Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco Fulfill P200,000 Pledge for Education in Pagsanjan, Laguna

Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco and her husband, Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco, have formally handed over a P200,000 cash donation pledged in support of the education of tourism workers’ children in Pagsanjan, Laguna.

The generous contribution was announced by Secretary Frasco during the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) Philippines fund-raising fashion show gala last month, marking the organization’s 50th founding anniversary. The couple’s personal donation was specifically intended to aid in the education of the children of Pagsanjan boatmen.

“As a great equalizer, education can uplift communities from poverty and empower its citizens to become productive members of society. Any avenue that would give access to people to quality education is worth our attention and full unwavering support,” Secretary Frasco expressed.

On Tuesday, Secretary Frasco, alongside DOT-CALABARZON Regional Director Marites T. Castro, Laguna Governor Ramil L. Governor, and Mayors Cesar V. Areza of Pagsanjan, Arrantlee R. Arroyo of Cavinti, and Rolandi G. Ubatay of Lumban, gathered to witness the historic renewal of the tripartite agreement among the three neighboring towns. This agreement, 30 years in the making, aims to strengthen local tourism and foster socio-economic development through the protection and preservation of the Pagsanjan Gorge National Park, home to the famed Pagsanjan waterfalls.

PATA selected the Pagsanjan community as the beneficiary of its fundraising initiative, aligning with the DOT’s commitment to support the organization’s advocacy on tourism education.

Secretary Frasco reiterated the DOT’s dedication not only to revitalizing tourism in Pagsanjan, Cavinti, and Lumban but also to promoting PATA’s advocacy. She emphasized the importance of education and how it plays a pivotal role in uplifting communities.

The tourism chief shared a personal connection to the cause, citing the success of their educational initiative in Liloan town, Cebu, which began with a few scholars in 2008. Today, the program supports around 16,000 students across the 5th District of Cebu, highlighting the couple’s commitment to prioritizing education in their philanthropic efforts.