The tour operators, transport sector, and restaurants, meanwhile, lost P2 million.
Tecson said they are expecting such an impact on the tourism sector as an initial reaction of the organizers and tourists to martial law that was declared after clashes broke out between government forces and the Maute Group in Marawi City on May 23.
“Tourism promotion always works on perception. Based on what you read on the news, you will back out initially. But we are hoping, the hotels and conference sector, that the cancellations will translate to rebookings later on,” she said.[]
She said the tourism sector will soon recover, with an assurance from the security sector to ensure the safety of the city, which is the hometown of President Rodrigo R. Duterte.
“They know it’s a natural reaction. Let’s see in three to four weeks. That is still acceptable for now,” she said.[]
