‘Added attractions’ at Botanical Garden set

By Gaby B. Keith

BAGUIO CITY -- Plans are afoot for ‘added attractions’ here at the Summer Capital’s iconic Botanical Garden including music to enhance experience of visitors to the popular promenade area.      
    During meeting of local officials at City Hall April 11, Mayor Benjamin Magalong directed City Environment and Parks Management Office head Rhenan Diwas to purchase sound system for the area.      
    The CEPMO manages upkeep and overall operations of the Botanical Garden, located along Leonard Wood Road.      
    Diwas told the Chief Executive that purchase of the sound equipment was incorporated in his office’s budget and undergoing proper governmental procurement process.      
    The mayor said putting additional attractions at the Botanical Garden would generate greater revenues for the city’s coffers by enticing more visitors including younger people like students.      
    Diwas said selected musicians or buskers were temporarily allowed to play at the area and entertain promenaders while the sound system was still being purchased.      
    The Botanical Garden is home to indigenous plants and flowers of the Cordillera region, among others, and is one of the city’s top tourist draws as shown by the throngs of visitors during the recent Holy Week break.