Gigantes Islands, Tambobo Bay now red tide-free; 10 areas still positive
GIGANTES ISLAND in Carles town is one of the tourism attractions in northern Iloilo. Others include the islands of Sicogon and Cabugao Gamay, Pawikan Cave, Marbuena Island Resort in Ajuy, and Pan de Azucar in Concepcion. — MLTLOPEZ/BW FILE

OFFICIALS OF the Iloilo provincial government and the Department of Tourism-Western Visayas (DoT-6) are meeting this weekend to discuss tourism concerns and development plans for the northern part of the province. The meeting’s main agenda, according to Provincial Administrator Raul N. Banias, will be the establishment of a Northern Iloilo Tourism Authority that will lead the development programs aimed at developing the pristine islands in the fifth district. DoT-6 is currently focusing its efforts in that area as an alternative destination to Boracay Island, which is currently closed for rehabilitation. “One of the concerns raised by Gov. Arthur Defensor Sr. is the accommodation, such as bed and breakfast, as well as comfort rooms and restaurants. So that when the tourists arrive, the island will be equipped with amenities to accommodate them,” Mr. Banias said. Other issues to be taken up are policies on motor banca operations and environmental protection, particularly on waste disposal. He added that the provincial would only serve as an “oversight body” while the local government units lead in the implementation of the programs. the implementation of these plans and has the jurisdiction is the local government units (LGUs). “We have to consider that most of the tourist destinations are privately-owned. There should be an enhanced coordination and dialogue with the private sector. Except those areas controlled by LGUs such as the Tangke lagoon Carles,” he said. Northern Iloilo is comprised of the towns of Barotac Viejo, San Rafael, Lemery, Ajuy, Sara, Concepcion, San Dionisio, Batad, Balasan, Estancia, and Carles. — Louine Hope U. Conserva

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