
As the newly designated tourism officer, Aulynn Yue Sin is rolling out an ambitious roadmap to transform the province of Iloilo into a “fun, foodie, and friendly “tourism hub, guided by Executive Order 10 signed by Governor Arthur Defensor, Jr.
Sin’s strategy centers on holistic development, focusing on infrastructure upgrades, capacity building for tourism frontliners, and partnerships across the province.
“We want tourists to experience Iloilo not just through festivals but through food, culture, local life, and eco-tourism,” she said.
Key initiatives include upgrading entry points such as seaports, airports, and terminals.
Sin envisions integrated tourism hubs at major ports — including Estancia, Carles, and Concepcion — featuring information desks, pasalubong areas, and food terminals where visitors can savor fresh, local dishes before embarking on island trips.
Infrastructure development will also extend to islands and barangay-level attractions.
Drawing from the success of Tambaliza Island in Concepcion, Sin plans to replicate enhancements in power, road networks, water systems, and telecommunication services to create safe and accessible tourism circuits.
Beyond sightseeing, Sin wants visitors to immerse themselves in local life.
Tourists will have opportunities to fish with local fisherfolk, learn about community livelihoods, and experience island culture firsthand.
Training programs will ensure both local and international guests receive warm and professional Ilonggo hospitality.
“It’s not just about sightseeing. We want visitors to feel the heartbeat of our communities, interact with locals, and enjoy the true Ilonggo way of hospitality,” the tourism officer said.
Sin, who is also a concurrent chief of the Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP), emphasized private sector involvement in marketing and service delivery, ensuring tourism growth benefits local businesses while strengthening provincial branding.
She aims to highlight Iloilo as more than festivities — showcasing its slow food communities, local delicacies, cultural traditions, and eco-tourism offerings to national and international audiences.
“With Executive Order 10, we are reimagining tourism in Iloilo — fun, flavorful, and friendly,” Sin said.“Our approach integrates experiences, infrastructure, and community engagement, creating a province that visitors will want to explore again and again.”IMT
