By Nimfa L. Estrellado Gov. Angelina Tan signs a tourism pledge during the Umpukang Panturismo on May 19, reaffirming support for sustainabl...
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| Gov. Angelina Tan signs a tourism pledge during the Umpukang Panturismo on May 19, reaffirming support for sustainable and community-based tourism development in Quezon Province. (Quezon PIO) |
POLILIO, Quezon - Tourism development and visitor safety were among the main concerns raised during the Umpukang Panturismo held in the Polillo Group of Islands on May 19. The gathering brought together tourism stakeholders, resort owners, local officials, and tourism workers to discuss safety measures, tourism standards, and tourism plans for island towns in Quezon.
During the forum, Governor Angelina Tan said tourism development cannot be done by the government alone. She said local governments, resort owners, tour operators, and communities must work together to improve tourism services and visitor experience across Quezon.
“Mayaman tayo sa agrikultura, meron tayong dagat, may kapatagan, may bundok. Mayaman tayo sa history, heritage, culture, at iyon ang dapat nating i-showcase kaya kailangan magtulungan, mag-usap-usap, at magplano para umusad ang turismo sa Quezon,” Tan said.
According to the provincial government’s report, the “Tara Na sa Quezon” branding program recognizes tourism establishments that follow local tourism standards. Tourism councils and the provincial government inspect and evaluate resorts, hotels, restaurants, and tour operators before issuing a provincial tourism seal.
Tan said the province will continue helping local governments and tourism operators through technical support and tourism planning programs. She added that local tourism policies and ordinances should be discussed with stakeholders to ensure proper implementation and cooperation.
The tourism stakeholders also signed a tourism pledge during the gathering, committing to support sustainable and culturally grounded tourism programs across Quezon Province. The pledge emphasized cooperation, environmental stewardship, community empowerment, and stronger collaboration in promoting tourism development in the province.
Tan also raised concerns over drowning incidents and other tourism-related accidents in parts of Quezon. Provincial authorities continue to monitor tourism incidents through coordination with law enforcement and disaster response agencies.
“Bawal mawalan ng buhay sa ganon dahil kasama sa turismo ang safety and security. Hindi puwedeng sabihin na hindi ligtas ang Quezon dahil ligtas at secure tayo dito sa ating lalawigan,” she said.
However, some tourism operators said safety measures and tourism standards will also require stronger coordination, funding, and compliance from both local governments and private establishments to become effective. They said regular monitoring and consistent implementation remain important in keeping tourist destinations safe and organized.
Tan also highlighted efforts to strengthen peace and order in the province, saying Quezon has already achieved insurgency-free status through cooperation among the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, mayors, and provincial officials. She said improving security remains important in attracting more tourists and investments to the province.
The governor also stressed the importance of cleanliness and hospitality in tourism. She reminded tourism workers and local officials that visitors often remember how they were welcomed and treated during their stay.
A separate tourism dialogue led by the Provincial Tourism Office under Provincial Tourism Officer Nestler Louies Almagro and Committee on Tourism Chairperson Board Member John Joseph Aquivido also took place in Panukulan on May 19. Governor Tan emphasized the need for a Tourism Planner to improve the island’s rock formations and Hook Bay tourism sites and attract more visitors.
Tourism stakeholders and local officials ended the meeting with plans to continue discussions on tourism safety, coordination, and development in Quezon’s island towns. In the coming weeks, they will review tourism policies, inspect establishments, and prepare programs aimed at improving visitor safety and tourism services across the province.
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