Wednesday, June 25, 2008 PB converts guv's lot into eco-tourism park By Jane Cadalig
TO PRESERVE a government lot from further destruction, the Benguet Provincial Board (PB) has converted a one-hectare lot reserved for the Governor's Mansion into an eco-tourism site and children's park.
The PB, through an ordinance, declared the lot located within the contested 54-hectare property at Wangal, as a cultural, eco-tourism, and children's park, saying the area has remained idle for a long time.
It said the area has been suffering from degradation because of irresponsible acts, usually by students and outsiders.
"There is a need to protect and utilize the area for a better purpose," the ordinance said.
Board Member Juan Nazarro Jr. said converting the one-hectare property into eco-tourism site for children would make it more productive. "Facilities for the children will be constructed in the area. It will also be open for the municipalities to put up huts to showcase their culture," he said.
The site will also be used to build permanent cottages where the 13 towns could showcase their indigenous crafts.
An initial P2 million was allotted for the protection and conversion of the governor's mansion lot for eco-tourism, children's park, and cultural activities area.
Governor Nestor Fongwan has no objection to the plan, saying the area could be more useful if this is used for tourism purposes.
Some groups have already pledged donation of wild animals as added attraction in the area.
The site for the governor's mansion is found within the 54-hectare government lot whose portions are being claimed by several ancestral petitioners. The property is intended as housing site for Capitol employees.
