Benguet trekking trails reopen

ITOGON, Benguet, Philippines — Outdoor activities are back in this upland town as the local government lifted the suspension of trekking activities and reopened the eco-tourism sites starting on Friday.

Mayor Bernard Waclin, in Executive Order 23, cleared the reopening of Mounts Ulap, Ugo, Pigingan, Bidawan and Cotcot as well as the Ave Maria Nature Park for eco-tourism activities.

The trekking trails in those mountains and related adventure activities were suspended on April 20 after a series of fires hit forested areas, raising safety concerns for trekkers and nearby communities.

Waclin said all the forest fires had been extinguished.

He stressed that visitors are required to follow existing regulations, with municipal personnel continuing to monitor conditions on the ground.

Stricter fire prevention measures and regular inspections will remain in place to protect both the environment and the safety of tourists and residents, Waclin said.