Davao City is embracing community-based tourism as a means of promoting sustainable development. This approach focuses on empowering local communities to participate in and benefit from tourism activities while preserving the city’s unique natural and cultural heritage.
During the recent ISpeak media forum, officer-in-charge of the City Tourism Operations Office (CTOO) Jennifer Romero outlined plans to identify potential tourism sites, establish regulations and guidelines, and promote sustainable tourism practices.
Romero emphasized the importance of regulation to ensure that tourism development proceeds in a responsible and orderly manner that prioritizes the well-being of local communities and the environment. The city will also provide training and capacity-building opportunities to equip local stakeholders with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the tourism industry.
Davao City’s commitment to sustainable tourism extends beyond the pandemic recovery phase. By adopting sustainable practices, the city aims to create a tourism industry that can withstand future challenges and continue to benefit the community for generations to come.