• THERESA MAE DULMAN
International School of Sustainable Tourism (ISST) president, Dr. Mina Gabor, has expressed enthusiasm on Bacolod City’s hosting of the 10th International Farm Tourism Conference Philippines (IFTC-P) in February 2027.
“We are very happy that the 10th anniversary will be hosted by Bacolod. A lot of development has been happening in Bacolod and the provinces (of Negros Island Region),” Gabor said.
She highlighted the city’s active economic growth and dynamic enterprise development, and the emerging position of the region as a hub for organic agriculture and sustainable tourism.
Gabor, former Department of Tourism secretary, cited Bacolod’s reputation as organic agriculture advocate and its growing Slow Food movement as pivotal factors in its selection as IFTC-P host.
“The ISST is looking at incorporating wellness and traditional healing practices, such as hilot, into the farm tourism program, including the possibility of promoting wellness activities in farm destinations,” she added.
Hundreds of farmers, farm owners, tourism operators, government officials, educators, and international delegates from across the Asia-Pacific region, the United States, and Canada are expected to gather for the confab next year.
The IFTC-P’s 9th edition in March 2026 drew approximately 500 local and foreign stakeholders. | TMD
