UN names Cebu's Bojo among the 'Best Tourism Villages' in the world

A barangay in Cebu has been recognized as one of the world’s “Best Tourism Villages” by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

Home of the world-renowned Bojo river, Bojo in Aloguinsan, Cebu, was among 44 communities in 32 countries who made it to the 2021 list published this December.

According to the UNWTO website, Best Tourism Village is judged by its cultural and natural resources; promotion and conservation of cultural resources, as well as economic, social, and environmental sustainability.

A community's Tourism Potential and Development and Value Chain Integration, Governance and Prioritization of Tourism; Infrastructure and Connectivity, and Health, Safety and Security are also taken into consideration.

“Tourism can be a driver of social cohesion and inclusion by promoting a fairer distribution of benefits throughout the territory and empowering local communities,” UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili was quoted as saying.

"This initiative recognizes those villages committed to making tourism a strong driver of their development and wellbeing," he added.

The Department of Tourism (DOT) said Philippine Ambassador to Spain Philippe Jones Lhuiller received the award together with Tourism OIC-Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso in Madrid last December 2.

In a Facebook post, the Central Visayas Office of the DOT said Bojo was the only winner from the Philippines. Seventy-five countries submitted more than 170 nominations, making it truly an honor for Bojo to be recognized. 

Congratulations! — LA, GMA News