JB Bernos, a congressman representing the province of Abra in the Philippine House of Representatives, is advocating for the recognition of Abra as a Tourism and Cultural Heritage Area. This initiative aims to enhance sustainable and inclusive tourism development in the region.

Bernos has put forward the House Bill 3120, known as the Abra Tourism and Cultural Heritage Development bill, on August 26. The bill seeks to establish a clear framework for invigorating tourism as a catalyst for progress and rural development in Abra.

What does HB3120 entail?

The proposed legislation lays down the policies necessary to leverage tourism for inclusive growth. It aims to institutionalize and promote significant events like the Kawayan Festival, emphasizing Abra’s identity as a major bamboo-producing province and the cultural elements that contribute to tourism and economic growth.

Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a decade-long tourism development framework focused on ecotourism and cultural protection while assessing environmental impacts. It also outlines the need for a detailed cultural mapping program to catalog historical and cultural sites and artifacts.

In a statement, Bernos emphasized, “Abra is blessed not only with various natural wonders, but also with a rich culture and heritage that can still be witnessed in its communities to this day.”