By Xander Ledesma
A new PHP10 million Tourist Rest Area (TRA) is set to be constructed in Barangay Aningalan, San Remigio, Antique. A groundbreaking ceremony for the project was held on Thursday, November 21, 2024.
The TRA, a project initiated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., aims to provide essential amenities for tourists, including clean restrooms and a coffee and souvenir shop. The facility is expected to enhance the overall tourist experience in the province and boost local tourism.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco, who led the groundbreaking ceremony, emphasized the TRA’s potential to significantly contribute to the local economy. She noted that the project was requested by Senator Loren Legarda to support the province’s tourism industry.
Representative Antonio Agapito Legarda, who represents Antique in the House of Representatives, explained that San Remigio was chosen as the initial site due to its availability of land. Future TRAs are planned for other areas in the province.
San Remigio Mayor Margarito Mission expressed optimism about the TRA’s impact on local tourism. He envisions the 2.6-hectare site becoming an event center, attracting more visitors to the area, particularly to Barangay Aningalan, known for its cool climate and scenic beauty.
A Memorandum of Agreement was signed by Frasco, Rep. Legarda, and Mission to ensure the local government’s commitment to maintaining and operating the TRA.