S. Leyte solon files house bill to boost Limasawa Island tourism

A House leader is seeking the creation of the Limasawa Tourism Development Authority to maximize the tourism potential of the historic Limasawa Island.

Southern Leyte Rep. Roger Mercado, chairman of the Constitutional Amendments committee, cited the need for the creation of the agency so that the domestic and foreign tourists may learn about the natural beauty, historical, and cultural significance of the island, being the site of the historic first holy mass in the Philippines.

"If tourism will be left unattended by authorities, the economic potential thereof could not be tapped for the benefit of everybody. National agencies tasked to develop the overall national tourism potential are faced with a gargantuan job, which often resulted in the neglect of other tourist spots," Mercado said in pushing for the final passage of House Bill 2525.

"To address this dilemma, a local agency should be created to concentrate on developing the tourism potential of the historic Limasawa Island in Southern Leyte where, as we all know, the first mass in the Philippines was celebrated centuries ago," he added.

Focus on tourism He said his proposed Limasawa Tourism Development Authority shall formulate and implement the tourism development program of the Limasawa Island in Southern Leyte, in line with the existing program of the Department of Tourism (DOT).

It shall be administered by a general manager who shall be appointed by the President.

While its corporate power shall be vested in and exercised by a Board of Directors composed of DOT secretary as chairman, the general manager as the vice chairman and three part time members who shall be appointed by the President.

Powers/functions Among the purpose and specific powers/functions of the proposed Limasawa Tourism Development Authority are: Collect taxes such as hotel room taxes and other taxes as may be provided by law, extend assistance whenever necessary to private enterprises in undertaking tourism projects; undertake the development of tourism attractions and recommend agreements for tourist plans and facilities development with private entities.

The capital of the Authority shall consist of an amount to be included in the General Appropriations of the DOT, the size of which shall be determined by the department upon the recommendation of the Provincial Tourism Officer with the concurrence of the district representatives.