THE Municipal Government of Catmon, northern Cebu has banned tourists from bathing at the Tinubdan Falls following the deadly flashfloods that claimed the lives of three persons, including a mother and her daughter.
Catmon Mayor Irish Gestopa told reporters that they have not recommended the swimming at Tinubdan Falls, as they were still in the process of assessing whether it is safe to allow it for tourism purposes.
"We didn't recommend its development before the Cebu Provincial Tourism Office as we initially saw that the area was not safe for tourists since it was too susceptible to flashfloods and landslides," Gestopa said in Cebuano.
Despite their warnings, some tourists would still visit the area due to word-of-mouth promotion by other visitors.
"They are often attracted to visit the area because of its storied past, but we have yet to document its historical value to our town," Gestopa added.
Following the tragedy, Gestopa said the Municipal Government has allocated a P50,000 assistance to the victims' families.
Of the amount, P30,000 will be given to the family of Jacel and Princess Alastra, while P20,000 will be given to the family of Kent Monterola.
Gestopa also urged tourists visiting their town to consult authorities before venturing. (ANV, JKV)
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