Legarda Promotes Weaving, Eco-Tourism and Cultural Tourism in Iloilo

SENATOR LOREN LEGARDA HAS ENCOURAGED ILONGGOS TO USE THEIR TALENT, RICH CULTURE AND HISTORY AS INSTRUMENTS FOR PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT.
Legarda, during her visit to the Province of Iloilo, said that with weaving, eco-tourism and cultural tourism, the province can achieve further economic growth and development while, at the same time, they are also able to preserve their heritage and protect the environment.
“Weaving is a traditional industry in Iloilo, and also in other provinces, that we should eagerly promote as it will bring not only huge profits, but also recognition for the creativeness and remarkable skill of Filipino weavers,” she said.
Legarda, author of the Philippine Tropical Fabrics Law (RA 9242), also said that the President’s declaration of a Philippine Tropical Fabrics Day, to be observed on January 24, 2011, further shows the importance of promoting the country’s natural fabrics.
The Senator also encouraged Ilonggos to strengthen the province’s tourism industry, noting Iloilo’s rich historical and natural tourist spots, such as the Miag-ao Church, which is a World Heritage Site; Sicogon Island; the Bulabog Puti-an National Park; and, the Isla de Higantes, among many others.
“Iloilo is home to many islands and other natural tourist spots, and it also boasts of several centuries-old churches and infrastructure that can surely attract both local and foreign tourists. We just need to carefully preserve these natural and man-made wonders and come up with a well-planned promotional campaign to boost tourism in the province,” Legarda said.
“We have to keep in mind never to put aside our nation’s history, rich heritage and abundant natural resources for the sake of development because progress can be achieved without having to disregard our culture or exacting a toll on our environment,” she concluded.