KAUSWAGAN, Lanao del Norte (PIA) — Residents and tourists can now anticipate more exciting rides at the longest boardwalk and amusement park in this town.
This comes after the management was entrusted to Carron Amusement Rides Corporation, a leading manufacturer and major supplier of imported and locally manufactured amusement rides in the Philippines. With Carron’s expertise in the industry, the park is poised to undergo significant improvements that will bring even more joy to visitors.
Recognizing the need for expertise in managing such a venture, the local government has partnered with Carron to improve the park’s operations and introduce new rides and attractions on the zipline.
“We know that the local government unit (LGU), which currently owns and will continue to own this, is not an expert on this. We tried to manage it for a year, but we realized the need for a third party, the experts. [That is why] we contracted with Carron Management, which specializes in amusement parks,” said Mayor Rommel Arnado.
To boost visibility and attract more visitors, extensive marketing campaigns will be rolled out across various social media platforms, with promotions to other amusement parks managed by Carron nationwide. Arnado also emphasized the economic benefits of this initiative, which will triple income by inviting thousands of visitors, particularly during weekends.
The mayor also assures everyone that Kauswagan is a safe and secure destination.
“I can assure everybody that when you come to Kauswagan, you will all be secure. The place is very peaceful. Hindi kami mag-iimbita dito kung delikado ang situation [We would not invite you here if the situation were dangerous]. But we know the situation around here. We are inviting everybody to come to Kauswagan and experience the rides under new management,” he said.
The mayor also shared that they will soon be establishing a water park in a different location in the town that will offer excitement with rides for adults. Additionally, they will pursue the construction of long ziplines that will extend to the Fisherman’s Wharf Food Park and Entertainment Center and a train route that will stretch to the Kauswagan International Organic Convention Center. These plans are currently being studied.
Meanwhile, Carron Amusement Rides Corporation Sales and Marketing Operations Manager Rossler Abescoro said that safety for the riders is their top priority, with staff trained extensively.
“Number one talaga ang safety natin. Dumaan kami sa mga training para ligtas ang mga bata,” he said.
[Safety is really our number one priority. We underwent training to ensure the safety of children.]
A total of 17 local workers were hired for various roles, such as operators, cleaners, maintenance personnel, and cashiers.
Moreover, among the visitors during the relaunch was Kevin Pasculado, who is from Iligan City. Together with his friends from Sapad and Baroy towns, Kevin enjoyed the amenities in the park.
“Nindot kaayo. Karon naa nay music, rides, ug food, stalls. Nindot siya naa puid mu-welcome. Na-enjoy mi. Ang Kauswagan, isa jud sa mga laaganan sa akong mga kaila, friends. Sige sila’g balik-balik diri kay very welcoming ang mga tawo,” he said.
[It is very nice. Now there are music, rides, and food stalls. It is so nice because the people here are very welcoming. We enjoyed our visit here. Kauswagan is definitely one of the places my friends and I love to visit. They keep coming back here because the people are very welcoming.]
Previously just a wharf suitable for strolls, the 400-meter boardwalk has undergone substantial improvements, now offering various amenities. These improvements were funded through the Performance Challenge Fund acquired by the LGU due to its consistent recognition with the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG). The SGLG is an award bestowed upon LGUs in the Philippines demonstrating exceptional performance in governance areas.
The park operates from Friday to Sunday, from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Ride prices vary, with carousel, balloon wheel, picaroon, and express train rides priced at P50 each, while the sky bike costs P350. Kids can enjoy the playground for free. The entrance fee is P10, with free admission for persons with disabilities and senior citizens.
Various promo packages are available, including 5+1 and 12+3 promos, as well as a birth month promo. Additionally, there’s a Ride-All-You-Can pass for P350, which includes an entrance fee, unlimited access to kiddie rides, and one-time access to the sky bike. In addition, food tenants have the opportunity to rent out spaces for just P80 per day. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)
