The province of Ilocos Norte will soon have a Tourist Rest Area (TRA) after Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco, DOT Region I Director Joseph Francisco Ortega, Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc, and Pagudpud Mayor Rafael Benemerito II led the groundbreaking ceremony for its construction in Saud Beach, Pagudpud on December 12.
DOT Secretary Garcia-Frasco emphasized that the construction of TRAs across the country is part of the Marcos administration’s seven-point tourism program, which aims to utilize tourism as a major economic pillar for the Philippines’ recovery.
“Putting up this Tourist Rest Area sends the message that, first, Ilocos Norte is open to the world for tourists and investors, and that the Marcos administration is serious in its intention to support the Province of Ilocos Norte for its plans for tourism in the next few years,” she remarked.
The TRA in Saud aims to provide convenience to tourists, especially given that Saud was recognized as having one of the world’s 25 most beautiful beaches by Travel & Leisure (T+L) magazine. The TRA will have a souvenir shop, a tourist information center, hygienic facilities, and showers.
Aside from the Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), DOT is collaborating with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the local government of Pagudpud in developing the TRA at Saud Beach.
Moreover, Gov. Marcos Manotoc expressed his gratitude and appreciation to Sec. Garcia-Frasco, DOT and its Ilocos Region office, TIEZA, led by Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid, and the national government for bringing the TRA Project to Ilocos Norte.
“We all know that ultimately the success of the Philippines lies in the entire archipelago and not just Manila. Kaya po, we are one with you and your vision for the country and I am confident that you will certainly turn things around for the tourism sector of the Philippines,” he expressed.
Furthermore, Gov. Marcos Manotoc also assured Sec. Garcia-Frasco that PGIN will give its sincere and full support to the initiatives of DOT.
The Ilocos Norte TRA is the seventh TRA to be constructed in the Philippines. －Mariell Pahinag, PGIN-CMO.
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