THE Department of Tourism (DOT)-Western Visayas has accredited the Negros First Organic Technology Center (NFOTEC) as the first government-run farm tourism site in the province.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson along with Provincial Agriculturist Japhet Masculino, Provincial Supervising Tourism Operations Officer Cristine Mansinares and other provincial government officials received the copy of the accreditation from DOT-Western Visayas Regional Administrative officer Artemio Ticar, designated tourism area development head for Negros Occidental, at the Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City Friday, July 26, 2019.
The accreditation, which is valid until July 2021, is pursuant to the provisions of Republic Act 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009.
Masculino said the NFOTEC was able to comply with the requirements and standards set by the DOT for an agriculture or farm tourism site.
The accreditation will enable the facility to be included in the programs of the agency especially promotions, Masculino said.
“It can now cater to tourists who would like to visit and learn the technology and practices there,” he said, adding that the accreditation will also enhance its status as an organic center.
Opened in January last year, the NFOTEC, which is situated near the Negros First Rice Processing Center at Barangay Tabunan in Bago City, was positioned to further boost organic production in the province.
The P3-million facility also produces organic rice, vegetables, free-range chicken, and black pig, among others.
The provincial agriculturists earlier said aside from empowering existing organic practitioners, the technology center is also helping the province encourage future organic farming advocates.
DOT-Western Visayas records showed that there are currently 30 accredited farm tourism sites in the region. Half, or 15, are in Negros Occidental.
Mansinares said as an accredited farm tourism site, the NFOTEC can accommodate not only those who want to learn but also those wanting to unwind or be entertained.
“The farm is not only an area for production, it also provides relaxation to the visitors through various tourism-related activities,” she added.
For Lacson, the objective of the facility was to help farmers. But it’s good that it is also helping promote tourism, he said.