In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s instruction to enhance the country's tourism infrastructure and improve the overall experience for tourists as they explore the nation, Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco and the Department of Tourism have initiated the construction of 10 tourist rest areas in strategic locations in the country, including Samal Island.

In less than a year after its groundbreaking ceremony, Samal's Tourist Rest Area finally had its inauguration and turnover ceremony, spearheaded by Sec. Frasco, along with City Mayor Al David T. Uy, DOT XI Regional Director Tanya Rabat-Tan,Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) Board Member Secretary Maria Belen D. Acosta, DOT Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, Marino Partylist Representative Congressman Carlo Sandro Gonzales, and TIEZA Assistant Chief Operating Officer Engr. Gregory Oller.

Impassioned to expand countrywide development through tourism, Secretary Frasco stated in her message that enhancing the tourism experience by investing in infrastructure connectivity, digitalization, and innovation is essential. Fortifying relationships with national, local, and private agencies can also translate into the fruition of programs and plans for the tourism industry.

"Bout nato na hatagan og higayon ang Pilipinas nga mulambo pag maayo pinaagi sa turismo kay atong nakita ang turismo gayud ang makahatag og igong oportunidad sa atong mga kaigsoonang Pilipino nga muangat ang kalidad sa ilang kinabuhi ", she added.

Moreover, Mayor Uy reiterated his gratitude to Sec. Frasco for helping Samal further boost the tourism sector on the island by extending programs from the national government to the local government unit. He also hopes for the support of the DOT Secretary on the management of waste water and septage, which are also essential to the sustainability of the island.

A turnover of EMBP 2023-2025 to Adecor United Fisherfolk Organization, ceremonial awarding of livelihood training and assistance, and recognition of the DOT-accredited tour guides also transpired.

Furthermore, the 9th City Council, led by City Vice Mayor Lemuel T. Reyes, tourism stakeholders, barangay chairpersons, and department heads graced the memorable event. (IGACOS-INFO/NBC/RConcepcion)