Panglao int’l airport soon a reality, says Lim

PANGLAO, Bohol—A new international airport is a key component of the emerging tourism development of Tagbilaran and Panglao.

This was announced yesterday by Tourism Secretary Alberto A. Lim who made his third trip to the province, this time to attend the 1st Bohol Tourism Summit at Bohol Tropics Resort Club.

Lim assured Boholanos of his commitment to the development of the Panglao International Airport: “I am, by the way, a major supporter of yours in terms of seeing the new international airport become a reality.”

Aside from the airport, Lim also told his audience composed of Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, Governor Edgar Chatto, Tourism Regional Director Weng Montecillo and members of the local travel trade about other key proposals for Tagbilaran and Panglao in line with the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) that will be submitted to President Benigno Aquino III next month.

“I wish to assure you that Tagbilaran-Panglao is a priority tourism development area of the Department of Tourism and we will push for the inclusion of the infrastructure you need with the Department of Public Works and Highways to ensure your sustained growth,” said Lim.

He said the roads that facilitate access to key sites on Panglao and the water supply and waste manage system on the island would be developed.

Also proposed under the NTDP is a decompression chamber to enhance diving safety in Bohol’s dive spots.

Lim also enjoined owners of large tracts of land to develop tourist resorts and entertainment complexes to enhance the development mix of the province.

He also stressed the need to increase linkages between local communities and local small businesses to develop a tourism supply chain and to strengthen local protection of the marine and forest environment.

“I am looking forward to seeing the presentation of your value chain strategies. The Department of Tourism will provide support where we can,” he said.

The secretary praised Bohol officials, particularly Governor Chatto, for their initiatives in developing the province as the prime eco-cultural tourist destination in the country.