Balbalan, Kalinga named finalist of prestigious Philippine Tourism Awards

Balbalan, Kalinga – The Municipality of Balbalan, Kalinga is named finalist of the Philippine Tourism Awards(PTA) - to be a finalist is considered as one of the highest recognitions in the country’s tourism industry.

The Department of Tourism, to recognize and honor excellence and outstanding contributions of stakeholders, institutions, and local government units, confers the PTA as its highest national accolade for deserving recipients.

In a letter addressed to the Balbalan Municipal Local Government Unit led by Mayor Almar Malannag, the DOT informed the Municipal LGU that they have been selected as a finalist in the PTA following the completion of the national judging process in July this year.

Having been chosen as a finalist, the LGU was invited to attend the awarding ceremony on September 8, 2025, at the Okada Manila in Paranaque City, where the DOT will be announcing the winners in various categories.

Mayor Almar Malannag, who shared his delight in the news, acknowledged the efforts of the Municipal Tourism Office, headed by Tourism Officer Regina Faye Munda Cruz, who tirelessly worked for the improvement and promotion of the rich tourism industry in Balbalan.

“Haan lang nga pride iti Municipality of Balbalan daytoy, haan lang nga pride iti Kalinga, nu di ket pride iti Cordillera. Maragsakan nak kadagitoy nga maar-aramid iti Balbalan ta maipakita mi nga dakami nga taga Balbalan, ar-aramiden mi iti trabaho mi about iti turismo. Tanu awan gamin iti timpuyog between the LCE, tourism office, ken LGU officers, haan agproper dagitoy nga kayat tayo nga maaramid iti Balbalan,” he expressed.