THE Department of Tourism Central Visayas (DOT 7) has underscored the perpetual relevance of the legacy of the late President Ramon Magsaysay to Filipinos from all walks of life.

DOT 7 Director Shahlimar Hofer Tamano was with Balamban Mayor Alex Binghay, Magsaysay’s grandson, Francisco “Paco” Magsaysay and the families of General Benito Ebuen and close Magsaysay friend former Senator Tomas Cabili, both of whom perished with the beloved President in the Manunggal crash, for the annual wreath-laying ceremony at the crash site in Barangay Sunog, Balamban recently.

The activity was attended by local officials and residents, including members of the community organization managing tourist operations in the area.

The many heartwarming stories and interesting anecdotes about the late President, Tamano said, effectively convey Magsaysay’s legacy of exemplary public service and simplicity, making the annual commemoration of his passing relevant.

“Even if he served the country for only three years, the late President Magsaysay’s spirit lives on in everything that is good in the Filipino. The DOT 7 is proud to facilitate appreciation for the Magsaysay legacy through our support to tourism stakeholders of the locality,” he explained.

The Ramon Magsaysay Monument on Mt. Manunggal is classified by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines as a site of historical significance. The peak is Cebu’s third-highest and is popular among locals and tourists.

DOT 7 has extended support to local stakeholders in enhancing the potential of Mt. Manunggal as a historical tourism destination.

Under a convergence program with the Department of Public Works and Highways, the DOT facilitated concreting of the road leading to the Mt. Manunggal camp, making the access by four-wheelers possible.

The DOT 7 Tourism Industry Skills Program is also providing training to the Barangay Unity Key to Integrated Development Multipurpose Cooperative (BUKID MPC) community guides. The program has enriched the Manunggal experience as guides provide accurate historical information and encourage better appreciation of the surrounding natural environment.

With the pandemic-induced growing preference for outdoor sites, Manunggal is among the most visited within the Cebu Transcentral Highway (TCH) corridor. Straddling the uplands of Cebu City and Balamban, the Transcentral Highway offers a variety of activities and experiences, including dining and recreational options.

“We have a gem of a destination in Mt. Manunggal and TCH. We hope to increase the value of these sites by creating connections, ensuring that the experience is satisfying and meaningful,” Tamano said.