Called tana!, the Bohol-developed app helps visitors explore the island through themed routes, curated collections and destinations recommended by local residents.
BPIA has partnered with tana! to introduce digital travel guides featuring suggested itineraries, local recommendations and practical information to encourage visitors to venture beyond Bohol's popular tourist destinations.
The initiative aims to help travelers discover more of the province's culture, cuisine and natural attractions while giving greater visibility to local businesses and communities.
According to its listing on Apple's App Store, tana! was developed by Paniel Nycole Dumdum and has a five-star rating. The app describes itself as "built in Bohol by people from Bohol for everyone who wants to explore it with intention."
"Each spot in tana! has been reviewed by our curation team. Nothing makes it in just because it's popular. Everything is here because it earns its place," the app description states.
Each featured destination also includes operating hours, budget guidance and tips from local residents.
Partnership
Under the partnership, BPIA and tana! will introduce QR-code-based travel guides, mini-magazines and a dedicated section within the app featuring suggested routes and travel experiences for arriving passengers.
Among the features is "Bohol Maxxing," which offers five curated itineraries designed to help tourists make the most of their visit.
These include a modified countryside tour featuring firefly watching, a half-day exploration of Tagbilaran City and a coastal and farm tour for repeat visitors seeking quieter, hands-on experiences.
The coastal and farm tour includes activities such as permaculture farming and cacao roasting, offering visitors a closer look at Bohol's agricultural communities and local traditions.
The app will also feature a section called "Airport Hacks Only Locals Know," providing practical information to help travelers navigate the airport.
This includes directions to 24-hour tourist SIM card kiosks, transportation services such as the Grab booking booth, last-minute shopping options at Nomad Express and recommended viewing spots within the terminal.
Unlike conventional travel guides that focus primarily on established tourist attractions, tana! draws on recommendations from Bohol residents to identify and review lesser-known destinations, establishments and experiences.
The platform also seeks to give greater visibility to local businesses, community spaces and natural attractions that may be overlooked in traditional tourism itineraries.
Passenger experience
Aboitiz InfraCapital Bohol Airport Corp. (ABAC) general manager for BPIA Aldwin Uy said the partnership is part of efforts to improve the passenger experience while strengthening travelers' connections with the province.
"Our goal at Bohol-Panglao International Airport is to ensure that the passenger's journey doesn't just end at the terminal, but rather begins with a deep, immediate connection to the island," Uy said.
"Through this partnership with tana!, we aim to integrate authentic, community-curated guides right into our airport," he added.
Uy said the initiative would encourage travelers to venture beyond popular tourist destinations and experience more of Bohol's culture, cuisine and local communities.
The collaboration is also expected to give greater visibility to local businesses and community-based tourism activities by connecting them with visitors upon arrival.
By integrating digital travel guides into the passenger experience, BPIA and tana! aim to position the airport not merely as a transit facility but as a gateway to exploring the province. —-Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
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