DOT doubling efforts to promote Mindanao as tourist destination —official

The Department of Tourism (DOT) said Wednesday it is “doubling” its efforts to counter the perception of Mindanao as an unsafe tourist destination.

“It’s [effort] is actually doubled because we are working on a perception problem that’s why we are here to show you what is actually real on the ground level,” DOT Assistant Secretary Roberto Alabado III told reporters in Malacañang.

“We are in a situation where we would like to change perceptions by saying what is on the ground,” he added.

Alabado’s comment came weeks after President Rodrigo Duterte said his home region of Mindanao is still a “dangerous place” even if martial law remains in effect.

“Pagdating sa pronouncements ni Presidente we always abide. He’s the President. We’re just an agency helping him in the area of tourism,” Alabado said.

Mindanao has been under martial rule since May 2017 in response to ISIS-inspired Maute rebels who laid siege to Marawi City and allegedly attempted to establish a caliphate for the terror group.

Initially valid for only 60 days, martial law was extended thrice by Congress upon Duterte's request.

Unless it is extended again, martial law in Mindanao is due to end on December 31 this year.

The imposition of martial rule, however, did not stop lawless elements from bombing a Roman Catholic cathedral in Jolo, which left more than 20 people dead and injured some 100 others; and attacking a mosque in Zamboanga City in January.

A suicide bombing attack on a military camp in Indanan town in Sulu meanwhile occurred on June 28.

Despite the incidents, Alabado said domestic tourism in Mindanao is “very good,” citing Davao City where hotels are “always fully-booked.”

“That is a good indicator that business and tourists are going to Davao and Mindanao. Siargao is part of Mindanao. Camiguin is part of Mindanao. And they are enjoying the boom of tourists visiting there,” he said. —KG, GMA News