Travel agencies hurt by disaster in Japan

CEBU, Philippines - The recent disaster in Japan which badly hit the northeast region is hurting travel agencies in Cebu.

Tessie Naidu, manager of Pinoycare Travel World during the "Tapok-Tapok sa NS Royal Pensione" said circulars and advisories have been received from major airline companies indicating cancelled flights although the agencies are not charging any penalties for rebooked schedules.

Travelers going to and from Japan are both affected, Naidu said.

The Japanese comprise the second largest number of tourist arrivals in Cebu.

Naidu said radiation from the nuclear power plant in Fukushima is the main factor for the reluctance to travel.

Under the circumstances, Naidu said it is time for travel agencies to refocus attention on local tourism to give tourists the opportunity to discover and appreciate places in the Philippines.

Naidu said this way the money will remain in the country.