The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Saturday expressed sympathy with communities in the Davao Region affected by a recent earthquake as it closely monitors the situation with the DOT Region 11 team and local government units.
Seven destinations and accommodations were reported affected as of 2 p.m. Saturday, with six in Baganga, Davao Oriental and one in Samal Island, all of which are undergoing thorough assessment. No tourists were reported affected, the DOT said.
It said 349 tourism workers, mostly from resorts and accommodations, have been identified as affected. Their list has been endorsed to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to ensure they receive immediate assistance and support.
The DOT said for safety, tourism activities in eight destinations are temporarily suspended until further notice. These include the Mt. Apo Climb, Davao Oriental Welcome Park Visit, Aliwagwag Falls Eco Park Visit, Mt. Hamiguitan Museum Visit, Cape San Agustin Visit, Subangan Museum Visit, Pusan Point Visit and National Museum Davao Visit.
The DOT assured stakeholders and communities that it remains in full coordination with national and local authorities to assist affected workers and help restore tourism operations as soon as it is safe to do so.
The department advised the public to follow official local government unit (LGU) advisories and refrain from sharing unverified information.
