On December 2, 2023, the Department of Tourism (DOT) formally introduced the inaugural Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Dauis, Bohol. Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco presided over the ceremony, marking the completion of the province's inaugural TRA.
This recently inaugurated TRA is strategically located to cater to tourists passing through Dauis, serving as a pivotal hub for those en route to various renowned destinations in Bohol. Notable attractions encompass the well-known Alona Beach in Panglao, the Virgin Island Sandbar, the popular Balicasag Island, and the historic Baclayon Church, not to mention its convenient proximity to Panglao Island International Airport.
Dauis, situated on Panglao Island alongside the Panglao municipality, assumes a crucial role as a
gateway to these attractions. During the TRA inauguration in Bohol, Secretary Frasco addressed
tourism stakeholders and local officials, emphasizing the significance of this infrastructure in
facilitating seamless travel experiences. She expressed, “We view Bohol, this gem of an island,
as a source of natural pride because, through your work and example, you have established a
sustainable ecotourism destination where the public and private sectors collaborate.”
Secretary Frasco also extended congratulations to the attendees as the architects of the
environmental achievement, now globally recognized as the Philippines’ very first UNESCO Global Geopark.
Distinguished figures present at the turnover ceremony included Congressman Edgardo Chatto, Provincial Administrator Aster Caberte representing Governor Erico Aristotle Aumentado, Board Member Tita Baja representing Vice Governor Dionisio Victor Balite, Board Members Lucille Lagunay and Aldner Damalerio, Dauis Mayor Roman Bullen and his wife Carmel Bullen, Dauis Vice Mayor Marietta Sumaylo, Tagbilaran Mayor Jane Yap, Panglao Mayor Edgardo Arcay, Antequera Mayor Jose Mario Pahang, Balilihan Mayor Maria Pureza Chatto, Calape Mayor Julius Caesar Falar Herrera, DOT Undersecretary Ferdinand Jumapao, Director Judilyn Quiachon representing Undersecretary Shahlimar Hofer Tamano, and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority Assistant Chief Operating Officers (ACOO) Gregory Oller and Jetro Lozada.