By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Negros Occidental’s Binalbagan local government unit (LGU) will begin limiting the number of visitors entering the town’s Sitio Hermit and Bulwang tourist spots.

Mayor Alejandro Mirasol issued Executive Order No. 5 which states that tourists entering the tourist spots will be limited to only 300 individuals at any given time.

“Starting [Friday], all tourists [and] visitors shall register at least a day before the travel at the Municipal Tourism Office,” the advisory from the LGU said.

Registration is from Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. only, and is free of charge.

The LGU issued the order due to irresponsible tourists who are leaving their trash, as well as several individuals who have taken advantage of collecting fees from tourists without authorization.

“This is to regulate the number of visitors and to ensure the safety of the visitors. We encourage everyone to abide by the rules and guidelines ordered by the LGU, especially with regards to garbage,” Mirasol said.

Data released by the municipal government yesterday afternoon, showed around 911 individuals have already registered to visit Mount Hermit this weekend.

Earlier, Mirasol expressed his disappointment over the trash left by tourists on Sitio Hermit Mountain, part of the town’s Barangay Bi-ao.

The sitio is popular among hikers and bikers due to the breathtaking views in the area./ With reports from PNA / DGB, WDJ