Tourists and residents of Leon, a town in central Iloilo, now have a new venue for agri-tourism trade activities with the inauguration of the “Pasalubong Center” in Barangay Poblacion. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), in partnership with Uswag Partylist, delivered this Php 10.39-million project.
Constructed by the DPWH Iloilo 4th District Engineering Office and funded through the FY 2023 Annual Infrastructure Program (LIP), the two-story multi-purpose building is poised to boost the local economy, prosperity, and growth of Leon and its residents.
“This structure will cater to the needs of both local and foreign tourists in the town, which is essential for the development and marketing of its agri-tourism destinations,” DPWH 6 Regional Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel said
The center aims to transform Leon into a prominent agri-ecotourism destination in the province by maximizing its scenic and heritage spots, increasing livelihood opportunities, and securing the local tourism industry.
“It will function as a ‘pasalubong’ center where locals can showcase and market various local products, highlighting indigenous products and delicacies, thereby promoting local tourism production in the town that will eventually enhance its economic condition,” Oropel added.
Moreover, District Engineer Mario G. Soriano emphasized that the building will also serve as an exhibition center to showcase and safeguard the cultural and historical artifacts of the town.
“This new tourism building will foster economic and cultural interchange, reduce poverty by creating jobs, and minimize climate change through sustainable development,” Soriano said.
He added: “This tourism building will likewise significantly bring innovation in business and investment that will benefit the town’s economy; contribute to the preservation of natural wonders and biological diversity of the town; and enhance the sites for visitors and researchers.”
The pasalubong center was inaugurated by Congressman James “Jojo” Ang, Jr. of the Uswag Partylist and Congressman Michael B. Gorriceta of Iloilo 2nd Legislative District, marking its official opening for local producers and the general public. (DPWH)
