Senator pushes tourism master plan, EPIRA amendments to boost ‘crown jewels’

Former Senate President Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri has called on the national government to develop a tourism master plan and amend the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) to address power issues in the country’s prime tourist destinations.

Zubiri made the statement during his interpellation of Senate Minority Leader Koko Pimentel’s counter-SONA, expressing concern over power issues affecting tourist hotspots like Siargao, the surfing capital of the Philippines.

“If there’s a master plan for flood control, there should also be a master plan for tourism focusing on destinations that bring income to our country,” Zubiri stated during his exchange with Pimentel.

Zubiri emphasized that a key part of the tourism master plan should ensure continuous power supply for both residents and businesses catering to tourists.

Discussing the electricity challenges in tourist areas, Zubiri recounted his recent visit to Siargao with his family, noting the frequent power outages on the island.

“The brownouts were severe. The resort where we stayed had to run its generator from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. due to fluctuating electricity in Siargao. They pay P16 per kWh, which is very high!” Zubiri exclaimed.

He shared that a local trader in the ice production business, similar to his own venture, was suffering greatly due to the power outages.

“My point is, unless we solve the electricity problem, we will face significant issues with investment opportunities. I hope the Department of Tourism, the Department of Energy, and other relevant departments are listening: Siargao is a crown jewel of our tourism destinations,” Zubiri said.

“We are probably paying one of the highest electricity rates in Asia, maybe next to Japan. In other countries, the prices are much lower,” he added.

Zubiri announced his intent to push for amendments to EPIRA to address frequent power outages and high electricity costs in the Philippines.

Pimentel, the minority leader, agreed with Zubiri and committed to working with the majority to amend EPIRA.

Zubiri noted that during his tenure as Senate President, he consistently asked for specific amendments the national government wanted in EPIRA to address high electricity costs and power outages.

“We now focus on the DOE. What amendments do you want, Mr. DOE? Until now, they have not submitted the amendments to EPIRA,” he said.

“I’m glad the gentleman from Cagayan de Oro is willing to work with the majority to pass amendments to EPIRA. But my question is, what are those specific amendments?” he asked.

“Through the leadership of the government, let’s ask them what those amendments are, because for the last two years I’ve been asking them. It’s part of the LEDAC priority measures but we don’t know the specifics.”