THE Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (Atop) awarded the world-famous Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo City as the Best Tourism Event of the country cementing the festival's position as the best tourism practice in 2008.

The awarding ceremonies climaxed the 9th national convention of Atop hosted by the City Government on October 2 to 5.

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Dinagyang won the title in 2006 and 2007, while Iloilo City tourism officer Benito Jimena bagged the special award as Best Tourism Officer in 2008, along with two other municipal tourism officers.

City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas also expressed elation over the success of Atop national convention.

The Iloilo convention was attended with more than 500 participants.

Dinagyang Festival is one of 20 finalists vying in the chartered city, component city, municipal and provincial categories.

Kahiwayan Festival of Sta Barbara, Iloilo also bagged the Best Tourism Event in the Municipal Category.

Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano gave the plaques of recognition during the Awards Night held October 4 in Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center in Iloilo City. (LCP)

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(October 7, 2008 issue)
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