Lewis makes a pitch for Sorsogon tourism

SORSOGON, Sorsogon - Perhaps it was her way of sharing her abundant blessings with her compatriots.

Mrs. Loida Nicolas Lewis, who figured well in US business circles after inheriting the multibillion-dollar enterprise of her husband Reginald who died of a brain tumor seven years ago, has accepted her designation as consultant of the Sorsogon Provincial Tourism Council.

"It is high time that Sorsogueños get together to give the tourism program in the province its much-needed (boost)," said Lewis after visiting tourist destinations here during a recent five-day visit.

What caught her fancy were the pink beaches of Subic, the blue and clear waters of Rizal and Bacon, the abundant marine resources of Prieto Diaz, Juban, Casiguran, Sta. Magdalena and Matnog, the cool and hot springs of Masacrot and San Benon in Irosin town, and the whale sharks of Donsol.

"Sorsogon is a Disneyland of tourism attractions that must be shared with the world and, at the same time, be a very positive source of revenues that should offer sustainable livelihood to its people," she said.

But she said the province's natural sites, like the Bulusan Mountain Lake Resort, should be conserved, preserved and developed.

"Century-old trees along and inside the park should be properly labeled and the flora and fauna within the park should also be conserved," she suggested. Clean restrooms are also a must, she added.

Indeed, Lewis said tourism is a "very viable" industry that, if truly developed, can harness the revenue potentials of every local government.