17 May 2023 – Gov. Arthur Defensor, Jr. with Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, Provincial Tourism Officer Bombette Marin, Provincial Planning and Development Officer Mario Nillos, Provincial Government and Natural Resources Office chief Atty. Cesar Emmanuel Buyco and staff Mitzi Peñaflorida, and Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion Office Chief Aulynn Yue Sin meet with Department of Tourism (DOT) 6 regional director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez to discuss the governor’s plan to strengthen homestay and B & B (bed and breakfast) establishments in the islands in Northern Iloilo.
The initiative is in line with Gov. Defensor’s thrust to promote tourism in the northern part of the province, which is known for nice beaches and islands, and at the same time provide livelihood to the fisherfolks and residents.
The governor intends to provide funding to qualified households to improve their rooms and facilities which will be made available for tourists.
Tourist guides and owners of identified homestay or B & B establishments will also be trained with the help of DOT-6.
Gov. Defensor will also coordinate with the barangay officials to determine if they need facilities such as footwalks or water system.
He said the project will be piloted in Gigantes island in Carles which is frequented by tourists because of its nice beaches and island attractions. (5/17/23)