TREASURES OF SOX. Department of Tourism Region 12 Dir. Nelly Dillera says tourist arrivals in Soccsksargen continues to increase since 2014, during the Treasures of SOX travel and trade expo at Max's Restaurant in Ermita, Manila on Thursday (April 25, 2019). (PNA photo by Ben Briones)
MANILA -- The finest things that could be found in the Soccsksargen region are once again on display at the Robinson's Place in Manila for the fourth installment of Treasures of SOX travel and trade expo.
The expo, which runs from April 25 to 28, features local produce and crafts from the region's locals, such as textiles, bags, and other wearables.
SOX or Soccsksargen, located in Central Mindanao, refers to the provinces and cities of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City.
Nelly Dillera, Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 12 director, sees a huge potential for the vibrant region teeming with unadulterated treasures, not only products but also cultural heritage, food, and still unexplored destinations.
Among others, she said Soccsksargen's economic activity is poised to grow with the numerous infrastructure programs being poured into Mindanao.
"(There are) more than 2,000 infrastructure projects (in Mindanao) being started that's more than PHP500 billion in cost. Looking at the investment of the government in Mindanao and looking at additional investment, it's really high time and I think it's really the right time to invest in Soccsksargen," she said during the Treasures of SOX launch on Thursday.
Dillera shared that tourist arrivals in the region continue to increase since 2014, with an annual growth rate of about 63.3 percent.
"Last year, it hit 6.6 million. That's 33 percent higher than 2017 which is 4.6 million. Ibig sabihin sa dami ng tao na pumupunta sa Region 12, it already can be a testament talaga na secure sila 'pag pumunta sila sa aming lugar (It means that more people are coming to Region 12, a testament that they are secure when they come to our region)," she said.
"I think that's also the program of the government -- to really ensure safety and security ng of our fellowmen," she added.
From the usual sun and beach destinations that most of the regions in the Philippines offer, Soccsksargen is also abundant with other tourism products focused on spirituality and history.
Aside from promotions, the Treasures of SOX Year 4 launched a VIP card that tourists could avail and use for freebies and discounts in Regional Tourism Council-accredited establishments in the area.
For 2019, the DOT aims to generate PHP22 million in cash and booking sales from the expo. (PNA)
