The Regional Development Council (RDC) is pushing for the setting up of a “pasalubong” (souvenir) center inside the pre-departure area of the Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport here.

Department of Tourism Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes, chair of RDC’s economic development committee, said the council approved the resolution during its meeting on June 23 and a copy will be forwarded to the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

Tiopes noticed the “pasalubong” centers are near the check-in counters of the airport where passengers are either lining up for check-in and baggage drop or hurrying to enter the pre-departure area.

“The relocation of ‘pasalubong’ centers will allow local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) selling souvenir items to better serve more passengers and to help the local businesses recuperate from the ill effects of pandemic,” Tiopes added.

Buying “pasalubong” is the Filipino tradition of travelers to bring gifts from their destination to people back home.

The move, Tiopes said, supplements the government initiatives in addressing market access of MSMEs under the new normal.

The resolution is in support of the MSME Development Plan 2017-2022 aiming for more globally competitive MSMEs that are regionally integrated, resilient, sustainable, and innovative, performing as key drivers of an inclusive national economy. (PNA)