New CV tourism chief takes over next month

The incoming regional director of the Department of Tourism in Central Visayas (DOT-7) takes over next month, ready to share her knowledge and skills in developing sustainable and responsible tourism communities.

Maria Rica Bueno told CEBU DAILY NEWS on Friday that she would continue the programs of outgoing DOT-7 Regional Director Patria Aurora “Dawnie” Roa.

Bueno heads Team Asia Pacific, which handles the tourism planning and promotions of the DOT.

Bueno will take over the post on Jan. 9, 2010 in time for Cebu's biggest tourism event of the year, the Sinulog Festival.

A 22-year veteran of the department, Bueno started as a junior operations assistant in September 1987 and since then has handled various positions.

With her expertise in destination and development planning, Bueno said she was confident she could further encourage tourism development in the region.

Outgoing DOT-7 Regional Director Roa, who has been in the tourism department for more than three decades, said last Tuesday in the weekly 888 news forum that she was confident in leaving her post to Bueno.

Roa will retire on Jan. 9, 2010 after a three-month extension . Her service was extended due to ongoing preparations for the Sinulog.

Roa’s name has been floated as a possible replacement for tourism undersecretary Phineas Alburo, who retired a few weeks ago.

However, Roa said she was planning to enjoy her retirement and was not entertaining any offers of a government post.

Bueno said she was “very eager to continue the work already initiated by Director Roa as well as excited to embark in this new role as regional director.”

According to Bueno, the region, especially Cebu, has good tourism potential especially as a venue for exhibits, meetings and conventions for both foreign and local organizations due to its white sand beaches.

Bueno also sees great potential in Cebu's diving sector.

“I see more tourists coming here soon once we can develop further the diving spots in the island. I know that many tourists already know of Cebu's diving spots but I'm sure we can improve more in marketing.”

Although she is not from the region, having been born in Cotabato City, Bueno said she was raised in Iloilo City and became familiar with Central Visayas through frequent visits as part of the work in the planning and development division.

Bueno said she would still be going around the region to get more acquainted with the different tourism players.