ZAMBOANGA DEL SUR, (PIA) – Thousands of tourists visited Zamboanga del Sur in 2024 as the province continued to promote eco-tourism. This was highlighted in the Department of Tourism (DOT) report presented during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas press conference on March 4.
DOT-9 Regional Director Dara May Cataluña said the province’s natural attractions and cultural heritage make it an ideal destination for both adventure and relaxation.
“Zamboanga del Sur is a province of diverse landscapes and cultural gems, offering visitors a mix of urban charm, natural wonders, and recreational escapes,” Cataluña said.
“These destinations showcase Zamboanga del Sur’s commitment to eco-tourism, leisure, and cultural preservation.”
Tourism data showed Plaza Luz in Pagadian City is leading with 140,902 visitors, followed by Tambulig Mountain Spring Resort with 140,632 guests. Other key attractions include Ambulon Wetland Park in Vincenzo Sagun (50,059 visitors), Elago’s Family Beach Resort (34,686 visitors), and the Pagadian City Rotunda (33,315 visitors).
Despite increasing visitor numbers, DOT-9 officials acknowledged challenges in promoting tourism in the province, citing lingering concerns over past insurgency incidents.
“There are perceptions of safety and security, persistent concerns stemming from past insurgency incidents, limited tourism infrastructure, and lack of accommodation facilities and supporting amenities in some areas,” said Wenceslao Z. Galeza Jr., Chief Tourism Operations Officer of DOT-9.
“Additionally, there is a need for greater capacity among local tourism stakeholders and low awareness of the province’s unique tourism products.”
To address these issues, DOT-9 has launched information and public relations campaigns, promoted success stories, and conducted capacity-building programs. They conducted continuous training for LGU community-based tourism groups and local entrepreneurs, along with product development initiatives, to help in identifying new tourism sites and creating tourism circuits that encourage longer stays and higher visitor spending.
Supporting these efforts, DOT-9 recently held a two-day training on designing marketing campaigns using graphic design principles at a local hotel in Pagadian City. Participants included staff from the Pagadian City Tourism and Information Office, multimedia students, and professionals from the accommodation, restaurant, and travel sectors.
According to DOT, this initiative equips participants with the skills to create visually compelling campaigns, reinforcing the department’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the tourism industry.
“Through these strategies, DOT-9 remains committed to transforming Zamboanga del Sur into a vibrant and resilient tourism destination,” Galeza said. (EDT/HTB/PIA9 Zamboanga del Sur)
