BARMM exec wants greater focus on tourism promotion

File photo of MP Amir Mawallil. (Image from his FB page)

COTABATO CITY — A member of the interim Bangsamoro parliament has proposed the creation of an agency solely focused on the development of the region’s tourism industry.

Member of parliament Amir Mawallil observed that the tourism sector of the regional economy has been rapidly growing and that a dedicated ministry is necessary to take care of its various needs.

Mawallil has filed BTA Proposed Bill No. 13 for the creation of the Ministry of Tourism.

Currently, tourism development is among the functions of the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Tourism (MTIT).

Mawallil said the Ministry of Tourism shall be responsible for encouraging, promoting, and developing tourism as a major socio-economic activity to generate revenue and employment, as well as spread the benefits of tourism across a wider segment of the Bangsamoro population.

With greater focus and resources, tourism would catalyze the long-term growth of the region, said Mawallil.

He noted that the Bangsamoro is strategically located in the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA).

“Its proximity to this sub-region in the ASEAN makes it an exciting zone for investors to explore,” Mawallil said.

The Bangsamoro is considered a cultural destination, given its rich history and heritage.

The region also hosts interesting nature sites such as those in the Sulu archipelago provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi.

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