For development and tourism ties
TACLOBAN CITY – The local government of Cavinti in Laguna has extended an offer of partnership with Matag-ob, a town in Leyte province, to boost their tourism potential.
Cavinti Mayor Arrantlee Arroyo, who was a guest at the 3rd Himorasak Festival in Matag-ob held on Sunday, Sept.22, commended Mayor Bernandino Tacoy for his efforts to promote and market the municipality.
Cavinti is home to several popular tourist destinations in Laguna, including Pagsanjan Falls (now known as Cavinti Falls), Caliraya Lake, and Lumot Lake, which are renowned for surface water sports and fishing.
The town also boasts various eco-tourism and agri-tourism sites.
Matag-ob, on the other hand, is gaining attention for Bondari Peak, which offers a panoramic view of the neighboring towns of Kananga, Villaba, and Palompon. The site is becoming increasingly popular among local and domestic tourists.
“The town of Cavinti is very much willing to share our best practices to help both municipalities grow in the tourism industry,” said Mayor Arroyo.
He added that Cavinti could assist Matag-ob by helping craft ordinances and resolutions aimed at increasing tourism income, attracting more visitors, and developing unique offerings to stand out from other towns in the province.
Mayor Arroyo also expressed hopes of formalizing the partnership through a sisterhood agreement.
Mayor Tacoy warmly welcomed the offer, noting that since taking office, he has forged partnerships with several municipalities in the province and is looking forward to collaborating with towns outside the region.
“We are excited to establish a sister municipality outside our region,” Mayor Tacoy said.
In other news, Pundok 3 was crowned the champion of the 3rd Himorasak Festival, followed by Pundok 1 as first runner-up and Pundok 4 as second runner-up.
Special awards were also given: Pundok 1 won the ‘Arko ni Iloy’ contest, Pundok 8 took first place in the float competition, and Pundok 1 also triumphed in the street dancing competition.
Department of Tourism Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes praised Matag-ob, stating that the Himorasak Festival has significantly improved in performance, municipality participation, and storytelling since its inception three years ago.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
