More ecotourism destinations pushed

CEBU, Philippines — Three ecotourism destinations in Cebu are set to be developed by the Provincial Tourism Office (PTO).

These are the Laaw Lagoon of Santa Fe, Balay’g Sawa of Samboan, and Osmeña Peak of Dalaguete.

Tourism Officer Joselito "Boboi" Costas said the provincial government and its partners in the respective towns will implement either a community-based program or construct an infrastructure.

The Laaw Lagoon is currently under rehabilitation to increase the volume of caulerpa (locally known as lato).

As part of the rehabilitation measures, the local government unit of Sante Fe town issued an executive order closing the lagoon for up to four months.

A viewing deck, which will be called “Tan-awan ni Leon,” is set to be built so tourists can admire the breathtaking geographical features of the area.

Leon, Costas said, is based on a mythical fisherman who used to guard the area.

"Geotourism is taking advantage of the beautiful geographic forms in the area," Costas said.

The lagoon sits on a provincial government-owned property.

Charitable organizations, such as the Fair Trade, the community extension arm of the Basilica Minore del Sto. Niño, and former DENR Secretary Gina Lopez have expressed support by aiding in the development of the area.

Moreover, the PTO is also planning to provide more workshops and trainings to capacitate people living in the barangays of Hagdan, Kinatarcan, and Langub.

In fact, Costas said two workshops on ecotourism management and business planning were already conducted to prepare the locals.

“Locals can benefit from the ecotourism site without compromising the environment,” he said.

On the other hand, communities proximate to Osmeña Peak are seen boost a promising farm tourism industry that caters to foreign and local visitors looking for wholesome fun and adventure in the countryside.

Farm tourism is the practice of attracting visitors and tourists to farm areas for production, educational, and recreational purposes which involves any agriculture or fishery-based operation or activity and may also provide a venue for outdoor recreation and accessible family outings.

Vice Governor Agnes Magpale said the communities can offer a “pick and pay” for tourists, for instance.

Costas said a comprehensive community-based planning for development and other policies are essentials for the establishment of farm tourism sites.

For Balay'g Sawa Falls, the PTO is planning to build toilets and other infrastructure projects.

At present, Cebu’s ecotourism destinations are the Bojo River in Aloguinsan, canyoneering site in Alegria and Badian towns, and Nug-as Forest in Alcoy, among others. (FREEMAN)