TUBA, Benguet – Tuba is prioritizing tourism initiatives with the vision of becoming one of the top eco-tourism destinations in the Philippines. “One day, Tuba will be proud of being one of the top tourism destinations in the Philippines,” Mayor Clarita P. Sal-ongan said during the first State of the Municipality Address, where she presented ongoing and proposed projects aimed at enhancing natural attractions and supporting local industries.
Major proposed development projects for 2025 include the enhancement of Aran Cave, Bridal Veil Falls, Colorado Falls, Bumasgao Cemetery/Memorial Park, Tuba Youth Sports Complex, Tuba Public Market, and the Rural Health Center.
According to Tourism Operations Officer Annabelle S. Degawan, the management plan for Ubong-Ubong Cave in Barangay Ansagan has been drafted and is yet to be finalized for adoption by the Sangguniang Bayan. Plans to repair the bridge leading to Aran Cave are also in the works.
Meanwhile, infrastructure improvements have already been made at Colorado Falls, including pathway and shed development. However, the site remains closed until a tourism information center is established to ensure visitor safety.
Degawan said that there are currently no public-private partnerships (PPP) for tourism development as the municipality is focusing on community involvement instead. “Kailangan natin na holistic ‘yung approach natin sa tourism,” she stressed. “Safety at tsaka security ng mga turista ang kailangan. So, the whole community should be involved when it comes to tourism.”
Beyond tourism, agriculture is also a key priority. Various programs have been implemented to support farmers and fisherfolk, including training on Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) for Fruits and Vegetables for 20 farmer-members of The Nature Farmers Community Association and the distribution of 20 plastic crates and 20 plastic drums to support proper handling and storage practices.
The local government provided 573 bags of certified rice seeds to 375 farmers through the Rice Competitive Enhancement Fund and financial aid to those affected by drought with ₱10,000 each. Additionally, 100,490 fingerlings were distributed to 200 fisherfolk, while 114 fishponds across 7 barangays were validated and monitored for better management.
According to Hon. Garey Behis, chair of the committee on finance and appropriations, about 87% of Tuba’s budget relies on the National Tax Allocation (NTA), reflecting the need for local revenue generation. As a result, Tuba is welcoming investors and has recently passed the Local Investment Incentive Code (LIIC) to encourage business participation through various incentives.
Tourism infrastructure development and management is also a key strategy in attracting more investors. The municipal government has implemented environmental conservation initiatives, including clean-up drives along the Bued River and solid waste management efforts covering 12 barangays.
Moving forward, Tuba will continue pursuing infrastructure enhancements and other initiatives to boost eco-tourism and agriculture, aiming to establish itself as one of the best eco-tourism and agricultural hubs in the country. By Julianna Mallari
