27/01/2026
LOOK: Under the Green Luzon Project, the Social Action Center of The Apostolic Vicariate of Tabuk, together with Caritas Philippines and other stakeholders, successfully conducted a multipartite community consultation for the BALSA Eco-Cultural Tourism Initiative at Suyang Barangay Hall in Tabuk City on January 23, 2026. This activity aimed to bring eco-tourism and sustainable development to the barangays of Balawag, Suyang, and Amlao (BALSA).
The event brought together local leaders, tribal leaders, women's groups, indigenous representatives, and community members to discuss and gain support for the initiative. Partner agencies, including the Tabuk City Tourism Office, DAR, NCIP, DENR-CENRO-Tabuk, and DOST, were present to listen to community concerns and provide insights. Representatives from the Office of the Provincial Governor and City Mayor also attended, delivering messages of support from the two local chief executives.
The discussions centered on the following topics:
- Boosting the local economy through eco-tourism opportunities, a priority program of the City Tourism Office
- Promoting coffee and cacao production as a greening approach, in partnership with Project VISTA of DAR
- Processing CADT for indigenous communities
- Importance of environmental protection, conservation, and Protected Areas
- Collaboration for a sustainable future for BALSA communities
The participants emphasized that unity, cultural respect, and environmental care are key to making this initiative a success. The event ended with an open forum, stressing collaboration for a sustainable future for BALSA communities.
The Social Action Center and Caritas Philippines extend their gratitude to the BLGU and Community of Suyang for hosting the event, and to all partners and stakeholders for their support.