Sagada, Philippines Cracks Down on Fraudulent Travel Agencies, Imposes Bans on Unethical Operators

Published on August 28, 2025

Sagada, a well-known tourist destination in the Philippines’ Mountain Province, has taken important measures to safeguard its domestic tourism sector by enforcing strict laws against dishonest and unethical behaviour. The local government has enforced severe penalties in response to significant grievances and incidents involving travel agencies and operators who falsely advertised Sagada’s attractions. The town, which is renowned for its natural beauty and rich cultural legacy, is dedicated to making sure that its tourism-related activities continue to be genuine and helpful to the neighbourhood.

The Resolution Against Fraudulent Tour Operators

On August 8, 2025, the Municipal Council of Sagada passed Resolution 139-2025, which temporarily suspended several travel and tour companies and individuals accused of unethical practices. These suspensions were the result of thorough investigations that uncovered serious violations in the tourism sector. The companies in question were found to be engaged in deceitful actions such as using unauthorised images from legitimate accommodations to promote their services online. This misleading advertising led to a poor experience for visitors, ultimately harming Sagada’s reputation as a trusted destination for travellers.

The investigation revealed that these unethical practices were not isolated incidents but part of a broader trend of fraud and misrepresentation. The resolution specifically cited cases where tourists were misled by online promotions that falsely portrayed Sagada’s accommodations and attractions, resulting in dissatisfaction and mistrust.

Targeted Individuals and Agencies

Further investigation by Sagada’s local governing body culminated in the passing of Resolution 156-2025 on August 26, 2025. This resolution formally declared Rona Shane Laceda Sanchez and her business partners as undesirable individuals within the municipality. Sanchez, along with her partners, was accused of running multiple fraudulent tourism operations under the name Footstep Travel and Tours. As a result, the resolution specifically banned Sanchez from operating within Sagada’s jurisdiction and warned other tourism-accredited businesses against collaborating with her.

The municipality made it clear that any business found working with Sanchez would face immediate and indefinite suspension of their business permits and accreditations. The authorities also took action against other key individuals involved in unethical practices. These included Bryan Pineda Bonifacio, the owner of BOOOK and GOO Travel and Tours, and the operators of Footstep Travel and Tours, whose actions were deemed to have caused significant harm to Sagada’s local tourism industry.

Suspensions and Bans on Local Guides and Businesses

Not only were travel agencies and tour operators affected by these measures, but local guides and businesses were also penalised for their involvement in these unethical practices. Members of the Sagada Environmental Tour Guides Organisation (SETGO), including Theodore Dangkiw, along with representatives from Nessey Lodge, were handed a one-month suspension for their part in the violations.

The local government made it clear that these sanctions were not meant to target individual businesses or operators but were necessary to protect the integrity of the tourism sector. The suspensions were seen as a critical step in addressing the damage caused by fraudulent practices and ensuring that Sagada’s tourism environment remains trustworthy and sustainable.

Failure to Comply with Hearings and Legal Consequences

The sanctions were further extended to individuals and companies that failed to appear during scheduled hearings to respond to the complaints filed against them. Among those banned indefinitely from operating in Sagada were Najarah Bansao of Van South Travel and Tours, Pheey Fey Feid Darang, Bashit Darang, Barry Estrimos, Edmer Albay, and Arce Buendia. Their failure to engage with the investigation and present their side of the case led to a permanent ban on their participation in Sagada’s tourism activities.

The local authorities emphasised the importance of cooperation with legal processes, noting that those who ignored official summons or failed to respond to the allegations faced severe repercussions. This move was aimed at fostering a more transparent and accountable tourism industry, where all parties operate with integrity.

A Call for Ethical Tourism Practices

Despite these setbacks, Sagada remains committed to welcoming responsible and ethical tourists. Mayor Felicito Dula, alongside the municipal council, emphasised the importance of ensuring that tourism operations in Sagada are beneficial to both the local community and visitors. The authorities are determined to maintain Sagada’s reputation as a safe and sustainable destination for travellers while preventing exploitation and unethical practices.

The resolution also called on local tourism operators to adhere strictly to established tourism ordinances, ensuring that both visitors and the local community benefit from a thriving, ethical tourism economy. Several local operators have been reminded of the importance of complying with these rules to avoid potential sanctions.

Tourism businesses like Dinno De Jesus of Biyahe ni Dino, Joycel Sanchez of Sister Travel and Tours, Jewel Sanchez Rusiana of Jaha Travel and Tours, Lara Lanz Oy, and Rommel Lobos have been specifically reminded to operate with full compliance with local laws and regulations. This call for responsibility reflects the municipality’s broader vision of building a tourism industry that serves both visitors and the local community in a fair and honest manner.

Sagada’s Commitment to Sustainable Tourism

The local government of Sagada has stated unequivocally that it opposes any kind of exploitation or deceptive behaviour in the tourism industry and supports moral and sustainable tourism practices. The municipality’s actions demonstrate a strong commitment to upholding the integrity of Sagada’s tourism sector while making sure that companies conduct themselves ethically. The authorities are dedicated to upholding an open and responsible tourism environment going forward, where all operators and individuals follow the strictest guidelines for professionalism and ethics.

[Image Source: Mountain Province Tourism Website]