ERRONEOUS STORY: Sugbo News clarifies report on tourism policy in south Cebu

Local

THE social media arm of the Cebu Provincial Government clarified that no ban on day trips or walk-in visits to popular tourist spots in southern Cebu will be imposed.

Admitting that it erred on appreciating a news story, Sugbo News issued an erratum to clarify the confusion that its article, “No More Day Trips, Walk-Ins in Southern Cebu’s Tourist Spots by March,” created.

The provincial government explained that starting in March, a new online booking system will be introduced to enhance visitor experience, improve safety, and support sustainable tourism.

“There is neither a ban on day trips nor walk-in customers in our tourism sites, but only a structured approach to allow for better crowd management and tour coordination,” Sugbo News wrote in its clarification.

Under the new system, the Capitol will regulate tourism activities such as whale shark watching in Oslob and sardine runs in Moalboal, similar to the policies enforced in Badian’s canyoneering sites.

Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia emphasized the importance of presenting complete tour packages to address unforeseen issues, enhance visitor experience, and prevent overpricing.

“We should be able to present the complete package, where the activity itself is foreseen and all unforeseen circumstances are addressed, trying to plug all loopholes, keep it going, and even enhance it every time,” Garcia said.

The Provincial Board is expected to pass an ordinance to formalize the new policy. The online system will allow tourists to pre-arrange their itineraries, ensuring a smoother and safer experience while also generating more revenue for local government units and businesses.

The clarification came after the Capitol initially posted an announcement on February 13 stating that walk-ins and day trips would be disallowed in Moalboal, Badian, Alegria, and Oslob.

However, the post was deleted after receiving mixed reactions from netizens, with no updated statement issued as of press time.

According to the Capitol, the new system aligns with the province’s push for digitalization and structured tourism management.

The goal is to prevent overcrowding and accidents caused by poorly planned itineraries while ensuring that visitors maximize their time at Cebu’s prime destinations.(MyTVCebu)