IN far-away Gigaquit in Surigao del Norte, a program is now in place to boost the 4th class municipality’s tourism prospects as a way forward for the poor coastal community. Such a program may provide other similar communities all over the country the template to level up their income stream while at the same time battling climate change and revving up economic growth.
Puyawan Falls, whose development will also benefit a community of indigenous people near the place, will become host to several swimming sites and campsites, which the municipality intends to establish to lure surfing enthusiasts even from Siargao for them “to have a welcome change,” as the mayor said.
Recently, Gigaquit was adjudged the second runner-up in the National Search for Outstanding Coastal Community that MMK or Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan launched. For now, the focus of the municipality is to conduct cleanups in partnership with concerned government agencies.