‘Up to LGUs to decide if they’ll cancel tourism events’

The Department of Tourism (DOT-6) is leaving it up to local government units (LGUs) in Western Visayas to decide whether to push through with their events despite the threat of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Lawyer Helen J. Catalbas, DOT-6 director, said they would support LGUs should they decide to stage events or implement projects related to tourism.

“We will respect their decisions,” she stressed.

Catalbas said if an LGU pursues to hold an event, then it should enforce measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

Recently, the Passi City Government announced that it will not cancel the celebration of its Pintados de Pasi Festival next month.

Mayor Stephen Palmares said precautionary measures will be in place to ensure the health and safety of revelers.

The festival draws thousands of tourists every year.

In Iloilo City, the celebration of the Paraw Regatta Festival this year was moved from February to April.IMT