DOT Continues Lakbay-Likha Creative Tourism Dry Run in Nueva Vizcaya
Following the successful implementation of activities in Quirino Province, participants of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 2-led dry run of Lakbay-Likha: A Creative Tourism Experience continued their immersion in Nueva Vizcaya, one of the pilot provinces for the development of the region’s Creative Tourism Circuit.
Conducted from June 16 to 19, the dry run showcased a diverse range of creative, cultural, and community-based tourism experiences that highlighted the province’s artistic traditions, local craftsmanship, culinary heritage, and stories of resilience.
The Nueva Vizcaya leg commenced at Kesingo Restaurant, where participants were introduced to the process of traditional buko pie making through a live demonstration and facility tour. The experience also featured the restaurant’s signature buko pancit, demonstrating the innovative use of local ingredients in culinary tourism.
The group then visited the Nueva Vizcaya Provincial Jail, where Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) presented handcrafted products available for purchase. Participants were given an opportunity to learn about the facility’s livelihood and rehabilitation initiatives, gaining insight into stories of personal transformation, skills development, and reintegration through creativity and enterprise.
On the second day, participants engaged with the province’s thriving creative sector beginning at Hardin Creatives, where they took part in painting activities and explored a gallery showcasing local artworks. The journey continued to Capisaan, Kasibu, where members of the Mun-Abol weaving community demonstrated traditional weaving techniques and guided participants in crafting woven accessories, highlighting the preservation of indigenous knowledge and craftsmanship.
The circuit also featured Aruga Handwovens, where guests learned keychain-making using locally woven materials, followed by a visit to Nic and Jas Berry Farm and Gift Shop for flower-pressing activities and mocktail preparation using locally sourced ingredients. The site likewise showcased handcrafted accessories and creative products inspired by nature and local culture.
As part of the cultural immersion, participants proceeded to St. Vincent Ferrer Church, where they witnessed the Imbestida performance and joined members of the community in a traditional dance presentation, offering a glimpse into local customs and collective cultural expressions.
The third day focused on traditional crafts and wellness experiences. At Maranatha Handicrafts, participants observed the production of decorative flowers crafted from dried corn husks, demonstrating the creative transformation of agricultural materials into marketable products. This was followed by a pottery-making demonstration at Sebing’s Pottery, where artisans shared techniques passed down through generations.
At Rockwoods Agritourism Park and Peace Sanctuary, participants explored wood art creations that reflected local craftsmanship and artistic innovation. The day also featured an exhibit of Fluidism paintings, live portrait sketching, and demonstrations by local artists, providing a platform for contemporary creative expression within the province.