The City Environment Management Office (CEMO) of the San Carlos City government in Negros Occidental started Monday, September 20, its 4-day Search for Sipaway Environment Friendly Homestay evaluation of the 17 homestays in Sipaway Island.

Factors of the evaluation focus on the environmental component (solid waste management program, water conservation and sustainability program); structural component (accommodation and basic amenities, furniture and fixtures); operational component (provider and reservation system); and programs on COVID-19 health protocols.

Engr. Arthur Batomalaque, Integrated Waste Management/Pollution Control Division Head of CEMO, said the objective of the search is to improve the services of homestay owners and at the same time promote sustainable environmental practices.

Moreover, Analou Gomo, CEMO-IEC staff, encouraged owners to integrate recommendations and suggestions of the evaluators which they think are beneficial.

Homestay owner Amie A. Pasustento, shared that  joining the contest helped them improve their establishment’s operation.

Department of Tourism Region 6 Tourism Operations Assistant John Lyndel Alolon, NONESCOST’s Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management faculty Melbert Libo-on, and Architect Lorei Mae Sanchez of the City Planning and Development Coordinator’s Office were evaluators of said search./WDJ