THE Philippines’ Department of Tourism (DoT) has postponed the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) 5th World Ecotourism Conference, originally scheduled to take place in Cebu and Bohol between November 13 and 15, to 1Q2014.
News of the postponement followed just days after tourism secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr said Cebu would “push through” with it (TTG Asia e-Daily, October 21,2013).
Said tourism undersecretary Daniel G Corpuz in a press statement: “In view of the recent events, the Philippine DoT and (UNWTO affiliate) DiscoverMice are postponing the 5th World Ecotourism Conference (to) the first quarter of 2014 in Cebu and Bohol. All of those who have registered online are advised to reconfirm their interest to attend once the online registration is reactivated with the new schedule.
“We look forward to everyone’s kind cooperation and support as we work for the swift recovery of Cebu and Bohol tourism infrastructure.”
Lyle Lewis, general manager of Radisson Blu Hotel Cebu (where the event was to take place) and vice president – Philippines and Japan, Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group, said: “Our building has been certified as structurally sound and sustained minor cosmetic damage (in the earthquake). Our hotel is fully operational and we will always put the safety and wellbeing of our guests and employees as our top priority.
“The decision to postpone the conference is made by the organiser and we respect the organiser’s decision.”
