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Solon seeks return of TRIP program to DOT

Philippines | Visayas

Solon seeks return of TRIP program to DOT

By Marie Tonette Marticio

ONGCHUAN (FB)

TACLOBAN CITY — Northern Samar Rep. Edwin Ongchuan has called for the return of the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program implementation to the Department of Tourism due to the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) alleged inefficiency and corruption in infrastructure projects.

According to Ongchuan, placing the program again under DOT would ensure better alignment with tourism priorities, improve access to destinations, and guarantee that infrastructure development directly supports the growth of the tourism industry.

Ongchuan underscored the need to increase DOT’s budget, noting its consistent decline in recent years despite tourism being a vital driver of jobs, livelihood, and regional economic growth.

He said that tourism development must be backed by infrastructure that directly responds to the needs of the sector.

Meanwhile, Ongchuan recently filed House Bill No. 605 that seeks to declare the Pinusilan Blue Lagoon in Mapanas, Northern Samar as an official ecotourism site.

The proposed measure aims to turn the underdeveloped natural site into a sustainable attraction that showcases the area's beauty, supports local communities, and preserves biodiversity.

Related Tags

Rep. Edwin Ongchuan Northern Samar TRIP DOT DPWH

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