2010 BEST TOURISM EVENT IN THE PHILIPPINES-FESTIVAL CATEGORY CITY LEVEL

Mayor Vicente B. Amante was beaming with pride and joy when Vice Mayor Angelita E. Yang presented the Plaque of Recognition received by the City Government of San Pablo from the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) and the Department of Tourism during the 11th ATOP National Convention held at Subic Bay Freeport in Zambales last October 5, 2010 when San Pablo City’s 15th Coconut Festival and Fair held last January 9-15, 2010 was adjudged “2010 Best Tourism Event Grand Winner, Festival Category, City Level.” The awards was signed by Tourism Secretary Alberto A. Lim, and ATOP National President Roselyn Armida Merlin.

Vice Mayor Angie Yang who headed the city delegation to the national convention reported that Cadiz City in Negros Occidental is the first runner-up, and Muntinlupa City in Metro Manila is the second runner-up.

City Administrator Loreto S. Amante, Over-All Chairman of the Executive Committee that manage the Annual Coconut Festival, said the awards of recognition is not only for the committee head by Mayor Vicente B. Amante as honorary chairman, but for all San Pableños, since the holding of the 15th Coconut Festival and Fair, highlighted by Mardi Gras Contest held last January 13th, to coincide with the commemoration of the 414th Founding Anniversary of the Parish of Saint Paul, the First Hermit (which is now the seat of the Diocese of San Pablo), was a collective efforts of the different sectors of San Pablo. He added that the award was made possible by the support of both the public and private sectors, to include the different business establishments, academic institutions, service organizations, and civic clubs. The recognition will served as an inspiration to all San Pablenos in the holding of the 16th Coconut Festival and Fair which will be held on January 9 – 15, 2011..

In a public statement, City Administrator Loreto S.. Amante recognizes the efforts of the City Information Office for preparing the audio-visual presentations and other required documentations submitted to the Department of Tourism that served basis in the selection of the Best Tourism Events during Calendar Year 2010. (CIO-SPC)