MAGALONG (Photo via Zaldy Comanda)
BAGUIO CITY – Mayor Benjamin Magalong has expressed concern about the impact of the energy crisis on the local Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
This city recorded a 40 percent to 50 percent drop in tourist arrivals during the Holy Week compared to last year.
Magalong said hotels in Camp John Hay were full on Thursday and Friday but were only 60 percent occupied on Saturday, indicating a slowdown in local tourism.
"I hope it's not because of the economic slowdown, but experts say that maybe in this first quarter, our GDP here might be less than three percent, probably 2.5 percent," he said.
To address these challenges, Magalong confirmed that the city government is actively developing support strategies for MSMEs and continued assistance for transportation and affected sectors.
"We are based on services and tourism here. We really need to have a lot of economic activity, so we are looking for opportunities, and there are some good things here."
Despite the situation, Magalong encouraged people to visit the city. Attractions are open and there is no traffic, he said.