Photo by: San Antoni Zambales Public Information Office
SAN ANTONIO, Zambales—The Municipality of San Antonio further strengthened its reputation as one of Central Luzon’s premier tourism destinations after successfully hosting the Association of Tourism Officers of Central Luzon (ATOCEL) Convention 2026, bringing together tourism officers, local chief executives, and industry stakeholders from across the region to promote sustainable tourism and regional collaboration.
Held on July 30–31, the convention highlighted San Antonio’s continuing efforts to raise the standards of destination management while reinforcing its recognition as the Top Tourist Destination in Central Luzon.
Delegates visited the municipality’s Tourist Welcome Centers in Barangays Pundaquit and San Miguel, the One Town One Product (OTOP) Store in San Miguel, and the ongoing development of the San Antonio Town Center, including the Municipal Hall. The educational tour provided participants with a firsthand look at the municipality’s integrated approach to tourism development and visitor services.
The convention also featured demonstrations of San Antonio’s tourist management system through the collaborative efforts of the Pundaquit Ferry Boat Owners Association (PFBOA), the Municipal Tourism Office, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), Philippine Coast Guard, Coastal Patrol Job Orders, and the Philippine National Police Maritime Group. The partnership has become a model for ensuring safe, organized, and sustainable tourism operations in the municipality.
Photo by: San Antoni Zambales Public Information Office
Tourism remains one of San Antonio’s primary economic drivers, providing livelihood opportunities for boat operators, tour guides, resort owners, transport providers, restaurant operators, vendors, and thousands of families who depend on the industry’s continued growth.
Mayor Arvin “Dok” Antipolo said hosting the regional convention reflects San Antonio’s commitment to sustainable and inclusive tourism.
“Hosting the ATOCEL Convention 2026 is a proud milestone for San Antonio and another first for our municipality. It reflects the dedication of our people and our partners in building a tourism industry that is sustainable, safe, and inclusive. Every visitor who comes to San Antonio supports the livelihoods of our families and strengthens our local economy. We will continue to protect our natural treasures while creating more opportunities for every San Antonian. We invite everyone to discover San Antonio—One Destination. Countless Adventures,” Antipolo said.
The convention’s social highlight was the Mayor’s Night: Pantropiko, hosted by Antipolo and attended by San Narciso Mayor Larraine Abad Sarmiento and Botolan Mayor Jun Omar Ebdane, who also serves as President of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines–Zambales Chapter.
During the closing program, Gov. Hermogenes “Jun” Ebdane Jr. administered the oath of office of the newly elected ATOCEL officers in the presence of Department of Tourism Regional Director Dr. Richard G. Daenos, underscoring the province’s unified support for strengthening the tourism sector.
Ebdane commended San Antonio for demonstrating how effective governance and responsible tourism can work together to benefit communities.
“San Antonio has demonstrated that responsible tourism and effective local governance go hand in hand. The municipality’s commitment to sustainability, visitor safety, and community participation serves as a model for other destinations in Central Luzon. I commend the local government, its tourism stakeholders, and the people of San Antonio for their continued efforts in elevating the province’s tourism industry,” Ebdane said.
Photo by: San Antoni Zambales Public Information Office
For his part, Daenos cited San Antonio’s tourism management initiatives as an example of best practices in the region.
“San Antonio continues to set a high standard for tourism excellence in Central Luzon. Its innovative tourism management practices, strong partnerships, and commitment to sustainable development exemplify the direction we envision for Philippine tourism. The Department of Tourism remains committed to supporting local government units like San Antonio in creating destinations that are competitive, resilient, and beneficial to local communities,” Daenos said.
The convention also served as the venue for the launch of San Antonio’s newest tourism promotional video, “One Destination. Countless Adventures.” The campaign showcases the municipality’s iconic attractions, including Anawangin Cove, Nagsasa Cove, Talisayen Cove, Silanguin Cove, Capones Island, Camara Island, and the San Miguel Boardwalk, inviting travelers to experience the town’s rich natural and cultural offerings.
With the successful hosting of ATOCEL Convention 2026, San Antonio continues to position itself as a leading tourism destination in Central Luzon—demonstrating that sustainable tourism, strong local governance, and community participation can create lasting economic opportunities while preserving the municipality’s natural heritage for future generations.