MoA fair showcases South's rich culture, tourist attractions

Northern Mindanao's rich culture and artistry have taken a back seat in previous years.In order to showcase what Northern Mindanao has to offer, Pasundayag Northern Mindanao 2011 was launched at the Music Hall of SM Mall of Asia (MoA) on Thursday, a fair slated until April 19.The event aims to promote Region X's tourism and eradicate the notion that Mindanao is not a safe place for tourists and locals.

"Ang akin lang sana mabigyan ng chance and Mindanao, lalo na ang Northern Mindanao na mapuntahan ng ating mga bisita (My hope is that Mindanao will have a chance, especially Northern Mindanao, to be visited by tourists),” said Jennifer Tan, chairperson of Northern Mindanao Regional Tourism Council.

“There was one kid beside me who commented about the colors of our costumes and handicrafts. He asked his mother where we are from. Kids love color and Northern Mindanao is abundant with it," Tan added.

Northern Mindanao is composed of five provinces (Bukidnon, Camiguin, Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte) and eight cities (Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, Ozamiz, Tangub, Oroquieta, Gingoog, Malaybalay, Valencia).

At the launch, mall goers were able to have a sneak preview of what's going to be featured during the entire fair.The program kicked off with cultural performances by members of the Subanen, Higaonon, Bukidnon and Maranao tribes. The Bukidnon State University Dance Troupe and Chorale Group also performed.

The first day was graced by various government officials representing the provinces and cities of Northern Mindanao.During the six-day event, various artists and tribes from Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Camiguin, Cagayan de Oro, Gingoog and Iligan will feature their songs and dances for everyone to see.

Aside from the performances, mall goers can look around at the booths featuring the region's food products, handicrafts, instruments, clothing, accessories, home decors, and more. A daily festival parade will be held from 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Department of Tourism Undersecretary Atty. Maria Victoria Jasmin said through the six-day exhibition, the region will be able to show what they can offer in terms of eco-tourism, adventure, leisure, craft, agriculture and aqua products, wellness, and more.

"Bukidnon's Mount Kitanglad National Park is the perfect place for bird watching. Tourists must see and experience the culture of Lanao del Norte and the paradise of Camiguin. Not to be forgotten are the provinces of Misamis Occidental and Oriental, Bukidnon, Gingoog, Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, which all have colorful festivals," said Jasmin.

"There is a notable increase in the private investments, particularly in the hotel sector. Cagayan de Oro is now becoming a highly urbanized city with the presence of new and upcoming hotels with a soon-to-be completed Limketkai and Atrium hotels and other new developments by the private sector," she said.

She also noted that more tourists are expected to visit the region with the opening of the Laguindingan International Airport. Jasmin said local government units should continue in developing strategies that could further promote tourism in the region.
Source = mb.com.ph