by Leilanie Adriano/PNA
In time for summer, the local government unit (LGU) of Vintar in Ilocos Norte launched on Thursday another extreme adventure in the north that will surely entice both local and foreign tourists.
Measuring around 230 meters, the very first bike zipline in the Ilocos Region is being managed by the Vintar government led by mayor Larisa Foronda, who is running unopposed this coming election.
Located in Sitio Bucana, Parparuroc village, or about eight kilometers from downtown Laoag, Foronda hopes this latest tourism attraction in her hometown will awaken the town’s tourism potentials and bring in more livelihood opportunities to the locals.
During the launching, Provincial Tourism head Aianree Raquel lauded the efforts of Vintar officials and those behind the realization of the project, offering something new for first time and returning visitors in the province.
“We’ve seen and always that Vintar has a very strong potential in terms of tourism growth not only because of its proximity to Laoag capital and the international airport, but most especially because of its God-given gifts,” Raquel said.
Foronda expressed optimism the Umok ni Siwawer Eco-Tourism Nature Park would attract more tourists and help contribute to the overall tourism development of Ilocos Norte.
“It took us more than three years to start this project and we are grateful for the DENR for approving the special patent which shows the lot where the project was erected is owned by the municipality,” Foronda said.
Manned by personnel of the Vintar government, Foronda said the Umok ni Siwawer Eco-Tourism Nature Park will be open from Mondays to Sundays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Aside from bike zipline, tourists may also want to try other sports amenities such as surfline, all-terrain vehicle (ATV), hydrocycle water bike, floater, zurball and kayak with fees or rental rates ranging from PHP50 to PHP1,000.
