The city government of Baguio is studying a proposal by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (Tieza) to construct a tourism service center and rest area (TSCRA) along Camp 7, Kennon Road.
The proposed 35-square meter facility is 7.3 kilometers away from the Baguio City Hall by road and near the Lion’s Head and the view deck.
Tieza earmarked P7 million for the project which includes the construction of the building and parking area, installation of signage, soft and hard landscaping, and perimeter fencing with solar lighting.
A TSCRA is a venue for local and foreign tourists in need of information on the tourism sites and attractions, activities, accommodations, safety and security, and other provisions necessary during their stay.
The project is aligned with the vision of the Department of Tourism to improve the overall tourism experience in the country.
Tourism Sec. Christina Garcia-Frasco led the groundbreaking ceremony for the nationwide project this month. Baguio City has been chosen as one of the 10 destinations in the country that will have its TSCRA.
The facility shall have an information lounge with a coffee shop, charging station, lactation area, a pasalubong center, and toilets for males, females, and persons with disability. The toilets shall also be provided with a children’s urinal, diaper changing table, and child protection seat.
According to the City Planning and Development Office, land development will cost around P4.9M to be shouldered by the city government.
CPDO head Donna Tabangin said the site had been identified for city needs as a tourist view deck in 1996. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources is currently working on the titling of the lot, she added.
Last September, the Mayor’s Office requested the city council to pass a resolution allowing Tieza to implement the project. The request came with a concept plan and a master site development plan.
The proposal was presented to city officials and department heads last Oct. 17 during an executive-legislative meeting. It will be further deliberated on by the city council in one of its regular sessions. – Jordan G. Habbiling
April 23, 2024
