Tourism Department rolls out Calabarzon green corridor circuits
AS PART of the reboot of the tourism industry in the Calabarzon Region, the Department of Tourism recently rolled out its culinary circuits caravan to showcase its notable farm tourism sites and their unique farm-to-table dining experiences.
Also known as the Southern Tagalog Region, it is composed of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon, and is among the most visited areas for Metro Manilans because of its proximity and good road network.
According to DOT-Calabarzon OIC regional director Marites Castro, the farm tour circuits consist of accredited establishments which tour operators and travelers can customize to savor the rich culinary and cultural heritage of the five provinces.
She noted that the region currently has 26 accredited farm tourism establishments, which blend the charm of agrarian lifestyle and a touch of basic modern comfort and recreational facilities for those offering overnight stays.
Many of these are also recognized by the Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) as community farm schools.
In addition, there are also scores of farmthemed resorts and restaurants accredited by the government tourism agency.
The DOT launched last December the Green Corridor Initiative circuits which have been validated to be compliant with the government’s health and safety protocols, and these include farm tourism sites.
Castro also noted that farms are safe alternatives to crowded tourist spots because of their vast open spaces, fresh air, physical distancing, and freshly-cooked dishes.
Among the region’s exciting farm tourism sites recommended by the DOT are Terra Verde Ecofarm, Bounty Harvest Farm, EMV Flower Farm Indang, Luntiang Republika Ecofarms, and The Weekend Farmer in Cavite.
In Laguna, Graco Farms & Leisure, Silent Integrated Farm, Farmshare Prime in Laguna, Jasif Integrated Farms, and Casa San Pablo in San Pablo City.
Meanwhile, in Batangas, there’s Don Leon Nature Farm, Mileah Bee Farm, and Lica Farms in Lipa City.
Flor’s Garden and Nature Haven in Antipolo City, FDRJ Camping Sites Rental, and Pili Paninap Farms in Rizal; and for Quezon, there’s Francesca de Banahaw, Bukid Amara, and Linang ni LK Restaurant.