IPIL, Zamboanga Sibugay (PIA) – The latest episode of Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, held in Zamboanga City, featured special guests from the Department of Tourism (DOT)-9.
DOT-9 has taken a significant step in promoting tourism with the launching of the “ZSIDERS”, a group of youth tourism ambassadors representing local government units in Zamboanga Peninsula.
This initiative was formally announced by DOT-9 Regional Director Dara May Cataluña, highlighting the important role of youth ambassadors in advancing the region’s tourism industry.
The regional director emphasized the pivotal role of the LGUs in enhancing not only the region but, more importantly, their respective locality’s tourist attractions through the appointment of youth ambassadors
“We tap our LGUs for youth tourism ambassadors to help us not just in the region but each local government unit to showcase their tourist destination,” she said.
Cataluña also underscored the importance of social media in advancing the agency’s advocacy for promoting the region’s attractions, emphasizing its role in reaching broader audiences and engaging with potential visitors effectively.
“We have been maximizing all our efforts in promoting tourism through social media exposure. We tap our micro influencers for us to widen our scope of marketing and promotion,” she stressed.
DOT-9’s goal is to showcase Zamboanga Peninsula’s unique cultural and natural attractions to attract both domestic and international tourists with the enthusiastic advocacy of the youth.
“We intend to expose the entire Zamboanga Peninsula, that our place is a safe and lovely place and you are welcome here. That there is nothing to be scared of about our place,” Cataluña said.
With the enthusiastic support of youth ambassadors from each LGU, DOT-9 aims to showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders to a global audience. Through innovative strategies and the power of social media, ZamPen is poised to emerge as a safe and vibrant destination for both local and international travelers. (EDT/RBI/PIA9-Zamboanga Sibugay)
