Highland in Aguilar seen as “eco-tourism paradise”
NO electricity, bits of unpaved roads, and just one public transport a day going in and out of the area.
But the temperature is cool, spring water abundant, and the soil rich for agricultural production.
With a deck where one can have a view of practically the whole of Pangasinan, its cool weather, and fertile land, Sitio Mapita could become an eco-tourism paradise through the concerted effort of the community, the government, and the private sector.
Sitio Mapita in barangay Laoag is a remote part of the small town of Aguilar, which could soon become a top eco-tourism destination in the province.
Located about 20 kilometers from the main highway and can be reached within 45 minutes, the area has recently become the focus of attention among government agencies, community groups and investors for possible development.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Last week, some 860 local residents who trace their roots from tribal groups Kankanaey, Domagat, Aeta and Ilocano, met with a composite team from both government and the private sector to discuss the future of their sitio towards sustainable improvements.
The various tribesmen migrated to the area in the mid-70s, mostly from La Trinidad in Benguet province, to look for a better place, away from what they described as then an already “congested Baguio City.”
One potential growth area for Sitio Mapita is the production of highland vegetables, more popularly known as “Baguio vegetables” in the local market, given its elevation and climate.
Provincial Director Peter Mangabat of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) described the place as resembling that of La Trinidad.
Mangabat, speaking over Radyo ng Bayan-DZMQ last week, said of Jollibee has already tapped local residents to supply it with “tons and tons of bell pepper.”
Representatives of the giant food firm as well as those from the National Livelihood Development Corporation, provincial agriculture office, Land Bank of the Philippines, DTI, the municipal government of Aguilar and the office of 2nd District Rep. Leopoldo Bataoil were among those who visited the area and held discussions with the community.
The DTI supports the community via trainings in livelihood such as broom making as cogon and tiger grass grow abundantly there, and skills training in bookkeeping and accounting for residents.
Peace and order in the area – which used to be a haunt for the New People’s Army in the 1980s up to the 90s – has been maintained with an army detachment stationed there to keep stability.
Mangabat, however, noted the lacks trees in the area and called on the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to help address this situation. (Danny O. Sagun, DOS/PIA Pangasinan)
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