A Gathering of Tourism’s Finest

Events

May 5

The 32nd SKAL Tourism Personality Awards celebrated the people driving Philippine tourism forward.

Words Art+ Magazine Team
May 05, 2026

*The recipients of the 32nd Tourism Personality Awards, together with the board of SKAL International Makati*

Under the sparkling lights of the Grand Ballroom at Okada Manila, the 32nd SKAL International Tourism Personality Awards proved to be not just a celebration of the most prominent figures in the tourism, but also those who continue to contribute to the growth and progress of tourism in the Philippines.

*(L-R) This year’s awardees, Crystal Jacinto; Alejandro Tengco; Cynthia Carrion; Takako Okada; Ren Locsin; Teresita Landan; Kevin Tan; Kyle Jennermann; Lance Tan*

Held on February 26, 2026, the ceremony gathered some of the most prominent figures in the tourism and hospitality industry in the Philippines. The evening seemed to be infused with a touch of celebration and remembrance, honoring those individuals who continue to spearhead tourism through their leadership, innovation, and hard work.

*Former Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo Teo and Skal Chairman Jimmy Bautista*

Being there was like witnessing all the untold stories and efforts behind the different tourism destinations and milestone that every Filipino proudly shares with the rest of the world. The room was filled with hotel and tourism industry partners and personalities, all sharing the same passion for tourism and hospitality. The evening was not just about honoring the awardees, but also about recognizing that tourism is not just about the destinations, but also about the people who continue to make these experiences worthwhile.

*(L-R) Young Skalleagues: Samantha Abrigo, Trisha Vasquez, Angelica Dacuycuy, Adelaine Jane Belmonte, Skal Committee Head Sarah Po, Tin, Francine Marcelo, Yzabella Diamante*

As the event went on, there were loud cheers in the ballroom for the honorees who had contributed to the growth of Philippine tourism, from creating tourism destinations to raising the level of Philippine hospitality.

*(L-R) Skal Director Cynthia Carreon, Skal President Captain Stanley Ng, Skal Media Consultant Pete L. Dacuycuy, Skal member Bernd Schneider, GM of Fairmont and Raffles Hotels*

A look around the room revealed that it wasn’t a formal awards night, but a celebration of those behind the industry. The 32nd SKAL Tourism Personality Awards ultimately reminded everyone in that room that tourism is sustained by those who continue to champion it.