DUMAGUETE CITY — The Negros Oriental Tourism Council took a significant step toward digitalizing local tourism on September 28, 2026, exploring the LOVEPh travel super app during a presentation at the Provincial Tourism Office Multipurpose Room. The platform promises to transform how travelers discover, plan, and experience destinations across the province.
A New Digital Gateway for Travelers
Positive Exposure Philippines, Inc. CEO Marinel Lee led the presentation alongside LOVEPh COO Michael Palispis, the former Regional Director of DOT-CALABARZON. They introduced the Localized Online Visitor Ecosystem Philippines to council members and local tourism stakeholders. Provincial Tourism Board Executive Director Woodrow Maquiling Jr. chaired the gathering.
The LOVEPh app consolidates travel planning into a single platform, allowing tourists to discover accredited attractions, book accommodations, and locate tours across Dumaguete and Negros Oriental. It provides verified information on local events, operating hours, and safety protocols directly from tourism authorities, ensuring travelers receive accurate and timely updates.
Empowering Local Businesses and Communities
For small and medium tourism enterprises, the app offers direct exposure to travelers without relying solely on large third-party booking sites. Local cafes, tour guides, homestays, and transport operators gain visibility within a centralized digital ecosystem. This integration ensures economic gains reach beyond major hotel chains and into grassroots communities.
The platform also supports data-driven management for municipal authorities. By monitoring visitor activity, local governments can manage tourist capacity at popular spots and make informed decisions on infrastructure and eco-preservation. This approach balances tourism growth with environmental stewardship.
Modernizing Destination Promotion
The initiative shifts Negros Oriental away from traditional print marketing toward a modern digital ecosystem that aligns with contemporary traveler habits. By adopting the LOVEPh platform, the province positions Dumaguete as a smart, tech-forward destination in the Visayas. This competitiveness helps attract both domestic and international visitors seeking seamless travel experiences.
The presentation highlighted the potential of digital innovation in strengthening destination promotion and visitor engagement. Stakeholders expressed optimism that the app would enhance the overall tourism experience while showcasing the province's cultural, coastal, and eco-tourism assets.
Strengthening Inclusive Tourism Development
A key benefit of the LOVEPh ecosystem is its inclusivity. Micro-entrepreneurs and community-based operators are integrated directly into the broader digital supply chain. This ensures that tourism revenue flows to local families and small businesses, not just large corporations.
The council's exploration of this platform reflects a broader vision for sustainable and inclusive tourism development in Negros Oriental. By embracing technology, the province can compete more effectively while preserving its unique identity and natural heritage.
