The Department of Tourism – Region III led an inter-agency consultation meeting with key stakeholders to strengthen sustainable and inclusive tourism efforts around Mt. Pinatubo.

Held recently, the meeting was attended by the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP) Region III, tourism officers from the LGUs of Capas (Tarlac) and Botolan (Zambales), and representatives from the provincial governments of Tarlac and Zambales. Officials from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Region III were also present.

DOT-III Regional Director Richard Cheng Daenos facilitated the discussion, which focused on trail management and the effects of Mt. Pinatubo’s reopening on tourist activity. Stakeholders also tackled ways to improve site safety, accessibility, and regulatory compliance while preserving the natural landscape.

The agencies expressed full support for tourism programs anchored on community participation, capacity-building, and environmental responsibility.

The collaboration highlights a unified effort to position Mt. Pinatubo as a model for responsible and inclusive ecotourism in Central Luzon.