The Department of Tourism (DOT), aiming to promote sustainable tourism in Antique, recently conducted the groundbreaking of the province’s first Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Barangay Aningalan, San Remigio.
Led by Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, the ceremony marked a milestone in the DOT’s commitment to developing tourism infrastructure while prioritizing environmental stewardship.
The TRA, the 16th in the country and the second in Western Visayas following Tubungan, Iloilo, is a flagship project of the Marcos administration aimed at enhancing visitor experiences while minimizing environmental impact.
“Sustainability is at the forefront of the development of Philippine tourism,” Secretary Frasco emphasized, highlighting the alignment of the DOT’s goals with Senator Loren Legarda’s long-standing advocacy for conservation.
The San Remigio TRA will offer modern amenities for travelers, including clean restrooms, tourist information desks, charging stations, and a pasalubong center showcasing local products. The facility incorporates eco-friendly elements like solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient designs to minimize its environmental footprint.
The DOT has also emphasized sustainability in the TRA’s operations, ensuring that the facility will be maintained in line with strict environmental standards. The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) will oversee construction and funding, the local government unit (LGU) will manage and maintain the facility, and the DOT will monitor compliance with sustainability guidelines.
San Remigio Mayor Margarito Mission Jr. expressed his gratitude, calling the project a historic first for the municipality. Congressman Antonio Agapito “AA” Legarda Jr. echoed the sentiment, highlighting the TRA’s potential to enhance Antique’s tourism landscape.
Senator Loren Legarda lauded the initiative, emphasizing the project’s alignment with the goal of making Antique a leading destination for sustainable tourism.
The event also recognized the vital role of local tour guides in promoting tourism. Secretary Frasco distributed essential kits and personal accident insurance to 43 accredited tour guides from the province, demonstrating the DOT’s commitment to supporting their efforts as tourism ambassadors.
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