The Department of Tourism in Bicol (DOT-5) has advised tourists to use only accredited operators and service providers to ensure a meaningful Holy Week observance and an enjoyable summer travel.
In an interview on Wednesday, DOT-5 Director Herbie Aguas underscored the importance of choosing accredited tourism services to ensure quality and safety during their stay in the region.
“For those who are going to visit, always remember to check the establishments you are going to; they must be accredited by the DOT to ensure that the visit is safe and the service you will receive is good,” he said.
The region offers a wide variety of tourist attractions, including the famous Cagsawa Ruins, Sumalang Lake, Quitinday Hills, Quituinan Ranch, Japanese Tunnel, Ligñon Hill, KawaKawa Hill, and Farmplate, which offers a scenic view of Mayon Volcano, along with black sand beaches and farm tourism sites in Albay.
Tourism highlights also include whale shark encounters, white beaches like Matnog Beach, the Barcelona Ruins, Bulusan Lake, hot springs in Sorsogon, pristine white sand beaches, churches such as Our Lady of Peñafrancia in Camarines Sur, surfing spots in Camarines Norte, Binurong Point, beaches and other attractions in Catanduanes, and the Rodeo Festival in Masbate province.
Aguas also highlighted Bicol’s rich culinary heritage, especially dishes cooked in coconut milk, and encouraged visitors to try local delicacies, particularly during fasting and abstinence periods.
“Here in Bicol, we have foods that are cooked in coconut milk. We have a dish called ‘pinangat’ that can be prepared with fish as well as meat and ‘tilmok’ cooked with either shrimp or crablets,” he said.
He added that Bicol is also known for its variety of fish, including malasugi and yellowfin tuna, as well as the endemic fish “kwaw,” which can be used in coconut milk-based dishes such as picadillo and kusido.
Aguas said they are working with other government agencies such as the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, and stakeholders to ensure a safe and respectful Holy Week observance. (PNA)
