Published on
September 22, 2025
At a special event held at the Isabela Museum and Library, the provincial government unveiled its new tourism and trade branding, the “Isabela Best Laku” logo, marking an exciting advancement for the province’s tourism and trade sectors. In honour of National Tourism Month 2025, this launch marked the beginning of a new phase in the province’s marketing and promotion initiatives. The “Best Laku” logo supports the province’s thriving micro, small, and medium-sized businesses (MSMEs) and rich cultural legacy while highlighting Isabela’s varied offerings, including handicrafts, local cuisine, and agricultural products.
What Does ‘Best Laku’ Represent?
The term ‘Laku’ holds significant meaning in the local dialect, referring to items for sale, especially those that are locally made or cultivated. By adopting this term for its branding, the provincial government of Isabela has highlighted the essential role that local trade and commerce play in the province’s economic landscape. From fresh agricultural products to the region’s famous handicrafts, ‘Best Laku’ will serve as a marketing tool for showcasing the best that Isabela has to offer. The logo is not just a symbol; it is a representation of excellence and pride in the province’s resources and products, all rooted in the ingenuity and creativity of its people.
This logo will be a central feature in future promotional campaigns, regional trade fairs, and tourism events. The ‘Best Laku’ branding is designed to help position Isabela as a prime destination for travellers looking for authentic, high-quality products, as well as a place where they can experience the province’s rich culture and history.
Highlighting Isabela’s Agricultural Products
Isabela is known for its agricultural industry, which plays a crucial role in both the local economy and national food security. The province is one of the largest producers of rice in the Philippines, as well as corn and tobacco. As part of the ‘Best Laku’ initiative, these key agricultural products will be marketed both locally and internationally to attract more attention to Isabela’s farming sector. This effort aligns with the One Town, One Product (OTOP) programme, a government initiative that encourages each town in the Philippines to promote its best product. By highlighting local agricultural goods like rice, corn, and tobacco under the ‘Best Laku’ logo, Isabela aims to increase visibility for these products and expand their market reach, benefiting farmers and local communities alike.
Promoting Isabela’s Local Cuisine and Handicrafts
Apart from its agricultural products, Isabela is home to a vibrant culinary scene. The province boasts a variety of local dishes and delicacies, many of which are unique to the region. The new branding also seeks to put a spotlight on Isabela’s diverse culinary offerings, from rice cakes and processed meats to native sweets. These foods are not only part of the local culture but also represent an important facet of Isabela’s tourism appeal. Travellers and food enthusiasts will now be able to discover and savour authentic Isabela cuisine, making it an even more attractive destination for food tourism.
Isabela’s handicrafts, ranging from woven products to pottery and woodworks, also hold a special place in the province’s heritage. These products are created by skilled artisans who have passed down their craft through generations. Through the ‘Best Laku’ logo, these artisanal goods will be promoted as a key part of Isabela’s cultural identity, offering visitors the opportunity to purchase authentic, locally made souvenirs. By supporting the promotion of handicrafts, the initiative aims to preserve and sustain these traditional crafts while empowering local artisans and MSMEs.
Empowering MSMEs and Preserving Cultural Heritage
A core objective of the ‘Best Laku’ branding is to empower Isabela’s MSMEs. These enterprises are the backbone of the local economy, providing livelihoods to thousands of residents. The branding initiative provides a platform for small businesses to showcase their products and gain exposure, both within the region and beyond. With the logo being featured at trade fairs, markets, and tourism events, MSMEs will have greater access to potential customers, investors, and business partners, which is crucial for their growth and sustainability.
Moreover, the initiative is deeply intertwined with the preservation of Isabela’s cultural heritage. By promoting traditional products and local craftsmanship, Isabela is reinforcing the importance of cultural identity and pride. The involvement of local artisans, farmers, and food producers in this branding effort ensures that Isabela’s rich traditions and customs are passed down to future generations while simultaneously fostering a sense of ownership and pride among the people of Isabela.
A Strategic Partnership
The success of the ‘Best Laku’ branding is made possible through the collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 2, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), as well as academic institutions and local artist groups. These partnerships aim to create a cohesive marketing strategy that effectively promotes Isabela’s products, tourism offerings, and cultural heritage.
The provincial government’s collaboration with these agencies is essential in ensuring the sustainability of the initiative. Through these alliances, Isabela will be able to tap into national and international markets, making its products and culture more accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, the participation of local artists and cultural groups ensures that the branding initiative remains true to the province’s roots while evolving to meet modern demands.
The Grand Debut at Festival Mall Alabang
To kick off its public debut, the ‘Best Laku’ branding will be featured prominently at a trade fair scheduled to take place at Festival Mall in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, from November 8 to 15, 2025. This event is expected to draw in a large crowd of potential investors, tourists, and local consumers, giving Isabela’s products the exposure they deserve. It will also serve as an excellent opportunity to showcase the province’s local culture through live performances, culinary demonstrations, and cultural exhibits, offering visitors a comprehensive experience of Isabela’s heritage.
Conclusion
Isabela enters a new era with the launch of the “Best Laku” branding, which positions the province as a thriving centre for trade, tourism, and cross-cultural interaction. In addition to enhancing its economy, Isabela hopes to fortify its reputation as a region that is proud of its abundant natural resources, vibrant culture, and spirit of entrepreneurship. The “Best Laku” logo will act as a beacon of excellence, directing both domestic and foreign audiences toward Isabela’s finest attractions as the province develops its tourism and trade initiatives.
[Image Source: Philippine Information Agency Official Website]
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