THE tourism sector of Davo is positive that more tourism establishments would open once the Samal Island Davao City Connector project or Davao-Samal Bridge is completed, said Davao Tourism Association president Cherry Al-ag.
“The Samal-Davao bridge plays a vital role in the travel and tourism competitiveness of the Region in attracting more tourists because of the accessibility, convenience, time-saving, and reduced cost to go back and forth (between the two cities),” Al-ag told SunStar Davao on October 28.
She said the investors would be keen to open tourism-related establishments like accommodation and dining that would in turn attract varied tourists, from locals, outside of Davao, and even foreigners.
It’s also possible to see more establishments owned by foreign investors once the bridge is completed, as well as from local investors. Al-ag said Filipino investors have the advantage of knowing the local tourism
“Kung ikaw ang investor (If you are the investor) you will consider many things including the potential because you're not going to be limited in terms of customers that are either Davao or Samal but you can have both. Filipinos at the same time, should have a better appreciation of the potential kasi taga-rito tayo, mas alam nation ang pulso ng mga turista and our strengths (we are from here so we have better understanding of the tourists and our strengths),” she said.
At the same time, the growing tourism sector would also benefit the allied services sector and provide more job opportunities for its workers.
However as investors and development come in, Al-ag said she hopes that the involved sectors would effort to maintain sustainable tourism and development in order to preserve the beauty and environment of Samal Island as the city relies mostly on ecotourism as well.
“We want to do things long term. That is why I am also anticipating that the LGU will get into discussions with the stakeholders, continue to attract investment, and earn income and revenue without having to sacrifice the environment and the quality of living of the locals,” she said. ICM