LUNA, Apayao – Nearly five months since its launching, the famous Mt. Sicapoo, locally known as “Tagdan Naksigad,” generated over PhP97, 645 income, according to data from the Municipal Treasury Office of Calanasan.
The office recorded a total of 18 trekking groups from May 14, 2024, to September 17, 2024 with a total of 178 trekkers.
Hiking groups are limited to a maximum of 50 people and a minimum of five. Typically, trekkers spend two days and one night to reach and fully explore the stunning summit of Mt. Sicapoo. Each trekker is required to pay PhP550, which includes the entrance fee, environmental fee, camping fee, and garbage fee. Additionally, they must hire a tour guide, with a professional fee of PhP2, 000, exclusive of food.
Tourists taking the Apayao trail will start at its entry point located at Camp Pactatammuwan Gamamatan in Butao, Calanasan. The main camp along the trail is Camp Pagappunan at KM 9, while the emergency camp is Camp Agimangan at KM 6. The trail shares the same exit point as its entry.
The growing popularity of the Mt. Sicapoo Apayao trail has boosted the town’s local economy, encouraging local leaders to reinforce and strengthen regulations that promote tourism, preserve cultural heritage, and ensure sustainable development in the area.
Sanggunian Bayan Hon. Naville D. Taccalan, a strong advocate for sustainable tourism, has passed a local ordinance aimed at regulating and promoting tourism and cultural preservation, ensuring that these activities align with sustainable and responsible practices.
“Bilang isang lingkod bayan, responsibilidad naming magpatupad ng mga batas para sa turismo at pangangalaga ng likas na yaman at kultura ng ating probinsiya. Hinihikayat ko ang mga lokal na turista at bisita na sumunod sa mga patakaran upang mapanatili ang kalikasan at kasaysayan ng lugar para sa mga susunod na henerasyon.” he expressed.
As local leaders implement regulations, it is essential for both tourists and the community to work together in protecting the natural beauty and heritage of the province. By Ginalyn Gapusan
