4 PEARLS FOR LA UNION: LU Shines at ATOP Pearl Awards, Celebrates Tourism Excellence

By: Omme Atiyah Gonting, GPC-LUPTO | Photos By: LUPTO | Date: October 5, 2023


The Province of La Union, led by Gov. Raphaelle Veronica "Rafy" Ortega-David, has once again proven its excellence in tourism after clinching four prestigious awards at the 24th National Convention of the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) Pearl Awards, held on October 5, 2023 at Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan.

La Union, a province known for its pristine beaches, cultural heritage, and vibrant community, stood tall among other provinces, securing top awards in various categories.

The province's remarkable hosting abilities were recognized as it received the Grand Winner title for Best Hosting Award of LGU (Local Event) in the Provincial Category for the highly successful Pasko sa Kapitolyo.

La Union's commitment to promoting its stunning attractions and diverse culture was also recognized as it clinched another Grand Winner title for Best Brochure in the Provincial Category for the Around La Union Travel Guide.

Two First Runner – up awards were also won by the province for Best Tourism Gifts/Souvenirs (Non-Food) Provincial Category for Inabel La Union and Best Tourism Gifts/Souvenirs (Food) Provincial Category for Don Avelino Exotic Tropical Wines.

A Certificate of Recognition for The La Union Annual Youth Taoid Camp for the Best Program for Culture and the Arts (Provincial) Category was also awarded to La Union for being one of the finalists for the said award category.

La Union Provincial Tourism Officer, Mr. Arthur S. Cortez, Jr., proudly accepted the awards from Department of Tourism Secretary Ma. Esperanza Christina Garcia-Frasco and ATOP President, Ms. Junel Ann Divinagracia.

Gov. Rafy expressed her joy and pride following La Union's achievement in the ATOP Pearl Awards emphasizing the importance of teamwork, dedication, and the shared vision that propelled La Union to its victories and to be known as a premier tourism destination in the country.

The ATOP – DOT Pearl Awards is a prestigious recognition given to outstanding Local Government Units and tourism players of the industry who exemplifies initiatives, innovations and best practices showcasing the country’s exceptional beauty and wonders for tourism and culture. ATOP is an organization of tourism officers across the country aimed for collaboration, convergence and inclusive development geared towards having a unified and collective aspirations for the tourism industry.

The Pearl Awards conferred to La Union reflect more reasons to Love La Union, the positive impact of #LaUnionPROBINSYAnihan, and our kaprobinsiaan's dedication to the province's vision to be The Heart of Agri-Tourism in Northern Luzon by 2025.

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