By Civ Alonzo-Cruz
Malacañang praised Bojo town in Aloguinsan, Cebu for being named as one of the world’s “Best Tourism Villages” by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in a press briefing on Tuesday, Dec. 7.
Acting Presidential Spokesperson and Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles commended the recognition given by the UNWTO to the town. He stated that despite over 170 nominations given by 75 countries around the world, Bojo was chosen as one of the winners.
“Kinilala ang Brgy. Bojo sa munisipalidad ng Aloguinsan, Cebu bilang isa sa Best Tourism Villages in the World for 2021 ng United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). [Mga] 75 na bansa ang nagsumite ng mahigit 170 nominasyon at ang Bojo ang isa sa napili,” Nograles said.
“Sa mga kababayan natin sa Bojo, congratulations po. Padayon kamo sa pag-uswag, mabuhay kamo at God bless kamo diha sa Bojo,” he added.
The winners were revealed over the weekend by the UNWTO via their official website.
In a statement, Tourism Secretary Berna Romulo-Puyat recognized the “remarkable work” of the local community in Bojo through the Bojo Aloguinsan Ecotourism Association (BAETAS) and the strong support of the municipality of Aloguinsan.
“A local destination being inducted into the UNWTO Best Tourism Villages Program in its pilot year is a testament to the Philippines’ commitment to sustainable tourism development from the national level down to the grassroots,” Puyat said.
“The wealth of our natural resources and unmatched hospitality remains our key strength as we strive for the reopening of the industry to international travelers anchored on the principle of safe and sustainable tourism,” she added.
Bojo is famous for its river, hills, and underwater natural resources. Its tourism activity has been managed by the BAETAS.
Tourism Officer-in-Charge Undersecretary Verna Buensuceso and Philippine Ambassador to Spain Philippe Jones Lhuiller received the award in Madrid on Thursday (Dec.2) on behalf of the Philippines.
Barangay Boho and other 44 communities in 32 countries across the world are now recognized by the UNWTO for the award.
“Tourism can be a driver of social cohesion and inclusion by promoting a fairer distribution of benefits throughout the territory and empowering local communities,” UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili said.
“This initiative recognizes those villages committed to making tourism a strong driver of their development and wellbeing,” he added.
Meanwhile, Barangay Tenani of Paranas, Samar province has also been listed by UNWTO as part of the 20 villages that will enter their Upgrade Programme of the Initiative.
The Best Tourism Villages by UNWTO initiative was launched to advance the role of tourism in safeguarding rural villages, along with their landscapes, natural and cultural diversity, and their local values and activities, including local gastronomy.
The next edition of the award will open in February 2022. – bny
