A CITY councilor sought to accredit vloggers to ensure responsible tourism when promoting local spots.
Councilor Temujin Ocampo, the committee on environment chair, saw the need to register vloggers as they play a huge role in drumming up interest in local destinations, which may also trigger an influx of visitors.
It can be recalled that a Davao-based environmental group, Interfacing Development Interventions for Sustainability (IDIS) called out a travel vlogger after posting a video on its Facebook page promoting recreational activity in a watershed, which is a protected area.
IDIS also raised alarm over the influx of residents welcoming the New Year at the section of the Panigan-Tamugan watershed on Jan. 1 and improperly disposing of their garbage in the river.
The councilor did not rule out some vloggers need to be aware of local environmental laws and policies before endorsing an area to avoid endangering especially the protected areas.
“Mao gyud na isa sa atong panawagan sa mga vloggers that they should be familiar with the statutes, mga balaod sa syudad,” Ocampo said in a sideline interview during the regular session on Jan. 25.
Ocampo said his committee will hold discussions to craft guidelines and standards for the accreditation.
He said that this is an effort to recognize vloggers for their significant efforts in promoting the city and at the same time correct any possible errors.
“Nagpasalamat man ko nga gina promote nila ang syudad sa Davao pero pag promote man gud nimo ana, modagsa ang mga tao didto, unya pagdagsa sa mga tao di makontrol dayon, mao nay problema (While we are thankful they are promoting the city, but the problem is it will also result in the influx of people, which may become uncontrollable),” he added.
The Carmen Barangay Council in Baguio District endorsed a resolution to the Sangguniang Panlungsod during the regular session on Jan. 25 to impose a fee on visitors and swimmers in the protected Panigan River, which is now at the committee on environment awaiting hearing.
