Iloilo: The Iloilo provincial government has disbursed more than PHP183.159 million to support various infrastructure projects, events, and activities aimed at enhancing tourism across local government units (LGUs) down to the barangay level. Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. was at the forefront of this initiative, leading the distribution of funds during the opening of the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan food festival on Thursday evening.
According to Philippines News Agency, Governor Defensor also enacted Executive Order No. 10, marking the official launch of the Fun, Foodie, Friendly sa Kabanwahanan for MoRProGRes program. This initiative aims to transform LGUs into community venues for tourism events and activities, while also serving as points of care for tourists. Governor Defensor emphasized the crucial role that municipalities and barangays play as frontline implementers of tourism projects.
Defensor stated, "The point of care for tourists is also in the barangay. We will develop our tourism in the area of food and agriculture, natural environment, and culture and heritage." He also highlighted plans to enhance infrastructure facilities, capacity building, and partnerships to ensure the program's effective implementation.
The governor assured that funds would be allocated for comprehensive and significant tourism projects in participating municipalities within the Kasadyahan festival. He also noted that non-participating LGUs would receive assistance to engage in tourism development initiatives.
Data from the provincial government indicates that a significant portion of the assistance, PHP88.78 million, is earmarked for tourism infrastructure, with an additional PHP34.13 million allocated to municipal tourism infrastructure. Moreover, PHP37.8 million is designated for disaster preparedness.
In addition, PHP22.44 million has been distributed to municipalities to support their festivals. Eight performing tribes were granted a subsidy of at least PHP2 million each to enhance their performances in the Kasadyahan sa Kabanwahanan Festival Competition. The assistance package also includes support for the socio-cultural activities of selected municipalities.
