THE City Government of Mati, one of the region’s top summer destinations with its beaches, is contemplating whether to push through with their summer events due to the threat of coronavirus disease (Covid-19).
In the Kapehan sa Dabaw at The Annex of SM City Davao Monday, February 24, Mati City information officer Ben Jason Tesiorna said with the recent international recognition received by the local government of Mati wherein three of its bays were officially included in the list of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World Association (MBBWA), they expect a spike of tourist arrivals.
Tesiorna, however, admitted that the tourism industry in the city is affected by the recent coronavirus outbreak.
“More tourists are expected but of course with the Covid threat now medyo apektado din because we have to also make some adjustments sa aming summer fun activities,” he said.
One of the famous activities in Mati City is the annual Summerfrolic. Thousands of local and foreign tourists are expected to converge at Dahican Beach.
Skimboarding and frisbee competitions, among others, are lined up for the upcoming summer.
Tesiorna added that they have yet to decide if they will continue with their activities pending the guidelines coming from the Department of Tourism (DOT).
“‘Yong summer fun activities namin initially talagang plano is stop nalang but with the recent advisory from DOT, DILG (Department of the Interior and Local Government), and DOH (Department of Health), so we are contemplating on continuing with that but inaantay lang naming ‘yong guidelines from the DOH and DOT,” Tesiorna added.
In the Joint Statement of DOH, DILG, and DOT on public gathering issued on February 18, the agencies assured that “it is safe to organize and attend public gatherings, meetings and festivals as long as precautionary measures identified by the DOH are observed.”
They took back their earlier advisory on concerts and other public events and gatherings issued last February 7.
“The guidelines in handling guests in tourism enterprises during this global emergency are being implemented in hotels and resorts around the country even before the temporary ban, and facilities are equipped with infrared thermometers and more hand sanitizers,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, DOH reminds the general public to practice proper hygiene such as regularly washing of hands. They also advised the public to seek medical attention for signs of cough, colds, sore throat and fever. (JCR)