DOT Region 2 Concludes Continuing Education Training on Personality Development and Phone Photography for Tour Guides
The Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 2, in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Isabela and the City Government of Ilagan, successfully concluded the 20-hour Continuing Education Training on Personality Development and Phone Photography held from June 17–19, 2026, at Ilagan City Hotel, Alibagu, City of Ilagan, Isabela. The training program was designed to enhance the professional competencies of tour guides by strengthening their interpersonal skills and improving their mobile photography techniques both essential in delivering quality tourism services and effectively promoting tourist destinations.
A total of 40 tour guides from the City of Ilagan, Cauayan City, and the municipalities of Echague and Tumauini successfully completed the training. The program featured key modules on personality development and phone photography, equipping participants with valuable knowledge and practical skills relevant to the tourism industry.
Resource speakers Ms. Gretchen A. Jallorina and Mr. Norway T. Saludares shared their expertise throughout the three-day training. Ms. Jallorina highlighted the importance of personality development in creating positive guest experiences and fostering professionalism among tour guides. Meanwhile, Mr. Saludares emphasized the value of mobile photography as a powerful tool for destination marketing, demonstrating techniques that enable tour guides to capture compelling and high-quality images using their smartphones.
The program culminated in practical presentations and a site visit to Queen Isabela Park, where participants applied their newly acquired skills in a real-world setting. Additionally, participants were able to immediately submit their accreditation renewal requirements, facilitating the renewal of their tour guide accreditation.
The initiative received strong support from DOT Regional Director Troy Alexander G. Miano, Hon. Rodito T. Albano III through Ms. Joanne D. Maranan, and Hon. Josemarie L. Diaz through Ms. Ma. Cristina R. Simon. They underscored the importance of continuously enhancing the skills, knowledge, and professionalism of tour guides to ensure quality visitor experiences and support the growth of the tourism industry in the region.
This continuing education initiative reflects the commitment of DOT Region 2 and its partner local government units to empowering tourism frontliners through capacity-building programs that promote excellence in service, professionalism, and destination promotion, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of tourism in Region 2.#