Batanes, often described as a pristine island paradise, is a jewel in the northern Philippines. Known for its breathtaking seascapes and landscapes, Batanes captivates visitors and tourists alike with its unique culture and the unparalleled hospitality of the Ivatan people. In today's fast-paced world, where development often progresses rapidly, Batanes faces significant challenges in maintaining sustainability and preserving its indigenous knowledge systems. It is essential to protect and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Batanes to ensure its continued relevance and appeal to future visitors.

Batanes State College, in collaboration with the Provincial Government of Batanes and the Batanes Tourism and Hospitality Monitoring Center, has organized the 1st International Conference on Sustainable Tourism and Heritage This research conference aims to bring together academics, practitioners, anthropologists, and cultural and tourism enthusiasts who share a common goal: to preserve culture and sustain tourism.

By facilitating connections and benchmarking best practices, this conference will enable participants to explore ways to learn from each other and adapt successful strategies that withstand the test of time. The event is designed to be international in scope, offering a broader platform for researchers to gain insights from diverse cultures, places, and peoples. This diversity will enrich the learning experience and deepen the appreciation of the conference's objectives.

The synergy between cultural preservation and tourism initiatives is vital to embracing development while staying grounded in our roots and indigenous knowledge. This conference aims to foster a vibrant exchange of ideas and practices, promoting a holistic approach to sustainable tourism and the preservation of indigenous knowledge systems. By looking back to our heritage and thinking ahead to future possibilities, we can create a sustainable and culturally enriched future for Batanes and beyond.