INITAO, Misamis Oriental — Travelers passing through Initao can now take a break, use modern restrooms, grab a meal and shop for local products at a newly opened P10-million Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Barangay Jampason.
The solar-powered facility officially opened on Oct. 14, offering a convenient stop for motorists traveling between Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities.
Department of Tourism-10 Regional Director Ellaine Unchuan said the facility aims to make travel more comfortable while giving local businesses and families more opportunities to earn.
“We encourage visitors to experience Initao and Misamis Oriental’s products, gastronomy offerings and warm hospitality,” Unchuan said.
Tourism officials described the facility as the Philippines’ first solar-powered Tourist Rest Area. It was funded through the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA).
TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Engr. Gregory Diller said the rest area is part of efforts to improve the country’s tourism facilities and provide travelers with safe and comfortable places to stop.
The facility has modern restrooms, an air-conditioned lounge, outdoor viewing areas, a tourism information desk and a pasalubong center featuring local products.
It is also expected to give farmers, weavers and other local producers a venue to display and sell their goods, potentially bringing more income to communities.
Misamis Oriental 2nd District Rep. Yevgeny Vincente Emano welcomed the project, saying Initao is a strategic location for travelers moving between Iligan and Cagayan de Oro.
Emano also expressed hope that the government would build more tourist rest areas in the province, including in Villanueva and Gingoog City.
“Hopefully ipadayon pa sa tourism,” he said.
The opening marks an addition to Northern Mindanao’s tourism facilities, though the project’s longer-term benefits will depend on traveler use and the opportunities it creates for local producers.
