Turismo Sugbo agreement signed

CEBU, Philippines - Eight educational institutions are now partners with the Province of Cebu, 12 local government units and the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) in sustaining Cebu’s tourism.

A memorandum of agreement (MOA) was signed yesterday by the parties to signify their cooperation for “Turismo Sugbo”, a community-based tourism education program to sustain the success of “Suroy Suroy Sugbo.”

The eight participating educational institutions are the University of San Jose Recoletos, Southwestern University, University of Southern Philippines, University of Cebu, Cebu Normal University, Asian College of Technology, University of San Carlos and Benedicto College.

Turismo Sugbo will be implemented initially for two years (2012-2014). It aims to establish Cebu’s brand of tourism in its cities and municipalities, standardize and enhance the quality of community-based tourism service and develop a sustainable creative tourism program.

The week-long immersion will start from May 21 to May 25.

Merlyn Castroverde, an incoming Junior Tourism Management student from USP, said that they are grateful for this opportunity given by the Province through the Turismo Sugbo Program.

“Sobra kaayo ang excitement nako nga mo start na ang program. Daghan kong makat-unan nga ideas gawas sa akong na-learn sa skwelahan,” Castroverde said. (I’m excited about the program because this will surely be a learning process for us.)

Meanwhile, Michael Rey Aunzo, a Bachelor of Tourism Management student of CNU, expressed how this program is a very good exposure for their batch.

“It’s a privilege since pioneering mi nga BTM students and we are very lucky to be part of this,” Aunzo said.

In the agreement, the Provincial Government will act as a link between the participating local government units and other government agencies. The Capitol will also provide financial support for the program through the CCCI.

The CCCI on the other hand will provide mentors from business and tourism stakeholders and coordinate and monitor activities as well as ensure the liquidation of funds. – (FREEMAN)