Cebu: The Department of Tourism (DOT) is extending assistance to the tourism sector as it continues to assess the extent of damage caused by the powerful magnitude 6.9 earthquake on destinations in the Visayas, specifically the worst-hit Cebu province. Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco on Wednesday joined her fellow Cabinet secretaries in visiting the ground zero in Cebu province to identify the immediate aid required by the affected public.
According to Philippines News Agency, after the 6.9 earthquake struck Cebu, Secretary Frasco immediately coordinated with various government offices, including the Office of the President and the Secretaries of National Defense, Transportation, Public Works and Highways, and Health, to request urgent assistance. She also reached out to DOT officials, Regional Directors, and airport and port authorities to ensure the welfare of affected communities, tourists, and tourism frontliners.
The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) reported damage to several heritage sites, including Fort San Pedro and the Archdiocesan Shrine of Santa Rosa de Lima in Daanbantayan, among others. Meanwhile, numerous roads and bridges in areas like Bogo and Tabuelan have become impassable, prompting TIEZA personnel to conduct ongoing assessments to guide the DOT on providing appropriate support.
The latest report from DOT Central Visayas highlighted that 80 tourism establishments, 21 tourist sites, 36 accommodation establishments, and 23 other tourism infrastructures suffered damage. Furthermore, 711 tourism workers have been affected, with disruptions impacting staff from various sectors including hotels, resorts, and transport services.
Fifteen tourists were reported stranded in areas such as Bogo City and San Remigio, with some opting to extend their stays until ferry services resume. The DOT advised travelers to remain alert, keep their devices charged, and avoid mountain and coastal areas due to landslides and seawater receding in certain locations.
Power and telecommunication disruptions have been reported in northern Cebu. The DOT, through its Regional Offices, is working closely with local governments, disaster response units, and tourism stakeholders to ensure tourist safety and facilitate rapid assessment and site restoration.
The DOT Central Visayas, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development and local governments, is providing food packs and assistance to affected tourism workers. Additionally, the Turismo Asenso Loan Program is being offered in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry and Small Business Corporation to support affected tourism enterprises.
