Police asked to step up security in tourist spots

Tourists normally flock to the white sand beaches in Sta. Fe, Bantayan Island to beat the summer heat. (CDN PHOTO/ TONEE DESPOJO)

AS Cebuanos head to the beaches and other summer getaways, the Cebu Provincial Board yesterday passed two  resolutions aimed at ensuring safety in tourist destinations.

“Tourism industry is one of the vital income-generating industries in the province. The province has been promoting its tourism and by this, to allure the tourists to come to Cebu, we need to give them the security they need,” PB Member Miguel Magpale, who authored both resolutions, said in a text message.

One resolution urged the police and all local government units to intensify safety and security measures against petty crimes targeting tourists.

The resolution noted that the safety and security of the public are of paramount concern and must be “on top of concerns for the general welfare of everyone for the enjoyment of peace and order.”

The second resolution, also directed to all local government units through their respective local health officers, requires each tourist destination and establishment to comply with the necessary sanitary requirements and ensure cleanliness of lavatories, toilets and wash areas.

“We need to offer the best that we have, not just the scenic beaches, but also the quality of services and clean facilities,” Magpale said.

Cebu is the biggest contributor to the tourism industry in Central Visayas region.

Last year, the region attracted 4.5 million domestic and foreign tourists, the Department of Tourism said.

The target this year is to attract 5.82 million visitors.