BACOLOD CITY - Some resorts and other tourism destinations in Negros Occidental have resumed its operations, following their temporary closure for several months due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
Based on data from the Provincial Tourism Office, 21 accommodation facilities were allowed to open starting October 19, subject to observance of health protocols.
These resorts were in the cities of Talisay, Bago, Escalante, Himamaylan, Sagay, Cadiz, and San Carlos; and the towns of Manapla, Don Salvador Benedicto, Binalbagan, Candoni, Cauayan, Calatrava, Hinigaran, Isabela, La Castellana, Isabela, Moises Padilla, Murcia, Pontevedra, Pulupandan, and Valladolid.
However, the resorts will only be open for local residents. Guests and clients were advised to make advanced booking to minimize the number of occupants in these facilities, as part of the precautionary measures against COVID-19.
The tourism office noted that 10 other tourism sites in the areas of Kabankalan, La, Carlota, Silay, Sipalay, Victorias, E.B. Magalona, Hinoba-an, Ilog, San Enrique, and Toboso remain non-operational because of the health crisis.
The management of Magikland in Silay City has signified its intention to open the theme park soon, while Sipalay City will resume accepting tourists by next month, provided they have Certificates of Authority to Operate (CAO) from the Department of Tourism (DOT).
Under DOT protocols, resorts and hotels in areas that are under general community quarantine (GCQ) and modified general community quarantine (MGCQ) are now allowed to resume operations.
As of October 20, the province has recorded 4,073 confirmed cases, including 2,830 recoveries, 94 deaths, and 1,149 active cases.