ALAMINOS CITY, Pangasinan (PIA) — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the groundbreaking ceremony for the Sky Garden project in Barangay Lucap, Alaminos City, Pangasinan on Friday, May 23.
The anticipated new attraction, funded by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), aims to boost tourism and economic activity in the province.
Emphasizing the critical role of tourism in national development, the President noted the project’s potential to support farmers, fisherfolk, vendors, and workers in the hospitality and transportation sectors.
“Tourism can support our farmers, fisherfolk, and vendors, as well as stakeholders in the hotel and transportation industries,” Marcos said.
He also underscored the importance of environmental protection alongside development initiatives.
The project’s first phase, with a budget of P249,879,417.80, focuses on the structural component and is expected to be completed by March 15, 2026.
Once completed, the Sky Garden will offer panoramic views of the Hundred Islands National Park and the nearby eight-hectare Mangrove Eco-Park from its elevated viewing decks.
Also, the garden will feature a variety of plant species, promoting ecological balance while providing a relaxing, photogenic environment.
Additional features include spacious parking areas, walkways, seating zones, interactive areas, a shopping center, and a multipurpose hall that will house cafés and souvenir shops.
The commercial area is expected to benefit around 30 concessionaires and generate approximately 200 jobs.
Pangasinan First District Representative Arthur Celeste expressed gratitude to the President, highlighting the project’s role in uplifting the local economy and supporting small industry players throughout the province.
“I am one hundred percent certain that the completion of this project will greatly boost local tourism and economy. Thank you very much, Mr. President,” said Celeste.
He added that increased tourism benefits not only the government through higher revenues but also local livelihoods—particularly those of boat operators, vendors, tour guides, and tricycle drivers.
The Hundred Islands National Park, the country’s first national park, welcomed 500,000 tourists last year and generated over P40 million in revenues. (AMB/CGCC, PIA Region 1)
