ORMOC CITY — Ormoc City made a massive mark at the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines Pearl Awards 2026, securing three major accolades in the Component City Level. The ceremony took place at the Ormoc City Sports Complex in Barangay Juaton on October 21, 2026, highlighting the city's exceptional leadership in regional tourism development and sustainable practices.
A Sweeping Victory for Local Tourism
The local government, led by City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez and Congressman Richard Gomez, proudly accepted the honors on behalf of the city. Their collective dedication has positioned Ormoc as a formidable destination, proving that strategic tourism programs can drive inclusive growth and foster immense community pride among residents and stakeholders alike.
Securing multiple awards at this prestigious event reflects the tireless work of the city's tourism officers and the strong collaboration between the public and private sectors. It solidifies Ormoc's reputation as a trailblazer in the Visayas region, setting a high standard for other local government units to emulate.
Championing Sustainable Practices
Taking home the Grand Winner title for Best Practices on Sustainable Tourism, the city's entry, "Sustainable Tourism: The Ormoc Way," deeply captivated the judges. It showcased the city's unwavering commitment to preserving its natural attractions, rich local identity, and traditional way of life amid rapid modernization.
This prestigious win perfectly aligns with Ormoc's broader vision of improving community well-being. By prioritizing a safe, resilient, and sustainable environment, the local government ensures that tourism development directly benefits the Ormocanons while protecting the city's ecological treasures for future generations.
Excelling in Sports and Event Hosting
Ormoc also proved its mettle as a premier sports tourism hub, earning 1st Runner-up in Best Event Hosting for the joint training camp between the Philippine and Kuwait Modern Pentathlon Federations. The international event highlighted the city's capability to host world-class athletic gatherings seamlessly.
Additionally, the city secured 2nd Runner-up in Best Tourism Month/Event for its impactful campaign, "Ormoc: Our Responsible Movement for Outstanding Communities." This entry emphasized how sustainable transformations can yield long-lasting positive impacts on local communities and the overall local economy.
Hosting these major events brings significant economic activity to local businesses, from hotels to restaurants. The influx of athletes and visitors helps stimulate the local economy while showcasing the city's top-notch facilities and warm hospitality to an international audience.
A Star-Studded Celebration
The evening was elevated by surprise musical performances from legendary singers Dulce and Lani Misalucha. Their powerful vocals entertained the attendees, turning a formal awards night into an unforgettable celebration of Filipino talent, culture, and world-class entertainment.
The program was expertly hosted by John "Sweet" Lapus, stand-up comedian Alex Calleja, and Miss Philippines Earth 2025 Joy Barcoma. Their energy and humor kept the crowd engaged throughout the night, adding a festive and celebratory atmosphere to the prestigious ceremony.
These awards serve as a powerful validation of Ormoc's continuous efforts to innovate and improve its tourism sector. The local government remains dedicated to pushing boundaries and creating more opportunities for growth in the years to come.
