Zambales Gov. Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. urged tourism stakeholders in Central Luzon to future-proof the region’s tourism industry through stronger cooperation, smart technology, and environmental protection.

Speaking at the 2026 convention of the Association of Tourism Officers of Central Luzon (ATOCEL) on July 31, Ebdane, who also chairs the Regional Development Council III, said provinces must integrate their tourism plans and work together to address global and local challenges, including geopolitical instability, rising energy costs, climate change, traffic, waste management, and environmental degradation.

He emphasized that smart tourism should use technology to empower local workers, preserve cultural heritage, and ensure tourism benefits remain within host communities.

Ebdane also called for a balance between tourism growth and environmental stewardship, noting that protecting the region’s seas, forests, and agricultural lands is essential to long-term economic sustainability.

While the RDC continues to push major infrastructure projects to build an integrated tourism ecosystem, Ebdane stressed that infrastructure must be matched with smart and sustainable governance to protect destinations while boosting local economic opportunities.