Makati wins at 1st Philippine Tourism Excellence Awards 

Mayor Abby Binay today said Makati has been recognized as one of the best cities in the country for pursuing sustainable tourism at the first Philippine Tourism Excellence Awards of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) and Megaworld Foundation.

The mayor said the city government won an award under the Good Local Governance category for its valuable contribution to sustainable urban tourism development.

"We are honored and humbled by this prestigious award from the AIM and Megaworld Foundation. Local governance is essential for sustainable urban tourism development. The city government can help protect the local environment, create opportunities for locals to benefit from increased tourism revenue, and contribute to long-term economic growth. We will continue to work hard to provide tourists with premium hospitality, entertainment options, and cultural attractions," she said.

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Mayor Abby said local governments should engage in meaningful dialogues with business owners, residents, and other stakeholders. They must also develop and enforce strong regulations that promote responsible behavior among tourists, and invest in infrastructure projects to improve the quality of life for residents, workers, and tourists.

The mayor said the city has also reopened tourist centers at the Museo ng Makati in Poblacion and Glorietta 2 in Ayala Center to provide free walking tours and showcase Makati's popular and lesser-known sites. The city launched the MakaTurismo website last September 28 to attract tourists and visitors to the city, apart from the MakaTurismo vlogs.

She said the city continues to value Makati's rich heritage and tradition by holding town fiestas and other cultural programs like Flores de Mayo sa Makati, Kalbaryo, and Prusisyon.

Last July, Makati started hosting the monthly celebration of national day with ambassadors and representatives from various embassies in the city to strengthen partnerships with the diplomatic community.

"Through initiatives like these, we hope to inspire more people to visit Makati and experience its dynamic urban culture. Makati remains one of the top tourist destinations in the country, and we are confident that it will continue to be recognized as a model for sustainable urban tourism development in the years to come," Mayor Abby also said.

The first Philippine Tourism Excellence Awards was held on November 18 at Sheraton Manila Hotel in Pasay City. The event is part of the AIM-Dr. Andrew L. Tan Center for Tourism's 10th founding anniversary, with the theme: "A Decade of Pursuing Sustainable Tourism."