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Written by Joyce Duldulao
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Friday, 23 April 2010 |
 PamCham held its 24th Kapihan at Apag Marangle, NLEx Lakeshore, Mexico Pampanga. The discussion focused on Tourism Promotion in Pampanga and its effect on business in the province. Ms. Ching Pangilinan of the City of San Fernando Pampanga Tourism Office pointed out that tourism promotion is not just the responsibility of the government. It is critical that the support and assistance of the business sector is present in order for tourism to realize its objective of generating income opportunities for countryside business which consequentially creates employment for the province’s constituents, thereafter propelling the economy forward.
Economic progression as a direct consequence of tourism promotion was proven by the influx of visitors - both local and international - at the recently concluded and well publicized “MALELDO” which recorded an approximate total of 25,000 spectators congregating into Cutud Pampanga to witness the flagellation and crucifixion rites of the event.
PamCham Director Jim Jimenez noted during the kapihan that this substantial number of visitors will bring about a multiplier effect in the economy of Cutud. To test this theory, Director Jim personally went to Cutud to conduct an informal survey of the “suman” makers and “sari-sari” store owners who all confirmed that sales went up on Good Friday because of the “Maleldo” event. Most of them in fact expressed desire to have tourists all year round instead of just once a year.
PamCham President Rene Romero suggested that each locality or barangay in Pampanga create and promote their own indigenous product/s and event/s for tourists. A specific example mentioned is the pottery of Sto. Tomas which would showcase the world class potential of the clay products in the area. He further proposed that tourists be allowed to fashion their own clay creations hands on and this will be their take home souvenir afterwards. Other products, cuisines and activities, like festivals and local events must be developed and promoted in the local and international tourist market. PamCham stressed that the activities must be sustained to ensure yearlong business for local SMEs in the countryside.
Ms. Noemi Garcia of CDC Tourism commented that the tourism promotion efforts should be synchronized for efficient execution to ensure effective results. PamCham concurred and noted that a coordinated support system and central information center must be established where support facilities such as travel agencies, transportation, and hotel accommodations are immediately accessible to ensure fast and reliable service to tourists as soon as they get off the airport.
PamCham’s tourism committee presented their Culinary and Heritage tour package specifically designed to promote kapampangan cultural rites and churches as well as showcase the culinary prowess the capampangans are famous for.
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