Staff reporter
Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte—The Gawad Amerika Foundation (GAF) again recognized a resort in this town as its “2017 Most Outstanding Tourist Destination in the Philippines.”
GAF is an organization of Filipinos based in the US and supported by various American non-profit groups.
Known for advocating eco-tourism by being a constant host to international beauty pageants for a cause, the seven-hectare Hannah’s Beach Resort and Convention Center (HBRCC) property nestled at the foot of a mountain overlooking the blue lagoon and powdery white sand of Maira-ira Cove in Balaoi village, Pagudpud town continues to reap local and international awards as a major tourist destination in this northern gateway of Luzon.
Retired Philippine Air Force Col. Ricardo Nolasco Jr., owner of the Hannah’s resort received the award recently from GAF held in Hollywood, California.
After receiving the award, Mr. Nolasco said he is grateful for the prestigious award which “manifests the resort’s corporate social responsibility on environment protection and preservation while creating a sustainable livelihood to the locals”.
Launched in September 2002, the Gawad Amerika Awards Night is an annual celebration to honor the excellent performance of individuals and entrepreneurs who have gone above and beyond in their area of specialization.
The Pagudpud beach resort’s latest award brings it closer to a possible “hall of fame” GAF award. It earlier won the same award in 2014 and 2015.