Science tourism pushed in Leyte province

LEARNING TOUR. Some tour operators in Leyte during their visit inside a local chocolate factory in Ormoc City in this Nov. 30, 2024 photo. The Department of Science and Technology and the Department of Tourism are pushing for a science tourism project to raise awareness and appreciation of science, technology, and innovation through educational tourism in Leyte. (Photo courtesy of DOT Eastern Visayas)

TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) are pushing for a science tourism project to raise awareness and appreciation of science, technology, and innovation through educational tourism in Leyte province.

Officials from the two agencies, the Eastern Visayas Association of Tour Guides, and representatives of travel and tour agencies in Leyte, joined a comprehensive two-day site assessment on Nov. 29 to 30 for science tourism sites.

The DOT said in a statement Monday that this initiative signals the potential of Eastern Visayas as an educational tourism destination.

Among the sites included in the tour are the Philippine Associated Smelting and Refining Corporation in Isabel, Leyte; Energy Development Corporation geothermal steamfields in Kananga town and Ormoc City; Coffee Processing Center in Ormoc City; and Alto Peak Cafe Chocolate Processing also in Ormoc.

Other destinations are the Specialty Pulp Manufacturing Industry Corporation, Ching Bee Trading, Jackfruit and Camote Processing Facility, and Masagana Complimentary Goods, all located in Baybay City, Leyte.

“Through this advancement, Eastern Visayas is poised to become a potential destination where science meets adventure,” the DOT added.

In a separate statement, the DOST regional office said these sites offer an educational experience as visitors learn the process of making products and provide insights into the facilities and laboratories, learn about sustainable farming, among others.

The DOST and DOT will assess these science tourism sites and conceptualize tour programs tailored to the region’s offerings.

The project aims to combine science and tourism, creating educational and immersive experiences that showcase Leyte’s rich scientific and natural heritage, according to the DOST official.

“This science tourism branding implies an exciting adventure into the world of science, which can be a powerful draw for those interested in science and travel,” the DOST added.

The DOST Leyte provincial office and DOT Eastern Visayas regional office seek to develop innovative tourism products that not only attract visitors but also promote scientific awareness and appreciation. (PNA)