Coaster for LGUs seen to boost tourism efforts

CEBU, Philippines - To encourage the cities and towns in the province to take advantage of their tourism and investment potentials, Governor Gwendolyn Garcia will be providing each local government unit a coaster to promote their existing programs.

Garcia made the announcement during the Provincial Development Council meeting last Friday, which was attended by several mayors.

Garcia said the coasters would complement efforts of the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Department of Tourism in providing skills training to LGUs.

Cities and municipalities under the province shall identify tourism sites or sites with potential for tourism.

Developed areas will be given tourism accreditation while those that are underdeveloped will be provided with support in the form of trainings in identifying, conserving, preserving, and enhancing the site. This is to allow enough time to comply with requirements for accreditation.

Getting an accreditation would ensure the local government of full support to secure, protect and sustain its programs. Its heritage will also be formally recognized and its significance will be formally accounted for.

The trainings for LGUs will focus on building the capabilities of tourism officers in managing tourism sites, as well as in other areas such as services and hospitality, tour packing, tour guiding and tour promotions.

A test run would be conducted to check the strength of the LGU’s tourism efforts and to generate feedback.

If feedback is favorable, the LGU may be allowed to proceed with marketing and promotions. If feedback is not so favorable, the LGU’s workforce would have to undergo another round of training to address weaknesses and enhance the tourism package.

The provincial government and DOT will provide the initial set of marketing and promotional materials. CCCI would also provide technical assistance and training on marketing and promotions. (FREEMAN)