President Aquino orders all departments, agencies, LGUs to support TWG on Baguio and Boracay development plan

President Benigno S. Aquino III has enjoined all departments, agencies and instrumentalities of the national government and local government units (LGUs) to actively support the Technical Working Group (TEG) on Baguio and Boracay for the preparation of comprehensive plans and programs to preserve and develop these places.

The Chief Executive issued the directive by virtue of Memorandum Circular (MC) No. 47 signed by Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on May 17.

Baguio City and Boracay Island are leading tourist destinations that are considered national assets, the President said.

He said rapid growth, commercialization, and the lack of a comprehensive development and zoning plan have caused the degradation and deterioration of the two localities.

The President has directed the secretaries of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources, Interior and Local Government, and Justice to constitute a Technical Working Group (TWG) to review the environmental, commercial, tourism, and law and order situation in Baguio and Boracay for the purpose of developing comprehensive plans to preserve these vital national assets.

He said there is need to ensure full support and cooperation from all officials and employees of government agencies and instrumentalities, including Government-Owned and Controlled Corporations for the successful completion of its tasks and functions.

The President designated the Secretary of Tourism as coordinator of the technical working group to ensure proper formulation and full integration of social and economic policies, plans, and programs.

He directed the said technical working group to work with all concerned stakeholders, including the LGUs with jurisdiction over Baguio and Boracay, in the preparation and implementation of plans and programs, and to submit regular reports to the Office of the President.

This Memorandum Circular shall take effect immediately.