In a move set to redefine Basilan’s tourism landscape, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the Local Government Unit of Isabela City for the Lampinigan SANDS (Sustainable and Natural Destination of the South): The Jetty Port and Leisure Development Project, on October 29 at Fuego Fuego Beachfront, Barangay Tabiawan. The partnership paves the way for the development of Lampinigan Island into a sustainable, community-centered tourist attraction.
The event marked a major milestone in the city’s tourism development efforts, bringing together officials from both national and local governments. The memorandum of agreement was signed by Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, TIEZA OIC–Assistant Chief Operating Officer Rodolfo Ancheta, and Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman. Witnessing the signing were Governor Mujiv Hataman, Lone District Representative Yusop Alano (represented by Atty. Careema Alano Abdulajid), DOT Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa-Abubakar, and DOT IX Regional Director Dara May Cataluña. Also present were DOT Undersecretary Ferdinand Jumapao, DOT Assistant Secretary Judilyn Quiachon, and DOT Director Glenn Albert Ocampo.
In his welcome remarks, City Vice Mayor Ar-Jhemar Ajibon expressed gratitude for the opportunity to witness the signing of the MOA for the Lampinigan SANDS Project and highlighting how such milestones continue to inspire the City Government to pursue more initiatives that promote progress and sustainable development in Isabela City.
Governor Hataman lauded the collaboration as a crucial step toward inclusive development in Basilan, emphasizing that sustainable tourism can coexist with peacebuilding and environmental protection. He said that while agriculture and natural resources remain the province’s primary assets, the potential of tourism is equally significant. He congratulated the City of Isabela for setting an example for the rest of the province and neighboring towns, noting that its success in reducing poverty incidence clearly reflects the vital role of tourism growth in driving inclusive progress in Isabela City. Meanwhile, Representative Alano highlighted the economic potential of the Lampinigan SANDS Project, stating that the initiative would not only attract visitors but also stimulate local enterprises and create jobs for Basileños.
In her message, Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman expressed gratitude to the Department of Tourism for its support through the Tourism Champions Challenge (TCC) program, which funded the Lampinigan Jetty Port and Leisure Development Project. She highlighted the initiative as a symbol of progress and sustainable, community-based tourism in Basilan. The mayor also underscored the city’s commitment to resilience and renewal, affirming that Basilan is not just a destination but a story of people and purpose.
In her keynote address, Secretary Frasco commended Isabela City’s leadership for its forward-thinking tourism development strategies. She highlighted the city’s remarkable performance in the TCC, where the Lampinigan SANDS Project was named the champion for Mindanao and ranked among the Top 3 National Winners out of 98 LGU project entries nationwide. Secretary Frasco underscored that tourism has played a vital role in reducing poverty in Isabela City, proving its capacity to serve as an “engine of progress and development.” She also expressed optimism that through the TCC program, the city will soon establish world-class tourism facilities that not only create livelihood opportunities for local residents but also allow domestic and international visitors to experience the rich culture and warmth of Isabela City.
She reaffirmed the DOT’s commitment to empowering local governments in building sustainable and investment-ready tourism destinations, noting that the P25-million grant—P20 million from DOT and P5 million from TIEZA—will help transform Lampinigan Island into a premier ecotourism hub.
Secretary Frasco also distributed tour guide kits designed to assist community guides in performing their daily tasks and delivering quality service to tourists. In addition, she personally extended accident insurance worth P50,000 to ten community guides, demonstrating her strong commitment to supporting the individuals who help sustain the vitality and vibrancy of the country’s tourism industry.
The Lampinigan SANDS Project embodies the city’s long-term goal of positioning Isabela City as a model for sustainable and inclusive tourism in Mindanao. By integrating environmental conservation, livelihood generation, and cultural preservation, the initiative serves as a cornerstone for Basilan’s continued journey toward peace and prosperity. (Words by SJ Asakil/Photos by M. Santos, CIO)
