Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 4229

Introduced by Representative Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona

EXPLANATORY NOTE

‘The Municipality of Romblon, a picturesque dwelling for some, is undeniably an
alluring sanctuary for elevated tourism experience after its Bonbon Beach in Barangay Lonos
ranked 45" Best Beach in the World in 2023 and 38" Best Beach in the World in 2024, both
conferred by the World’s 50 Best Beaches, duly recognized by the Department of Tourism

With the steady increase of tourist arrivals since 2022 in the Municipality of Romblon,
it can be aptly deduced that the continued investment in tourism and subsequent development
of products have paved the way for its growing recognition as a promising tourism destination,
captivating the attention of both the local and international markets. Apart from the lucrative
marble industry and craftsmanship in traditional stone carving, the Municipality of Romblon
has been known for its scenic landscape and seascape, as well as home to rich biodiversity that
has caught global admiration.

With the enactment of its Municipal Tourism Code and the adoption of its Local
Tourism Development Plan, the Municipality of Romblon has long established its commitment
to tourism development as pathway to economic progress, thereby achieving public welfare
through creation of business and employment opportunities for the Romblomanons.
Particularly the Romblon Tourism Development Plan 2025-2035, a multimodal framework
was adopted by the Municipality of Romblon that strategically categorized tourism growth in
five major modes, namely: 1) Ridge to Reef and Coastal Tourism in the barangays of Lonos,
Agnay, and Sawang; 2) Island Adventure Tourism in the island barangays of Cobrador, Alad,
and Logbon; 3) Culture and Heritage/Marble Tourism in the Poblacion and neighboring
barangays; 4) Agritourism in Tambac, Ilauran, Macalas, and upland areas; and 5) Nature and
Regional Tourism in the barangays of Sablayan, Agpanabat, and Agnaga.

It offers a vast tourism experience, from rich culinary heritage to unique cultural
tourism portfolio ~ way more than just a destination. The sought declaration of the Municipality
of Romblon as a tourism destination shall unlock more opportunities that will allow the world
to have a glimpse of a true paradise.

Hence, this bill is earnestly recommended for immediate approval.

cE

ELEANDRO JESUS F. MADRONA


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

TWENTIETH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL NO. 4229

Introduced by Representative Eleandro Jesus F. Madrona

AN ACT
DECLARING THE MUNICIPALITY OF ROMBLON, PROVINCE OF ROMBLON, A
TOURISM DESTINATION

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION 1. The Municipality of Romblon, Province of Romblon, is hereby declared
a tourism destination. Pursuant thereto, its development shall be prioritized and supported by
the Department of Tourism (DOT), subject to the rules and regulations governing the
development of tourism destinations.

SEC. 2. Within one (1) year after the approval of this Act, the Municipal Government
of Romblon shall, in coordination with the DOT, Department of Environment and Natural
Resources, and concerned agencies of the government, prepare a tourism development plan
that shall include the construction, installation, and maintenance of such appropriate
infrastructure and facilities to enhance tourism in the area: Provided, That said development
plan shall ensure the preservation and conservation of the natural beauty and resources of the
area: Provided, further, That the implementation of the tourism development plan shall be

included in the budget of the Municipal Government of Romblon.


SEC. 3. The DOT shall assist the Municipal Government of Romblon in the
implementation of the tourism development plan by providing technical assistance in tourism
capacity building. It shall also include the Municipality of Romblon in all its regional and
national promotion programs.

SEC. 4, The funding for the implementation of this Act shall be included in the annual
budget of the Municipal Government of Romblon.

The DOT through the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA),
if necessary, may include such allocation in the TIEZA’s program.

SEC. 5. Within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act, the Municipal
Government of Romblon shall, in consultation with the DOT and concerned agencies of the
government, promulgate rules and regulations to implement this Act.

SEC. 6. If any provision of this Act shall be declared unconstitutional or invalid, the
other provisions not affected thereby shall remain in full force and effect.

SEC. 7. All laws, rules, regulations, presidential decrees, and other issuances
inconsistent with any of the provisions of this Act are hereby deemed repealed or amended
accordingly.

SEC. 8. This Act shall take effect fifieen (15) days after its publication in the Official
Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,