Mindanao tourism stakeholders need to work together

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT) is urging all tourism stakeholders to do their part in promoting Mindanao as a safe tourist destination, despite the declaration of martial law.

DOT Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo called on Mindanao tourism stakeholders to join forces in creating a safer picture of Mindanao, in line with improving the lives of its locals.

“For our part, we will step up promotion of Mindanao destinations, thereby stimulate creation of jobs in line with our sustainable and inclusive tourism program,” Teo said during her recent meeting with Mindanao tourism stakeholders.

Last week, Teo met with representatives from the local government units, community leaders, residents and travel operators from Zamboanga City and Davao City, in two separate gatherings.

The DOT chief directed its regional offices to utilize the P5 million funds for tourism–related projects to complement improved connectivity with visitor markets abroad, and upgrade travel and accommodations services.

 “I am also in close coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways to prioritize the construction and rehabilitation of roads leading to the tourist destinations in Mindanao, perhaps the most important of which would be the P1.9 billion Island Garden City of Samal Circumferential Road,” Teo said.

Teo has ordered DOT-Region 9 director Butch Blanco to assess the potentials and identify the challenges of visitor destinations in the area.

 She added that the Zamboanga International Airport would house a new shop of the Duty-Free Philippines to cater to international and domestic tourists.

Frederick Alegre, DOT assistant secretary for Office of Public Affairs, Communications and Special Projects, earlier said the declaration of martial law in Mindanao does not stop the department from promoting areas in the region.

“We have always said in the beginning that the DOT is fully supportive of the President’s decision to declare martial law, because we know it’s a temporary situation, because the ultimate goal is to have lasting peace in Mindanao for people to live safely,” he said.

Teo, however, remains optimistic about the tourism sector’s growth prospects despite the challenges faced by the country.

“Since the inception of the Duterte administration, we achieved record increases in international arrivals despite the many setbacks beyond our control. We proved that we are up to the challenge and we must keep the momentum going and actively participate in ushering the “Golden Age of Philippine tourism,” Teo said.