Baguio eyes Sto. Tomas strawberry plantation as agriculture eco site

By Pigeon Lobien  

BAGUIO CITY – A Baguio councilor wants a strawberry plantation atop one of the highest peaks in southern Cordillera as an agricultural eco-tourism center.

Councilor Philian Weygan-Allan has filed a proposed ordinance that seeks to establish Sitio Bilis in Barangay Santo Tomas Central as an agricultural eco-tourism center that is “an agriculture-based operation that brings visitors to a farm or ranch for the purpose of leisure, education, or active involvement in the activities therein.”

"Santo Tomas Central is an agricultural barangay in the City of Baguio producing high-value crops such as strawberry and leafy vegetables," the proposed measure said.

It added: "The barangay has its natural mountain terrain and vegetable location for bikers and sightseers and a natural cave for spelunkers."

The proposed measure said a masterplan will be designed for the development of agricultural eco-tourism in the said barangay.

The masterplan will be crafted by the Bilis community in partnership with the City Government of Baguio and other government and non-government agencies, it added.

It also said the proposed agricultural design for the project will include walk paths, stopping areas for refreshment and souvenirs, photo areas, a car park, and other features that the community may want to include.

             If approved, a technical working group will be created consisting of the City Mayor or his representative; the chairperson of the Committee on Market, Trade and Commerce, and Agriculture of the Baguio City Council; the City Veterinary and Agriculture Officer; the City Planning and Development Officer; the Punong Barangay and/ or other barangay officials; a local cooperative member; a representative of the Local Farmers Organization; the Baguio Tourism Officer; and a local community representative.

The proposal said the city government will designate the specific location of the agricultural eco-tourism site in the barangay after the completion of the masterplan.

According to the proposal, tourism activities will be done in the agri-tourist attraction during the summer months while its operation will be closed during the rainy months.

It proposes the collection of fees from persons who will enter the agricultural eco-tourism area including parking, environmental and entrance, strawberry and vegetable picking fees, and other fees to be determined as needed.

Barangay Santo Tomas is one of the barangays that border Poblacion, Tuba and found in the middle of the mountain which was home to La Presa, a made-up village for a television series of the same title that made this mountain a must-visit for lowlanders.

It is an agricultural village where leeks, cabbages, lettuce, and other highland vegetables are also planted. Farms, however, were devastated by strong rains last year. (PNA)