Tourism Road Map Launched as East Samar Celebrates Anniversary

As frequently posted in social media, the province teems with tourism potential, from its rich natural resources, to our rich historical and cultural heritage.

“Promote, build, support, advocate and integrate” summarizes the road map, said Ms. Marissa Acorin, president of the Association of Tourism Officers in Eastern Samar.

Since focus is on eco-tourism, it should be community based for it to be “sustainable, to help create jobs and livelihood for local residents without sacrificing the integrity of the ecosystem and the local culture,” Acorin said.

LGUs are urged to work together not as separate entities.

Acting Governor Marcelo Ferdinand Picardal said that the province will invest in tourism development because he believes it will “bring in more money and drive the local economy” which can propel the province’s development. It can spur the growth of small enterprises which can create more jobs for our people.

The tourism plan was crafted during a workshop attended by the mayors, tourism officers, the acting governor and representatives from the private sector and other tourism stakeholders.

While there are tourism activities already in place, there is still a lot to be done. According to statistics, Eastern Samar has one of the lowest tourist arrivals in the region, and earnings from tourism is one of the lowest.

Development will be inclusive. According to Mr. Jun Grata, the acting governor’s tourism adviser,”LGUs should outgrow their tendency to think only of the destinations within their municipality. The viable scale for tourism is the province”. Municipalities are clustered so that they won’t compete, but complement each other.

In a press conference, acting Governor Picardal said that for 2018, the provincial government will be allocating funds to support tourism initiatives.

Meanwhile, tourism booths of the different clusters showcasing their destinations can be viewed at the provincial Capitol grounds until next week. (Eden Cidro/Este News)