The Negros Oriental Provincial Tourism Board said the participation of Negros Oriental to Salon International de la Plongée, which spotlighted top underwater destinations around the world from Jan. 8-11, aims to position the province as a premier, responsible, and world-class diving destination for the French and European market.
With over 360,000 certified scuba divers, France has one of the strongest diving cultures globally, the Board said in a statement Jan. 10. “French divers are drawn to destinations that prioritize nature, sustainability, and marine conservation—values that Negros Oriental continues to champion.”
French arrivals to the Philippines continue to grow steadily—from 19,000 in 2022, to 41,000 in 2023, and 46,000 in 2024, with Negros Oriental and other islands in Central Philippines among their preferred destinations, the Board added.
In 2024 alone, French visitors generated an estimated USD 101.75 million, or P5.7 billion in tourism receipts nationwide, with France now ranking among the top 10 source markets for Negros Oriental, it stressed, adding that France “is a high-value, experience-driven tourism market.”
Meanwhile, the delegation, led by Governor Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria, with congresswomen Ma. Isabel Sagarbarria and Janice Degamo, Board Members Erwin Macias, Bruno Bouffard III, and Jessica Jane Villanueva, executive director Woodrow Maquiling Jr. of the Tourism Board, and provincial information officer Juvilin Calago, paid a courtesy call on Philippine Ambassador to France, Eduardo José de Vega.
The meeting aimed at strengthening diplomatic ties and exploring opportunities for international cooperation, the governor posted Jan. 10, adding “the courtesy call provided an avenue for meaningful discussions on potential collaborations, cultural exchange, and development initiatives that may benefit Negros Oriental and its constituents.”
De Vega warmly welcomed the delegation and expressed his support for initiatives that promote local development and international partnerships.
He also received a diplomatic gift—a bell tower crafted from precious stones—sourced from NOAH or the Negros Oriental Arts and Heritage in Bacong. Sagarbarria said the handcrafted piece reflects the province’s rich artistic heritage and commitment to preserving and showcasing local craftsmanship on the global stage. ||
