Davao Oriental Governor Corazon N. Malanyaon is serious about making the province’s tourism soar again as she is set to open the province considered the Sunrise Capital of the Philippines to the world.

During the tourism briefing on Tuesday, July 12, 2022, Governor Malanyaon discussed with Department of Tourism Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan her plans to help the tourism sector bounce back. These plans she hopes would bring a sense of optimism to the tourism sector as the industry is now slowly recovering from the effects of the pandemic.

Governor Malanyaon said she is seriously prioritizing tourism in her first 100 days. She said she will revisit the province’s tourism sites and launch tourism destinations in every town. To do this, an interfacing session with all Local Chief Executives and agencies is expected to be organized in the next few weeks to ensure that all LGUs and agencies are on board and all in the same direction.

She underscored the need to be “aggressive with our tourism development if Davao oriental is serious about being a primary tourist destination,” which she says will help in the province’s bid to reduce the poverty incidence.

During the meeting, she also stressed the need for accreditation of all tourism establishments and suggested that the Tourism department make accreditation a policy at the regional level. “There should be a strict accreditation. Tourism is marketing. Aside from the attractions we are selling, we are also selling accommodations and our services,” the Governor said, adding that there should be standards in the hospitality industry, even in the transportation sector.

Aside from tourism facilities, she said establishments and facilities must be complemented with at least all weather roads leading to these tourism sites. She noted that roads would be a significant priority in the province’s investment plan supporting tourism.

Regional Director Tan presented the inventory of tourism sites in the province, mainly dive sites, beaches, caves, and falls, which the Governor described as exquisite and world-class.

Complementing these sites, the DOT is also conducting training to promote the Filipino brand of service, which the Governor lauded, noting that with the right direction and sound strategies, Davao Oriental has what it takes to be a world-class and premier tourism destination. KLDeloso-PIO | Photos by Eden Jhan Licayan