Gov. Aris Aumentado created executive order (EO) on Aug. 3, 2022 establishing an inter agency and multi-sectoral task force to look into the issue of Virgin Island’s alleged exorbitant food prices.
The task force will handle fact finding activity and review on the status of actions taken to address all issues confronting the Virgin Island.
Moreover, the governor met with officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Provincial Tourism Council, Provincial Tourism Office, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Provincial Administrator Asteria Caberte to discuss the issues concerning the viral post where tourists spent not less than P26,000 for food during a recent visit to Virgin Island.
Meanwhile, Aumentado personally visited Virgin Island together with Panglao mayor Edgardo “Boy” Arcay where both discussed with the possible solutions to the issues concerning Virgin Island.
The governor promised alternative livelihood for displaced small entrepreneurs affected by the changes at Virgin Island.
This comes at the heels of the decision of Mayor Arcay to prohibit food vendors at the said Island.