Mountain Tourism in the Philippines Set for Major Growth as DOT Promotes Sustainability and Cultural Preservation in the Cordillera Region

Published on December 29, 2025

The Philippines Department of Tourism (DOT) has made significant progress in promoting mountain tourism, with a focus on developing a more sustainable and culturally sensitive tourism model for the Cordillera region. The region, known for its breathtaking mountain ranges, ancient rice terraces, and rich cultural heritage, has long been a favourite among adventurous trekkers and nature lovers. However, in recent years, the government has emphasised the importance of striking a balance between tourism growth and the preservation of the region’s fragile ecosystem and indigenous cultures.

Sustainable Tourism as a Key Priority

At the core of the Department of Tourism’s strategy is a newly developed mountain tourism product development roadmap. This initiative aims to strengthen the region’s tourism sector by fostering environmental preservation, promoting local culture, and encouraging community participation in tourism planning. The roadmap integrates sustainable practices into what was once a conventional ecotourism framework, ensuring that mountain tourism not only generates economic benefits but also safeguards the area’s biodiversity and heritage.

Paulo Benito Tugbang, the Director of the DOT’s Office of Product Development, highlighted these efforts during the Mountain Tourism Summit, which was held in December 2025. According to Tugbang, the inclusion of environmental preservation and cultural heritage as pillars of mountain tourism ensures that tourism development does not come at the expense of the region’s identity or its fragile environment. Communities in the Cordillera are actively involved in the planning process, which is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the industry.

The Rise of Slow Food Tours and Cultural Integration

One of the most exciting developments in the region is the promotion of “slow food” tours. The Cordillera provinces, including Ifugao, Kalinga, Abra, Apayao, and Benguet, are already renowned for their unique culinary offerings, such as the famous “pinikpikan” (a traditional chicken dish) and “igado” (a pork and liver stew). The DOT aims to integrate these food experiences into a broader tourism model that focuses on longer, more immersive journeys, where tourists can experience not only the local cuisine but also the cultural practices and farming traditions that shape it.

This approach, which encourages visitors to slow down and engage more deeply with local communities, aligns perfectly with the growing trend of “slow travel”. Rather than rushing through tourist spots, travelers are encouraged to take their time, allowing them to connect with the culture and environment in a meaningful way. The slow food tours, which highlight traditional cooking methods and locally sourced ingredients, give visitors the opportunity to learn about the region’s rich agricultural history while supporting local farmers and communities.

Tourism Growth and Economic Impact

The Cordillera region is increasingly becoming a major economic contributor, particularly in the field of tourism. In 2023, the region attracted nearly 1.68 million visitors, a number that saw a significant jump in 2024, reaching 1.98 million. These tourists spent an estimated ₱10.72 billion on food, accommodation, and transportation, a substantial contribution to the local economy. The areas most visited include the famous rice terraces in Ifugao, the caves in Mountain Province, and the white-water rafting sites in Kalinga, all of which have seen a rise in both domestic and international tourism.

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted the tourism sector in 2020 and 2021, the recovery of the Cordillera region has been remarkable. The government has worked hard to create a safe and sustainable tourism environment, which has played a key role in the region’s economic rebound.

Protecting the Region’s Cultural Heritage

While the influx of tourists is undoubtedly beneficial for the local economy, the government is also committed to preserving the cultural integrity of the Cordillera. This includes respecting the traditional practices of the indigenous people and ensuring that tourism does not interfere with their ancestral domains. One of the key issues raised during the summit was the importance of cultural sensitivity in tourism programmes.

Marlon Martin, the executive director of the Save the Ifugao Terraces Movement, emphasized that tourism programmes should be “subordinate” to the social and cultural dynamics of the highland communities. He pointed out that the Cordillera people have lived in harmony with nature for centuries and that any tourism initiatives must align with their customs and traditions. For example, certain rituals and agricultural practices, such as the Ifugao “ponnok” harvest ritual, cannot be scheduled or commercialized for the convenience of tourists. The rhythm of these practices must be respected, and any attempts to force specific dates or alter the timing of these traditions are seen as deeply disrespectful.

The local communities, according to Martin, must set the rules for tourism, and their customary laws should govern the behaviour of tourists. This not only ensures that the cultural heritage is preserved but also helps maintain the integrity of sacred spaces, such as burial grounds, which must be excluded from tourism programmes.

Apayao Biosphere Reserve: A Model for Sustainable Tourism

One of the standout features of the Cordillera tourism roadmap is the inclusion of the newly recognized 395,975-hectare biosphere reserve in Apayao province. This biosphere reserve, which encompasses diverse ecosystems and wildlife sanctuaries, has been carefully designated to exclude areas that are critical to the renewable energy industry and tourism development. Apayao Governor Elias Bulut Jr sees this as an opportunity to create a model for sustainable mountain tourism that balances ecological preservation with community development.

Mt Sicapoo, the highest peak in Apayao at 2,354 metres, is considered a challenging climb for experienced trekkers. The surrounding biosphere reserve offers a unique opportunity to explore a pristine environment while supporting sustainable tourism initiatives. Governor Bulut emphasized that such initiatives could provide a pathway for the local communities to benefit from tourism while preserving their natural heritage.

A New Era for Mountain Tourism in the Philippines

As the Philippine government works to develop mountain tourism in a responsible and culturally sensitive manner, the Cordillera region will benefit greatly from the growing interest in ecotourism and slow travel. By promoting sustainability, protecting cultural heritage, and involving local communities in the planning process, the DOT hopes to create a tourism model that can be replicated in other parts of the country.

However, the success of this initiative will rely heavily on the collaboration of all stakeholders, including local communities, the tourism industry, and government agencies. As the region continues to attract more visitors, it is critical that the Cordillera maintains a balance of growth and preservation, ensuring that nature, culture, and community thrive together. With careful planning and respect for local traditions, mountain tourism in the Philippines has the potential to serve as a model for sustainable development in other countries.