Declaration as manageable conflict and development ready to mark Samar's foundation day

From the Philippine News Agency (Aug 5): Declaration as manageable conflict and development ready to mark Samar's foundation day 

The declaration of Samar as manageable conflict- affected and development ready area (MACADRA) will mark the celebration of the province’s 173rd foundation anniversary on Monday.

Governor Sharee Ann Tan de los Santos told reporters Monday that they look forward to the declaration although she was a bit apprehensive when the information was relayed to her by the 8th Infantry Division (8ID) of the Philippine Army (PA).

The apprehension stemmed as there is still presence of insurgents in the province and some towns are still affected by their operations.

She agreed when 8ID commanding officer, Major Gen. Jet Velarmino, explained that the declaration could trigger positive impact to the local economy.

“The declaration does not mean that Samar province is already free from insurgency but rather the influence of insurgents is already manageable, thus making the province ready for development,” she said.

She cited that the action is significant especially that her administration is pushing for investors to venture in the province and help improve the local economy. It’s poor economy resulted to the province having the most number of poor residents who are vulnerable to engaging in illegal activities or prone to human trafficking.

Particularly, she looked forward to a boost in the tourism sector and its allied services once the declaration is done.

Samar has numerous caves such as the Sohoton Cave and Natural Bridge Park in the town of Basey and the Calbiga Cave in the town of Calbiga, the second largest cave system in Asia as among its potential tourism drawer.

Calbayog City, one of the two cities in the province has been dubbed as ‘City of Waterfalls’ with its 16 waterfalls already capturing the interest of tourists.

The Lulugayan falls in Calbiga is also being by the Department of Tourism as another destination in the province. Marabut town is famous for its rock formations and beaches, added Tan.

Amid the declaration, Tan sought assurance from the military authorities that they will remain in the province and they will not reduce their presence in the area.

She also assured the 8ID full support through continuous campaign against insurgency by providing livelihood to vulnerable people and construction of road network to bring basic social services, especially in hinterlands.

Once declared as MACADRA the local government unit and the local police will be leading efforts in managing insurgency while the army will just extend the needed support.

http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=669585