ILOILO City – The tourism industry in Western Visayas is poised to face significant impacts following the separation of Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, from the region, according to Department of Tourism (DOT).
Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez noted that in 2023, the region recorded tourist arrivals of approximately 5.3 million, with about 1.412 million visitors originating from Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City alone.
“Just consider the numbers. The impact is quite substantial,” said Rodriguez.
However, she also pointed out that the separation also presents an opportunity for local government units (LGUs) in the region to explore and promote other tourist attractions.
“We need to ramp up our tourism promotions and encourage our LGUs to discover and develop new destinations,” Rodriguez said.
The director expressed some regret over the separation due to the unique tourism offerings of the Negros area, which significantly contribute to its high tourist arrivals.
“Negros is renowned for its nature tourism, but we believe Western Visayas has great potential, especially in cultural and culinary experiences,” said Rodriguez.
Currently, DOT-6 is awaiting the implementing rules and regulations for the Negros Island Region (NIR) and is ready to support all tourism initiatives under the new administrative setup.
The reestablishment of the Negros Island Region was sanctioned by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. under Republic Act 12000 on June 13. It is made up of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and the island province of Siquijor.
Earlier, the Philippines Statistics Authority (PSA) in Region 6 said the re-establishment of NIR would have significant economic implications for Western Visayas.
Nelida Amolar, PSA-6 officer-in-charge, said the departure of Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, could reduce the region’s economic performance by almost 40 percent.
Amolar cited the huge contributions of Negros Occidental, particularly Bacolod City, to the region’s economic growth, helping Region 6 achieve a “trillionaire” mark./PN
