THE Municipality of Badian has set its sights on becoming a premier tourism destination by 2030 through a comprehensive development plan focused on establishing an internationally competitive, sustainable, and ethical industry.
The vision highlights the promotion of inclusive growth, active engagement of the younger generation, and the equitable distribution of income within the community.
In line with the goal, the municipality held a public consultation on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, for the approval of the Badian Tourism Development Plan 2025-2030.
Badian Tourism Officer Earl Endab, in a chat interview on Monday, Dec. 9, outlined the vision for Badian’s tourism industry, emphasizing its goals to be internationally competitive, sustainable, and ethical. He also highlighted the importance of promoting growth, engaging younger generations, and ensuring continuous income distribution to the community through tourism initiatives.
In a press statement on Dec. 4, Badian’s public information office said the consultation, led Mayor Carmencita Lumain, brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including local officials, business owners, tourism operators, farmers, and fisherfolk, to provide input on the proposed roadmap for sustainable tourism growth.
Lumain highlighted Badian’s impressive economic transformation in her opening remarks, attributing the municipality’s growth to the responsible and innovative development of its tourism industry.
“Not long ago, Badian was a third-income class municipality. Today, we stand proud as a first-income class municipality, thanks to the dedication and the responsible development of our tourism industry,” Lumain said.
The consultation also featured Department of Tourism Central Visayas Director Judy Dela Cruz Gabato, who lauded Badian’s strides in sustainable tourism and its potential to set a benchmark for other municipalities in Cebu.
Badian is internationally renowned for attractions, such as the Kawasan Falls and the exhilarating canyoneering adventures that have captivated both local and international tourists.
Over the years, this influx of visitors has fueled economic growth, created numerous jobs, and led to significant improvements in public services and infrastructure.
Based on the draft Tourism Development Plan 2025-2030 of Badian, the municipality aims to achieve sustainable tourism development by ensuring the protection of natural resources, reducing environmental impact, and fostering eco-friendly practices among tourism operators and visitors.
The plan also aims to promote inclusive growth by equitably distributing tourism benefits across all barangays and involving local communities in decision-making processes.
It also aims to enhance transportation, accommodation, and facilities to improve visitor experiences and encourage longer stays. / CDF