Sta. Fe closes Laaw Lagoon for rehab

A lagoon in Kinatarkan Island, Santa Fe town has been closed temporarily to make way for its rehabilitation and development, an official of the Cebu Provincial Government said yesterday.

Joselito “Boboi” Costas, Provincial Tourism Office (PTO) head, told reporters that the local government unit of Santa Fe decided to temporary close Laaw Lagoon in Barangay Hagdan last July in preparation for its development as a potential ecotourism site.

Costas said that even though the area is not developed, it is frequently visited by tourists not only because of the lagoon but also of the lato or sea grapes, a type of edible seaweed.

Costas said the area needs to be rehabilitated after local residents noticed a decline in the growth of lato in the area.

Capitol is yet to determine the cost of the project and how long the rehabilitation will take.

Laaw Lagoon will be developed by the Capitol and a non-government organization as a prime ecotourism destination in Cebu, he said.

Former environmental secretary Gina Lopez will also help in developing the island’s ecotourism.

Costas said part of their development plan includes putting up a viewing deck in the area.

They also want the residents in the three barangays of Kinatarcan Island to be trained in ecotourism management and business planning.

Costas said the workshop aims to empower the residents and teach them how to utilize their tourism sites with consideration to environmental preservation and management. /