THE Department of Tourism (DOT) endeavors to invite international guests as well as local tourists to Mindanao while highlighting the continuously improving peace and security situation in the region following the successful negotiations between the government and the MNLF or Moro National Liberation Front.
This was emphasized by Secretary Maria Christina Garcia Frasco during the opening of the second Mindanao Tourism Expo in Cagayan de Oro City. The event showcased the primary tourist spots, products, souvenirs, and discounted tour packages of the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao Region, SOCCSKSARGEN, CARAGA, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao.
One of the government’s initiatives is the joint agreement between the DOT, the Department of National Defense, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government to promote tourism based on peace and order.
The government also invites foreign dignitaries, especially those issuing travel advisories to their citizens, to visit the region and witness for themselves the peace and order situation, particularly in BARMM.
This was agreed upon by Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando Uy, who stated that the unified goal of all local government units in Mindanao is “to feel safe while enjoying the destinations.”
According to data from the DOT, around 7.1 million tourists visited Mindanao. Within this number, around three million visited Region X or Northern Mindanao, comprising Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Iligan City, and Cagayan de Oro City.
The mission of the DOT and all local tourism offices is to promote to the entire Philippines and the world that “Mindanao is a treasure of natural wonders.”
