Tourism and aviation leaders in Northern Mindanao are stepping up collaboration to protect the region’s tourism growth from mounting global headwinds, underscoring the growing importance of local coordination in an increasingly uncertain travel environment.
Aboitiz InfraCapital Laguindingan Airport Corp. (ALAC), operator of Laguindingan International Airport, partnered with Limketkai Luxe Hotel to convene a Strategic Tourism Dialogue on May 19, bringing together key players from the tourism, hospitality, travel, and aviation sectors.
The timing was hardly accidental.
Industry leaders are grappling with rising fuel costs, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and growing operational expenses that are reshaping airline economics and influencing travel demand worldwide.
These pressures are driving up costs across the aviation value chain, with potential implications for airfares, route development, and destination competitiveness.
“The aviation and tourism sectors are inextricably linked,” said Engr. Ryan Ermac, general manager of Laguindingan International Airport, stressing the need for closer cooperation among airports, airlines, hotels, tourism operators, and government agencies.
Participants exchanged market intelligence, operational updates, and strategies aimed at strengthening the region’s resilience against external shocks while sustaining visitor arrivals and improving traveler experiences.
The dialogue reflects a broader industry recognition that competitiveness increasingly depends not only on attractions and infrastructure but also on the ability of destinations to respond quickly to global disruptions.
Department of Tourism Region 10 Director May Unchuan highlighted Northern Mindanao’s enduring strengths, citing its diverse natural attractions, rich cultural heritage, and resilient tourism sector. She described the gathering as a timely platform for aligning public- and private-sector efforts to safeguard growth.
Representatives from tourism offices, industry associations, and business groups also attended, signaling a shared commitment to keeping Northern Mindanao visible and competitive in a rapidly changing travel landscape.
As international tourism faces fresh uncertainties, stakeholders are betting that stronger partnerships, better coordination, and improved connectivity will help ensure Northern Mindanao remains not just open for business—but ahead of the curve.
