This marks a major feat for Cebu's tourism industry as the world-famous tourist spot is now ready to receive tourists after undergoing a months-long rehabilitation.
Gov. Garcia announced that a new set of rules will now be followed by all canyoneering tour operators and guides in light of the reopening.
The over 800 tour guides engaged in canyoneering tours went through extensive training by the Department of Tourism to professionalize them before they went back to their business.
With the reopening, the Cebu Provincial Government will now manage the operations of Kawasan Falls and canyoneering activities in the province.
That means tour-related transactions will have to go through Capitol as it now directs the administrative side of operating Kawasan Falls and canyoneering and related activities.
There are now at least 45 BIR-registered tour operators offering the said tours.
In an interview with the media, Gov. Garcia noted this feat after "such been a long journey" of pushing for Kawasan's protection, which started in her first 3 terms.
Eventually, the illegal structures in the Kawasan area were removed after months of rehabilitation efforts.
With Capitol now at the helm, Gov. Garcia assured that there will be defined sharing of revenues from tours, especially on the side of the LGU.
This means tourists will now pay a uniform rate for canyoneering and Kawasan experience.
The governor said the efforts were all geared towards putting everything in its right place and, at the same time, restoring the pristine beauty of Kawasan Falls. | Carlo Lorenciana