At least 268 tourism establishments from the towns of Bangui, Pasuquin, Burgos, and Pagudpud that suffered from recent weather disturbances received a total of PHP1.3 million cash aid from the provincial government.
Xavier Ruiz, officer-in-charge of the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office, confirmed this on Tuesday, saying: “43 more tourism establishments will be given cash assistance” upon validation of reported typhoon damage.
The cash aid aims to help the businesses recover and rebuild, ensuring the continued growth of the tourism sector and its contribution to the province’s economy.
Beneficiaries include accommodation establishments, restaurants, souvenir shops, and other micro, small and medium enterprises.
The other aid beneficiaries will be given construction materials.
Typhoon-affected resort and restaurant owners, mostly in Pagudpud, received PHP5,000 cash aid.
Pagudpud is famous for its pristine white sand beaches and picturesque landscapes.
Recovery of tourism-focused businesses will take some time after the devastation caused by Typhoon Marce (international name Yinxing) which affected Northern Luzon from Nov. 4-8, 2024, according to village chief Frila Fae Viloria.
In Saud alone, Viloria said a total of 103 houses, including 20 resorts, homestays and stores, were damaged.
By Leilanie Adriano
(PNA)