THE Bataan provincial council has adopted an ordinance seeking to promote the province’s indigenous heritage as a tourism attraction.
Provincial councilor Tony Roman said the ordinance highlights the “diverse indigenous communities with rich cultural heritage” as must-see attractions for local and foreign visitors.
Among the local tribes are the Ambala and Magbukon Aetas who have defied time and modernization to preserve their age-old cultures and traditions.
“There exists an opportunity to promote sustainable tourism that honors and preserves these indigenous culture,” Roman said.
He explained that the genuine participation and involvement of these indigenous communities in the tourism industry will not only empower their cultural identity, but will also generate economic opportunities for them.