The Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) successfully held its 26th National Convention from October 1 to 4, 2025, in Baguio City, gathering tourism officers, local government officials, industry stakeholders, and cultural advocates from across the country. The convention served as a platform for collaboration, innovation, and cultural appreciation in advancing sustainable Philippine tourism.
As part of the cultural presentations, the University of the Cordilleras (UC) Dance Company and Saeng ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble were invited to perform, proudly showcasing the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Cordillera region. Their participation reflects the university’s commitment to community engagement, cultural preservation, and creative excellence, which are key components of UC’s Key Result Areas (KRA), particularly in Instruction, Community Extension, and Cultural Development.
The UC Dance Company, in collaboration with the Dance Association of Baguio City, delivered a dynamic repertoire of traditional and contemporary dances. Performers from various sectors in the city worked together to present a visually stunning and meaningful cultural showcase, highlighting unity and shared identity through the performing arts.
Meanwhile, the Saeng ya Kasay Cultural Ensemble captivated the audience by presenting dances and music representing the six provinces of the Cordillera Administrative Region. Through authentic movements, indigenous rhythms, and traditional costumes, the ensemble allowed the audience to experience the region’s unique cultural narratives, reinforcing the importance of safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
A major highlight of the convention was the ATOP Pearl Awards, an annual recognition program that honors outstanding tourism initiatives, projects, and innovations by local government units and tourism stakeholders. The awards celebrated excellence in tourism governance while recognizing creative efforts that promote cultural heritage preservation, community development, and sustainable tourism practices.
The participation of UC cultural groups in the convention strongly aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) by promoting cultural heritage, SDG 4 (Quality Education) through experiential and arts-based learning, and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) by supporting cultural tourism and creative industries.
Overall, the 2025 ATOP National Convention in Baguio City not only honored excellence in tourism governance but also strengthened the shared commitment of tourism officers, educators, and cultural institutions to promote Philippine destinations, celebrate cultural identity, and build resilient, inclusive, and sustainable tourism communities.
Author: Dr. Peejay Natiola | CCP Director
