Bohol governor: Fair tourism prices, better service amid viral fish dish

TAGBILARAN CITY, BOHOL, Philippines — Bohol Gov. Erico Aristotle “Aris” Aumentado has called on tourism operators and stakeholders to ensure that the province’s growing tourism industry benefits not only large establishments but also ordinary Boholanos.

Aumentado issued the call on Tuesday amid renewed public discussion over tourism prices in Bohol, sparked by a viral post about a P1,650 pompano dish served at a resort in Panglao.

In a statement, Aumentado said attracting tourists was only one part of the government’s responsibility.

Article continues after this advertisement

“What we want is not simply to attract more tourists to Bohol, but to ensure that tourism becomes a source of opportunities, jobs and livelihood for Boholanos,” he said.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

He said the province’s tourism strategy is anchored on quality tourism, fair pricing, good service and sustainable development.

READ: Central Visayas sees slow start in tourism

Aumentado said the benefits of tourism should reach local businesses and communities, including farmers, fishermen, drivers, tour guides, artisans and families.

“We want the income and opportunities from tourism to reach our local businesses, farmers, fishermen, drivers, guides, artisans and families in our communities,” he said.

Article continues after this advertisement

The governor also acknowledged that the government could not accomplish this on its own, stressing the need for cooperation among tourism businesses, local government units, the Department of Tourism, the Department of Trade and Industry and other agencies.

He urged tourism operators to maintain visitors’ trust by offering reasonable prices, good service and genuine Boholano hospitality.

Article continues after this advertisement

“Let us take care of the trust of tourists. Give them fair prices, good service and an experience that shows the hospitality of Boholanos,” Aumentado said.

The P1,650 pompano controversy has generated widespread discussion online about the cost of visiting Bohol, with some travelers raising concerns over food, accommodation, tours and other expenses.

While some critics viewed the viral incident as an example of a wider pricing problem, others said one expensive meal should not define Bohol as a destination, noting that reasonably priced local restaurants and carinderias remain available.

Aumentado said complaints should not simply be dismissed because they provide an opportunity for the province and the tourism industry to identify areas that need improvement.

“We do not want Bohol to be known only because of a viral story. But we also should not ignore complaints that can help us identify where we still need to improve,” he said.

For Aumentado, the ultimate measure of tourism success is not merely having more visitors.

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.

As tourist arrivals increase, more Boholanos should also benefit from tourism, he said. /cb