By Anthony A. Araos
Nature has provided Lagawe a lot of attractions to draw local and foreign tourists. These destinations offer new and great adventures and experiences to visitors. The tourists- mostly from European countries have meant more business to hotels, lodging inns, restaurants and other related business establishments.
From the four main Poblacion barangays (where the Roman Catholic Church, public market, plaza and old as well as newly-constructed provincial capitol building, Lagawe Central School and Don Bosco High School are situated) to scenic trails of remote villages, Lagawe is a delightfully accessible place to find relaxation and solitude away from bustling Metro Manila that it becomes quite tempting to stay a bit longer or indefinitely. Lagawe, after all, is naturally rich. The town has 20 villages- each with many places to see and explore.
Lagawe dominates economic and cultural activities in the first district of Ifugao. This geographical district has seven towns. Lagawe is indeed ideal for both indoor and outdoor activities.
Yet, it is only drawing a handful of tourists. This is the problem of the tourism sector all-year long. Tourists from Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom stay in Banaue for two days or more. But, they are skipping Lagawe. Strange, but true.
Low tourist receipts come to no surprise since there is no such thing as a decent, honest-to-goodness Pasalubong Center. Come to think of it because it’s the capital town.
Accommodation for visitors is truly a concern. The homestay program is practically unheard of by most folks.
Sounds like a broken record by now? The list of problems is rather long. All accumulated for so long-years and decades to say the least.
A long-term perspective on invigorating the tourism industry has always remained central in my mind in order to endeavor in delivering impactful projects to benefit Lagawe and the people.
For one, the holding of a Tourism Congress goes a long way in improving, receiving and elevating the town’s gasping tourism industry. It will focus on promoting genuine steps to attract more tourists to Lagawe.
The proposed Tourism Congress should enforce the government’s commitment to serve the tourism sector and ultimately safeguard the welfare of all stakeholders. For this to be realized, the congress organizers should make sure that the widest majority of those in attendance are stakeholders from the private sector. This congress may well present an exciting opportunity to harness the services of tour guides, signaling a strong commitment from the officialdom to ensure their safe and ethical deployment at all times.
Most importantly, this is the most opportune time to offer vast opportunities to develop professionalism among the sector’s stakeholders. Professional development and education are so vital when it comes to taking care of the needs of high-end tourists.
As it is, creativity and common sense are also called for to make a turnaround in the town’s tourism industry. For one, folks here speak proudly of their “Bahawit Tinapa” This “tinapa” (smoked-fish) variety is quite popular in Ifugao. So why not hold an annual “Bahawit Festival” And for students, possibly include cooking demonstrations and contests on cooking the Bahawit Tinapa.
The idea is to improve the tourism industry throughout the town. So expect more and more recommendations.
A competent, committed, caring and hardworking Mayor is a precondition for a vibrant tourism industry. Lagawe residents should look forward to innovative solutions, stronger collaborations and continued progress toward uplifting the people’s overall well-being. My belief has not changed. That inescapable conclusion will become increasingly clear as I continue loudly to advocate the development and marketing competitive products and destinations.
My best understanding is that there is a dire need for a new mindset to intensify improvement of market access, connectivity, transport and infrastructure. I also see the need for a strategic move to enhance tourism institutional governance. In an effort to get attuned to modern trends, there is a compelling need to review the programs, methods and approaches of Lagawe’s tourism blueprint.
Today, scary things are occurring. Unemployment has increased. Joblessness is simply explained as depressing lack of opportunity for a better and decent life. Even on talks of vote-buying sprees are ripe.
Another wish and prayer: A Tourism Development Plan for Lagawe, formulated by the private sector.
It’s time to help fuel the tourism industry, a significant economic driver that has a layer multiplier effect. This is because it generates jobs and income.
The welfare of the people is first and foremost. The task of achieving “Matino na gobyerno, dama ang serbisyo” is urgent. On May 12, 2025, vote responsibly! not peso-nably!**
