The nation's giant clam capital, Silaki Island, is poised to become the next popular sustainable tourism destination in the north thanks to its planned PHP15 million renovations.
The Legacy of the Sea, one of the infrastructure projects that was awarded DOT money through the Tourism Champion Challenge (TCC), began construction.
By improving the visitor experience and guaranteeing ecological preservation in the region, the DOT stated that it hopes to establish Silaki as a “premier sustainable tourism destination” under this program.
Hidden gem in Bolinao
Among the numerous islands that comprise the Hundred Islands National Park in Bolinao, Pangasinan, is Silaki Island, sometimes spelled Silaqui Island, which boast a heart-shaped look.
Since enormous clams, or "Taklobo," live on the shallow reef that surrounds the island, Silaki Island is renowned as the "Giant Clam Capital of the Philippines." Giant Clams can reach lengths of 10 feet and weights of more than 500 pounds.
This 10-hectare islet is a sparsely populated sitio at Santiago Island's northern extremity.
Community-driven boost
According to Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco, the project demonstrates how both the federal and municipal governments can collaborate on creative, community-driven projects.
A miniature experience center, a hanging footbridge, floating docks, viewing structures, and a pavilion for arrival and departure are just a few examples of the project's environmentally friendly architecture.
Bolinao Mayor Alfonso Celeste, Vice Mayor Richard Celeste, Alaminos City Mayor Arth Bryan Celeste, Pangasinan Board Member Marinor De Guzman, and other DOT officials joined Frasco during the ceremonial capsule laying and signing of the memorandum of agreement.
