CARLES, Iloilo — The Local Government Unit of Carles, through its Municipal Tourism Office, successfully concluded a comprehensive site validation with the Regional Ecotourism Committee VI on October 14, 2026. The critical assessment aimed to evaluate the readiness of the Gigantes Group of Islands for sustainable tourism development and infrastructure upgrades.
Evaluating Island Readiness
The evaluation focused on key areas including environmental and cultural attributes, accessibility, tourism facilities, and robust safety measures. Committee members also examined visitor management, community participation, and existing sustainability practices to ensure the islands' delicate natural heritage remains heavily protected against modern threats.
This rigorous process guarantees that the pristine beaches and lagoons of the Gigantes group are preserved for future generations. By aligning local tourism strategies with national conservation standards, Carles is proactively managing the expected influx of eco-conscious travelers seeking authentic island experiences.
Multi-Agency Technical Support
The validation was conducted by a multi-agency committee comprising representatives from DENR 6 PENRO Iloilo, CENRO Sara, EMB6, and DEPDEV 6. Other participating agencies included DILG 6, the Provincial Tourism Offices of Capiz and Antique, and the Department of
Tourism Region 6.
This collaborative effort provided the LGU an opportunity to present its existing tourism programs and future development plans. In return, the committee offered valuable technical observations, actionable recommendations, and expert feedback to strengthen the destination's overall ecotourism readiness and operational standards.
Fostering Community Partnerships
The local government expressed its sincere appreciation to the committee for its technical guidance and commitment to promoting sustainable ecotourism in Western Visayas. The LGU also acknowledged the crucial support of local stakeholders, tourism enterprises, and community partners who actively participated in the assessment.
Special recognition was given to Rhett Paul Bolivar Gigantes Island Tours and Services for their unwavering support of Carles Tourism. This collective effort underscores the vital role of active community involvement in safeguarding the natural beauty that makes the islands a truly remarkable destination.
Toward a Competitive Ecotourism Future
This undertaking marks another important step toward positioning the Gigantes Group of Islands as a competitive ecotourism destination. The LGU remains committed to strengthening tourism governance and empowering local communities while continuously improving the overall visitor experience.
Known as the Home of Paradise Islands in the Province of Iloilo, Gigantes continues to balance development with environmental responsibility. By prioritizing sustainable practices, the municipality ensures that future generations can enjoy the pristine beauty of this Western Visayas treasure for decades to come.
As the province of Iloilo continues to elevate its status on the global tourism map, the Gigantes Islands stand as a testament to the power of responsible travel. The successful validation signals to both domestic and international tourists that this breathtaking archipelago is dedicated to maintaining its ecological integrity.
