TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — Tourists visiting Bohol can now easily find accredited tour guides, tour operators, and transport providers through the newly launched LAAG Bohol web app.
The web application was officially launched on July 23 by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), together with the Bohol Island State University (BISU)-Balilihan Campus and the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office.
The launch was held at the National Museum of the Philippines-Bohol.
LAAG Bohol connects tourists with local tourism workers
LAAG stands for Lifework Andragogy for Advanced Guides. The platform was designed to make it easier for visitors to connect with accredited tourism service providers in Bohol.
Aside from helping tourists find guides, operators, and transportation services, the LAAG Bohol web app also provides learning resources for tourism workers. These resources are intended to help local tourism professionals improve their knowledge and skills.
DOST-PCIEERD provided Php 1 million in funding for the project through its Regional Research Institution Program, while BISU contributed Php 150,000.
Niñaliza H. Escorial, DOST-PCIEERD deputy executive director and officer in charge, said science and technology can help support a more sustainable tourism industry in Bohol.
She described the LAAG Bohol web app as more than just a digital platform, saying it serves as a connection between tourists and tourism workers, local governments and tourism data, as well as academic research and public service.
Digital platform supports Bohol tourism
Metodio “John” Maraguinot Jr., supervising administrative officer of the Office of the Governor, delivered the provincial government’s message on behalf of Gov. Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado.
Maraguinot highlighted the meaning of the word “laag,” a Cebuano term commonly used for wandering, going out, or exploring.
He said the LAAG Bohol web app combines Bohol’s tourism traditions with modern technology. The platform is also expected to support the provincial government’s Strategic Governance Roadmap by promoting digital transformation and creating more economic opportunities for local communities.
The web app is also designed to strengthen data-based tourism planning and governance.
Maraguinot said the platform can help promote responsible tourism in Bohol, which is recognized as the country’s first UNESCO Global Geopark.
LAAG Bohol promotes smarter travel
BISU Vice President for Research, Innovation and Extension Ivy Corazon A. Mangaya-ay said the project aims to provide visitors with a better way to explore the province.
She said technology can help guide tourists while Bohol’s culture and heritage give meaning to their travel experiences. The project also keeps local communities at the center of tourism development.
The LAAG Bohol web app is expected to give visitors easier access to trusted tourism services while helping local tourism workers become more visible to potential clients.
Tourism groups helped develop the app
Before its official launch, BISU conducted beta testing of the platform in partnership with the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office and the Bohol Island Tour Guides Association of the Philippines.
The development team also consulted the Panglao Tourism Office, tour guides, tour operators, and transport providers to gather feedback and improve the platform.
With the launch of the LAAG Bohol web app, tourists are expected to have a more convenient way to discover Bohol, connect with accredited tourism service providers, and access information that can help make their trips more organized and meaningful.
