The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Tourism (DOT) are working together to strengthen Ilocos Region’s creative industries through Raniag Tour, which gives local entrepreneurs and artisans opportunities to showcase their products and promote cultural heritage.
Now in its second edition, the four-day R.A.N.I.A.G. (Rediscover Artistry, Nurture Identity, and Accelerate Growth) creative tour runs from Oct. 26 to 29, 2026, across Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte. The initiative aims to strengthen links between tourism and creative industries while creating opportunities for local enterprises.
“Through immersive, participatory and experience-based tourism activities, we would like to allow visitors to engage directly with local artists, artisans and creative communities,” said Gaye Acacio, chief tourism operations officer of DOT Region 1, in an interview.
Fewer than 30 participants, including artists, chefs, influencers and tourism stakeholders, joined the tour to experience the region’s creative economy firsthand.
The tour features a range of creative enterprises, cultural attractions and heritage sites, including Kusina Valentin and the earthquake-baroque St. Augustine Church in Paoay, Ilocos Norte; Kay Susan Tayo’s chichacorn products in Cabugao, Ilocos Sur; Calle Crisologo and Tahanang Walang Hagdanan in Vigan City; Balicucha community in Sta. Maria; Chad’s Cafe in Narvacan; B’Lis Furniture in Bantay; RG’s Pottery and the Vigan Conservation Complex in Vigan City; and Pinili loom weaving in Ilocos Norte.
Other stops include the Amianan Museum and Library of History and Culture in Currimao, Mariano Marcos State University Innovation and Technology Hub in Batac City, Sand Dunes Art Installation in Paoay, Delmar coconut crafts in Pagudpud, Cataban water hyacinth weavers in Laoag City, Leds Fashion by JC and Kattukong hatmaking in Bantay, Ilocos Sur.
Beyond promoting destinations, the project seeks to validate creative tourism circuits that tour operators can package and commercialize as sustainable tourism products.
According to the project statement, it also aims to strengthen partnerships among national government agencies, local government units, tourism stakeholders, creative communities, cultural organizations, educational institutions and the private sector to encourage innovation, collaboration and inclusive economic growth.
The initiative supports the objectives of the Philippine Creative Industries Development Act (Republic Act 11904), National Tourism Development Plan and the Regional Development Plan. It highlights Ilocos’ cultural assets, creative enterprises, heritage sites and artistic traditions as travelers increasingly seek experiences that allow them to discover local culture, sample regional products and learn the stories behind the destinations they visit. (PNA)
