The provincial government of Quezon has launched its new and improved tourism campaign which aims to establish the province as the prime agrI-tourism hub in the Calabarzon region by 2030.
During the two-day activity, the provincial government, led by Governor Doktora Angelina Helen Tan, along with the tourism office spearheaded the relaunch of the “Tara Na Sa Quezon” campaign through an agri-tourism familiarization tour to feature both existing and emerging agri-tourism sites in the province.
Tan underscored the significance of supporting and patronizing local tourism sites and products, as this contributes to economic growth by generating tourism-related opportunities and fostering destination development.
Tan stated: “Along with visiting agri-tourism destinations, we also have many beautiful tourist spots, such as beaches, resorts, waterfalls, and even caves. Our province has a lot to offer, and we see this as an opportunity that’s within reach for our fellow citizens and residents.
In his message, Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Ferdinand Jumapao highlighted tourism as a powerful driver for the province’s economic growth, providing opportunities for local businesses and promoting sustainable development.
“Let us remember that tourism is not just about destinations; it is about connections, it is about building bridges between cultures, fostering understanding, and creating lasting bonds and through ‘Tara Na Sa Quezon’, we aspire to connect with travelers from all corners of the globe, inviting them to share the beauty and richness of Quezon”, Jumapao stated.
Part of the re-launching of tourism slogan is a tour organized by the provincial government and attended by the DOT, along with select tourism operators, tourism provincial heads from Calabarzon, vloggers, and both local and national media.
One of the agri-tourism sites poised for reintroduction to the public is the Lukong Valley Farm in Pinagdanlayan, Dolores, Quezon, which is known as a certified agricultural learning center. The main attractions include its wide dragon fruit plantation, chicken farm, and the lush, green scenery that enchants nature lovers and travelers alike.
Another farm to explore is the Habilin Integrated Farm located at the foot of Mount Banahaw in Tayabas, Quezon offers beautiful landscape views and knowledge about permaculture practices.
This unique agricultural site focuses on regenerative and sustainable practices in agroforestry, organic agriculture, and integrated diversified farming. It also serves as a venue for learning, nature camping, personal and group retreats, and corporate and community training.
In addition, the provincial tourism office provided visitors a hands-on experience at Four K Kakao Farm, which features its own locally made chocolates, the Tangerines Chocolates which offers a wide variety of products, including Green Mango and Seasalt Chocolate, Cashew Pineapple Chocolate Barks, Chocolate Spoon, Mendiants Milk Chocolates, and more.
To further immerse visitors in the experience of visiting the province, the Tagayan ritual was also performed multiple times at all the agri-tourism familiarization destinations where visitors witnessed and had the chance to experience their “Na’ay Po, Pakinabangan Po!” culture.
The travel experience in the province will not be complete without a demonstration of lambanog, a renowned coconut liquor originated in Quezon, from climbing coconut trees to collect tuba or coconut sap to the process of natural fermentation and distillation.
During the official launching, Tan reiterated that they will continue to develop and discover agri-tourism sites in Quezon conforming to the vision to be the prime-agri tourism destination in CALABARZON by 2030. (CO/PIA-4A)