DOT supports Baguio’s sustainable and responsible tourism initiative

BAGUIO CITY, Sept 2(PIA) - - Tourism Secretary Bernadette Romulo – Puyat affirmed the Department’s support to the initiatives of the city government to rebuild a sustainable and responsible tourism industry for Baguio amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Puyat, in her keynote message, during the 111th Baguio Charter anniversary celebration at the Baguio Convention Center here on Tuesday (Sept. 1), also assured that it will be done in partnership with all tourism stakeholders and the local community with health and safety as the primary concerns.  

DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo - Puyat assures that the tourism department will support a sustainable and responsible tourism initiative that will rebuiild the tourism industry and will help all the stakeholders recover from the effects of the COVID pandemic  while ensuring   safety and health protocols are in place. (CCD/PIA CAR)

She said that the tourism industry is among the most affected by the public health crisis, but DOT is not not forcing any local government unit to open its community for tourism. It should be done in close coordination with local residents and local tourism council given that health and safety remain as the priority.

Puyat disclosed that DOT has put together a task force that is focused on looking into domestic tourism primarily in the identification of key indicators if any destination is ready. Factors being considered include the willingness and full support of local leaders and the community and the LGU’s capacity to handle emergencies.

For Baguio City which has already a tourism recovery and development plan in place, Puyat said the DOT is ready to support such initiative.

“With sustainable tourism as our core advocacy, we have and will continue to ensure that policies are in place for the protection of the environment and local community. As Baguio readies to open its doors, we are being given the opportunity now to refocus on sustainable and responsible tourism taking into account the quality rather than the quantity of tourists entering this iconic and beloved destination,” she said.

The Secretary bared that through the Tourism Promotions Board, a DOT – attached agency, they have committed to fund programs to cautiously spur the recovery of the tourism industry in Baguio, in collaboration with the city government and the Baguio Tourism Council, as well as the multi platform digital monitoring application, “Baguio VISITA”.

“Baguio is more than just a place where visitors escape for its cool weather. It is an important cultural and creative center whose rich religious, ethnic and cultural heritage reigns deep pride to the Northerners who call this area home. It is your city’s strong sense of shared identity that has always pulled Baguio through this disaster”.

“We shall continue to work together with the Baguio City Government and tourism stakeholders to sustainably and safely rebuild the industry and bring back jobs and security to the city of Pines. Angat Tayo Baguio,”Puyat stressed.

With the COVID pandemic, the city government of Baguio led a simple but meaningful 111th Charter Day celebration with limited people invited and all minimum health standards and safety protocols set in place. (JDP/CCD-PIA CAR) 

The City government of Baguio during the celebration of  its  111th Day , gives Charter anniversary, gives  recognition to members of different sectors of society that significantly help the local government, the community and the people in this time of COVID pandemic. (CCD/PIA CAR)

 

Source: Philippines Information Agency (pia.gov.ph)