10/06/2026
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The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 2, in partnership with the Provincial Government of Quirino through the Provincial Tourism Office and the Municipal Tourism Office of Maddela, successfully conducted the Seven-Day Eco-Tour Guides Training from May 29 to June 4, 2026, in Maddela, Quirino.
A total of 28 participants composed of Bugadors from Governorβs Rapids and Siitan Nature Park, tourism personnel, and eco-park staff successfully completed the intensive training program aimed at enhancing their competencies in ecotourism guiding, environmental stewardship, visitor safety, and service excellence.
The training covered a comprehensive range of topics, including biodiversity and ecology, birding and nature interpretation, basic first aid and life support, water search and rescue (WASAR), Leave No Trace principles, bamboo cooking, rappelling, tour guiding, and the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE). Participants also engaged in practical field exercises and mock tours at various tourism sites in Maddela.
The program was facilitated by DOT-accredited trainers Mr. Antonio Felipe Arbias, Mr. Adrian Constantino, Mr. Larry Andres, Mr. Derick Gonzales, Mr. Ariel Ramos, and Mr. Romano βManuβ Del Rosario, who conducted both classroom discussions and hands-on activities. Through their expertise and guidance, participants gained valuable knowledge and practical experience in ecotourism and visitor management.
As part of the program, participants showcased their learning through practical tour presentations and mock tour evaluations. To further strengthen collaboration and promote continuous professional development among local guides, the participants formally organized the Quirino Eco-tourism Skilled Tour Guides (QUEST) Association and elected its first set of officers:
β’ President β Clemenceau S. Arciaga
β’ Vice President β Mark Vic G. Juan
β’ Secretary β Kharylle Anne H. Pastor
β’ Treasurer β Rhea Jane A. Jamias
β’ Auditor β Ronald S. Lorenzo
β’ Public Information Officer β John Carlo T. Acoba
β’ Business Manager β Judy R. Ramos
β’ Sergeant-at-Arms β Reynaldo R. Palma
The training concluded with the awarding of certificates to the participants, signifying the successful completion of the program and marking another milestone in advancing sustainable, responsible, and community-based tourism in the Province of Quirino.
Through this initiative, DOT Region 2 continues to empower local tourism stakeholders and strengthen the provinceβs capacity to promote, preserve, and protect its rich natural and cultural heritage while fostering quality visitor experiences and sustainable livelihood opportunities for local communities.