Following Bohol’s hosting last year, General Santos City—the Tuna Capital of the Philippines—welcomed delegates to the 8th Philippine Farm Tourism Conference (PIFTC) from February 24-26, 2025, at KCC Mall. Themed “Stimulating Sustainable Economic Growth in Rural Communities through Farm Tourism,” the event provided valuable insights from agricultural experts, farm owners, and industry leaders on advancing farm tourism.
Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco highlighted the government’s initiatives to strengthen farm tourism, empower local communities, and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Meanwhile, International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) President Mina Gabor underscored the role of agritourism in fostering growth through fruit farms, aquaculture, livestock, and farm-based investments.
The conference gathered key officials, including General Santos City Mayor Lorelie Pacquiao, DTI-Region 12 Regional Director Flora D. Politud-Gabunales, and CITEM Executive Director Romleah Pulido Ocampo, alongside local government units (LGUs), international experts, policymakers, farmers, and private sector representatives.
Over 20 exhibitors showcased products from the agri-fishery sector, including tuna chicharon, BakeBarn Biscocho, banana chips, coco sugar, turmeric powder, and fresh honey. Among them was DTI-OTOP, operated by PHILEXPORT Region 12.
The Export Development Council (EDC), in partnership with PHILEXPORT Region 12, actively participated in networking and collaboration efforts to support the Philippine Export Development Plan (PEDP) 2023-2028.
The conference concluded with a ceremonial turnover of hosting duties from General Santos City to Baguio City for the next PIFTC. The event was supported by the DOT, Tourism Promotions Board, Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Bureau of Animal Industry, PHILEXPORT, DTI, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government, with Philippine Airlines as the official carrier. AOB