DOT Unveils First Tourist Rest Area in Bohol

In a significant milestone for Bohol's tourism landscape, the Department of Tourism (DOT) inaugurated the province's first Tourist Rest Area (TRA) over the weekend, signifying a pivotal step in enhancing visitor experiences within the region.

Positioned strategically in the town of Dauis, the TRA is set to cater to tourists traversing the province, serving as a gateway to several renowned destinations like the iconic Alona Beach in Panglao, the Virgin Island Sandbar, Balicasag Island, and the historic Baclayon Church.

Secretary Christina Frasco of the DOT commended Bohol's remarkable achievements during the TRA inauguration, acknowledging the island as a source of national pride. She highlighted the island's sustainable eco-tourism efforts, emphasizing its distinction as the Philippines' inaugural UNESCO Global Geopark.

Addressing officials and attendees, Frasco extended congratulations, attributing the success to collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors and commending the governor for the monumental achievement.

Bohol 1st District Rep. Edgardo Chatto praised Secretary Frasco for reinvigorating the tourism industry and emphasized the significant impact of the TRA's construction, showcasing Bohol's hospitality and the nation's readiness to engage in global partnerships.

As one of the principal authors of the Tourism Act of 2009, Chatto underscored the importance of tourism in the country's economy, foreseeing the TRA's role in captivating both domestic and international travelers.

Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado hailed the TRA's completion as a pivotal moment in Bohol's post-pandemic resurgence, highlighting the need to diversify tourism offerings beyond Panglao's white sand beaches to encompass the entirety of Bohol's natural wonders.

Expressing gratitude to DOT and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), Governor Aumentado emphasized the significance of such infrastructure in elevating the province's tourism profile.

Dauis Mayor Roman Bullen lauded the strategic location chosen for the TRA, positioning the municipality as a crucial hub between Tagbilaran City and Panglao.

Amid the inauguration, Secretary Frasco distributed tour guiding essentials to guides, enhancing the region's tourism capabilities.

Coinciding with the TRA's inauguration was the groundbreaking ceremony for the JW Marriott Panglao Island Resort and Residences, signaling increased investments in Bohol's tourism sector.

Secretary Frasco stressed the administration's vision to not only recover from the pandemic but to transform the country's tourism landscape, attracting more investments like the luxury property JW Marriott, thereby creating economic opportunities and contributing to the nation's growth.

Assuring stakeholders of continued support, Secretary Frasco outlined the administration's commitment to bolstering infrastructure, connectivity, and innovation within the tourism sector, cementing Bohol's position as a sustainable ecotourism hub and positioning the Philippines as Asia's upcoming tourism powerhouse.