The Visayas region accounted for 44 percent of the country's tourist arrivals in 2023, highlighting the crucial role of local government units (LGUs) in promoting sustainable tourism and community development, the Department of Tourism (DOT) said on Tuesday, Oct. 22.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco said LGUs are essential partners in aligning local tourism initiatives with national goals, significantly aiding sustainable development.
She commended municipalities in the Visayas for their innovative proposals showcased during the Tourism Champions Challenge, particularly noting standout projects from Tubigon, Bohol, and Badian, Cebu.
Last year, the region welcomed over 2.45 million tourists, reinforcing its importance in the national tourism landscape.
To enhance safety for visitors, the DOT is installing hyperbaric chambers at popular dive sites, including Boracay, Cebu, and Negros Oriental.
The department's Philippine Experience Program, which has successfully completed nine legs, including Western Visayas, continues to offer immersive cultural experiences that highlight the country’s rich heritage.
Frasco pointed out that LGUs play a crucial role in localizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), stressing that collaboration between national and local governments is essential for achieving success.
“All these initiatives reflect our shared goal of promoting local tourism and international tourism, but none of these can succeed without your partnership,” she said.
Local leaders convened at the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) Visayas Island Cluster Conference to discuss strategies for sustainable governance and development.