The Tourism Promotions Board (TPB) Philippines, in partnership with Aboitiz InfraCapital, successfully concluded the Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Immersive Tour of Northern Mindanao from November 5 to 7. This three-day journey was a vibrant exploration of Cagayan de Oro (CDO) and Bukidnon, designed to engage 13 destination management companies and 4 media by showcasing exemplary CBT practices and fostering partnerships guided by responsible tourism principles.
The immersive tour launched with a welcoming luncheon at Panagatan Restaurant in Opol, Misamis Oriental, followed by a visit to the first Tourist Rest Area constructed in Mindanao.
Live demonstration of skilled weaver from the Tagolwanen Women Weavers’ Association
A poignant highlight was the visit to the Tagolwanen Women Weavers’ Association, where a captivating mat weaving demonstration underscored the vital role and exquisite artistry of indigenous women. Their craft not only preserves cultural identity but also sustains local enterprise.
As sunset approached, the Abbey of the Transfiguration in Malaybalay City offered the participants a taste of the famed Monk’s Blend coffee and a look at the Abbey’s unique collections of holy vestments. The day culminated at the Kumaykay River Farm with a warm welcome from Congressman Jonathan Flores and a lovely cultural presentation by a local Bukidnon dance group.
Cultural performance of a local dance group from Bukidnon
The next day featured the iconic Dahilayan Adventure and Forest Parks, from Asia’s longest dual zipline to the alpine mountain coaster.
Still within Dahilayan, the group proceeded to Alomah’s Place and Nature Farm. They were warmly greeted by a couple whose agri-tourism initiative has blossomed into a thriving avenue where environmental education, community livelihood, and sustainability practices beautifully converge.
Warm welcome of participants to Alomah’s Place and Nature Farm
Before lunch, a quick stopover was made at the globally renowned pineapple plantations of Del Monte, offering a literal taste of Bukidnon’s sweet, famed pineapples. The afternoon featured Mapawa Forest Park, where the group admired the majestic Dao Heritage Tree and received an insightful presentation on the forest park’s decades-long agricultural and forestry initiatives.
Media, influencers, and destination management company representatives pose in front of Del Monte Pineapple Monument in Bukidnon.
The day concluded in the chartered city with a visit to the CDO International Trade and Convention Center, where the city proudly showcased its state-of-the-art facilities and future expansion plans to host more events. At dinner, Cucina Higala and the internet-famous Lone Wolf Cafe offered the perfect nightcap.
Media and influencers try an advanced white water rafting course in Cagayan de Oro.
The trip ended with an exhilarating white-water rafting course in Cagayan de Oro and a waterpark experience at Seven Seas Waterpark and Resort.
Through this joint initiative, TPB and Aboitiz InfraCapital have powerfully reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing sustainable, inclusive, and community-centered tourism in the Philippines. TPB chief operating officer Maria Margarita Montemayor Nograles emphasized its significance: “Community-Based Tourism is the soul of sustainable Philippine tourism, and this immersive tour highlights the profound cultural and adventure potential of Northern Mindanao.
By combining indigenous artistry, agri-tourism, and recreation, we paint a powerful picture of local engagement. Responsible tourism, in this form, drives livelihood, preserves heritage, and provides authentic, meaningful experiences for everyone involved.”
The CBT Immersive Tour not only successfully showcased the rich cultural and natural assets of Northern Mindanao but also significantly strengthened linkages between local communities, the tourism industry, and government institutions, ultimately paving the way for a more sustainable tourism landscape for the entire region.
