The Senate Committee on Tourism, chaired by Sen. Mark Villar, has adopted three House Bills aimed at boosting the tourism sector in the province of Romblon.
These bills, authored by Romblon lone district representative Eleandro Madrona, focus on promoting specific towns as prime tourism destinations.
House Bill No. 6467 declares the Looc Bay Area in the municipality of Looc as an ecotourism destination, positioning it as a center for nature-based tourism activities.
House Bill No. 10116 designates the municipality of San Fernando as a Tourism Development Area, highlighting its natural and cultural attractions.
Lastly, House Bill No. 5282 declares San Jose, popularly known as Isla de Carabao, as a tourism destination, emphasizing its potential for beach tourism and eco-friendly development.
During the hearing, Villar stressed the importance of promoting local tourism, particularly for small businesses that play a significant role in stimulating local economies. He shared that in his visits to various locations, he had witnessed how small enterprises breathe life into communities, fostering economic growth.
The hearing was attended by the mayors of Looc, San Fernando, and San Jose, along with Rep. Madrona, who expressed their strong support for the measures.
Now that the Senate Committee has adopted the House bills, the next step will be their presentation to the Senate plenary for deliberation and approval. If the Senate passes the bills, they will be forwarded to the President for signature.