Martial law extension to have adverse effect on tourist arrivals in Davao

DAVAO CITY – The possible extension of martial law until the end of the year will surely have adverse effects on the tourism sector here, but what is more important is public security, according to Davao City Tourism Office head Generose Tecson.

Tecson said continued implementation of martial law will affect the number of visitors going to this city because embassies will not lift their travel advisories against Mindanao.

But she said city government was more concerned about the security of the people, saying that this has been the city’s “primordial concern” in light of the threat of terrorism and extremism in Mindanao.

And this focus on security will be tested when this city holds the annual Kadayawan Festival next month.

“In preparation for the Kadayawan Festival, our security forces are part of the execom (executive committee) so that they can give their inputs with regards the plans & venues for the various activities,” Tecson bared.

“What we can do is, as Davaoeños, we should help by getting the word out that it is safe and secure here in Davao, but still we are all vigilant,” she added.

President Rodrigo R. Duterte recommended for the extension of martial law until December 31, 2017 or until such period of time the Congress may determine.

He also sought for the extension of the suspension of writ of habeas corpus for the same period.

Mindanao Business Council chair Vicente Lao said he believed the extension of martial law would have little effect on the business and investment climate in Mindanao.

“If the military requested for the extension of Martial Law in Mindanao, then we will support the President’s request also to extend Martial Law in the island,” he said.

But Davao City Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. (DCCCII) president Ronald Go refused to comment on the President’s proposal, although he admitted earlier that the city has already suffered some economic slowdown in tourism industry since martial law was proclaimed in Mindanao.

“We cannot deny the slowdown especially in the tourism industry,” he said.