Manila: Lingayen, Pangasinan The Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Lingayen, Pangasinan has successfully accommodated 27,060 visitors and facilitated micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in generating PHP1.24 million in sales from February 5 to June 30 this year.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office reported that among the total visitors, 23,500 were local tourists, 3,235 came from other provinces or regions, and 325 were foreign visitors. The facility features a fully equipped information center, accessible restrooms, shower facilities, a lactation room, and workstations with charging ports, alongside a cafe.

Senior Tourism Operation Officer Marife Acerit highlighted that 32 MSMEs offering delicacies, handicrafts, and other locally made products were able to achieve PHP1.24 million in gross sales. The revenue from these sales goes directly to the MSMEs, supporting local entrepreneurship.

"The TRA operates from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily for the tourist assistance desk, but the restrooms are open 24 hours daily," Acerit mentioned in a phone interview. The PHP10-million TRA Lingayen is noted as the first of its kind in Pangasinan.