Between January – November 2009, the Department of Tourism (DOT) has listed P36-billion worth of endorsed investments composed of tourism-related facilities and establishments, generating 15,000 jobs and 4,000 additional rooms.
“These projects mean strong investor confidence, more jobs and a gainful economy. Tourism is bound to have a positive year,” said Ace Durano, Secretary of Tourism.
Endorsed to the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), and the Bureau of Investments (BOI), the list is composed of projects which include the Eagle Entertainment City and Bagong Nayong Pilipino Entertainment City in Paranaque; M Hotel in Binondo; Remington Hotel in Pasay; Big Cedar Hotel in Malate; Microtel Inns and Suites in Pasig; The Bayleaf Hotel Manila in Intramuros; Go Hotels-Cybergate in Mandaluyong; Newport Entertainment and Commercial Center in Makati, Highlander Hotel and Resort in Nueva Vizcaya, Dagupan Doctors Villaflor Memorial Hospital and Dasoland: A Family Adventure Park in Pangasinan, Green Canyon Eco-tourism Park in Tarlac, Clark Wakeboard Camp in Angeles; Sheridan Beach Resort and Convention Center, A & A Hotel Special Tourism Zone, Cagdanao Resort, West Villa Resort, Cuyo Land Villa and El Nido Adventure Sports in Palawan; Embarcadero de Legazpi Special Tourism Zone in Legazpi, Akean Resorts in Aklan, Ilawod Estate Tourism Zone in Iloilo, Costa de Leticia Resort and Spa, Museum and Art Gallery, Marine Sports and Leisure Center, and Caracalla Spa in Cebu; and expansion of Garden Orchid Hotel Annex in Zamboanga. A few of the listed facilities had a groundbreaking in mid 2009, while others are set to open beginning 2010 – 2014.
Durano likewise noted the strong diversity of these investments, which have been classified into Accommodations, Resorts, Medical Tourism facilities, Sports and Recreational facilities and Agri-tourism facilities.
“Upon registration with the BOI, these tourism endorsed projects are eligible to avail of an income tax holiday for 4-6 years, and duty-free importation of selected capital equipment for operation of accommodations and facilities,” stated Attorney Victoria Jasmin, DOT Director of Office of Tourism Standards.
The DOT urges the business community to invest in tourism estates, accommodation facilities, retirement villages, healthcare and wellness products and services, ecotourism and agri-tourism projects as a response to the global demand for an integrated development in the industry.
