By Tara Yap

Department of Tourism-Region VI (DOT-6) Director Helen Catalbas revealed during a recent tourism forum in Iloilo City, the agency is seeking 10 million tourists throughout the region within the next five years.
Currently, DOT-6 is looking to attract 5.51 million tourists across the provinces of Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental. She explained, they will gradually increase their quota every year.
Last year, 5.2 million domestic and foreign tourists flocked to the Western Visayas and generated P114.8 billion for the regional economy.
While the region is home to the popular destination Boracay Island, Catalbas said other areas can offer varied experiences both for domestic and foreign tourists.
“We are not only here to sell our products, but also to look for partners who are willing to invest and support us in developing and enhancing our products and services that will address the needs of tourists,” she added./WDJ