Benguet, 4-11-2021
The operation of swimming pools in Itogon, Benguet has been suspended from April 8 to 30 due to the surge in Covid-19 cases.
The local Inter-Agency Task Force recommended for the closure due to reports of non-compliance of minimum health protocols by some resort operators, said Mayor Victorio Palangdan.
He said resort and swimming pool operators do not implement health protocols such as physical distancing and liquor is served within their premises.
The mayor tasked the barangay councils and the Itogon Municipal Police Station to monitor compliance of the establishments to his advisory.
Most of the resorts, which boast of natural hot springs, are located in Poblacion, particularly at the 1300 level site.
In Tuba, which is also home to other resorts, the local government has allowed only 30 percent operational capacity of water parks, resorts, and museums subject to the guidelines provided by the municipality.
In Tublay, the Asin hot spring in Tuel remains open but for residents only.
Other tourism sites open during the general community quarantine are Ahonda caves, rock formation, and jungle adventure, which can accommodate not more than 10 persons at a time.
The famous Balete tree, also located in Tuel, and the Ridge Cafe and Polig’s Berry Farm, both in Ambassador are also open.
All visitors are required to observe minimum health protocols.
Establishment owners were also directed to manage the flow of persons to avoid congestion and to maintain physical distancing.
The rest of the region is under GCQ from April 1 to 30.