SLSU leads World Tourism Day 2025 with focus on sustainability

Southern Leyte State University (SLSU), in partnership with the Southern Leyte Tourism, Promotion, and Investment Center (SLTIPC), successfully led the two-day celebration of World Tourism Day 2025 on September 23 and 24 at the SLSU Main Campus. With the global theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” the event brought together educators, students, government officials, and invited partner institutions to highlight the growing importance of sustainability in the tourism sector.

The celebration commenced on September 23 with an online webinar via Microsoft Teams, which gathered speakers from various schools and organizations. The program began with an audiovisual prayer and the national anthem, followed by a welcome message from Mr. Nedgar V. Garvez, Head of SLTIPC. In his message, he emphasized the importance of partnerships among academia, government, and local communities to enhance sustainable tourism efforts.

The webinar featured four invited speakers who shared timely and relevant insights on sustainable practices. Ms. Mona Lizza Henwood of Southern Leyte State University presented strategies on small business entrepreneurship in the food industry. Dr. Pornchan Lojanasupareuk, also from SLSU, highlighted the potential of sports and recreation in promoting sustainable tourism. Ms. Arnie Donayre Viña-Estillore of STI Maasin discussed the challenges and opportunities of future trends in tourism. At the same time, Ms. Marigold Dayagbil Badeo of Ghrace Joy Technological Vocational Center spoke on balancing tourism growth with environmental conservation. Each lecture provided practical knowledge, inspiring students and participants to view sustainability as a shared responsibility. The first day concluded with a closing message from Mr. Exekiel Ed A. Elizan, Head of the Center for Foreign Language and Culture, who called on students to apply their learning in real-world contexts.

The on-site celebration on September 24 began with a lively cultural parade led by the SLSU Drum and Bugle Corps, setting the tone for the morning program. After the opening prayer and national anthem, Dr. Constantino G. Medilo Jr., SLSU Vice President for Academic Affairs, delivered the welcome message, emphasizing the university’s role in educating future tourism leaders who are conscious of sustainability. Governor Damian G. Mercado also gave his support through a video greeting, highlighting the province’s commitment to sustainable development through tourism.

The program featured a mix of cultural performances and educational activities. The LANTAW Dance Troupe performed a production number showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Presentations included student-led vlogging projects on sustainable practices and a video on Unity Tree Planting, both reflecting the active involvement of the youth in environmental initiatives. Intermission numbers were performed by the Coro de Alcedo and the LANTAW Dance Troupe, while exhibitions from Ghrace Joy Technological Vocational Center and STI Maasin displayed innovations in sustainable practices.

The awarding of certificates recognized the contributions of participants in the vlogging contest, clean-up drives, and exhibitions. Plaques of participation were also given to partner institutions. Mr. Nedgar V. Garvez once again closed the celebration, commending the collective efforts of SLSU and its partners in advancing tourism that respects culture, environment, and community.

By combining academic discussions with cultural showcases, SLSU’s celebration of World Tourism Day 2025 demonstrated how tourism can drive meaningful change when guided by sustainability. The event also highlighted the university’s commitment to strengthening partnerships and shaping future leaders who will carry forward the principles of sustainable tourism in Southern Leyte and beyond.