The 7th Philippine Farm Tourism Conference, hosted by the provincial government of Bohol, focuses on empowering farming communities towards sustainable growth in agriculture and tourism. Highlighting the significance of food tourism in boosting agricultural production and the local economy, the conference emphasizes learnings, models, and best practices in fruit and vegetable farms, aquaculture, artisanal fisheries, and green investments in farm tourism.
In his keynote speech, EDC Vice Chair and PHILEXPORT President Sergio R. Ortiz-Luis Jr. acknowledged the challenges faced by the agriculture sector, including sluggish growth, low incomes for farmers and fisherfolk, and inadequate inputs, finance, and technologies. He stressed the need for reforms to enhance exports and transform the country into an attractive investment hub.
Mr. Ortiz-Luis cited recent government data showing a 7.6 percent decline in exports to $73.52 billion in 2023, with December 2023 export sales slightly decreasing to $5.78 billion. To meet the $143.4-billion export target set for 2024 in the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2023-2028, exports need to grow by 40% instead of the initial 10% target. For more information about the Export performance in December 2023, click this link.
Supported by the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Department of Agriculture—Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR), PHILEXPORT, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and other organizations, the event was spearheaded by former Tourism Secretary Dr. Mina T. Gabor. The theme “Farm Tourism: Consciousness for Healthy Living and New Experiences” promotes healthy living and draws inspiration from the United Nations’ series of themes during the pandemic.
PHILEXPORT remains committed to advocate and facilitate positive developments for the industry and the country, including the farm tourism sector. The event, held at Bellevue Hotel in Panglao, Bohol, provides an ideal venue to showcase the potential and beauty of farm tourism. Bohol’s recognition as the country’s first UNESCO Global Geopark in 2023 further underscores its potential as a sustainable farm tourism destination.
At the end of the 2-day conference, a turnover ceremony took place. The Provincial Government of General Santos City graciously accepted the opportunity to host the 8th Farm Tourism Conference, while Palawan was announced as the host for the event in 2025. AOB