A joint relief effort reached tourism workers in Davao Oriental and Bogo City this week. The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) delivered emergency cash aid. The move followed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s order to support communities hit by recent strong quakes.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the distribution in Mati City, Davao Oriental. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian joined her. They handed financial aid to 1,339 tourism workers. The event was held at the Provincial Capitol Covered Court.
Frasco stressed the importance of tourism. She said it is a stable source of livelihood. It also boosts the national economy. She promised close coordination with local governments. This is to help the region recover and rebuild.
Davao Oriental was hit by a 7.4-magnitude quake in October. Lives and livelihoods were disrupted. Homes and tourism sites were damaged. The province relies heavily on tourism.
Governor Nelson Dayanghirang called tourism a lifeline. He said it reflects the province’s culture and identity. Mati City Mayor Joel Almario thanked the national government. He praised the DOT-DSWD partnership.
In Bogo City, Cebu, 365 tourism workers also received aid. DOT Region VII OIC Director Gelena Asis-Dimpas led the activity. The city was struck by a powerful quake recently.
The government has released over 200 million pesos for Cebu’s recovery. Aid includes relief and livelihood support. The DOT also partnered with DTI and SBCorp. They offer recovery loans to affected tourism businesses.
The program is called “Bayanihan sa Bukas na May Pag-asa sa Turismo” (BBMT). It is a DOT-DSWD initiative. It ensures no Filipino is left behind during crises.
DSWD Secretary Gatchalian said tourism workers are vital. He said they drive the economy. The government must protect them in hard times.
The national government remains committed. It supports recovery in Mindanao and the Visayas. Help continues for workers and communities rebuilding after disasters.
