During the ceremonial signing for the “Gawahon, A Birder’s Paradise: Haven for Sustainable and Inclusive Eco-tourism” project recently, local leaders expressed their gratitude to the Marcos Administration and Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco for championing tourism infrastructure anchored on local government vision and community participation.
Victorias City Mayor and Representative-elect Javi Benitez emphasized the significance of being chosen as one of the top-ranked LGUs under the Tourism Champions Challenge (TCC) program and thanked the DOT for supporting their proposal to transform Gawahon Eco-Park into a world-class birdwatching and eco-adventure destination.
“When the DOT called for the Tourism Champions Challenge in 2023, we believed we had a strong ally in protecting our Gawahon Eco-Park and bringing it to more nature lovers and visitors who may enjoy this amazing place,” Benitez said.
“Let us work together to make this dream a reality.”
“Let us work together to make this dream a reality—our LGU and national agencies must be powerful partners in bringing this to life,” the mayor said.
He added that Gawahon, in Hiligaynon, refers to observing or watching through a window, from the root word gawa—, a verb that signifies looking beyond.
“Today, Gawahon Eco-Park is one step closer to the future we all look forward to,” he shared.
Echoing this sentiment, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, in a message delivered by Provincial Tourism Officer Chery Decena, reaffirmed the province’s full support for the project’s sustainability and inclusive economic impact.
“I commend Victorias City for championing a vision that balances tourism with conservation and economic advancement with ecological integrity.”
“Today’s milestone under the Tourism Champions Challenge proves what we can achieve when local aspirations meet national support. I commend Victorias City for championing a vision that balances tourism with conservation and economic advancement with ecological integrity. This uplifts not only Victorias City, but also contributes meaningfully to the broader vision of sustainable development in Negros Occidental,” Lacson said.
Vice Mayor-elect Derek Palanca also expressed appreciation during his welcome remarks: “We are grateful to everyone for joining us today as we formally begin the development of the Gawahon Eco-Park—A Birder’s Paradise. This is a major step in our city’s continuing effort to promote sustainable, inclusive, and locally grounded tourism.”
Frasco and Benitez, alongside local officials, also led the ribbon-cutting of the newly developed Gawahon Hostel—a two-storey eco-lodge that offers panoramic views and a serene nature escape within the Gawahon Eco-Park.
