The newly elected officers of the Palawan Tourism Officers Association (PALTOA) took their oath of office before Governor Amy Alvarez on July 7 at the Provincial Capitol.
The ceremony marked the start of their three-year term focused on aligning local tourism plans with the province’s goals for sustainability.
The new PALTOA leadership is led by Joie Matillano of Taytay as president. Other officers include Shirlette Kristel Somayo of El Nido as vice president, Arvin Acosta of El Nido as secretary, Lucilyn Panagsagan of San Vicente as treasurer, and Arlene Piramide of Brooke’s Point as auditor.
Also sworn in were Board of Directors members Maribel Buñi, Arnold Valdez, Angelique Valones, Joel Lagrosa, Berner Mark Ocampo, Sherwin Corpuz, Karenn Dondon, and Ronel Bernaldez.
The provincial government’s information office said Gov. Amy told the new officers to strengthen cooperation among towns and improve tourism services to meet visitors’ expectations.
She reportedly emphasized that building a tourism sector that benefits communities while protecting natural resources is central to the province’s strategy.
The new PALTOA officers are expected to work with local governments to improve coordination and help guide Palawan’s shift toward a tourism model that supports local livelihoods without harming the environment.
