BATAC CITY, Ilocos Norte – People from this city may feel proud one of their own has been interred at the Libingan Ng Mga Bayani (LNMB).
It however had an adverse effect on local economy as tourist arrivals have been sparse since the remains of former president Ferdinand Marcos was finally laid to rest at the LNMB.
One of the area’s vendors identified as Estrelita Castro said hes income has dropped significantly now that people seem to have lesser reasons to visit the Ferdinand Marcos Presidential Center.
This scenario however has been expected by the provincial government, something which prodded governor Imee Marcos to conceptualize a development plan that will attract more tourists in this city.
In corroboration with city mayor Albert Chua, Marcos revealed their plan to convert Batac into a “City of Parks” wherein at least seven parks will be re-designed to fit their program.
“Ang siyudad ng Batac City, may planong maging ‘park city’ at ipagkakabit-kabit ang pitong parke mula sa (Mariano Marcos State University) lagoon, Aglipay Park, Marcos Park hanggang plaza sa sentro, tuhog sa Ricarte Park, papuntang Billoca lake at abot pa sa San Pedro eco-park,” said Marcos.
Ilocos Norte Tourism Officer Aianree Raquel believes the tourists influx of Batac will continue now that developments efforts to improve tourism are in place.
“Batac is envisioned to be a city with most number of parks and the widest public spaces,” said Raquel.
The remains of Marcos was buried last week at the LNMB which courted controversy eventhough it was done without much fanfare, albeit hastily.