La Trinidad opens 10 tourist spots to locals

By Susan Aro

LA TRINIDAD, Benguet -- The La Trinidad local government has opened   some  of the town’s tourist sites to  residents of the  province   well as from  Baguio City  to strike a balance between health and economy.
    The Municipal Inter-Agency Task Force on Covid-19 approved the opening of identified 10 sites provided  health safety protocols are in place and  observed at all times.
    The 10 sites now open are Mount Costa in Puguis, Mt. Kalugong in Tawang, Avongnen Romy in Lower Wangal,   Bell Church in Km. 3, Balili; Lily of the Valley in Ampasit, Puguis, Cosmic Farm in Caban, Beckel, Living Gifts in Alno, Admirals Farm Park in Lamtang, Puguis; Gardennen Ines in Shilan, Darjane's Garden in Shilan, Benguet State University Orchidarium, and La Trinidad Orchidarium Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Betag.
    Municipal Tourism Action Officer Valred Olsim said to ensure safety of tourists,   inspection was   done to look into the installation of directional signs for physical distancing, sanitation, designation of safety officers, among others.   Certificate of compliance to health safety protocols in the tourist sites are in place.
    We know that economy is not just economy but the lack of economic activities affects families, livelihood, relationships, and even child development, Olsim said. “We know that Covid-19 is real but we also know that mental health is real,” he added.
    The tourist sites also serve as venue for mental health wellness which is equally a serious concern especially in these times of pandemic, said Olsim.  
    The local government urged those interested to make an advance booking to regulate number of visitors at a given time.
    Adherence to health and safety protocols or minimum health standards is a must and crowding should be avoided within the sites.
    Visitors are required to present health declaration form secured from the point of origin and identification card as proof of residency.
    For further details, visit the local government facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/lgulatrinidad/posts/3719636474767921. -- PIA Benguet