representative, and Mr. Francisco M. Cerbo, Jr. ATOP Region XII Representative, welcoming the UP AIT Team.
General Santos City Mayor, Hon. Lorelie G. Pacquiao, graced the activities and warmly welcomed UP AIT, ATOP, and all the participants, encouraging the tourism officers that not only should they share the beauty of their places but should also tell the stories of their history, culture, and people.
The highlight of the activities was the opportunity to exchange stories, ideas, and strategies among the tourism officers of the various Mindanaoan regions who had much to share about the land where there is so much yet to be learned on tourism journeys of discovery and exploration.
Phase 3 – Luzon cluster will be held in UP AIT, September 11-12, 2025.


