2 more Benguet towns closed to tourists over COVID-19

KAPANGAN, Benguet -- Two more towns in Benguet were closed to tourists amid concerns over the spread of coronavirus disease or COVID-19.

The orders to lock down issued by the local governments of Bakun and Kapangan brought to nine the total number of municipalities in the Cordillera that have been closed to tourists since last week.

Bakun Mayor Bill Raymundo and Kapangan Mayor Manny Fermin issued the orders on Feb. 11 and 12, respectively, following advisories from Malacañang to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Police set up checkpoints to prevent tourists from entering the towns.

Bakun is known for its Kabunian and Nagasa caves.

Tourists flock to Kapangan for its scenic spots such as the Lumanoy, Longog and Bulalacao caves as well as Mt. Dakiwagen or the “Sta. Claus Mountain.”

Fermin said some 5,000 to 8,000 tourists flock to his town during peak season.