RECOGNIZING the potential of the farm tourism industry in the region, the International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) will hold the sixth Philippine Farm Tourism Conference in Cebu City.

This, as the passing of the Republic Act 10816 or the “Farm Tourism Development Act of 2016,” paved the way for opportunities, especially in developing farmlands into sustainable tourist destinations.

“The international conference has since attracted an average of 350 participants from all over the country and other parts of the world; all enthusiasts of sustainable development, agriculture and tourism,” said Mina Gabor, chairperson and president of the ISST, in a statement.

The conference is targeted to attract investors to pour in money in farm tourism. It will be held on Nov. 6 to 8, 2019 at the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu.

“We believe it would be an opportune time to consider investing in the farm tourism industry. The bill addresses key issues such as rural and urban development, food security, health and wellness and sustainable agriculture, while being lucrative for farm owners at the same time,” said Gabor, who was a former secretary of Tourism.

With the theme “Farm Tourism: Building Community Relationship for Sustainable Development,” the conference is expected to promote awareness on farm tourism.

“The conference promotes networking through sharing of best practices to encourage community involvement through farm tourism and to increase awareness of its benefits to the community and the Philippines as a whole,” she said.

Composed of three parts, the conference will “further strengthen the stakeholders’ commitment to promote the country as a world-class farm tourism destination for both Filipinos and foreign visitors.”

It will also tackle a range of topics relevant to both aspiring and operating farm tourism owners. It will also have an exhibition area, where fresh, processed and locally grown agricultural produce will be on sale.

The conference will also showcase a farm tour program where participants will see the innovative activities and products they offer. JOB