A TOURISM official in Baguio City proposed a P6.9 million "tourism calamity fund" to be made available whenever a state of calamity condition exists in the city.

The proposal of Anthony de Leon is backed by the Hotels and Restaurants Association of Baguio (HRAB), Baguio Tourism Council (BTC), and Baguio Conventions and Visitors Bureau (BCVB).

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The tourism groups have created a recovery plan to regain lost ground in terms of arrivals and status due to recent natural calamities.

The almost P7 million budget is divided into administrative expenses, emergency repairs of public tourism sites and marketing and promotions.

The tourism calamity fund is part of the city's medium to long-term tourism goals.

Baguio City draws millions in tourism annually that with the city's climate, scenery and accessibility, it has become a favorite for weddings conventions and seminars nationwide.

The groups plan to continue inviting key government officials to the city to highlight the mountain haven as a proffered location for dignitaries.

For the month of December, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is expected to spend the holidays in the city with the first family.

United States Ambassador Kristi Kenny is also a regular guest in the city with the US Ambassador’s residence set up at Camp John Hay.

Every tourist is expected to spend a minimum of P5,000 daily, giving the local economy a boost aside from the thriving educational institutions in the city which has also given the moniker "Educational Center of the North." (Ma. Elena Catajan)