By Leilanie Adriano/Philippine News Agency
PUDTOL, Apayao — Looking to de-stress and escape from the hustle and bustle of city life?
Apayao province, dubbed as the “Cordillera’s last frontier for nature richness”, is sharing its collection of natural wonders to the world.
With the advent of technology, such as smartphones and internet, going to Hutungan Hidden Paradise in Barangay Lower Maton, Pudtol, Apayao is easy.
Hutungan is an Isnag term which means ‘big rocks’ that best describe the place.
Nestled at the foot of the mountain ranges and unpolluted river that flows from the watershed, this newly discovered tourist spot in Pudtol is a perfect destination for adventure-seekers and those who are looking for refreshment this summer.
From Pudtol town proper, or about 406 kilometers north of Manila, tourists enjoy the 15-minute ride going to Hutungan Hidden Paradise with a farm view along the way.
Venancia Lanag, a tour guide of Hutungan, said she is eager to welcome tourists visiting the area.
As early as 6 a.m., Lanag is already cleaning the site to make sure it is free of any scattered debris or wastes left by visitors.
Even without receiving any cash incentive from the Pudtol municipal government which manages Hutungan, Lanag said she is “blessed to meet new friends and to be of service to them”.
Of the 24 tour guides that take turns in guiding visitors, the 57-year-old Lanag is probably the friendliest as she makes sure a visitor remembers her typical Miss Congeniality nature, leaving guests entertained while in the area.
To date, personnel of the Pudtol government manning the registration area are collecting a PHP40 entrance fee from each visitor.
Guests, however, have no idea if the amount is being remitted to the municipal treasury as no official receipt is issued once payment is made.
“We are glad for having tourists visiting our place. We hope this will be sustained for years,” said Emerino Yadan Jr., another village tour guide in Pudtol town.
During the Holy Week, locals observed an increasing number of tourists wanting to have a look at the Hutungan, now no longer hidden to nature lovers.
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