TINEG, Abra – The Apao Rolling Hills in this town, one the newest tourist attractions in Abra that was closed to visitors since March, is now open for local tourists.
Gov. Maria Jocelyn Bernos has announced the resumption of tourism activities in the province, but gave the mayors the authority to suspend tourism activities in their respective areas as the situation warrants.
With its scenic viewing spots overlooking the neighboring municipalities and its accessibility from the capital town of Bangued, the Apao Rolling Hills is popular among the people of Abra and nearby provinces.
As the province is under modified general community quarantine and some restrictions eased, Mayor Corinthia Crisologo has re-opened Apao Rolling Hills and Vira View Deck to locals only and imposed the strict compliance with the minimum health protocols.
In Public Tourism Advisory 5 s. 2020, the Apao Rolling Hills and Vira View Deck are open from Tuesdays to Sundays, 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Everyone is being advised to strictly comply with health requirements such as wearing of facemask, observing respiratory hygiene and cough etiquette, physical distancing, and submission of health declaration forms.
All locals who are planning to visit these sites are advised to inform and coordinate with the local government through their Facebook page, “lguTinegAbra.” This is required to prevent overcrowding in the area.
Crisologo also asked those who visit the Apao Rolling Hills to observe proper garbage disposal to maintain sanitation of the area as it is considered a part of an ancestral domain.
Other tourist sites in the municipality such as the Piwek Rock Formation and Sibud-Sibud Cave are still closed, the mayor said. – Christian Allister G. Tubadeza
