Surigao City to transform former rebel stronghold Into eco-tourism destination
By Susil D. Ragas
SURIGAO CITY, Surigao del Norte - The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the city government of Surigao spearheaded the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Surigao City Nature and Family Park, a major eco-tourism project under DBM’s Green, Green, Green Program.
The
groundbreaking ceremony, held in Sitio Brazil, Barangay Mat-I on March 13,
marked the start of phase 1 of the city’s Eco-Tourism Park Master Plan.
Leading the ceremony was DBM Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman, who said, “The Green, Green, Green Program is DBM’s nationwide initiative that helps local government units (LGUs) develop public green spaces to enhance urban livability, boost tourism, create jobs and strengthen environmental sustainability.”
“Through
this partnership with DBM, the city government of Surigao invested in
sustainable development, expanding green spaces and promoting eco-tourism. Once
completed, the park will provide a new recreational space for families,
tourists and residents while supporting environmental conservation and local
economic growth,” she added.
According
to the city government, Sitio Brazil was once a guerrilla stronghold and is now
being transformed into a thriving eco-tourism sanctuary.
“With a P10.2 million budget, phase 1 of the Surigao City Nature and Family Park will include a viewing deck, tribal hall, community garden, tree parks and nursery and camping grounds. Future phases will introduce an adventure zone with zip lines, an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) track and extended nature trails to attract more visitors,” said Surigao City Mayor Pablo Yves Dumlao II as he expressed gratitude to DBM for choosing the city as a beneficiary of the Green, Green, Green Program.
Witnessing the activity were key DBM officials, including DBM Undersecretary Goddes Hope O. Libiran, DBM Caraga Director Maria Fe Jagna, along with the regional directors of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), local leaders and community representatives. (SDR, PIA Surigao del Norte with a report from Surigao City- PIO)