Philippine Global Explorers (PGE), a Filipino non-profit organization, has received the Societal Development Award at the A World for Travel Forum 2026 in Paris, France.
PGE is the world’s largest and the first Filipino travel non-profit organization recognized on the global stage on 29 October in Paris, France. A world-class recognition, the Societal Development Award was presented by the prestigious A World for Travel forum, an international collective of leaders from the travel industry, including the United Nations, UNESCO, the European Travel Council (ETC), and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC). PGE was recognized for its efforts in educational, environmental, and community development in the Philippines and worldwide.
For PGE, the recognition reflects years of work connecting Filipino travelers with projects in the Philippines. Since its founding in 2019, the organization has supported education through Lakbay Aral, which gives students opportunities to learn beyond the classroom.
The Lakbay Aral project has taken students of Upskills Foundation to Baguio, the National Museum of the Philippines, and the Book Museum and Ethnology Center. In June 2026, PGE and the Rotary Club of Makati Uptown brought 45 Upskills Foundation students to Bonifacio Global City for workplace visits and career learning.
PGE also supports students through the Gabay Scholarship. Its first scholar, Justin “Jaja” Carangan, graduated with a degree in Tourism Management in August 2026. A subsequent partnership with the University of the Philippines Diliman’s Asian Institute of Tourism currently provides financial support to four students.
“This award belongs to all of us—our leaders, project teams, volunteers, members, and partners who give their time and resources to turn our love of travel into opportunities for others,” said PGE chair Dr. Riza Rasco.
PGE connects over 1,700 Filipino travelers around the world and uses its members’ shared knowledge and experience to benefit communities in the Philippines. Its slogan, “Exploring the World, Nurturing Our Roots,” reflects this link between travel and community work.
