Pangasinan: Local government units and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Pangasinan will showcase tourist destinations, culinary arts, handicrafts, and creative industries in an upcoming five-day tour called RANIAG, which stands for "Rediscover Artistry, Nurture Identity, and Accelerate Growth."
According to Philippines News Agency, "Raniag" is an Ilocano word meaning "light," "brightness," or "radiance," the DOT Ilocos Region said in a statement. The September 9-13 tour, led by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), aims to promote the region's arts, crafts, and traditions, particularly in La Union and Pangasinan provinces, and support future creative enterprises.
The DOT Ilocos Region stated that the initiative aligns with the goals of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (Republic Act 11914), with the tour aiming to position the region as a leading creative destination for tourism and artistic goods. 'This immersive tour will unite artists, artisans, cultural workers, entrepreneurs, content creators, and tourism stakeholders for lively exchanges on the region's creative legacy and innovations,' the agency said, noting the goal of making it an annual September event celebrating both Creative and Tourism Months.
Pangasinan Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Marco Sales, in a phone interview, said tourist destinations in the province affected by the disasters have recovered and are ready to welcome visitors. "This is a big chance to introduce not just the destinations but also the industries," he said, referring to the tour, which will be joined by 30 national and local artists, social media influencers, local chefs and restaurateurs, tour operators, fashion and interior designers, and the media.
Sales said the participants will immerse themselves in the culture, skills, and identity of local communities through activities like weaving (Inabel, bamboo crafts, Buri bags), pottery, glass painting, visual arts, and culinary arts. The tour is expected to benefit at least 33 local creatives and MSMEs in Pangasinan and La Union by increasing their visibility, connecting them with new customers, and opening doors to opportunities beyond trade fairs and exhibits.
Sales said they hope to explore other industries to benefit from the increasing tourist arrivals in the province. In 2022, Pangasinan recorded 6.8 million day tourist arrivals; 8.4 million in 2023; and 10 million in 2024, he said. Overnight tourist arrivals also increased from over 500,000 in 2022, about 600,000 in 2023, and more than 900,000 in 2024.
