On 13 July 2026, Batanes (Philippines), a member destination of the UN Tourism International Network of Sustainable Tourism Observatories (INSTO) and the northern-most province of the Philippines, visited the UN Tourism Regional Support Office for Asia and the Pacific.
During the visit, the Office introduced its mandate and work plan. This was followed by an online exchange with Gifu Prefecture, another INSTO member of INSTO network in Japan, during which the two destinations shared their experiences in sustainable tourism and exchanged views on their respective INSTO activities.
The discussion covered a range of practical topics, including INSTO’s governance framework, as well as methodologies for measuring the mandatory monitoring area of residents’ satisfaction and the design of related surveys. Participants also exchanged views on the importance of promoting sustainable tourism while fostering local economic development and safeguarding socio-cultural assets and the natural environment, particularly as both destinations anticipate continued growth in visitor numbers. They also shared experiences and approaches to addressing these challenges.
The exchange was held in a warm and constructive atmosphere and provided a valuable opportunity to further strengthen collaboration among INSTO member network.
Reference: International Network of sustainable tourism observatories
