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ARROYO |
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Gov.
Erico Aumentado has sought the exclusion of Panglao
Island from the implementation of the Comprehensive
Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).
Aumentado
is slated to meet President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
In Malacañang this week during which he will
hand over the resolution adopted by the Bohol Bankers
Association (BBA) headed by Rodney Lumuthang to the
effect.
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The
move aims to accelerate the development of the island
as a tourism destination. To note, prospective investors
in tourism and tourism-related businesses tend to balk
at the drag in the time just to convert lands classified
as agricultural to residential, commercial or industrial.
The
bankers became aware of this after investors asking
around to avail of loans to expand their businesses
aired their anxiety over the stringent conversion requirements
that run counter to Bohol's intensified investment promotions
especially with the construction of the Panglao Bohol
International Airport Development Project (PBIADP).
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On
receiving the resolution, Aumentado immediately prepared the
transmittal letter for the President. He asked her consideration
of the resolution to push the development of Panglao Island.
"I
recall that during the time of President Marcos, he declared
Panglao, Balicasag, Pamilacan and Cabilao islands as tourism
zones and therefore exempted from the Agrarian Reform Law
prevailing at the time. However, I understand that the Marcos
acts were abrogated during the incumbency of President Corazon
Aquino," he said, hence the request to exclude Panglao
Island from the coverage and/or operation of CARP.
The
bankers' resolution also has the support of the Bohol Chamber
of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) headed by Norris Oculam.
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