DOT to support local ideas in promoting tourism industries

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Tourism (DOT) vowed it would support ideas from local government units (LGUs) across the country on promoting their respective tourism industries.

Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco led the groundbreaking of the “Legacy of the Sea project” proposed by the LGU of Bolinao in Pangasinan on the island of Silaki on Nov. 25.

The project aims to boost the reputation of Silaki Island as the “giant clam capital of the Philippines” by building infrastructure that uses environment-friendly materials.

The project would feature “a mini experience center, a hanging footbridge, floating docks, viewport structures and a welcome and departure pavilion,” it noted.

The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) would carry out the project, which will be turned over to the LGU of Bolinao once finished. Around P15 million would be spent for the project, said the DOT.

Bolinao won third place in the DOT’s Tourism Champions Challenge, which enabled LGUs to send proposals for their “sustainable, inclusive and resilient” tourism projects. It received a prize of P10 million plus P5 million from President Marcos, who awarded the winners.

“I very much look forward to the journey that the Legacy of the Sea project will take as it embodies the shared vision of the Department of Tourism, the LGU and our stakeholders for a future where tourism uplifts communities and honors our heritage while protecting our environment,” said Frasco.

Before the groundbreaking rites, Frasco signed a memorandum of agreement with Bolinao Mayor Alfonso Celeste, Vice Mayor Richard Celeste, Alaminos City Mayor Arth Bryan Celeste, Pangasinan Board Member Marinor de Guzman, DOT Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar and TIEZA assistant chief operating officer Jetro Nicolas Lozada.

Among popular attractions in Bolinao are Patar White Sand Beach, the American-era Cape Bolinao Lighthouse, the Spanish-period St. James the Great Parish Church and the St. Claire Monastery, according to information from the website of the municipal government.