Cebu tourism stakeholders laud Philexport’s initiative

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu tourism stakeholders have expressed willingness to work with the export sector to further boost tourism in Cebu and the Central Visayas region.

This according to Cebu Alliance of Tour Agencies and Specialists (CATOS) president Alice Queblatin after Philexport initiated a move to include the tourism sector in its roster of industries, saying it is a timely and appropriate move.

“At last the perception of tourism products in any form, and services in all levels and sectors, is acknowledged as an ‘export’ product,” said Queblatin reacting on the recent announcement of Philexport-Cebu to invite tourism related organizations and companies to be part of the export group.

According to Queblatin, with tourism sector players and exporters now working together, it is seen to produce more opportunities for the players, at the same time push both tourists arrivals, tourists receipts, and create more jobs across industries.

“CATOS definitely looks forward to being member [of Philexport] and hopes that this membership will open opportunities to make Philexport more relevant and dynamic,” added Queblatin.

“Tourism souvenirs for example that are made in the Philippines, bought here and brought out of the country by tourists, are dollar earners, thus must be recognized as ‘export products’. And this sector is labor intensive; employs and contracts people of different skills and levels, thus making it very inclusive, thus promoting the Philippines major thrust of inclusive growth,” explained Queblatin.

Philexport-Cebu managing director Fred Escalona said the organization is working on connecting with other tourism industry associations in Cebu to create a tourism wing.

Philexport is the umbrella organization of exporters that serves as the support system for export industries.

Philexport-Cebu serves as the voice of the furniture; gifts, decors and housewares; fashion accessories, food, garments, electronics and services.

According to Escalona, tourism plays a critical role in Cebu’s economy considering the encouraging performance of arrivals and tourism receipts.

Programs that are geared towards boosting tourism will be introduced in the next few months, Escalona added. (FREEMAN)