DAVAO CITY , Philippines – A program dubbed “Destination Mindanaw†aimed at promoting the south as a tourism haven kicked off yesterday despite the ongoing conflict between Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) forces and government troops in Zamboanga City.
The program was initiated by the Davao Metro Shuttle Bus Co. in cooperation with the Department of Tourism, Department of Trade and Industry and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA).
It was launched at the Grand Regal Hotel here. Travel agencies based in the city and Davao del Norte have committed to support the program.
“It is high time that we promote Mindanao as a good place to visit,†said Alma Uy, proprietor of the AsiaNet Travel and Tours.
Uy said bus companies would embark on land tours to promote the various tourist destinations in Surigao del Sur, Davao Oriental, South Cotabato, Sarangani, General Santos City, Bukidnon, Cagayan de Oro City and Davao City.
The Bank of the Philippine Islands supported the program by offering a tour loan payable within six months at zero interest, she added.
Uy assured interested travelers of safety during their stay in Mindanao.