MARAWI CITY, Lanao del Sur (PIA)--Municipal tourism officers from various municipalities here in the province said their respective municipalities are peaceful and safe for tourists.
"As to potential threats, for now, we can't see any kasi for the long time na may tourism activity ang Wao hindi naman gaano kalaki ang mga crimes. Generally, peaceful for now. Welcoming naman kasi ang Wao," said Mariela Jane Gicole during the Provincial Tourism, Culture and the Arts Council (PTCAC) peace and order sectoral meeting, August 8.
(As to potential threats, for now, we can't see any because, for the long time that Wao has had tourism activity, the crimes are not that high. Generally, peaceful for now. Wao is welcoming.)
Gicole said their municipality's tourism is growing and developing. Aside from the annual Kariyala Festival, the town is soon to offer a new adventure tourism activity which is water rafting.
"We have accommodation establishments and the community is very welcoming to the visitors. And for the long time, kahit na nung wala pang tourism activities, wala kaming nakitang problema regarding sa security concerns.(even when there were no tourism activities, we did not see any problems regarding security concerns)," she added.
Tugaya municipal tourism officer Walid Pangcoga, on the other hand, said tourism is also thriving in their municipality with visitors from different places in the country visiting Tugaya.
The said town has always progressed with its celebrated brand as the cradle of Maranao artisans and fosters Maranaos' colorful and rich culture.
"As for now, we don't have peace and security concerns in tourism. Actually, before the pandemic, we accommodated visitors [from different places]. And nag-stay rin sila ng mga week (and they stayed for a week)," he said.
Other municipalities also shared that their area is free of threats and is safe and secure. They also believe that tourism in Lanao del Sur will grow even more, especially as the province becomes more active and developed. (JND/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur
