SAN ANTONIO, Zambales — Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. has outlined a three-pronged approach to address both challenges and opportunities faced by the tourism industry in Central Luzon, given the global disruptions faced by the tourism sector worldwide, as well as internal challenges that drag the local industry.
Speaking during the 2026 convention of the Association of Tourism Officers of Central Luzon (ATOCEL) here on July 31, Ebdane, who also chairs the Regional Development Council (RDC-III), said there is a pressing need for Region III provinces to integrate development strategies, harness new technology, and preserve local heritage.
Ebdane pointed out that global problems like geopolitical instability, energy price fluctuations, and the accelerating impacts of climate change directly affect visitor footfall, operational costs for local enterprises, and the environmental integrity of local destinations.
On the other hand, urban pressures like traffic congestion, waste management bottlenecks, and environmental degradation undermine the region’s tourism growth, he said.
Ebdane then urged ATOCEL members to future-proof Central Luzon’s tourism industry by committing themselves to institutional synergy, inclusive governance, and environmental stewardship.
“Municipalities cannot operate as isolated silos. Our local tourism plans must seamlessly integrate into provincial and regional development agendas,” he said. “When Zambales, Pampanga, Bulacan, Bataan, Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, and Aurora work in harmony, Central Luzon becomes an unstoppable collective destination.”
Hewing on the convention theme “From Smart Destinations to Sustainable Futures,” Ebdane reminded tourism officers of the need for inclusivity. “Smart tourism is not about replacing human connections with digital screens, but about using technology to empower local workers, preserve local cultures, and keep economic benefits inside the host communities.”
The governor also cited the need to balance commercial success and ecological protection. “Protecting our seas, forests, and agricultural lands is an economic imperative that safeguards our long-term assets.”
Ebdane said that for its part, the Regional Development Council is aggressively driving key regional infrastructure projects to bring about an integrated tourism ecosystem.
“But infrastructure alone is not enough,” he added. “Smart destination governance means using technology to monitor carry-capacities, streamline municipal operations, enforce environmental standards, and protect local heritage.”
“When local government units combine physical infrastructure with smart, sustainable governance, we protect our environments while enhancing profitability for our communities,” Ebdane added. Taktikom News & Features
