SUBIC BAY FREEPORT — The Masinloc Tourism Office of LGU Masinloc received three major awards at the 2026 Central Luzon STAR Awards for Sustainable Tourism Appreciation and Recognition organized by the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and Department of Tourism Region III held Thursday, Sept 10, at the Subic Bay Exhibition and Convention City.

Masinloc won the Green Gatherings Excellence Award for the Masinloc Civic Town Fiesta 2026.

The town also placed first runner-up in the Sustainable Attraction Excellence Award for the Masinloc Ecotour Program and first runner-up in the Community-Based Tourism Legacy Award for the San Salvador Biodiversity Friendly Association, a community-based organization.

The Masinloc Ecotour Program was also named a finalist in the Roots and Reef Tourism category.

The awards recognize tourism initiatives focused on sustainability, environmental stewardship and community participation.

The Provincial Government of Zambales, through the Provincial Tourism and Investment Promotions Office, recognized the Masinloc Tourism Office for the achievements. (Story and photos by Jun Dumaguing for Ang Pahayagan)