Balbalasang wins 2025 Best Tourism Village Search in Cordillera, awarded P1Million in cash

Balbalan, Kalinga – The third time must really be the charm as the Balbalasang Eco Village in Balbalan, which houses one of the most preserved environments and heritages in Kalinga, has finally taken home the much-sought ‘Best Tourism Village’ citation in Cordillera.

The plaque and the P1,000,000 cash prize were received by Barangay Balbalasang led by Punong Barangay and ABC President Erwin Mangaoang, along with Mayor Almar Malannag, Vice Mayor Regina Munda Cruz, and Municipal Tourism Officer Regine Faye Munda Cruz, at SM City Tuguegarao on October 4, 2025.

The Search for Best Tourism Village in the Cordillera, which is being given by the Department of Tourism Cordillera, aims to recognize local tourism villages with exemplary performance in promoting sustainable, responsible, equitable, and participatory management of their local tourism.

Balbalasang stood out among the 12 finalists shortlisted from 21 nominees in this year’s search for its well-conserved nature, wildlife, and cultural heritage. Apart from its natural wonders like the Saltan River, one of the cleanest rivers in the Philippines, Balbalasang also managed to preserve its rich tradition and practices.

Mayor Almar Malannag, in an interview, said that the feat was made possible because of the collaborative efforts of the entire Balbalan – from the community, the local government, the national line agencies, and other stakeholders.

“Haan naaramid daytoy nu awan dagitoy taga Balbalan – dagitoy taga Balbalasang, LGU staff, Municipal Tourism Office, national line agencies kas kuma dagiti PNP and AFP nga mangbanbantay iti peace and order ta nu awan daytoy nga peace and order, agbuteng dagitoy turista nga mapan mangkita kadagitoy napipintas nga lugar ken kultura ditoy Balbalan,” Malannag said.

Malannag likewise acknowledged the Kalinga Provincial Government headed by Governor James Edduba for the support and the Department of Tourism Cordillera for seeing the potential of the tourism sites and practices in Balbalan.

Balbalasang Eco Village earned the first place in the prestigious search for Best Tourism Village on their third attempt, the first two attempts were in 2023 and 2024.