House leader backs tourism chief

A House leader has expressed full support for Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim’s decision to amend portions of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) of the Tourism Act of 2009 that would allow broader and stronger private sector participation in the industry.

Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores, chairman of House committee on tourism, said Lim, as head of the Department of Tourism (DOT), has the power to amend the IRR to conform to every intent and wording of the Republic Act No. 9593 or the Tourism Act of 2009.

Miraflores also commended Lim’s resolve to take action and put in order the problems he inherited, particularly the issue of legitimacy of the Tourism Congress and the challenged IRR of the Tourism Act.

Earlier, the committee conducted an investigation into the alleged illegitimacy of the Tourism Congress, as called for by House Resolution No. 857 filed by Rep. Rufus Rodriguez.

During the hearing, the committee encouraged Lim to amend portions of the IRR as lawmakers believe the move would heal the division and impasse that this issue has created among tourism stakeholders.

After DOT’s broad grassroots consultation with accredited tourism enterprises nationwide, the proposed IRR is now being finalized for publication.

Miraflores also encouraged Lim to remain focused despite attacks from certain groups in the industry that were greatly affected by his decision.

“I encourage the secretary to stay the course and institute the much-needed reforms for the good of the tourism industry,” Rep. Miraflores said.