Bayanihan Law 2 must give small tourism businesses a boost —Tolentino

Small enterprises at tourist spots in the Philippines must be included as recipients of the economic assistance to be reaped by the tourism sector under the proposed Bayanihan to Recover as One law, according to Senator Francis Tolentino on Tuesday.

"Eighty percent sa mga negosyo sa ating tourist spots ay micro businesses. Baka magaya tayo sa US na ang nakinabang lang ay 'yung malalaking negosyo," Tolentino said during the interpellation of the said Senate Bill No. 1564 on Monday night.

Senator Sonny Angara, the sponsor of the bill, said the measure has been crafted in such a way that the executive branch will have enough flexibility to direct the assistance to the critically impacted sectors.

"If the good gentleman sees any wording that tends to favor large hotels or establishments, I would be willing to remove that because there is no such intention to favor these establishments," Angara said.

"Emphasis would be given to smaller establishments," he added.

The proposed Bayanihan Law 2 includes an appropriation of P10 billion to support the bogged-down tourism sector in the country.

Tolentino also proposed to craft a roadmap on how the tourism sector would cope with the new normal, especially as the sector intersects with transportation—another industry that has been crippled by COVID-19.

Grants may likewise be provided to these small tourism businesses through the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises Act (RA 9178), according to the senator.

Tourism stakeholders recently said they will be drumming up efforts to promote domestic travel once lockdown restrictions are eased but acknowledged that travel confidence is expected to be low amid the health crisis. —LDF, GMA News