Today, the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur conducted the Provincial Tourism, Culture & The Arts Council (PTCAC) Semestral Meeting at the Social Hall of the New Capitol in Marawi City. The meeting focused on the strategic direction of PTCAC, discussed tourism statistics and trends, reviewed the 2024 tourism milestones, and planned activities for 2025. They also addressed challenges to tourism growth and future initiatives to enhance the tourism landscape, culture, and prosperity of Lanao del Sur. The PTCAC Chairperson, Bae Labi Sittie Aishah “Baicon” Cayongkat-Nuska, presided over the meeting.
Provincial Tourism Focal Ahmad Nour-al-dinn “Co-J” Tamano Jr., in his welcome message, explained how PTCAC aims to protect and promote the Meranaw legacy while empowering the community through data collection and training. He acknowledged the private sector’s role in driving innovation, especially in investments and services related to travel, tourism, accommodations, and dining. He also highlighted the council’s commitment to improving the standard of living for the people of Lanao del Sur.
Tourism Operations Officer Yusop S. Saaban presented important tourism data and trends from 2024, including visitor demographics and the economic contributions of tourism to the community. He emphasized the need to tailor future tourism strategies based on this data to boost the industry.
Abdullah M. Acmad, Tourism Operations Officer I from PTCAC, discussed the achievements and key events in 2024 that advanced the province’s tourism sector, including capacity-building initiatives and festival support.
Prince Shoudery M. Galo, the Supervising Tourism Operations Officer, outlined the plans and activities for 2025, including the development of a Protected Area Master Plan for ecotourism in Mount Mupo.
Ms. Saimah Naik, PTCAC Technical Assistant, raised concerns about underdeveloped attractions, inadequate funding, and weak policy enforcement.
During the open forum, Mr. Ammar Cayongcat from “Nditarun Tano Clothing” suggested involving private businesses in tourism, requiring NC II certification for the weaving program, and encouraging Meranaw vloggers to promote local tourism.
Esmael Capampangan, a representative from MBHTE-TESD, highlighted the need for online booking services for hostels and tracking tourist destinations in the province.
Bae Anna Farina Mamainte from MTIT-LDS stressed the importance of tourism accreditation for business permits and suggested orientation sessions for the private sector. Bae Carima Pacasum, Municipal Tourism Officer of Lumbatan and President of the Association of Tourism Officers of Lanao del Sur, requested a resolution for appointing a permanent Municipal Tourism Officer in Local Government Units (LGUs).
Mr. Salahudin Alonto from the Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH) emphasized the need for cultural mapping to document cultural assets in various municipalities. Salika Maguindanao, president of Maranao Collectibles, shared that her team recently received recognition for showcasing Meranaw culture and fabrics on a national level.
Prof. Sorhaila Latip-Yusoph, Director of MSU-Meranaw Cultural Heritage Center, discussed the launch of “Sinanadan ko Basa a Meranaw,” a book on Meranaw orthography, stressing the need for its continuous development.
Police Major Salahuddin Basher, Chief PCADU, provided updates on security, while Sgt. Ronaldo Dela Peña of the 103rd Brigade reported the addition of new brigades in Malabang.
PTCAC Co-Vice Chairperson Prof. Ainnie Gangco expressed her hope for close collaboration among council members in the coming months. She emphasized the meeting’s role as a catalyst for teamwork, innovative ideas, and collective progress, aiming to make Lanao del Sur a premier destination for tourism, culture, and the arts, showcasing its unique beauty and resilience.
