DANAO, Bohol – Lady Mayor Celeste Cepedoza Lerion bared that extreme tourism, found and offered only in this extremely land-locked town, has contributed much of its coffers with the average annual income of over Php40 million.
What may be considered as appropriate is that the income generated from the extreme tourism is distributed equally to all 17 barangays and a significant percentage goes to the newly-established Danao Technological College (DTC), she said in an interview.
This claim is being backed by her father Vice-Mayor Jose Gonzaga Cepedoza in separate interview during the 64th township celebration here on July 9, 2025.
“Tourism is one of the pillars of Danao’s sustainable development. It creates jobs, supports small businesses, and promotes our unique identity,” Cepedoza-Lerion aid in her State of the Municipal Address (SOMA).
The town offers newest extreme adventures: The Giant Swing, Hamster Wheel and Zipline Bicycle. It has already established the Plunge or SuiSlide, cable car, zipline, rapeling, and river kayaking, all situated at the known forested cave hideout of then rebel, Francisco “Dagohoy” Sendrijas.
“First, we will invest in new attractions—additional extreme rides and indoor activities—to draw more visitors and provide excitement for both locals and tourists. These investments will further establish Danao as a premier adventure destination,” she said.
The mayor said that promotion of the town’s extreme adventure for tourists is given priority thru “proactively join more travel expos with establishments and tour agencies to expand our reach.”
It also collaborated with other tour players, such as local food firms and homestays to make sure that guests have the best tour/stay experience. “When our hotels are full, guests will be referred to our homestay partners, creating more livelihood opportunities.”
But these will not prosper, she said, without the support and trust of the public offices, private sector and the people, she said.
Meanwhile, in her SOMA, a roadmap has been drawn as guide of the town as she puts premium on key plans and programs she envisioned in the fields of financial management, social services in education and health, infrastructure and agriculture.
Lerion and the vice-mayor, together with their employees, joined forces in the inauguration and blessing of several projects completed during the celebration.
These include the blessing of two rescue vehicles. Municipal Hall Annex building, the new modern bus terminal, expanded Poblacion Barangay hall, and laboratories (crime lab) of the DTC.
It also opened up the exhibits and products for sale of the Agri-Fair since day one when the celebration started. (rvo)
