TACLOBAN CITY – Northern Samar 2nd District Representative Edwin Ongchuan calls for the return of the Tourism Road Infrastructure Program (TRIP) implementation to the Department of Tourism (DOT) due to the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) alleged inefficiency and corruption controversies in previous projects.
According to Ongchuan, placing the program again under DOT would ensure better alignment with tourism priorities, improve access to destinations, and guarantee that infrastructure development directly supports the growth of the tourism industry.
Cong. Ongchuan underscored the need to increase DOT’s budget, noting its consistent decline in recent years despite tourism being a vital driver of jobs, livelihood, and regional economic growth. He also emphasized that tourism development must be backed by infrastructure that directly responds to the needs of the sector.
Rep. Ongchuan’s push for tourism development is consistent with his legislative agenda. He recently filed House Bill No. 605, which seeks to declare the Pinusilan Blue Lagoon an official ecotourism site. The proposed measure aims to turn the underdeveloped natural site into a sustainable attraction that showcases the area’s beauty, supports local communities, and preserves biodiversity.
Through said initiatives, Rep. Ongchuan affirmed his commitment to strengthening Northern Samar’s tourism sector, positioning it as a pillar of inclusive growth and sustainable development for the province and beyond. By Marie Tonette Marticio (EV Mail SEPTEMBER 15-21, 2025 issue)
