Manila: The municipality of La Trinidad in Benguet province is set to launch new infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing tourist arrivals, amid concerns over a projected slump in tourist numbers by 2025. "We have different infrastructure projects which will improve our roads and transport in the municipality to entice our tourists to visit La Trinidad," stated Mayor Roderick Awingan in a phone interview.
According to Philippines News Agency, La Trinidad is allocating funds to improve access to key attractions such as the Bayabas Falls, along with enhancing the flower gardens, vegetable trading posts, and the renowned Benguet State University Strawberry Farms. The town will also allocate resources for a drainage system at the falls.
Assurances have been received from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regarding the completion of the main road construction, which has been a source of heavy traffic congestion. The project is expected to conclude ahead of the original schedule set before the rainy season begins in July.
Mayor Awingan expressed optimism about the final phase of the Bolo Creek rehabilitation, which aims to divert water to the Balili River to mitigate flooding. However, he acknowledged that securing funds for flood control projects remains a challenge, although dredging and water system clearing efforts have been effective in minimizing flood impacts, particularly during Super Typhoon Uwan (Fung-wong).
Collaboration with Benguet State University (BSU) is underway to address challenges facing its strawberry farms. While the local government cannot directly implement plans for the privately-owned farms, they are working with the Strawberry Farm complex promotions board to enhance tourism offerings.
The municipality is also considering the construction of a building dedicated to micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase and sell their products. Mayor Awingan emphasized that increased tourist activity would benefit the local economy by supporting MSMEs, which in turn contributes to the municipality's revenue through taxes.
Valred Olsim, the municipal tourism operations officer, projected a decrease of 200,000 in tourist arrivals for 2025, which would be a 20% drop from the over one million visitors expected in 2024. He attributed the anticipated decline to frequent weather disturbances and potential traffic issues arising from road construction. Most tourists, he noted, are drawn to the strawberry farms, which remain a central attraction.
