The provincial government of Tarlac shared initiatives that sought to boost the tourism sector. These include programs for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), hotel and restaurant owners, tour guides in various destinations, and establishment of a World War II museum.

In an interview, Governor Susan Yap said they are strengthening MSMEs through capacity building activities and assistance in various trade fairs.

“We have established a place for our MSMEs where they can showcase their products that are proudly made in Tarlac called Komunidad,” Yap said.

Komunidad Tarlac Crafts and Specialties Store, which is located at Capitol Center Building, features different products created by Tarlaqueño MSMEs.

“We are also working with the Department of Tourism in assisting resorts and hotel owners on how to upgrade their service,” she added.

Yap also encouraged business owners in the province to venture in the hotel industry to accommodate more tourists visiting various destinations in Tarlac.

“We will also be conducting a series of trainings for our tour guides to prepare them in leading our tourists to the places we want to showcase them in our area,” she furthered.

Tarlac’s well known tourist attractions include the Canarem Lake of Victoria, Monasterio De Tarlac of San Jose, New Clark City in Capas, and waterfalls in the municipalities of Mayantoc and San Clemente.

Moreover, she disclosed that the provincial government is working with the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, Nayong Pilipino, historians, and academicians in establishing a museum in Tarlac.

“This ongoing project of creating a World War II Museum with our partners will be the first in Central Luzon that will exhibit curated arts and crafts in line with our history,” Yap said.

Tarlac is also set to host the first-ever Luzon Art Fair in October 2023. (PIA 3)