CAVITE, PHILIPPINES - There is an undeniable magic to Cavite. It is a province where history breathes through ancestral windows, where cold mountain breezes collide with coastal heritage, and where the people carry a deep-seated tradition of warm hospitality. On September 16, 2026, at the prestigious Twin Lakes Hotel in Batangas, that magic was formally recognized. The Department of Tourism-CALABARZON (Region 4A), under the visionary leadership of Regional Director Marites Castro, gathered the region's finest for the CALABARZON Tourism Excellence Awards 2026. When the night concluded, Cavite did not just walk away with trophies—it solidified its status as an absolute tourism juggernaut.
The Triple Crown of the Highlands
To absolutely no one's surprise, Tagaytay City swept the highest honors of the night, taking home a flawless triple crown: Top 1 Overall Highest Tourist Arrivals, Top 1 Same-Day Visitor Arrivals, and Top 1 Overnight Tourist Arrivals. Through the tireless efforts of the Tagaytay Tourism and Cultural Development Office, the city has proven that it is far more than just a quick weekend escape. It is a sanctuary for travelers seeking fresh air, unparalleled views of Taal, and world-class culinary experiences. Tagaytay remains the undisputed crown jewel of regional tourism.
The Historic Heart Beats Strong
Down the ridges and into the historic lowlands, the Municipality of Kawit stood incredibly tall on the regional stage, securing the Top 6 Overall Tourist Arrivals and Top 6 Same-Day Visitor Arrivals. Kawit Tourism has successfully transformed historical reverence into a vibrant, modern cultural draw. It is a powerful reminder that our roots are a profound source of economic and community pride.
It Takes a Province to Raise a Destination
True excellence is never a solo journey. Cavite's massive footprint at the awards is the direct result of a beautifully synchronized ecosystem of leaders, dreamers, and storytellers. Unwavering structural support was anchored by the Provincial Government of Cavite, the Association of Tourism Officers and Coordinators of Cavite, and the localized cultural preservation of Slow Food Cavite. Meanwhile, the boots on the ground—the travel professionals working tirelessly behind the scenes—were celebrated through key pillars like CAITO (Calabarzon Alliance of Independent Tour Operators Inc.), SICATT (Society of Independent Cavite Allied Travel and Tours), and the CDTTA (City of Dasmariñas Travel & Tours Association). Urban tourism hubs also shared the spotlight, with City Tourism of Dasmariñas, GenTri Tourism, Culture and the Arts, and the Bacoor City Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs proving that every corner of Cavite has a story worth telling.
The Digital Storytellers
Perhaps the most modern triumph of the night was the recognition of Cavite's digital heartbeat. Tourism in 2026 thrives on inspiration, and local creators have mastered the art of capturing Cavite's soul through the lens. High honors go to the content creators who make us fall in love with our own backyard over and over again: The Beauty of the Philippines, Lakwatserong Technician, JuanKnows, and Dabyahero.
A Legacy of Belonging
This victory belongs to every Bacooreño, Gentriseño, Dasmariñense, Tagayteño, Kawiteño, and Caviteño across the province. It validates a simple truth we have always known: Cavite isn't just a place you pass through. It's a place that stays with you. Congratulations to all the awardees! Keep shining, keep welcoming the world, and keep making us proud. Cavite, ahead!
