San Jose, Camarines Sur—The Department of Tourism (DOT) has inaugurated a new Tourist Rest Area (TRA) at Talisay Port, Brgy. Dolo, San Jose, Camarines Sur, marking a significant step in enhancing tourist convenience and boosting local tourism.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, joined by key officials including Camarines Sur 4th District Representative Arnulf Bryan Fuentebella, San Jose Mayor Jerold Peña, and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) Assistant Chief Operating Officer Gregory Oller. Also in attendance were DOT officials Undersecretary Ferdinand Jumapao, Director Glenn Albert Ocampo, and Region V Director Herbie Aguas.
A Hub for Tourist Convenience
Designed to provide essential amenities for both local and international travelers, the San Jose TRA features an information lounge, charging stations, shower rooms, clean restrooms, first aid supplies, and a rainwater harvesting system. A pasalubong center showcasing local products from San Jose and nearby municipalities has also been integrated into the facility, providing local entrepreneurs with a platform to reach more visitors.
Secretary Frasco emphasized the Marcos Administration’s commitment to improving tourism infrastructure and creating economic opportunities through initiatives like the TRA program.
The DOT plans to construct over 90 more TRAs nationwide this year as part of its strategy to strengthen tourism infrastructure.
Strengthening Local Tourism through Innovation
Apart from offering basic travel conveniences, the newly opened TRA is the first in the country to feature a Klook Kiosk, allowing tourists to book tours and travel services seamlessly. Klook Philippines General Manager Michelle Ho expressed confidence that this addition would improve the connectivity between travelers and local service providers.
“The Tourist Rest Area is not just a space for rest—it’s a gateway for our tourists to explore and experience the unique and vibrant offerings of the region,” Ho stated.
The DOT formalized its partnership with Klook in January, integrating Philippine Experience Program (PEP) tours into the platform, including those in the Bicol Region. This collaboration is expected to increase tourist engagement and streamline travel planning for visitors.
San Jose’s Growing Tourism Potential
San Jose, Camarines Sur is home to a variety of natural and cultural attractions, including Talisay Beach, Adiangao Cave, and the Archdiocesan Shrine and Parish of St. Joseph. The town’s annual Harana Festival further highlights its rich heritage and community spirit.
Mayor Jerold Peña expressed gratitude for the DOT’s investment in San Jose, noting that the TRA is the first in Region V and the first in the country with Klook services.
“We are truly thankful that San Jose was chosen as the location for this milestone. This is a testament to our town’s potential as a growing tourism hub,” Peña remarked.
Meanwhile, Congressman Arnulf Bryan Fuentebella acknowledged the DOT’s efforts and called for continued support for the region’s tourism development.
“With Secretary Frasco’s leadership and the DOT’s commitment, we are optimistic that more tourism initiatives will be developed in Camarines Sur. This partnership is just the beginning,” he said.
Empowering Local Tour Guides
As part of her advocacy to support community tour guides, Secretary Frasco also distributed tour guiding kits, including sunscreen, notebooks, tumblers, hats, sunglasses, and portable lapels. Additionally, tour guides from the province received P50,000 worth of personal accident insurance from the Secretary’s personal funds.
With the launch of the TRA and Klook Kiosk, San Jose is poised to become a key player in Bicol’s tourism landscape, offering a more seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors while driving economic growth for the local community.
