The Oriental Negros Tourism Association, an umbrella organization of 47 tourism stakeholders, was organized recently to bolster the tourism industry in the province.

The ONTA is composed of pedicab drivers, porters, hotel and tour operators, vehicles-for-hire operators, resort owners and guest relations officers.

Gov. George Arnaiz said the ONTA should have good linkage with the private sector, and negotiate with the government as one body, instead of different organizations.

Fr. Enrique Balongag is co-chairman of ONTA and other officers are Tour Guides of Oriental Negros president Janine Flores-Lawas, Press Club founding president Ely Dejaresco, Artist Guild Association head Pamela Galvez, Dive Guides and Rescue Group leader Jonathan Alerre, and Dive Operators chief Joey Varela.

Meanwhile, Arnaiz is also expected to create the Oriental Negros Tourism Board that will prepare recommendations for tourism-related projects to the provincial government through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.*JG

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