PGLU LEADS ASTG-LU GENERAL ASSEMBLY, NEW SET OF OFFICERS ELECTED
By: Joy Ann L. Gurtiza, GPC-LUPTO | Photos By: Thea Charisse Q. Casuga, AsTG-LU | Date: June 6, 2025
Demonstrating a strong commitment to professionalizing local guides and fostering unity within the tourism industry, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) took the lead in organizing and supporting the recent General Assembly of the Association of Active Tour Guides of La Union, Inc. (AsTG-LU) held on June 6, 2025, at the La Union Provincial Administrative and Commercial (LUPAC) Building, San Fernando City, La Union. The event was attended by face-to-face participants and featured a hybrid setup via Zoom video conferencing.
In line with the province’s tourism campaign L.O.V.E. La Union—Live, Own, Visit, Enjoy La Union, the event served as a platform to strengthen collaboration and elevate standards among local tour guides. The assembly featured both in-person and Zoom-based participation.
On behalf of Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David, Julius A. Manabat, In-Charge of La Union Provincial Tourism Office (LUPTO), expressed his gratitude to all the trained guides of the province for their continued support and dedication. He also urged everyone to remain committed to PGLU’s initiatives on tourism promotion and development.
On the other hand, representing the Department of Tourism - Region 1 Acting Regional Director Evangeline M. Dadat, Jessereile Ann M. Laudencia, Tourism Operations Officer II, reiterated the importance of accreditation for guides, highlighting it as a crucial step toward achieving professionalism and fostering industry growth. She expressed confidence that with ongoing support from the provincial government and industry stakeholders, local guides can elevate their standards and enhance their reputation.
During the assembly, members reviewed the past three years’ accomplishments and discussed future plans. A key highlight was the election of new officers for 2025–2027, led by President Xavier B. Mercado. Other elected officers include Mark Aquino and Almira S. Pagaduan as Vice Presidents for the First and Second Districts, respectively; Joy Ann L. Gurtiza as Secretary; Lorenna C. Luna as Assistant Secretary; Bella Reyna B. Gamueda as Treasurer; and Ellanar E. Zamoranos as Assistant Treasurer. Julius L. Bautista and Aricia Julienne D. Rosales were named Public Relations Officers, while Julius A. Manabat of PGLU-LUPTO was appointed Auditor.
The assembly concluded with the ratification of the association’s Constitution and By-Laws, and heartfelt thanks to all participants for their active involvement. With the guidance of the newly elected officers and continued collaboration with PGLU, AsTG-LU is set to reach new milestones that are anchored to promote L.O.V.E. La Union.
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