Samar province launches three tourism products

TACLOBAN: The Samar provincial government launched on Tuesday three circuits of its new tourism plan under the 'Spark Samar' campaign. The programs are the Tandaya Trail Tourism Circuit, Mabaysay Cultural River Cruise and Secret Kitchens of Samar Gastronomy Tour. 'With three of its newest products, you'll fall in love with the province's rich natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights. We are excited to bring these offerings to the forefront, not just in Eastern Visayas but also beyond its borders," Governor Sharee Ann Tan said during the launch in Basey town. Tan believes that the path to progress in Samar lies in the captivating and inclusive nature of tourism. The Tandaya Trail features the wonders of the breathtaking Sohoton Caves and Natural Bridge and the centuries-old tradition of mat weaving in Basey town; picturesque farm landscapes and magnificent rock formations in Marabut town; and the sumptuous seafood dishes at San Juan by the Bay against the magical backdrop of San Juanico Bri dge in Sta. Rita town. Tandaya is the ancient name of the province and is being used by the local government in its tourism promotion. The Mabaysay Cultural River Cruise is a cruise along the Cadac-an River, known as the Golden River, in Basey town. Along the way, guests will get to stop by different wharves. The Secret Kitchens of Samar Gastronomy Tour includes cooking demonstrations, meeting with kitchen heroes, and savoring the flavors of authentic Samar cuisine passed down through generations. 'These offerings highlight the enormous potential that our destinations can have in providing meaningful, authentic, immersive, and sustainable Philippine experiences to local and national tourists and also signify the enormous importance of collaboration between the national government, local government, and our private tourism stakeholders,' Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco said during the event. Frasco said tourism is the second-top economic growth driver in the country, providing at least 5.3 milli on jobs. During the launch, the Department of Labor and Employment provided PHP3.5 million in livelihood grants to seven tourism worker associations in support of their livelihood activities. Source: Philippines News Agency