At least 725 tourism workers in Davao Oriental received PHP9,960 each under the Bayanihan sa Bukas na may Pag-asa para sa Turismo (BBMT) program of the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Monday.

Secretary Christina Frasco and DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian led the distribution of financial and training assistance to the tourism workers from the towns of Baganga (185), Mati City (184), Caraga (105), Manay (88), Governor Generoso (83), Boston (41), Tarragona (28) and Lupon (11).

BBMT provides continuity in livelihood opportunities to tourism workers who were directly affected by calamities.

“Eleven out of 100 Filipinos are employed in tourism. It is an important sector and needs assistance,” Frasco said in her message during the distribution in Mati City.

Apart from the cash distribution, tourism-related training programs such as beads and artwork, candle making, essential oil making, bread and pastry, detergent making, and basic massage were offered.

Mayor Michelle Nakpil Rabat lauded the contribution of the tourism workers to the city’s local economy.

“Our economic vigor is tourism, aside from agricultural,” she added. “We will continue to work with the national government for sustainable tourism.” (PNA)