DOT VI lauds PGMA's recognition of tourism industry potentials
Department of Tourism (DOT VI) regional director Edwin Trompeta lauded President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo for recognizing the tourism potentials of Central Philippines as a major engine for socio-economic development.
Trompeta said in a PIA interview that President Arroyo was right in highlighting the vital role of tourism in improving our economic performance by opening avenues for investments and employment during her SONA.
The President in her SONA said that Central Philippines is envisioned to be the major tourist center of the country. The Central Philippines super region comprises Region V (Bicol Region), VI (Western Visayas), VII (Central Visayas) VIII, plus the provinces of Palawan and Romblon.
Trompeta said that Central Philippines is endowed with vast coastal and marine resources that make an excellent foundation for tourism.
"Of course our Boracay island here and the tourist spots in Palawan, Bohol, Cebu , among others and the outstanding hospitality of the Visayans and the colorful festivals, culture and history are the strongest assets of the Central Philippines super region," Trompeta said.
Meanwhile, the National Economic Development Authority said that the strategies and plans for the development of Central Philippines will focus on making the area accessible to foreign and local tourists.
The indicative amount for infrastructure requirements of the Central Philippines super region is P300 billion, which will be spent for improving roads connecting tourist destinations, constructing or upgrading airports and Roll-on-Roll-Off (RORO) ports, and upgrading hospitals and schools, among others, said the NEDA press report.
(T.Villavert/PIA)