TIM eMagazine Vol.3 Issue 2
Department of Tourism Region 12 – (L-R): SOCCSKSARGEN Director Maria Rica Bueno together with
Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo and DA-AMAD R-12 Chief Ismael M. Intao formally opened the
expo through the unveiling of the locally woven "Treasures of SOX" signage.
"Treasures of SOX"
boasts wonders of
the South
T
he "Treasures of SOX" Travel and Tour Expo opened
at the Glorietta Mall on May 6 featuring Region 12 -
SOCCSKSARGEN's spectrum of tourism experience,
ranging from folklore to culture, ecotourism and
beach parties.
One of the highlights of the SOX experience for
2018 is the 12th Philippine Bird Festival (May 10-12),
featuring the Baras Bird Sanctuary of Tacurong City
which is expected to draw in birdwatchers, conservationists and
nature enthusiasts from all over Asia.
Another highlight is the Sarbay Fest (May 24-26), dubbed the
"Biggest Beach Festival of the South", and Pyesta Kolon Datal
(August 11-18), an international folklore festival that serves as
venue for cultural exchange among various countries including the
Philippines.
Debunking the long-held notion that Mindanao is not ideal for
tourists due to its security issues, SOX Tourism Regional Director
Maria Rica Bueno assured the region's safety, emphasizing the
vibrancy of the region"s international activities, such as the 12th
PBF and the Pyesta Kolon Datal.
"We wouldn't be promoting and coming here if we feel that
our visitors will be endangered." said Bueno. This statement was
further on fortified when Tourism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo,
herself a proud Mindanaoan, echoed Dir. Bueno's statement on the
regional’s safety.
"Every time I go out of the country I always say 'please don't
forget visit Mindanao, because it's very safe there and we have
everything that the tourists would want to see', " said Teo.
Meanwhile, various booths from the provinces of SOX featured
indigenous and local products such as coffee, textiles, beads,
and they also showcased some of the most sought after nature
destinations in the South. tourism.gov.ph
47