TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol — The 5th Sandugo Tourism and Travel Expo opened at the Island City Mall Activity Center on July 29, 2026, and runs through July 31, offering visitors a chance to explore Bohol’s commitment to sustainable travel. The event is a centerpiece of the annual Sandugo sa Bohol festival.
A Festival for Sustainable Tourism
The expo brings together hotels, resorts, tour operators, and local government units under one roof to showcase what makes Bohol unique. Vice Governor Nick Besas, representing Governor Aris Aumentado, said he believes the event will inspire more travelers to visit and create fresh opportunities for the local tourism industry. He emphasized the provincial government’s dedication to keeping Bohol a welcoming and eco‑conscious destination.
Provincial Tourism Council Chairman Atty. Lucas Nunag highlighted the strong partnership with the Department of Tourism Region VII. DOT‑7 Director Gelena Asis‑Dimpas praised Bohol’s sustainable tourism model, calling the Sandugo Festival a “strategic compass” for the province’s long‑term growth. Their shared message underscored that economic development must go hand in hand with protecting Bohol’s natural and cultural treasures.
Local Treasures on Display
Booths across the activity center invite guests to experience the richness of Boholano heritage. LGU Anda spotlights three UNESCO Global Geosites—Cabagnow Cave Pool, Combento Cave Pool, and Lamanok Island—along with Important Cultural Properties that tell centuries‑old stories. Other exhibitors offer exclusive travel deals, island‑hopping packages, and resort discounts available only during the expo.
The expo is also a feast for the senses. Visitors can taste Jagna’s famous calamay, sample Tagbilaran’s peanut kisses, and admire Antequera’s handwoven baskets. Alburquerque’s asin tibuok, the artisanal sea salt recognized by UNESCO, is on display as a proud symbol of Boholano craftsmanship. Each product represents a community’s livelihood and a tradition worth preserving.
A Geopark Celebration
The expo is part of the broader Sandugo sa Bohol festival, which commemorates the historic blood compact between Datu Sikatuna and Miguel López de Legazpi. Running from June to August, this year’s festivities are anchored on the province’s identity as the Philippines’ first UNESCO Global Geopark. The expo serves as a platform to educate visitors about responsible geotourism that safeguards landmarks like the Chocolate Hills and coastal cave systems.
The collaboration between the provincial government, local communities, and the private sector demonstrates a shared commitment to balancing tourism growth with environmental care. By showcasing eco‑friendly practices and community‑based tours, the expo helps ensure that Bohol’s natural wonders remain intact for future generations.
An Invitation to Explore
On the final day, July 31, the expo will host a free community watch party featuring P‑pop sensation SB19’s international concert, co‑organized by DOT Central Visayas and the Bohol Provincial Tourism Office. The event blends pop culture with tourism promotion, inviting a younger crowd to experience Bohol’s vibrant spirit.
With travel deals, local flavors, and cultural performances all in one place, the 5th Sandugo Tourism and Travel Expo invites everyone to discover why Bohol is more than just a destination—it is a living heritage. The last day offers a perfect opportunity to plan your next trip while celebrating the island’s unique identity.
