Sunday, August 26, 2007 Malapascua: A new eco-tourism hotspot
IN ORDER to maximize the tourism potentials of Malapascua Island, Cebu, Rep. Benhur Salimbangon (fourth district) passed a bill declaring the island an eco-tourism destination.
Salimbangon said Ma-lapascua has been heralded as the “Virgin Boracay Island” and is considered a favorite tourist destination among foreigners and locals.
The creation of eco-tourism destinations in the Philippines is needed since tourism is “the most potent and valuable industry” today, he said.
Thrusts
Addressing the issues on marketing, accessibility, infrastructure, product development and transportation to Malapascua, as well as the preservation of its natural resources, its natural beauty and local heritage were among the thrusts of the bill.
“The environmental attributes and rich natural resources of Malapascua apart from its natural beauty are what make it potentially an eco-tourism destination in the country,” Salimbangon said.
Among the provisions of the bill is the creation of an Eco-Tourism Task Force within the year from its approval. Its governing board shall be co-chaired by the congressman and the governor.
Members will be representatives from the environment department, tourism department, health department, the private sector, nongovernment organizations and the local government unit.
It will then task the tourism and environment departments to prepare an eco-tourism master plan and come up with the necessary rules and regulations to be approved by the President upon the recommendation of the board.
At the Capitol, Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia has ordered the dismantling of structures encroaching on the island’s 20-meter-easement zone.
Resort operators oppose the order. (MBG)
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