The Provincial Government of Cotabato initiates homestay and transport operation training to the residents of Barangay New Israel in Makilala on July 05, 2013.

After the successful grand launching of Asia’s longest zipline last April 2013, selected residents of New Israel will be trained this time for a more effective tourist service.

The 2-day workshop aims to teach local homeowners and drivers with necessary skills in handling visitors during their visit at the eco-park, where the zipline facility is located.

Residents of Sitio 4 and 7 are taught on how to properly accommodate guests and visitors during their overnight stay in the area.

Drivers on the other hand, will be trained in showing proper etiquette when transporting their visitors. They will also be reminded to treat their passengers with utmost courtesy.

Personnel from Public Affairs, Assistance, Tourism and Sports Development Division (PAATSDD) under the Provincial Governor’s Office, are set to handle the said training together with some invited tourism professionals.

Josephine Abellana, officer-in-charge of PAATSDD, said the activity intends to more importantly help intensify the capability of the local people and to boost tourism in the municipality of Makilala.

“We are expecting sudden influx of tourists in the village after its final opening, hence we need to improve the services in that area,” she added.

Governor Emmylou “Lala” J. Taliño-Mendoza who led the ceremonial opening couple of months ago, expressed her excitement for the full operation of the facility, which is set on July 10, 2013.

“We, at the provincial government are doing our best to improve the services and amenities in the park. And when all these are completely finished, we will be able to attract more visitors from both local and international,” on her statement. 

The two-way 2.3 kilometer zipline according to Taliño-Mendoza will surely delight every guest. 
All participants will receive certificate of completion after the training. //sgjh/pgo// with reports from Jimmy Sta. Cruz