DAVAO CITY, Feb. 8 (PIA)- The municipality of Matanao has strengthen its tourism industry since they cannot rely much on agriculture, being the leading industry in town.

Mayor Vincent Fernandez bared that drought and infestation impact much on agriculture.

He noticed that farmers complain of being shortchanged in the earnings in times of calamities.

“We come up of real solutions to the poverty here through the tourism industry,” Fernandez said.

He said they are banking on the construction of inns, hotels and restaurants through the local labor force, that consequently improves the quality of life.

Fernandez said they have also enhanced the capability of skilled workers in order to improve their capabilities and not to focus on agricultural pursuits.

He said Matanao has many tourist destinations like waterfalls, and caves.

“In fact, we opened three sites for our waterfalls where people may come to bathe, swim in clean and clear water located on the barangay before going uphill,” Fernandez said.

He guaranteed that the waterfall sites are accessible since most of the barangay roads in town is well-paved.

Fernandez disclosed that the Municipal Tourism Office has evaluated sixty caves.

“We opened one cave so far and two caves may be added for spelunking activities.  The caves are open to the tourists where they can enjoy the scenery and lagoons therein.  They will also see stalactites and stalagmites,” he said.

Fernandez has invited local and national investors who might construct vacation houses near the caves and waterfalls.

He said all the roads in town are already well paved, with street markings.

“Soon to be realized will be the solar-powered streetlights and closed-circuit television cameras to watch over tourists and constituents,” Fernandez said.

He bared that peace has finally come to Matanao where anyone can spend time anywhere without being harmed.

Fernandez also said that the road from Koronadal City to Matanao, Davao del Sur, is the through yet but its accessibility might be realized late 2024.

“You can save one and a-half hours going to Davao City,” he said.  (PIA XI-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)