CLOSED. Executive Order No. 23 series of 2023 signed by Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia temporarily closing the canyoneering sites in two southern towns in the province effective Wednesday (Oct. 11, 2023). Garcia said the suspension of canyoneering activities was decided over issues concerning the safety of tourists. (Contributed photo)
CEBU CITY – Governor Gwendolyn Garcia on Wednesday ordered the temporary closure of two canyoneering sites in Ginatilan and Malabuyoc towns following issues concerning safety during trekking.
Garcia signed Executive Order No. 23 temporarily halting the operations of the popular outdoor trek at these two hinterland areas, citing claims of “risky canyoneering activities conducted by untrained and/or non-accredited tour guides.”
“An injury or mishap resulting from the gross neglect of the possible dangers that unqualified canyoneering tour guides may cause to the public would definitely adversely affect the tourism industry of Cebu,” she said.
The suspension has been decided pending the required specialized training and accreditation for the tour guides.
Garcia also required the enactment of municipal ordinances regulating outdoor trek that involves traveling down creeks or streams within a canyon through walking, jumping and climbing.
She cited the provisions of the Local Government Code on the promotion of the health and safety of the people as a basis for moving for the regulation of the canyoneering activities in the south.
The governor also urged the Philippine National Police to strictly monitor the area to ensure compliance of the temporary closure order.
Garcia met with the mayors of Badian, Alegria, Malabuyoc and Ginatilan, as well as tour operators, on Tuesday.
She said the capitol is starting to lay down necessary guidelines that would further improve the site of this famous outdoor tourism activity.
Garcia wanted to standardize the safety gear for the tourists.
She also wants to require canyoneering operators to utilize ultra-high frequency radio communications to ensure coordination and reliable channels during emergencies. (PNA)
