ROY GA LEADS TALKS WITH DOT REGION X TO REVITALIZE ILIGAN’S TOURISM
Aspirant Mayor Roy Ga has taken significant steps towards rejuvenating Iligan City’s tourism industry by engaging in strategic discussions with the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region X. This collaboration aims to enhance tourism accessibility, strengthen local industries, and implement sustainable tourism policies, ensuring long-term economic and cultural benefits for Iligan City and its residents.
A VISION FOR A PROSPEROUS TOURISM INDUSTRY
In his meeting with DOT Regional Director Maria Elaine Salvana-Unchuan, Roy Ga outlined concrete plans to boost tourism development. His proposals include:
Improving accessibility to key tourist destinations, including infrastructure projects such as better road networks, transportation systems, and signages to guide visitors.
Supporting local industries by promoting products made by Iligan’s artisans, such as handicrafts, native delicacies, and locally sourced materials.
Advocating for sustainable tourism policies that protect Iligan’s natural and cultural resources, ensuring they remain intact for future generations.
“This is not just about bringing in tourists,” Ga stated. “This is about strengthening our local economy through tourism. Iligan needs a clear, strong direction to maximize our natural and cultural treasures and turn them into lasting economic opportunities.”
His vision for Iligan City extends beyond just boosting tourist arrivals. He believes that a thriving tourism industry can result in new jobs, more businesses, and greater economic stability for the city.
ILIGAN’S UNTAPPED TOURISM POTENTIAL
Iligan is widely known as the City of Majestic Waterfalls, home to more than 20 waterfalls, including the famous Maria Cristina Falls, Tinago Falls, and Mimbalot Falls. However, despite its rich natural beauty, the city has struggled to reach its full tourism potential due to:
Lack of promotion and marketing on national and international platforms.
Insufficient infrastructure, such as inadequate roads, transportation, and tourism facilities.
Environmental concerns, including waste management issues at tourist destinations.
Roy Ga emphasized that Iligan’s tourism sector can flourish if these challenges are addressed through proper planning and governance.
INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT: A PATHWAY TO TOURISM GROWTH
One of Ga’s main proposals focuses on modernizing the city’s infrastructure to provide tourists with a more convenient and enjoyable experience. His plans include:
Upgrading roads and transportation facilities to ensure smooth access to Iligan’s natural and cultural attractions.
Developing tourism hubs where visitors can easily book tours, buy local products, and learn about Iligan’s history and culture.
Enhancing safety measures in tourism spots, including the installation of signages, lifeguard stations, and emergency response facilities.
BOOSTING LOCAL INDUSTRIES THROUGH TOURISM
A key aspect of Ga’s tourism revitalization plan is empowering local businesses. He proposes initiatives to:
Encourage local entrepreneurs to create souvenirs, crafts, and food products unique to Iligan.
Partner with private investors to develop hotels, resorts, and eco-tourism parks that align with sustainable tourism principles.
Provide training and financial assistance to local tour guides, transport operators, and business owners involved in the tourism sector.
Ga believes that by strengthening Iligan’s local industries, tourism can create a ripple effect that benefits the entire community.
SUSTAINABLE TOURISM: PROTECTING ILIGAN’S NATURAL BEAUTY
Sustainability is at the core of Ga’s tourism plan. He aims to implement eco-friendly policies that ensure Iligan’s natural wonders are preserved while still attracting visitors. Some of his key proposals include:
Strict waste management and eco-tourism guidelines in waterfalls, beaches, and nature parks.
Tree-planting and conservation programs in partnership with environmental organizations.
Promotion of responsible tourism by educating visitors on how to respect and protect Iligan’s attractions.
ENGAGING THE COMMUNITY IN TOURISM DEVELOPMENT
Ga stresses the importance of community participation in making Iligan a top tourism destination. His approach includes:
Working with local leaders and residents to identify tourism opportunities in their communities.
Launching tourism awareness campaigns to encourage pride and appreciation for Iligan’s cultural and natural heritage.
Creating more tourism-related jobs by training residents as tour guides, hospitality workers, and eco-tourism experts.
By actively involving the people of Iligan, Ga envisions a sustainable, community-driven tourism industry that benefits everyone.
PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATION WITH DOT REGION X
During his meeting with DOT Region X, Ga highlighted the importance of partnerships with the government, private sector, and community organizations to achieve his vision. DOT officials responded positively to his proposals, emphasizing their commitment to supporting Iligan’s tourism growth.
DOT Region X agreed to explore collaborative projects, including:
Funding for tourism infrastructure improvements.
Marketing and promotional campaigns to highlight Iligan’s attractions.
Capacity-building programs for local businesses and tourism workers.
A UNITED TEAM FOR TOURISM PROGRESS
Roy Ga was joined in the meeting by his United Iligan Party teammates, including:
Vice Mayoral Candidate Wekwek Uy
City Councilor Candidates Amador Baller, Macky Macapagal, and Grace Catubig
The presence of his team members signifies their collective dedication to pushing Iligan towards economic progress through tourism.
THE ROAD AHEAD: ILIGAN AS A WORLD-CLASS TOURISM DESTINATION
Roy Ga’s plans for Iligan’s tourism mark a bold step towards economic revival. He envisions a city that is not only known for its waterfalls but also as a thriving, world-class travel destination.
His strategies aim to:
Enhance infrastructure to attract more visitors.
Support local businesses to create a self-sustaining tourism economy.
Implement sustainable policies to protect Iligan’s natural and cultural heritage.
By working hand in hand with the Department of Tourism, local businesses, and the people of Iligan, Roy Ga is laying the groundwork for a future where tourism becomes a major economic driver for the city.
“In tourism, we find strength, opportunity, and growth. Through proper planning and leadership, Iligan can become a premier destination—not just locally, but internationally,” Ga declared.
With strong leadership, community involvement, and government support, Iligan is on track to unlock its full tourism potential, bringing prosperity to its people and pride to its heritage.