BACOLOD CITY –– At least 2,637 tourism workers in Negros Occidental were displaced due to the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
Data from 17 of 31 local governments in Negros Occidental showed that among those affected were 1,218 workers from accommodation facilities, 68 from tour and travel agencies, 68 tour guides, 156 in the tourism and transport services, 123 at sports and recreation facilities, 68 at wellness centers, 716 in the food and beverage sector, and 220 in other resorts.
The 17 localities with displaced tourism workers were the cities of Bago, Cadiz, La Carlota, Kabankalan, Escalante, Sagay, Sipalay, Talisay, Victorias, and San Carlos, and the municipalities of Hinigaran, La Castellana, Manapla, Murcia, San Enrique, Pulupandan, and Salvador Benedicto.
Provincial Tourism Officer Jennylind Cordero said the Jomabo Island Paradise Beach Resort in Escalante City has closed, while Lakawon Island Resort in Cadiz City has reopened for day tours.
The Ruins in Talisay City is also open, she said.