Tourism sec leads PH Experience Program in Agusan Sur
By Kelvin Kennt R. Generalo
PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – The Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco, along with participating sectors, led the third and final day of the Philippine Experience Program (PEP): Culture, Heritage, and Arts Caravan in the Caraga Region in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur on October 30.
The DOT Secretary’s first stop was Bega Falls and Eco-Tourism Park in Barangay Mabuhay, Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur.
The Agusan del Sur Provincial Tourism Office (PTO), together with the local government of Prosperidad led by Mayor Frederick Mark P. Mellana, Vice Mayor Jesusimo Ronquillo, Sangguniang Bayan (SB) members, and the barangay local government unit (BLGU) of Mabuhay, warmly welcomed Sec. Frasco upon her arrival at the area.
Sec. Frasco expressed admiration for the creativity of local artisans, appreciating the beautifully crafted baskets, bags, and other handmade items that reflect the community’s talent and heritage. She took a moment to write a wish on paper, which she placed in a bamboo capsule, making her visit meaningful and memorable.
She also serenaded the students at Barangay Mabuhay Elementary School. The children beamed with smiles as they joined her in singing along with a ukulele, creating a joyful interaction that involved all participants of the third and final day of the PEP Caravan in the Caraga region.
Her last stop then was the municipal booths at the Datu Lipus Makapandong Cultural Center in Patin-ay, Prosperidad, where local culture and products were displayed.
Meanwhile, Agusan del Sur 1st District Congressional Representative Alfelito "Alfel" Bascug delivered a message at the launch of the PEP Caravan. "I am glad that the Philippine Experience Program found its way to our landlocked province as one of your destinations," he said.
"This will truly help promote our tourism industry as the participants from this activity will help us unlock the beauty of Agusan del Sur," he added.
Governor Santiago Cane Jr. also shared his message saying, "We have been aiming to improve our tourism sector and foster tourism practices that not only raise awareness but also instill appreciation and pride for our province's natural wonders and local tradition.’
"We believe that the PEP
initiative will help us gain a strong foothold in the tourism industry and will
give us a sturdy foundation to achieve our goals for the tourism sector of our
dear province. And although we are far from what we have visualized, with the
dedication of the central office and our commitment, there is no stopping us
from sharing our wonders," he said.
The tourism secretary expressed her amazement at the beauty and productivity of Agusan del Sur’s culture, emphasizing the significant impact of tourism on every province and the entire Philippines.
"Tourism is the key to providing a better life for every Filipino. Under the leadership of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., we envision a thriving future for Caraga, where its natural assets and rich heritage continue to expand and flourish," she said.
"We are here to support you in making Caraga a beacon of sustainable tourism, and this is just the beginning of an exciting journey toward progress and prosperity," she added.
The visit highlighted Agusan del Sur’s "Unlock the Landlocked" campaign, showcasing its breathtaking destinations and vibrant culture.
In a spirited display of unity, all participants of the PEP joined in dancing to the theme song of the "Unlock the Landlocked" campaign. They celebrated alongside the iconic ‘habal-habal’ motorcycle, a legendary vehicle in the province.
This moment of unity and celebration underscored the commitment to sharing the hidden beauty and rich culture of Agusan del Sur not only within the country but throughout the world. (KKG/ PIA-Agusan del Sur)
