By Mariela Angella Oladive
SAN REMIGIO, ANTIQUE—The Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) broke ground on the second Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Western Visayas on Thursday, November 21, in Barangay Aningalan, San Remigio, Antique.
The PHP 10-million project is part of the government’s efforts to enhance tourism infrastructure and services. The TRA will provide rest facilities for travelers while promoting local culture and products.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the groundbreaking ceremony, which also included the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement. Joining her were Congressman Antonio Agapito “AA” Legarda Jr., San Remigio Mayor Margarito Mission Jr., TIEZA Assistant Chief Operating Officer Jetro Nicolas Lozada, DOT Western Visayas Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez, and other local officials.
The facility will feature clean restrooms, tourist information desks, charging stations, breastfeeding areas, PWD-accessible facilities, and a pasalubong center showcasing local products. It is designed to support small enterprises and strengthen the economic link between tourism and local communities.
Frasco emphasized that the initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to enhance the global competitiveness of Philippine tourism.
“To encourage the world to ‘Love the Philippines,’ we must first show love for our tourists by ensuring their comfort and convenience. This project not only improves infrastructure but also promotes local culture and economic growth,” she said.
San Remigio, known as the “Summer Capital of Antique” for its cool climate, is a burgeoning eco-tourism hub with attractions like the Highland Strawberry Garden, Danao Lake, and the Rafflesia site. The TRA is expected to serve as a rest stop for travelers visiting these destinations.
Congressman Legarda underscored the project’s significance in advancing Antique’s tourism potential.
“This marks a significant milestone in our efforts to highlight Antique’s natural beauty and rich heritage. The TRA will provide a sanctuary for tourists to relax, recharge, and fully immerse themselves in what our province has to offer,” he said.
The San Remigio TRA follows a similar facility recently inaugurated in Tubungan, Iloilo, and is the 15th TRA to be established nationwide.
