DOT taps C. Luzon LGUs to identify emerging tourism sites

By Zorayda Tecson 

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – The Department of Tourism in Central Luzon (DOT-3) has tapped local government units (LGUs) in identifying and rediscovering emerging and less traveled destinations in the region.

DOT-3 Regional Director Richard G. Daenos cited on Monday the need for LGUs to unlock their tourism potentials and opportunities in a bid to boost the local tourism industry.

As an initial step, Daenos said DOT-3 has conducted a tourism rapid assessment (TRA) through its planning unit for partner LGUs. “The TRA aims to promote key destinations and rediscover emerging and less traveled destinations in the region,” he said in a statement.

The DOT official said among the potential travel destinations that were initially identified were the Paper Tree Resort and Picnic Area, Pawi Care, San Sebastian Church, and Clay Avenue, all in San Narciso town in Zambales.

He said the tourism industry, if properly planned and managed, will  stimulate local economic growth, promote soci0-economic welfare, and preserve the natural and cultural resources of the LGUs.

Daenos said he also visited Willy Layug’s farm located in Betis, Guagua town, this province to discuss plans to help the woodcarvers’ community ensure the sustainability of their industry.

“Our goal is to make Central Luzon a center for fun and adventure deeply rooted in its rich culture and heritage, both tangible and intangible with shared responsibility with the local communities,” he added.

Meanwhile, the number of tourism front liners in the region who have undergone Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) training has so far reached 5,000.

Daenos thanked their partner Provincial Tourism Offices, along with their tourism stakeholders from all seven provinces in Central Luzon as they met and surpassed their FBSE 5,000 mark.

“Beyond the numbers, we are proud to witness how the FBSE program has helped transform our trainees into becoming excellent industry workers exemplifying Filipino core values. As we endeavor to bring out the good and positive values in every tourism stakeholder, we hope to see more of our FBSE graduates champion service excellence in the industry,” he added.

The DOT-3 has been conducting FBSE training for the tourism front liners in the region as part of its continuous efforts to strengthen the overall tourism experience in the region branded by Filipino hospitality. (PNA)