Sorsogon State University (SorSU), in collaboration with the Local Government Unit of Bulusan (LGU-Bulusan), the Department of Science and Technology – National Research Council of the Philippines (DOST-NRCP), and the Department of Tourism – Regional Office V (DOT-ROV), successfully organized a stakeholders’ conference focused on “The Making of San Bernardino Islands’ Cultural and Ecotourism (Project SBI)”, attended by various partner agencies, held on September 3, 2024, at the SorSU Dormtel – Antonio Hall, Sorsogon City Campus.
Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto (Campus Director, Sorsogon City Campus) opened the conference emphasizing the project’s significance in promoting sustainable tourism and the preservation of Bulusan’s rich cultural heritage. Campus Director Escoto added, “Through this research, the researchers have investigated the island’s unique history, exploring ways to harness its resources responsibly and benefit the local community. Together, we can create a vibrant hub that not only attracts visitors but also safeguards the island’s rich cultural heritage and Philippine ecological balance.”
Dr. Richard V. Dumilag, the Project Leader, presented the project’s accomplishments following a pivotal year of research undertaking on San Bernardino Islands (SBI), underscoring the team’s pursuit of rebranding SBI in terms of its cultural, ecotourism, and economic impacts to the people, community, and the local government. Through a comprehensive presentation, Dr. Dumilag shared and highlighted the topography, history, resources, tourism, and contemporary issues of SBI. Four draft publications of a dossier, one of the outputs of the Project SBI, were distributed to key figures after Dr. Dumilag’s presentation.
In response, Hon. Michael G. Guysayko (Municipal Mayor, Bulan) reiterated LGU-Bulusan’s commitment to fully supporting future directions and initiatives related to SBI. Further, Dir. Herbie B. Aguas (Regional Director, DOT-ROV), on behalf of DOT, expressed the organization’s enthusiasm that such a study was conducted and accomplished. RD Aguas also conveyed his interest in a continued partnership between SorSU and DOT to promote sustainable tourism.
Similarly, SUC President III, Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus, emphasized that aside from Project SBI, SorSU prioritizes various community-focused research projects. Dr. Ryan V. Dio (SorSU – Vice President for Research, Extension and Training) delivered the event’s closing remarks.
Funded by the DOST-NRCP, Project SBI is intended to support the promotion of cultural and ecotourism in the San Bernardino Islands (SBI) in Bulusan, Sorsogon, integrating tourism within the overall framework of strategic local planning and development activities of the LGU. This initiative seeks to provide economic, social, and cultural benefits to its people, while, at the same time, promoting an understanding of environmental quality concerns.
Under the leadership of Dr. Dumilag, Project SBI is comprised of the following staff/consultants namely, Prof. Franklin P. Calaminos, Prof. Teresa Haide R. Belgica, Prof. Mabille R. Longavela, Ms. Cyrin Mae G. Burton, Mr. Novie F. Evasco, Prof. Rogelio B. Las Pinas, Dr. Sherill A. Gilbas (Head, Admission Services Unit), Dr. Anna Cristina G. Fortes (Director, Extension and Training Services), Prof. Frances Grace J. Jetomo (Head, Publication & Knowledge Management), Dr. Aaron A. Funa, Prof. Renz Alvin Gabay, Engr. Ernie Banares, Engr. Bryan Escoto, Prof. Brian Gabriel Buenaobra, Ms. Alyssa Mae H. Atun, Ms. Veronica B. Gallanosa, Ms. Ana Frades, Mr. Jowel F. Garrote, Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (Vice President for Academic Affairs), Prof. Aunel D. Dinglasan, and Mr. Michael V. Fugnit; and Research Assistants Mr. Cedrick Vincent B. Gallanosa & Mr. Richee F. Gallanosa.
The stakeholders’ conference was also attended by university top executives and personnel. Other key officials and special guests present in the event were Hon. Wennie R. Romano (Municipal Vice Mayor, Bulusan); Municipal Councilors: Hon. Leonardo F. Formanes, Hon. Jose Rene S. Halum, Hon. Mark J. Dominguez, Hon. Antonio H. Fuentes (President, Association of Barangay Chairpersons); Hon. Zerahmae G. Frades (President, Sangguniang Kabataan Federation); Mr. Philip Bartelet (Municipal Tourism Officer); and Engr. Sandro Noguerra (Planning Officer, DOST-ROV).
The successful stakeholders’ conference demonstrates a proactive stride toward strengthening sustainable tourism development in the San Bernardino Islands, fostering collective efforts and collaborative endeavors among local government, various institutions/agencies, and community stakeholders. (SorSU PIO)
