DEPARTMENT of Tourism (DOT) once again assures the safety in the tourist destinations of Mindanao.
Concurrently, the DOT chief visited SOCCSKSARGEN for PH Experience Program of the agency.
Encompassing four provinces and four cities, SOCCSKSARGEN boasts a diverse history, tradition, and culture, offering a rich experience of Mindanao to the world.
The region is renowned as a top producer of coffee in the Philippines due to its extensive plantations in Sultan Kudarat province, alongside its beautiful tourist destinations.
Now, SOCCSKSARGEN is one of the destinations chosen by Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco for the ‘The Philippine Experience’ program, the ninth edition of the DOT’s program.
“So, we’re bringing our national and regional tourism stakeholders to operate their travel agencies, as well as our content creators, as well as dignitaries from various countries all over the world to this region so that they can get to know the local tradition, culture, heritage, as well as our natural landscapes,” said Sec. Christina Frasco, DOT.
To recall, the DOT launched the said program last year to promote the country’s cultural and heritage tourism.
Accompanied by Philippine Experience Program Delegates, Frasco visited major tourist destinations in General Santos City and Sarangani Province.
Their itinerary included GenSan Tuna Fishport, Pacquiao Private Beach House in Sarangani, and the white sand beaches in Glan, Sarangani.
For a unique experience and appreciation of the vibrant culture of the Blaan and Tagakaolo, the DOT delegation visited Malungon Retreat and Training Center (MRTC) in Malungon, Sarangani, a place focused on preserving the culture and heritage of the local indigenous community.
Since last year, the DOT has successfully launched the program in the regions of CALABARZON, MIMAROPA, Bicol, Western Visayas, Davao region, Northern Mindanao, and Zamboanga Peninsula.
The program also aims to expand livelihood and employment opportunities for Filipino citizens.
Meanwhile, Secretary Frasco reiterated that tourist destinations in Mindanao are safe despite occasional concerns due to reports of unrest.
“The efforts of the national government, in conjunction with the local government, as well as our uniformed men and women of the AFP and our local Philippine National Police, are quite comprehensive and devoted to ensuring the safety and security of our residents and our tourists in Mindanao,” Frasco added.
The secretary shared that training for tourist police continues, having trained over 7,000 with the assistance of DILG.
The agency also launched the Tourist Assistance Call Center to provide assistance to tourists anywhere in the Philippines.
The DOT also collaborates with various embassies worldwide to improve their travel advisories, especially in Mindanao.
“So Mindanao is ripe for international and domestic tourism, and the people here are ready to welcome every guest that comes with the love that is so distinct to us Filipinos,” she concluded.
