THE Department of Tourism (DOT) in Western Visayas region will launch a grand home-grown tourism attraction campaign in Iloilo City on Sunday, March 2, 2014 as it unfolds the “Experience Western Visayas First” tourism drive for local and national tourists especially the Ilonggos.

DOT Regional Director Helen Catalbas said the campaign will be highlighted by a grand parade starting 1 p.m. at the capitol grounds to the Iloilo Freedom Grandstand where a program will be held.

During the parade, various costumes will be flaunted by each delegation of Western Visayas coupled with the different music and beats of their drums.

The program will focus on the must-experience destinations and attractions of Iloilo City and Bacolod City and from the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo and Negros Occidental.

Local products from Iloilo, Bacolod, Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo and Negros Occidental will also be showcased and sold during the Tourism Fair from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Mercado Real along J.M. Basa Street or Calle Real.

Catalbas said the campaign is supporting the pedestranization program of the Iloilo City government. She added that after the Freedom Grandstand program, guests are enjoined to walk and see the rehabilitated commercial heritage buildings along the central business district of the city.

A program will also be held at the Plazoleta Gay and admission is free.