The Department of Tourism Region III proudly took part in the recently concluded KTO–DOT Dure Tourism Development Project Training Program held in Seoul, Goesan-gun, and Seocheon-gun, Republic of Korea.

This five-day capacity-building program gathered representatives from the DOT, TIEZA, LGU partners, and World Vision to deepen their understanding of Korea’s community-based tourism (CBT) models—including the renowned Dure Program, advanced tourism information centers, and wetland-based ecotourism initiatives.

A Key Highlight

The training reinforced the selection and confirmation of Sasmuan, Pampanga as an official Project Beneficiary under the Dure Tourism Development initiative—aligning perfectly with its globally recognized wetland ecosystems and growing tourism potential. This milestone strengthens Sasmuan’s role in piloting community-based tourism innovations inspired by Korea’s best practices.

Program Highlights Included:

• Lectures on Korea–Philippines tourism ODA cooperation

• Deep dives into CBT systems, tourism product development, and marketing

• Field visits to HiKR Ground, Bukchon Cultural Center, Tongin Market, Mohanong Agricultural Corporation, and Meet Green

• Birdwatching and wetland tourism benchmarking—highly relevant to Sasmuan’s unique environment

• Reflection and planning on how learnings will be applied on the ground

DOT Region III extends its gratitude to the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO), World Vision Korea, and all partners who made this training possible. With strengthened knowledge and renewed commitment, we look forward to supporting Sasmuan and the region in building sustainable, community-driven tourism models.