The Department of Tourism (DOT) cited the newly inaugurated Tourist Rest Area in Carmen, Cebu as an “ideal” public-private partnership framework, noting that the collaboration among the DOT, the TIEZA – Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, the local government unit of Carmen, and the Cebu Safari & Adventure Park is a first step toward building more important tourist facilities by way of working together.
In her message during the inauguration ceremony, Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco noted the “unique” arrangement of the said TRA which she added can be a benchmark for the other TRAs that are being built across the country.
“We are grateful because this TRA here in Carmen is unique in that a few days ago, the Municipality of Carmen approved a MOA with the Cebu Safari, represented here by COO Eduard Loop. Cebu Safari will operate the TRA in partnership with the LGU, and this public-private partnership shall serve as a benchmark for other TRAs in the country as truly it is only by way of our collaboration and convergence can we continue to progress all over the country,” Frasco explained.
“It is only by way of our collaboration and convergence can we continue to progress all over the country.”
Under the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), the LGU of Carmen and the Cebu Safari and Adventure Park will jointly oversee the operations of the TRA with the latter taking a more active role in the hiring of required personnel for the operation, management, maintenance, conservation, and security of the TRA as well as supplying the utilities such as water, electricity, and telecommunications requirements for the facility.
Carmen Mayor Mariano Villamor said that the TRA will enhance the visitor experience for the more than 14, 000 guests who visit their town every month.
Located some 40 kilometers from Cebu City, the municipality of Carmen is home to the famous “Carmen empanada” and “Carmen lechon”. It also boasts an array of eco-tourism sites and natural wonders such as cold springs, caves, and waterfalls.
“The Tourist Rest Area is not just a physical space or building; it represents our collective dedication to making Cebu the premier tourist destination in the entire country.”
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco for this TRA and your unwavering support and dedication to the development of tourism not just in our region but in the entire country. Without your vision and your tireless efforts, these Tourist Rest Areas would not have become a reality. The Tourist Rest Area is not just a physical space or building; it represents our collective dedication to making Cebu the premier tourist destination in the entire country,” Villamor said.
Located in Carmen, the Cebu Safari & Adventure Park is the premier Safari park in the country.
According to its website, “It serves as a sanctuary for hundreds of different species of plants and animals. this over 170-hectare property features more than a thousand animals from 120 different species. Aiming to provide world-class fun, learning, and entertainment to all its guests and be a sanctuary for flora and fauna and a retreat for guests to commune and harmonize with the environment.”
“We express our sincerest gratitude to the DOT for this much needed initiative. The facility is a comfortable place that will help tourists get the information they need and also guide them on attractions and activities not only in Carmen but In the 5th District (of Cebu). It is also a one-stop-shop that will showcase the different delicacies the district has to offer which will help promote local businesses,” added Eduard Loop, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the park.
