Gingoog’s Ridge to Reef Program boosts tourism

THE newly launched Ridge to Reef program is significantly aiding the development of tourism in Gingoog City, located in eastern Misamis Oriental, according to City Tourism Head Audie Ocampo.

In a phone interview days after the program’s launch, Ocampo highlighted its impact on local livelihoods, particularly for mountain and coastal tour guides and diving instructors.

“The city is not primarily focused on tourism income,” Ocampo said. “Our priority is providing livelihood opportunities for residents.”

City Mayor Erick Cañosa echoed this sentiment in a statement on the city’s official Facebook page, saying, “Gingoog City is indeed blessed with both mountain and sea resources.”

He urged the community to promote and develop sustainable tourism that will benefit future generations.

Mayor Cañosa also thanked stakeholders for their dedication to the city’s development, especially through the Ridge to Reef initiative.

Ramon Rodel Reyes, Supervising Tourism Operations Officer, detailed the program’s offerings. Ridge activities include riding, mountain biking, trail running, mountain climbing, river trekking, camping, glamping, day hiking, and waterfall hopping at various sites such as Bantaawan Lake, Mount Lumot, Mount Balatukan, and several waterfall series.

Reef activities feature diving spots at Gingoog Pantalan, Puntod Shoal, San Juan Fishery Reserve, and others, along with kayaking in several barangays.

Reyes noted that the program will generate more income for diving guides and boat operators and benefit mountain guides, particularly those from Indigenous Peoples communities, by engaging them as service providers.

Liza B. Requiña, Cenro of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Gingoog City, emphasized the importance of balancing environmental protection with tourism.

As the Concurrent Protected Area Superintendent of DENR-10, she urged the community to always protect the environment while engaging in tourism activities.