LEYTE — The City of Beautiful People concluded its three-day hosting of the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) National Convention 2026 with a dazzling closing ceremony. Held on October 22 at the Ormoc City Sports Complex, the event brought together the country’s top tourism leaders for a night of celebration.
A Spectacular Finale for Philippine Tourism
Under a vibrant Studio 54 theme, the venue transformed into a festive disco, honoring the delegates who traveled across the archipelago. The energetic atmosphere perfectly captured the spirit of Philippine tourism—dynamic, warm, and deeply welcoming.
The three-day convention provided a platform for tourism officers nationwide to exchange best practices and explore innovative strategies for sustainable travel. Ormoc’s hosting served as a practical showcase of how local communities can actively participate in and benefit from a thriving tourism ecosystem.
Local Leaders Showcase Ormoc’s Warmth
City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez and Congressman Richard Gomez led the celebration, joined by Vice Mayor Leo Carmelo Locsin Jr. and the 17th Sangguniang Panlungsod members. Their presence underscored the city’s commitment to championing local tourism and community pride.
In her heartfelt message, Mayor Lucy expressed her hope that delegates felt truly at home during their stay. She emphasized the city's hospitality, stating, "We are only sharing our home with you." To commemorate the visit, she personally prepared customized pocketbooks and postcards for the guests.
The local government unit spared no effort in ensuring a seamless experience for all attendees. From logistical arrangements to curated tours, the city’s meticulous planning reflected its growing expertise in managing large-scale national gatherings and accommodating diverse groups of professionals.
Star-Studded Entertainment and Keepsakes
The evening reached its peak with surprise performances that turned the venue into a lively dance floor. Asia’s Songbird Regine Velasquez-Alcasid graced the stage, alongside P-pop girl group DNA, delivering unforgettable numbers that energized the crowd of tourism officers.
These curated keepsakes and stellar performances served as a fitting tribute to the delegates. The closing ceremony not only marked the end of a successful convention but also highlighted Ormoc’s capacity to host major national events with flair and world-class hospitality.
Passing the Torch to Misamis Occidental
As the festivities concluded, Ormoc City officially handed over the hosting duties to Misamis Occidental, which accepted the honor of staging the ATOP National Convention 2027. This symbolic turnover ensures the continuous celebration and advancement of Philippine tourism in the coming year.
Anticipation is already building for next year's edition in Misamis Occidental, which promises to bring its own unique cultural flavor to the national stage. The transition highlights the collaborative nature of the tourism industry, where regions support one another in elevating the entire country's profile.
