Following its commitment to take Philippine tourism beyond the usual destinations and attractions, the Department of Tourism (DOT) is strongly pushing for sustainable, community-based travel, increasing employment and boosting grassroots-led tourism efforts that enjoin everyone in the whole locality.

Secretary Ace Durano commended the endeavors initiated by the people of Danao, appreciating what they have, and actively promoting eco-adventures in their area.  “Danao is a fourth-class municipality with first-rate leadership and first-class tourism experience. Bohol’s natural beauty, matched with adventurous, creative minds, is reason enough for its huge growth potential in eco-tourism.”

Danao Adventure Park, recently inaugurated on its charter day, offers eco-thrills including the Suislide —kilometer-long zipline — sky ride or cable car, and the canyon swing — dubbed The Plunge, which launches you to do a giant swing from a drop of 200 meters below — the first in the country.

“Evident here are the lessons of tourism development,” Durano shared, citing it is “important to start with the natural and cultural assets you have, coupled with local initiative and strong leadership, which are both indispensable.”

From the initial investment of P20 million, the adventure park now generates revenue of P1 million monthly, Durano added. 

The adventure park boasts scenic view of the Wahig River, mountains and rolling hills, among which is the historical Dagohoy Hill, the very spot where Francisco Dagohoy started the longest revolution against the Spaniards.

Trekking, wall climbing, rappelling, and root climbing also await adventurous travelers, as well as kayaking, river tubing, and rock bouldering, in the river downstream. Spelunking in the mystical Kamira Cave is also a highlight.  Community interaction and organic farm visits likewise invite eco-travelers to immerse in the unspoiled, undiscovered surroundings and Danao culture.   “This is among the region’s best-kept secrets, holding a treasure of promise. It is only natural for people to truly come back for more, and spread the good word about it,” undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions, Eduardo Jarque Jr. said.

“We have seen the positive contribution of LGU-initiated eco-tourism efforts, where the whole community benefits. Here in Danao, the agricultural produce harvested from their organic farms will supply the growing number of tourists coming to the area, along with the general employment this eco-adventure park has generated,” Jarque added.

Rolando Cañizal, director for Tourism Planning and Promotions, noted, “The department is continuously active in tapping this huge potential in community-based tourism, unlocking unique strengths from the locals, allowing for capacity-building measures, that translate to economic growth.”