The recognition aligns with the government's efforts to expand quality tourism infrastructure as the country benefits from a tourism sector that generated an estimated $91.8 billion in gross domestic product, the highest among ASEAN economies, according to the latest World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) Economic Impact Report.
The industry also supports more than 11 million tourism-related jobs, underscoring its contribution to inclusive economic growth.
Urban destination
Located in Aseana City, Parqal is a mixed-use development that combines shopping, dining, recreation, fitness, and public spaces designed to encourage social interaction and active lifestyles.
The DOT accreditation recognizes the development's contribution to enhancing the country's portfolio of visitor destinations while supporting the agency's vision of building world-class tourism infrastructure.
Parqal features wide pedestrian walkways, jogging paths, and bicycle-friendly routes that encourage residents and tourists to explore the area on foot or by bike, promoting healthier and more sustainable forms of mobility.
Its outdoor recreational hub, Bounce, offers facilities for basketball, football, pickleball, and volleyball, providing venues for sports tourism, community tournaments, fitness programs, fun runs, and other recreational activities.
Sustainable design
The development also highlights environmentally conscious urban planning through landscaped open spaces, green corridors, and pocket parks that create a pedestrian-friendly environment.
Its common areas maximize natural lighting and ventilation, helping reduce dependence on artificial lighting and cooling systems while improving visitor comfort.
These sustainability features reflect the growing demand among travelers for destinations that prioritize environmental responsibility alongside accessibility and convenience.
The design supports broader efforts to create urban spaces that balance commercial activity with environmental stewardship and quality of life.
Community focus
Beyond recreation, Parqal serves as a venue for year-round community events, cultural programs, seasonal celebrations, wellness activities, and family-oriented experiences that bring together residents, visitors, and businesses.
These gatherings strengthen the development's identity as a community-centered destination while providing opportunities for local entrepreneurs, retailers, and tourism-related enterprises to reach a wider customer base.
The events also contribute to local economic activity by increasing visitor traffic and supporting businesses operating within the development.
With its DOT accreditation, Parqal aims to further strengthen its role as an accessible urban destination that integrates recreation, sustainability, and community engagement.
The recognition highlights the growing importance of mixed-use developments in supporting the country's expanding tourism industry while creating spaces that encourage meaningful experiences, active lifestyles, and stronger community connections. —-Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
