APALIT – At least 41 village chieftains whose villages are located adjacent to the Pampanga River have vowed to support the launching of the “Ilog Ko, Irog Ko” project as part of the eco-tourism conversion plan by the provincial government for said river.
In a joint meeting held in this town Wednesday, the chieftains from Arayat, Candaba, San Luis, San Simon and this town expressed their willingness to cooperate, promising to start the cleaning operation along the riverbanks of Pampanga River in their respective communities.
Board Member Joel Simpaoco, president of the Association of Barangay Captains, declared that if Pampanga River is developed into a tourist destination, it could be like another Loboc River of Bohol which is renowned to both local and foreign tourists.
Simpaoco said that this project could create more opportunities for the people of Pampanga. As such, he encouraged barangay captains to take an active role in the protection of the river. Meanwhile, Gov. Lilia “Nanay Baby” Pineda assured them that the project will push through by all means.
“Nagpagawa napo ako ng plano mula sa floating restaurant hanggang sa konstraksiyon ng mga daungan o pantalan,” she said.
“Ang hinihiling ko lamang sa inyong mga kapitan ay tulungan ninyo akong alisin ang mga basura na nakatambak sa gilid ng ilog,” Pineda said.
This eco-tourism project has two phases — the soft component which includes cleaning and protection of the river and its riverbanks, and the construction of the ferry stations for every municipality.
“Magkakaroon po tayo ng maraming trabaho para sa ating mga kababayan. Maglalagay tayo ng tiangge sa bawat daungan kung saan ay ibebenta natin sa mga turista ang ating mga produkto, mayroon ding banda para lalu maging masaya ang mga dadayo sa atin,” the governor added.
A cruise along the river would also start from Arayat down to Apalit and Macabebe.
With this, small motorized bancas can be chartered for a minimal fee. For those who want to eat while cruising, a floating restaurant is available to offer Kapampangan cuisine and local delicacies.
The floating restaurant is envisioned to provide tourists with a first-class dining experience and entertainment.
Herbert P. Mapiles
Sun Star Pampanga
