THE Department of Tourism (DOT) showcased to delegates of the Northern Mindanao Philippine Experience Program the first tourist rest area (TRA) in Mindanao and the second in the entire Philippines, located in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.
This facility is a flagship project of the DOT under the current administration aimed at providing convenience to both local and foreign tourists.
“The tourist rest area is indeed a great help for our tourists, especially those passing through,” according to Councilor Rina Quino, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.
The comfort rooms of the TRA have diaper changing and breastfeeding stations.
Upon entering the facility, visitors are greeted with numerous tables and chairs where travelers can rest.
It also has a coffee shop and a souvenir center where various local products from the province can be purchased.
There is also a help desk ready to respond to tourists’ inquiries.
“It’s very beautiful. Our tourist rest area here is very beautiful. It truly provides comfort and convenience to our tourists. So, visit our TRA, where there is delicious coffee and delightful souvenirs, and also our local products made by our local artisans are sold here,” said Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco, Department of Tourism.
According to the local government of Manolo Fortich, the TRA greatly helps in boosting the tourism of Bukidnon, especially since the facility itself has become a tourist attraction.
“It has actually become a tourist attraction. Visitors coming from Davao, from Cagayan de Oro, merge here to buy souvenirs and even have their photos taken outside. They can’t leave without taking a picture here,” Councilor Rina Quino, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon stated.
Tourist Rest Area in Bukidnon provides jobs for some residents
The Tourist Rest Area not only significantly contributes to tourism but also provides jobs for residents of Bukidnon.
Single parent Jonalyn is very thankful for the opportunity to work at the tourist rest area.
She says her salary as a TRA employee supports her family.
“I can help my parents. They are senior citizens,” said Louen Saguilongan, Working at a Tourist Rest Area.
“I can help pay for their electricity and water bills. If there’s any extra from my salary, I give it to them, especially now that I have two children. One is in high school, the other in elementary,” Saguilongan added.
Nine tourist rest areas have been established by the DOT in various major tourist destinations across the country, with the newest one opened in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte.
The tenth TRA is set to open in Baguio City soon.
