The Department of Tourism (DOT) regional office is currently validating the papers submitted by 23 recipients of the Grassroots Entrepreneurs for Eco-Tourism (GREET) Program from the five provinces of the Cagayan Valley region.

DOT Regional Director Blessida Diwa disclosed that the office has allotted some P230,000 to be given to identified beneficiaries to help them put up their livelihood projects that will eventually improve their living condition.

Diwa said the GREET program provides P50,000 to P100,000 as start-up capital to deserving groups or individuals with feasible business proposals in eco-tourism sites.

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) will provide the training specially on how to start the business.

Diwa likewise encouraged the beneficiaries to promote an enterprising culture without sacrificing the sustainable management of the natural and cultural resources of the eco-tourism sites.

She urged them to become tourism promoters of a clean and green environment and at the same time extend quality service, and enhance the peace and order situation that speak swell of the region.

Meantime, DOT Central Office has already conducted the second assessment wherein the identified beneficiaries were already interviewed on their project proposals. It is expected that the grant will be awarded to the beneficiaries next month, Diwa assured.

The GREET program was conceived by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to enhance the livelihood opportunities of promising entrepreneurs who can best explore the inherent tourist-drawing potentials of sites which can readily be sources of income, Diwa added. (PIA Cagayan)

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