The government is eyeing the development of historical
landmarks in Bohol and Bataan under joint venture arrangements, according to
Trade Secretary Peter B. Favila.
The first is a joint venture between an international group
and the Philippine Tourism Authority of the former naval reserves in Balicasag
and the other is the development of part of the ruins in Corregidor Island to
revive this World War II island fortress.
Favila said PTA, now headed by tourism secretary Joseph Ace
Durano, is discussing with a group of investors to jointly develop the naval
reserve in Balicasag, a well-known dive spot in Bohol.
A similar arrangement is being planned for Corregidor,
including the construction of a hotel. Many of the ruins remain intact and have
never been reconstructed to serve as a memorial to the Filipino and American
soldiers who died in the war.
"There are a number of assets of the Department of Tourism
and the PTA that they would want to develop under joint venture," Favila said.
He added that this is an opportune time since the guidelines
for joint venture arrangements with government have already been issued.
The Philippine Naval Reserve in Balicasag islands currently
has a full service resort run by the PTA including its own dive shop, restaurant
and accommodation.
Balicasag is part of the so-called Bohol Marine Triangle, the
other islands being Pamilacan and Panglao.
A small rocky island approximately 4 kilometers long,
Corregidor is a historical site and a tourist destination. Daily tours, via a
ferry service from the CCP terminal are available.
The island already hosts Corregidor Hotel.
