Iloilo Launches ‘Turista sa Barangay’ Program to Boost Local Tourism

ILOILO – In a bid to expand its tourism sector, Iloilo Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. signed Executive Order No. 168 on Tuesday, establishing the ‘Turista sa Barangay’ program, designed to develop villages into vibrant centers of tourism and care for visitors.

According to Philippines News Agency, the ‘Turista sa Barangay’ is a community-centered initiative aligning with the provincial tourism development plan. It aims to transform local barangays into hubs for agricultural, environmental, and cultural tourism under the broader MoRProGRes strategy, which focuses on making Iloilo a robust, progressive, globally competitive, and resilient province.

The program outlines specific developments in various barangays to enhance their tourism appeal. For instance, agricultural upgrades are slated for Barangay Nanga in Pototan, where existing facilities will be enhanced to support tourism. Similarly, initiatives like the Bucari Pine Forest in Barangay Bucari, Leon, the Maasin Watershed in Barangay Daja, Maasin, and the Jalaur Multipurpose Project Watershed Area will see improvements in gardening and agricultural programs.

In addition to agricultural enhancements, the program advocates for the reforestation of recoverable forest areas and the promotion of flower-bearing trees under the ‘Tanum Iloilo’ scheme. This initiative aims to beautify public spaces such as parks, plazas, roadsides, and residential areas, fostering a more inviting natural environment.

Governor Defensor is also set to launch ‘Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan,’ a festival intended to gain international recognition for its fun, foodie-friendly atmosphere. This initiative underscores the administration’s strategy to prioritize barangays with significant tourism potential to boost visitor numbers and enhance the overall tourist experience in Iloilo.

Implementation of the ‘Turista sa Barangay’ program will involve collaboration with various stakeholders, including national government agencies, local government units, youth councils, non-governmental organizations, people’s organizations, and educational institutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tourism development in the province.