Whenever travelling from Bacolod City to Iloilo City, upon arrival, I always take a cab, where the ride into the city offers views of the Iloilo River, the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, the old Capitol Building, the Museo Iloilo, and the Department of Tourism-Region VI (DOT-6) building. The DOT-6 structure, in particular, is an architectural charm – it is in the best location for both local and foreign tourists.
However, word is, there are plans to demolish the building.
A travel writer commented, “Sayang naman, the building is so impressive.”
Their associate agreed and added, “To put the DOT office [along] a side street will not be a good mirror of Iloilo hospitality.”
One tour guide even noted, “The DOT-Iloilo is one of the best, if not the more impressive, tourism offices in the country.”
Another guide added, “It is not only an office, it is a landmark.”
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With Boracay closed to the public, DOT-6 director, Atty. Helen Catalbas, is aggressively promoting other destinations in the region. An alternate destination includes Guimaras, which is celebrating their annual Manggahan Festival – hopefully, the director will bring our team to experience the celebration. There is also Lakawon, which is an hour drive from Bacolod City and offers a nightlife similar to Boracay.
There is more to see in the Western Visayas besides Boracay; even the nightlife in Iloilo City has grown beyond imagination – it is a lively city. The Iloilo Business Park has brought fun and excitement, which is bound to bring in travelers.
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Travelers say the streets and surroundings in Iloilo City are generally clean, along with city authorities enforcing anti-smoking policies. Jeepney operators have also improved as loading and unloading is prohibited in non-designated areas.
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This column greets Francis Chu, Evelyn Moriente, Rogelio and Imelda Florete, Michelle Garcia, Kevin Tan, Jerry Sy, Nathaniel Pugales, Myla Abellana, Bimbo Miraflor, Glenice Do, Riza Macaibay, Analyn Aizpuru, Desiree Segovia, Harry Fernan, Boy So, and Ariston Minez, Jr./WDJ