A total of 203 tourism-related establishments have been accredited by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in 21 out of 31 local government units in Negros Occidental as of June 30, up by 42 percent from only 143 in the first three months of the year.

Data from the Provincial Tourism Division on Thursday showed that Sipalay City, known for its beaches and dive sites, has 46 accredited establishments, the highest in the province, followed by San Carlos City, with 31.

Provincial Tourism Officer Cheryl Decena said tourist arrivals have been picking up but they still exercise caution amid the pandemic.

“We just handle it with caution, we don’t want it to be too much, too soon. While we are now open and have relaxed border controls, we are practicing safety measures,” she told reporters.

Based on partial data as of July 15, Negros Occidental recorded 127,494 overnight tourist arrivals and 445,118 same-day visitors from January to June this year.

Among other local government units with DOT-accredited accommodations and attractions are Sagay City, with 23; Cadiz City, 18; Talisay City, 17; Bago City, 12; Kabankalan City, 10; Silay City, 8; and Victorias City, 6.

In the recent third quarter meeting of city and municipal tourism officers, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said he hopes for a more sustained increase and growth in the province’s tourism sector as prospects for recovery in travel and tourism are improving due to mass vaccination and easing of travel restrictions.

“Always remember that our province is among the most gifted in terms of human and natural resources, and with our rich history, culture, and cuisine, Negros Occidental carries the most potential for tourism,” he added.

Lacson also assured the tourism officers that the provincial government would always support them and continue to persevere to reach the full potential of the province and the Negrenses. (PNA)