A vibrant group of students and out-of-school youth wrapped up a 7-day Community Guiding Seminar organized by the Tourism Unit of the Local Economic and Business Development Office (LEBDO) in collaboration with the Department of Tourism – Region 1 (DOT – R1) held in GAD Conference Hall from November 6-13, 2024.

With the aim to transform learners into potential community guides, the participants were engaged in various activities to equip them with essential tour-guiding skills.

Topics ranged from legal requirements for tour guide accreditation and in-depth lessons on local history, culture, and arts to practical skills like tour guiding techniques and crafting captivating commentaries. Emphasizing sustainability, they also explored eco-friendly practices to preserve local flora and fauna and underwent first aid and basic life support training.

Furthermore, hands-on workshops covering tourism statistics and destination management were also facilitated to add another layer of expertise. A written examination to test their knowledge was also facilitated.

The seminar featured credible resource speakers, including:

Ms. Marie Nelna Lantano (DOT – R1)

Ms. Lorie Jane V. Rosales (DOT Master Trainer)

Ms. Armie B. Laudencia (La Union Provincial Tourism Office)

Engr. Lea Ohelen (City Environmental and Natural Resource Office)

Ms. April Kristine C. Dilan, Mr. Godofredo Asarias, and Ms. Merla B. Dingle (City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office)

Ms. Irish D. Halabaso (Tourism Unit, LEBDO)

The program concluded in an exciting mock tour where participants demonstrated their newly acquired skills before the evaluators including Ms. Lorie Jane Rosales (DOT Master Trainer), Mr. Randall B. Brioso (DOT Regional Guide), and Ms. Angielyn Go (Travel and Tour Operator).

This initiative not only aims to prepare local guides for the anticipated influx of tourists but also fosters a deeper appreciation for San Fernando’s vibrant heritage and natural beauty. With programs like this, the City Government remains constant in its mission to elevate the tourism industry and promote #PeoplesCity and #SanFernandoTayo as a top cultural and creative destination.