Let's do "Suroy sa Camotes"!

It's time for another "Suroy Suroy Sugbo" jaunt, the best time to go to Enchanting Camotes Islands. I have done this twice in the past and I noticed some improvements after a couple of years. I am sure, the Camotes LGUs must have further improved on their facilities to give visitors more comfort and convenience.

Why join a "Suroy"? Well, when I joined it for the first time on the Southern Trail, I was amazed at the wealth of culture in our extant 15th - 17th century churches and edifices, in the delicious spread of delicacies and dishes from town to town, in the awesome natural gifts of a waterfalls, a cave or the endemic animal species. It was only through a well-coordinated trip from town to town in the south, that we got the opportunity to see up close the beauty of the surroundings, the warmth and simplicity of the locals, the uniqueness of our traditional songs and dances. 

The participants discovered the sources of exported furniture or native accessories, bags and mats, sold at much higher prices in the malls or abroad. Because of the direct connection to interested customers, these small enterprises or contract workers for bigger exporters, found better income from direct selling. They even established door-to-door delivery for huge items like the furniture manufacturers. (That was my initial complaint when I asked for the price of some beautifully carved "tocadores" and found them cheap. But how could I haul them back home?!)

One appreciates the enormity of the natural gifts we have within our country, within Cebu itself! Hence, one is lead to be more conscious of how one treats the environment, and become vigilant of how others respect the natural resources of our country. One's knowledge about the various local destinations of note is enhanced so that one is no longer a stranger to one's locality. And this is a tragic flaw among us, that we are conversant about details in destinations across the globe, but comparatively ignorant of the destinations right here!

Participants can have a choice of what accommodations they want in the course of the trip, as arranged by the Governor's office with DOT-accredited resorts and hostels. Visitors are assured of safe, clean and gracious lodgings for the nights...according to their budget. And as the "Suroy" is subsidized by the provincial government, only the cost of accommodations is paid by the participants. Food and transportation are for free!

On this note, we have to commend Governor Gwen for upholding this project despite numerous negative reactions from some sectors. Because of the "Suroy" program, LGUs are forced to assess their respective attractions and do some enhancements -- when necessary -- as well as upgrade their amenities and facilities for tourism. Amazing to see the beautified landscapes, flowering plants along roadsides, widened trails to a tourist spot, and most of all, the sense of dignity fostered among town folks who are now welcoming visitors of all nationalities with an assurance born out of a pride of place.

If you have not been to Camotes Islands, this weekend is the best way for you to have an up close and personal encounter with mystical Bukilat Cave in Tudela, the placid Lake Danao in San Francisco (with its nice resorts and beaches), and the ancestral houses and bee farm in northernmost island of Pilar.

Dali na, suroy na ta!