Developer opens exec lounge for tenants, business transients

As the Philippines polishes its advantage in farm tourism, other government agencies are encouraged to extend support programs for agriculture and agri-business.

The Department of Agriculture and Department of Trade and Industry should immediately create complementary programs to support farmers in developing their farms to attract tourists at the same time mentor them to become farm-preneurs, said Network of Independent Travel Agencies (NITAS) chairman Robert Lim Joseph.

Joseph said farm tourism promotion, which is already gaining traction, should be well supported by other agencies like the DA and DTI in terms of sustainable farming

Oakridge Realty Development Corporation pioneers the introduction of luxury business lounge facility with the opening of Oakridge Executive Club.

Developed initially to offer premier business and lounge facilities to the Oakridge Business Park's patrons and tenants, the company's chief executive officer Edmun H. Liu said the luxurious lounge will also complement the growing number of highend programs, and entrepreneurial mentorship.

Joseph also believes that incorporating tourism into agriculture could "wake up" the otherwise slow-moving agriculture sector in the Philippines.

If government could assist the farmers to give them vast lands, poverty in the farflung places could be alleviated fast.

Further, DTI also can facilitate development of food processing businesses in the remote farming communities, so that residents shall be given job opportunities.

DOT Secretary Bernadette RomuloPuyat earlier said the way to promote a country is through its food, culinary tourism. business transients coming to Cebu.

With the opening of the world-class airport in Mactan, Cebu should also provide full-service business spaces that fit the need of top-tier business executives.

According to Liu, the 1,800 squaremeter executive club located at the 12th floor of Oakridge IT Center 2, will cater to the business travelers.

At this stage, tourism related facilities

"Farms now are tourist spots. More and more people want to visit farms, plant, harvest, and to experience farming. We already have accredited farms that tourists can go to and experience agriculture," said Romulo-Puyat, formerly DA Undersecretary for Agribusiness and Marketing Regional Engagement.

Farm tourism is the practice of attracting visitors and tourists to farm areas for production, educational, and recreational purposes which involves any agriculture or fishery-based operation or activity and may also provide a venue for outdoor recreation and accessible family outings. are geared towards accommodating the whims of leisure travelers, "sometimes we forget the needs of business travelers."

While membership cards will be given to Oakridge patrons, who will enjoy exclusive benefits and privileges, it is also open to walk-in guests for a P1,000 consumable cover charge.

The club has three meeting rooms, 14-seater executive boardroom, and a

(GMA News Online)

120-square-meter hall which can accommodate 120 guests for business conferences, seminars and other corporate events.

Its dining room can accommodate 60 to 70 guests, which offers fine dining services from breakfast to four-course dinners.

The four-hectare Oakridge Business Park is located along A.S. Fortuna Street, Mandaue City.