The Puerto Princesa government plans to develop Balayong People’s Park as an alternative destination also for tourists when bad weather affects trips to the city’s natural attractions.
City Tourism Officer Demetrio Alvior Jr. said most tourist destinations in Puerto Princesa are natural sites that are visited during the day. Trips to these areas may be limited or canceled during weather disturbances.
The city is therefore planning more man-made attractions that tourists can visit under different weather conditions.
“Kaya nag-create tayo ngayon ng mga man-made destinations para to augment iyong ating natural destinations. Para kahit may mga weather disturbance, may mga pasyalan pa rin ang ating turista,” Alvior said.
He said the park is among the sites being considered as a future tourist destination under the tourism vision of Mayor Lucilo Bayron.
The park is already attracting residents and visitors who take photographs of its flowering balayong trees. Golden shower trees and another variety with violet flowers have also been planted in the area.
Alvior said the trees are still young and have not reached their full flowering stage. However, more people are already visiting the park throughout the day.
“Halos buong araw may mga tao na dati wala,” he said.
The flowering trees are expected to bloom around the same period, making the park more colorful. The area has also become a location for prenuptial shoots and other photo sessions.
A pop-up night market is also operating at the park to provide activities after sunset and support the city’s night economy. Vendors remove their stalls and clean their spaces after operating hours.
The night market was arranged by the local chamber of commerce in partnership with the city government, City Tourism Office and other groups. It also provides space for local products.
Alvior said Puerto Princesa has limited options for tourists at night because most destinations operate during the day.
“Maraming gustong umikot pa pero walang puntahan. Kaya natin pinapalakas ang night economy,” he said.
A skateboard park is also under construction at Balayong Park. Alvior said the city hopes the facility could eventually host national and international competitions.
More attractions and facilities are being planned for the area as part of its development as a people’s park. Residents have also been encouraged to participate by planting and caring for trees.
Alvior said the city expects at least 20 cruise ship arrivals each year, although schedules may change because of weather and other factors. The planned attractions at Balayong Park could provide another destination for cruise passengers and other visitors to Puerto Princesa.
