THE Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) is set to build 40 additional Tourist Rest Areas (TRAs) across key destinations in the Philippines, reinforcing the country's commitment to improving travel convenience, enhancing visitor experience, and supporting local economic growth through tourism.
According to TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark T. Lapid, the expansion of TRAs forms part of the agency's strategic infrastructure program designed, together with the Department of Tourism (DOT), to make travel across the Philippines more accessible, comfortable, and sustainable for both local and international visitors.
"Tourist Rest Areas serve as essential stopovers for travelers offering not only clean facilities and rest areas but also a reliable source of local tourism information and a space to showcase regional products," Lapid said.
"Each TRA reflects our goal to make travel in the Philippines more connected, more comfortable, and more community-centered.
More Tourist Rest Areas, More Connected Destinations
Of the 40 new TRAs in the pipeline, two located in Kabankalan, Negros Occidental and Lingayen, Pangasinan have already been completed and are set for turnover to their respective local government units (LGUs). Meanwhile, 12 TRAs are already operational and currently managed by LGUs in the following destinations:
Cebu Province: Medellin, Moalboal, Carcar, and Carmen
Palawan: Roxas and Brooke's Point
Davao del Norte: Samal Island
Bukidnon. Manolo Fortich
Bohol: Dauis
Ilocos Norte: Pagudpud
Camarines Sur: San Jose
Sultan Kudarat: Tacurong City
The additional TRAs under construction are located in Iloilo, Benguet, Pangasinan, Negros Occidental. Eastem Samar, Misamis Oriental, Tawi-Tawi, Mountain Province, and Batanes, among other major tourism routes and gateway destinations. Each TRA will feature modem, gender-sensitive restrooms, information desks, parking areas, and dedicated spaces for local product exhibits, promoting regional craftsmanship and entrepreneurship.
A Model for Sustainable Tourism Development
The TRA Program was recognized as the Infrastructure Project of the Year (Tourism Category) at the 2024 Gov Media Awards in Singapore, underscoring TIEZA's role as a leading implementer of sustainable tourism infrastructure in Southeast Asia.
Lapid emphasized that the project is funded through travel tax collections, ensuring that every peso contributed by outbound Filipino travelers is reinvested into the tourism value chain. "Every travel tax payment goes a long way." Lapid added. "It becomes a road, a rest area, or a facility that enhances the visitor experience and creates opportunities for local communities. This is a tangible example of how we are Building Tourism Together tuming contributions into lasting impact.
Empowering Communities Through Tourism
Beyond infrastructure, the TRAs also serve as economic catalysts for local businesses. By providing curated spaces for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to sell local delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs, each TRA connects travelers directly with community producers. creating inclusive economic opportunities across provinces.
TIEZA continues to partner with LGUs, the Department of Tourism (DOT), and local stakeholders to identify priority sites that align with tourism circuits and road networks under the National Tourism Development Plan (NTDP) 2023-2028.
Tourism is a shared responsibility, Lapid said. "By working with local govemments and communities, we ensure that every infrastructure project contributes to inclusive growth, sustainability, and pride of place."
Launched in partnership with the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Tourist Rest Area Program is a nationwide initiative that aims to establish world-class, standardized rest stops in major travel corridors. Each TRA provides clean, accessible facilities, tourist information, and retail spaces for local products elevating the travel experience and promoting Filipino hospitality at every stop.
For more information, visit https://lieza.gov.ph and follow @TIEZAOfficial on Facebook, and @tiezagovph on Instagram and X
No comments:
Post a Comment