ILOILO CITY – The Department of Tourism launched a coastal tourism project in Barangay Pawa, Panay town, Capiz province on April 5.
DOT Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco led the groundbreaking of the P12-million Panay: A Coastal Resource Experience Project where eco-friendly mangrove cottages will be built, a tourist passenger terminal will be rehabilitated, and a community-based rural tourism (CBRT) program will be established.

TOURISM Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco leads the April 5 groundbreaking of the Panay: A Coastal Resource Experience Project in Panay town, Capiz province. (Department of Tourism)
“This is designed to empower local communities while safeguarding natural resources,” said Frasco.
The project was launched in the coastal community of Barangay Pawa for being one of the winners of the DOT-Tourism Champions Challenge program with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA).
Launched in 2023, the TCC is a grant that encourages local government units (LGUs) to develop community-centered tourism in towns and cities across the country.
“The initiative reflects the DOT’s commitment to promoting sustainable, inclusive, and resilient tourism across the country,” Frasco said.
The groundbreaking was one of the sidelights of the 2025 Capiztahan, a festival celebrating the 124th founding anniversary of Capiz.
The DOT Secretary was welcomed by Gov. Fredenil “Oto” Castro, Vice Gov. James “Mitang” Magbanua, and Mayor Vicente “Vic” Bermejo of Panay.
Frasco was joined by DOT Assistant Secretary Judilyn Quiachon, DOT Undersecretary Maria Rica Bueno, DOT Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, TIEZA Assistant Chief Operating Officer Gregory Oller, DOT Office of Special Concerns Director Glenn Albert Ocampo, and DOT-6 Regional Director Crisanta Marlene “Krisma” Rodriguez.