HILONGOS, LEYTE — The Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Office 8, in partnership with the Local Government Unit of Hilongos, conducted a two-day Tourism Product Audit from September 15 to 16, 2026, aimed at evaluating the municipality’s cultural, community, and ecological attractions while assessing local business compliance with national hospitality standards.
Comprehensive Evaluation of Local Destinations and Community Enterprises
The joint audit team documented and evaluated a diverse array of historical sites, community-led livelihood programs, and municipal transport infrastructure:
Heritage and Religious Tourism: Sites inspected included the historic Immaculate Conception Parish Church, the Adoration Monastery of Mama Mary, and the heritage Gabaldon Buildings located at South Central School.
Community-Based Products and Livelihoods: The audit highlighted local enterprise initiatives, visiting the Tambaan Farm, Chocobud Processing, and native handicraft products manufactured by AGAK Hilongos (Asosasyon ng mga Gintong Puso at Isipan Kahit May Kapansanan).
Eco-Tourism and Waterfront Destinations: Evaluated coastal and natural assets included the Hilongos Baywalk, the Naval Mangrove Site, and the Matapay Fish Port.
Logistical Transport Assets: Assessors reviewed operational infrastructure at the Hilongos Airport to evaluate accessibility and transit capacity for incoming regional travelers.
Tourism Standards Inspection and Accreditation Framework
Parallel to the destination audit, the DOT’s Tourism Standards and Regulations (TSR) Unit carried out site inspections across local commercial establishments:
Quality Compliance: Inspectors evaluated participating hotels, resorts, and tourism-related enterprises to enforce strict compliance with DOT accreditation requirements.
Industry Elevation: The ongoing accreditation campaign aims to standardize service quality, enhance visitor safety, and position Hilongos as a fully compliant, competitive tourism destination within Leyte Province.
