Dumaguete City has added another recognition to its growing list of tourism and cultural achievements after receiving the Runner-Up distinction under the Tourism and Culture Hub category of the Philippine Model Cities and Municipalities 2026. The recognition highlights the city's continuing efforts to develop tourism while preserving and promoting its cultural heritage. It also reflects Dumaguete's growing identity as a destination where history, literature, arts, and local experiences come together.
Recognizing Dumaguete’s Tourism and Cultural Character
The Philippine Model Cities and Municipalities program recognizes cities and municipalities across the country for various areas of development and local achievement.
For Dumaguete, the Tourism and Culture Hub recognition puts a spotlight on the city's efforts to strengthen its tourism and cultural identity. The city's tourism scene includes heritage landmarks, literary activities, creative events, local traditions, and attractions that continue to draw visitors. Dumaguete's cultural reputation has also gained wider recognition. The city became a UNESCO Creative City of Literature in 2025, joining the UNESCO Creative Cities Network and further highlighting its literary and cultural heritage.
A City Where Tourism and Culture Meet
Dumaguete's appeal goes beyond traditional sightseeing. Its identity has been shaped by its universities, writers, artists, heritage sites, festivals, and community activities. As a UNESCO Creative City of Literature, Dumaguete is recognized for its strong literary ecosystem, including the Silliman University National Writers Workshop, cultural events, workshops, readings, and other activities connected to storytelling and creative writing. These cultural elements complement the city's tourism attractions, creating experiences that allow visitors to explore not only places but also the stories and traditions that make Dumaguete distinctive. The Runner-Up recognition therefore adds another milestone to Dumaguete's continuing efforts to position itself as a destination where tourism and culture can develop together.
Another Milestone for the City of Gentle People
The latest recognition adds to Dumaguete's broader tourism achievements. The city has previously received recognition for its efforts in developing sports tourism, with local programs and events contributing to its reputation as a destination for visitors and sporting communities. With its combination of literary heritage, cultural activities, historic attractions, and tourism experiences, Dumaguete continues to build a destination identity rooted in both creativity and community. The Tourism and Culture Hub Runner-Up recognition serves as another reminder of the city's evolving tourism story and the value of preserving the cultural character that makes Dumaguete unique.
