BOHOL—The Philippines’ first and only UNESCO Global Geopark has taken center stage in regional diplomacy and sustainable tourism as Bohol hosted the first set of ASEAN 2026 meetings in Panglao, marking a significant milestone for the province and the country.
Around 80 delegates from the ASEAN energy sector arrived in Bohol to attend the Special Senior Officials Meeting on Energy (SOME), organized by the Department of Energy as part of the preparatory meetings for the Philippines’ ASEAN Chairmanship in 2026. The delegation was warmly welcomed by the Provincial Government of Bohol under the leadership of Governor Erico Aristotle “Aris” C. Aumentado, signaling Bohol’s readiness to host high-level international engagements anchored on sustainability and cultural pride as envisioned in his Strategic Governance Roadmap.
Delegates were greeted upon arrival at the Bohol–Panglao International Airport with a vibrant cultural welcome that reflected the province’s living heritage. Performances featured the Panglao Central Elementary School Ukulele and Flute Ensemble, Felix E. Bompat High School Performing Arts, San Agustin Academy Drum and Bugle Corps, SAGA Salinduraw Dance Ensemble, Panglao Rondalla, Lourdes National High School Dance Troupe and Drum and Bugle Corps, as well as Panglao Ethniko and Profaithe. The welcome underscored Bohol’s commitment to placing local artists, youth, and cultural workers at the forefront of international events.
As part of the ASEAN 2026 preparations, the Department of Tourism (DOT) officially launched its year-long tour program for ASEAN delegates on January 22, beginning with a cultural immersion in Bohol—the first of a series of curated experiences across the country. The program is designed to highlight host destinations not only as meeting venues but also as places with strong cultural identity, environmental stewardship, and community participation.
Anchored on the concept of “handumanan,” the Cebuano word for memory or keepsake, the Bohol tour presented the province’s cultural, historical, and natural sites as living narratives that continue to shape its identity as a UNESCO Global Geopark. As a geopark, Bohol is recognized internationally for its outstanding geological heritage, integrated with biodiversity, culture, education, and sustainable development—values echoed throughout the itinerary.
The delegates began their tour at the National Museum of the Philippines–Bohol, one of the country’s 22 regional museums. Special attention was given to the works of Boholano National Artist Napoleon Abueva, whose sculptures highlight Bohol’s contribution to Philippine art and cultural history. The museum visit also revisited the lasting impact of the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck Bohol in 2013, with exhibits emphasizing conservation science, heritage protection, and the province’s resilience through restoration efforts—key themes aligned with UNESCO Global Geopark principles.
Reflecting Boholanos’ deep religious devotion and historical continuity, the itinerary included a visit to Santa Monica Parish Church, also known as Alburquerque Church, a Spanish-era structure built in 1842 that remains an active place of worship. Delegates also visited the Baclayon Church, one of the oldest churches in the Philippines, renowned for its coral stone architecture and historical significance. Both sites highlight how cultural heritage conservation complements geoconservation in Bohol’s geopark framework.
The final stop brought delegates to the Bohol Bee Farm, where they joined a guided farm walk showcasing sustainable, community-based tourism practices. Hands-on activities such as chocolate making, cooking demonstrations of ube biko and kalamay, raffia weaving, and ice cream tasting emphasized local livelihoods, food heritage, and environmentally responsible tourism—direct benefits of geopark-driven development.
According to tourism and local officials, hosting ASEAN 2026 meetings significantly boosts Bohol’s profile as a UNESCO Global Geopark, reinforcing its position as a model for sustainable tourism in Southeast Asia. The influx of delegates and international attention creates opportunities for local communities, from cultural performers and farmers to artisans and small enterprises, ensuring that the benefits of global recognition translate into inclusive local growth.
Organized by the Department of Tourism as the lead agency of the Committee on Hospitality, Tours, Site Enhancements, and Events, the curated tours for ASEAN delegates will continue to roll out in various destinations nationwide throughout the year. For Bohol, being among the first hosts affirms not only its capacity to welcome the world but also its role in demonstrating how geoparks can serve as platforms for diplomacy, education, cultural exchange, and sustainable community development.(GO-Geopark/MLR)
