DOT encourages homestay for Dinagyang tourists

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) is encouraging private homes to accept guests as the hotels in Iloilo City could not accommodate more visitors during the Dinagyang Festival, according to an official of the DOT.

DOT Regional Director Helen Catalbas said that Iloilo City has a total of 3,000 hotel rooms that may accommodate more than 7,000 persons.

However, the said hotel rooms are still not enough considering that they are expecting more than 1.5 million spectators and revelers on Saturday and Sunday.

She added that there are other hotels and resorts which are located outside Iloilo City, especially those along the southern coastal lines that are willing to accept Dinagyang spillover guests.

Catalbas said she is encouraging private homes to show genuine Ilonggo hospitality and friendship to visitors this weekend.