At a time when meaningful partnerships define the future of Philippine tourism, the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) marked a significant milestone with its first-ever 2025 TIEZA-TEZMS Partners and Stakeholders Appreciation Night: Champions of Sustainable Tourism. Held on July 21 at the Manila Hotel, the evening brought together nearly 200 guests from the public and private sectors, each playing a crucial role in shaping the country’s tourism map.
The night wasn’t just a celebration but a reaffirmation of collective purpose. TIEZA, as the investment and infrastructure arm of the Department of Tourism, continues to evolve into more than just a regulatory body and is becoming a nurturing ground for sustainable development, inclusive growth, and heritage protection through strategic alliances.
A growing ecosystem of impact
Opening the program, TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid emphasized the strength of the agency’s expanding network of Registered Business Enterprises (RBEs). With committed investments now reaching P225.7 billion and over 131,000 tourism jobs expected to be generated, TIEZA’s investment footprint reflects growing private sector confidence.
“These figures underscore the growing confidence of investors in the Philippine tourism sector and affirm TIEZA’s continued role as the key Investment Promotion Agency in driving high-impact tourism investments nationwide through our expanding portfolio of registered business enterprises,” Lapid said.
The evening was also marked by the awarding of Plaques of Appreciation to RBEs across the country, from long-standing partners like Alphaland Balesin Island Club and Discovery World Corporation to emerging players such as Behemoth Property Management Corp. in Surigao del Norte and the City Government of Puerto Princesa. The diversity of the recipients, from resort operators to local governments, reflected how tourism growth is truly a shared endeavor.
Strengthening pillars through public-private synergy
In line with TIEZA’s mandate, partnerships extend beyond business registration. The agency honored government institutions that helped enable a stronger regulatory and digital investment environment, including the Department of National Defense, DENR-EMB Regions IVA and V, and the Fiscal Incentives Review Board.
Key developments included the ceremonial signing of Memoranda of Agreement (MOAs) with the Bureau of Immigration and the Zamboanga City Special Economic Zone Authority and Freeport. The official registration of the Sta. Lucia Tourism Enterprise Zone in Puerto Princesa was also formalized during the evening, signaling further alignment in regional tourism growth.
Video testimonials showcased the lived realities behind the local enterprises creating jobs, eco-conscious resorts conserving natural assets, and local governments working hand-in-hand with national agencies to open doors for inclusive, place-based development.
A future built on purpose
Assistant COO Karen Sarinas-Baydo’s closing remarks echoed the night’s deeper meaning.
“Tonight is more than a celebration—it is an affirmation of what we can achieve together. We pay tribute to all our Registered Business Enterprises and stakeholders whose hard work makes sustainable tourism possible. As the IPA for tourism, TIEZA stands firmly with you—committed to fostering an environment where investments thrive, communities benefit, and tourism flourishes.”
The launch of the forthcoming RBE Performance Awards served as a fitting finale, gearing up for the next chapter of TIEZA’s mission. With criteria designed to spotlight environmental stewardship, inclusive employment, and innovation, the program will place a premium on those who go beyond numbers to build tourism that leaves a legacy.
In celebrating its partners, TIEZA renews its commitment beyond infrastructure, as it pledges to grow with the people, places, and partnerships that make tourism a force for good.
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