The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Western Visayas and the Department of Tourism Region VI (DOT VI) partner to align local operations with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Standards.

Designed to bridge the gap between global benchmarks and local implementation, the partnership organized two (2) knowledge-exchange activities with academic and industry partners who pioneer in sustainable tourism initiatives.

The first activity is a virtual knowledge-exchange session with Dr. Richard Dumilag of Sorsogon State University and Project Leader of a DOST-National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) project on sustainable tourism in San Bernardino Island, Bulusan, Sorsogon. He discussed environmental stewardship in San Bernardino Island, which provided a blueprint for Western Visayas on how to overcome challenges and develop sustainable community-based tourism engagements.

The second activity, on the other hand, focused on the corporate sector. The team partnered with Citadines Bacolod City, a hotel establishment based in Bacolod City, to study large-scale sustainable operations. The project team gathered firsthand insights into sustainable operations within the accommodation industry. Citadines’ management walked the team through various operational practices focused on energy efficiency, waste management, responsible resource consumption, community support, and innovative waste management practices. These include the use of geothermal and solar power and Black Soldier Fly Technology, which converts food waste into biomass.

Citadines Bacolod City was also recognized as one of the Ascott Limited Global’s Cultural Beliefs Rockstars 2025, a distinction awarded to teams who exemplify the company’s values through impactful and enduring initiatives, and were also commended for their leadership in Project Abyan- A Zero Food Waste Initiative that reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, cultural stewardship, and community engagement.

For DOST Western Visayas, these activities are not just about compliance with global standards but more importantly, about building a sustainable, more resilient, and inclusive regional economy. To date, five (5) DOST and one (1) DOT personnel have completed training and have been awarded professional certificates on sustainable tourism by GSTC. With this, and the knowledge gained during the benchmarking activities, the team is set on drafting guidelines on GSTC standards to be used by local tourist destinations and accommodation establishments. (RGLlaneta, DOST Guimaras and VMMPoncedeLeon, DOST Aklan)

_{The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is the country’s premiere agency for science, technology, and innovation, providing direction and leadership in the Philippines. Through strategic policies and programs, DOST ensures that S&T drives national development—delivering solutions and opportunities that maximize economic and social benefits for every Filipino.}