IDLE RIVER NOW A BOATING PARK

THE PROVINCE OF ILOCOS SUR is known as one of the prominent tourist destinations in the country because of its natural scenic views, preserved churches and rich culture and heritage. And recently, the City of Vigan was inaugurated as one of the New Seven Wonders Cities of the World.

To add up to the growing tourism industry, the Provincial Government through Public Private Partnership or PPP is crafting a Memorandum of Agreement with local business sector to utilize the Govantez Dike located in Bantay, Ilocos Sur, and in the entrance of the City of Vigan. Businessman Patricio Orio of Bantay, Ilocos Sur developed the area into a boating park. Like in his Hidden Water Park in Bantay, he installed different life size superhero characters in the river bank, and in the waters, floating booth for picnic activities, and boats to be rented by adventurers. Governor Ryan Luis Singson inaugurated the Boating Park on Saturday, June 20, 2015 with the blessings of Fr. Jack Cabatu. “This is a best way to invite tourists to come to the province to relax and enjoy. The Provincial Government is planning for more improvements like putting up a board walk where we can establish food courts, souvenir shops and view deck like in Baguio” Gov. Ryan Singson said. The boating park started to operate after the ina uguration. It is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00pm. Tourists can use the boat to wander along Govantes River for only one hundred fifty pesos and with no time limit. “The Govantes Dike has a lot of potential for tourism because the place is naturally beautiful. The river runs to other municipalities which makes the boating more interesting.” Patricio Orio said.###Kristelle Keith Tubadeza