Barangays told: Help maintain attractions

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Tourism Commission will ask the assistance of the barangays in the maintenance of the historical and tourist sites located within its jurisdiction to make Cebu a leading tourists’ destination in Asia.

“We will now start evaluating (and) talking to the barangay where the heritage sites are (located). We will ask for their help because the areas must be maintained. (It) must be cleaned regularly,” said Tetta Baad, CCTC chairperson.

CCTC is planning to work with Barangays Sto. Niño, San Roque, Parian and Ermita where tourist spots are located. Baad said that there are still tourist spots in the city which need to be repaired after the magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit the city. She cited Magellan’s Cross and Museo Sugbo.

“Maayo ra ba og nihunong ang turista og nganhi niya kada adlaw naa baya gyuy turista so they will bring home with them the photographs of the Magellan’s Cross nga giputos og lumber,” she said.

She added that they are also planning to ask to the City Council for a budget for the repair of these tourist spots. Tourism police, according to her, should also be visible in these areas.

Baad said that the Parian Monument needs to be cleaned. She said that the sidewalks also need immediate repair, especially the open manholes, because it might cause accident.

Baad added that the members of the commission will be divided into four areas - heritage art and culture, nature, marketing, and licensing and finding - for the implementation of these plans.  (FREEMAN)