At the heart of the country’s most magical destination, Enchanted Kingdom in Sta. Rosa, Laguna, the province’s tourism industry opened a new chapter—one marked by unity, empowerment, and shared vision. On October 22, 2025, more than a hundred leaders and entrepreneurs gathered for the first Laguna Tourism Council Meeting under the administration of Governor Sol Aragones.
Among the distinguished attendees was Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas, President of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry–Los Baños (PCCI-LB), who was personally invited by Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon, President of the Laguna Tourism Council and Chief Operating Officer of Enchanted Kingdom. For Nicolas, this gathering was more than an event but it was a reflection of the values she has long stood for: collaboration, inclusivity, and leadership with heart.
“It was my privilage to be part of this historical event with big businesses in Laguna that caters the Tourism sector. I am glad that I attended and met these inspiring entrepreneurs.”- Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas
A Leader Who Connects Business and Community
Known for her unwavering dedication to empowering entrepreneurs, Engr. Grace Bondad Nicolas has built her name as one of the most dynamic leaders in Laguna’s business landscape. As the first woman to lead PCCI Los Baños, she has turned the organization into a catalyst for inclusive growth and sustainable innovation.
Under her leadership, Los Baños Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LBCCI) achieved recognition as part of Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) and as an accredited Civil Society Organization (CSO) within the municipality—granting it the privilege to take part in local government planning, development, and policy consultations. This milestone reflects her belief that businesses thrive best when they serve not only profit but also people and the planet.
“Tourism is about people—it’s about how communities open their hearts and homes to share what makes them unique,” she often emphasizes. “When local businesses are part of that story, growth becomes truly sustainable.”
Her philosophy aligns perfectly with Governor Sol Aragones’ tourism vision—anchored on three key pillars: Cluster Development of Tourist Attractions, Human Capital Development, and Strong Marketing and Promotion. These goals, built on collaboration, mirror Nicolas’s own approach to leadership—fostering unity among diverse sectors to achieve collective progress.
Bridging the Private Sector and Tourism Growth
As the meeting unfolded inside Enchanted Kingdom’s iconic gates, the energy was unmistakable—optimism, collaboration, and ambition filled the air. Representatives from hotels, resorts, farms, and restaurants from across Laguna gathered to explore how the province could elevate its tourism brand and visitor experience.
Engr. Nicolas contributed to the discussions with a private-sector perspective: emphasizing how entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainability can strengthen tourism’s foundation with An offer to help all members into promoting their campaigns through the 3 print magazines under her; Rising Tigers, InCharge and TopNewsAsia. Her experience working closely with national organizations like PCCI National and PCCI Quezon City allowed her to bring best practices and business insights that could help align local efforts with broader economic goals.
She was joined by other prominent attendees, including Villa Teresita Resort’s Maria Odessa Escaler, Sulyap Gallery Café’s Roy Empalmado, and Esmeris Farm’s Victor and Amanda Esmeris, proving that Laguna’s tourism heartbeat comes from its people—the dreamers, the builders, and the innovators.
Empowered by Women, Guided by Vision
The meeting also symbolized the rise of women leading the transformation of Laguna’s tourism landscape. Governor Sol Aragones, known for her journalistic background and hands-on governance, sets a tone of transparency and vision. Meanwhile, Dr. Cynthia R. Mamon, a multi-awarded tourism advocate and the driving force behind Enchanted Kingdom’s success, serves as the perfect embodiment of how leadership can inspire both creativity and community.
Standing beside them was Engr. Nicolas—another woman of impact whose influence spans across industries. As the Co-Founder of Rising Tigers Magazine, she has created a platform that celebrates leadership, innovation, and nation-building. Through her initiatives like the Asia Leaders Awards and Global Excellence Awards, she continuously shines a spotlight on Filipino excellence and the spirit of service that defines true leadership.
Her journey, from a local entrepreneur in Laguna to one of the country’s most recognized female business leaders, is a story of resilience and purpose—proof that when women lead with compassion and vision, entire communities rise with them.
Laguna’s Future: A Shared Journey
The Laguna Tourism Council meeti
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