Davao City Councilor Myrna Dalodo-Ortiz has called for the establishment of a Community-Based Tourism (CBT) Framework in the city, highlighting the potential for sustainable tourism with Indigenous Communities. Ortiz, who chairs the Committees on Trade, Commerce, and Industry, as well as Tourism and Beautification, said that adopting this framework can promote inclusive growth, preserve cultural heritage, and support sustainable community development.
Legislative Measures for CBT
During her privilege speech on June 23, 2026, at the Sangguniang Panlungsod, Ortiz emphasized the need for legislative measures to balance economic progress with cultural preservation and environmental sustainability. “At a time when there is an increasing need to balance economic progress with cultural preservation and environmental sustainability, it becomes imperative for us as policymakers to explore legislative measures that can provide the necessary framework for empowering communities and supporting responsible tourism initiatives within our city,” she said.
Ortiz explained that bringing these measures into the legislative process would allow the government, along with stakeholders, agencies, Indigenous Communities, tourism practitioners, and civil society organizations, to study and strengthen the policy for long-term development.
Promoting Inclusive and Sustainable Development
The councilor stressed that CBT promotes inclusive, sustainable, culturally sensitive, and community-driven development. She noted that Davao City is rich in cultural heritage, diverse Indigenous Peoples communities, vibrant traditions, and unique local experiences that reflect the identity of Dabawenyos. These resources, she said, are not only valuable cultural assets but also provide opportunities for sustainable economic growth and community empowerment.
Ortiz pointed out that many areas in Davao City have local communities with potential for CBT. Through this initiative, communities can showcase their culture, traditions, local products, indigenous knowledge systems, and way of life while generating sustainable livelihoods and preserving their heritage. She added that under CBT, communities would directly benefit and become partners of the local government rather than mere spectators.
First Reading and Referral
Ortiz moved for her privilege speech to be considered for first reading and referred to the appropriate committee for further action.
Previous CBT Explorations
Earlier, the Department of Tourism-Davao Region (DOT-Davao) and the Davao City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) explored CBT development in Tambobong in Baguio District and Datu Salumay in Marilog District, in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to create livelihood opportunities. Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan of DOT-Davao said they visited these areas to assess how the department could help develop their tourism potential. She added that after inspecting Tambobong, they could begin tourism awareness training, as the area is not yet engaged in tourism.
Willenito P. Tormis Jr., officer-in-charge of CTOO, said their visit aimed to determine how CBT could be implemented, providing sustainable livelihood opportunities to IP communities.
