Batac hopeful FM burial won’t affect tourism

The closed Marcos Mausoleum (Doms dela Cruz)

By Dominic B. dela Cruz

Staff reporter

Batac City—Batac mayor Albert D. Chua is hopeful the recent burial of President Ferdinand E. Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani will not affect the tourism industry in this city.

Prior to the “soldier’s burial” on November 18, 2016, the former president’s mausoleum located in the heart of this city was one of the main tourist attractions here. The refrigerated crypt attracted local, domestic and foreign tourists.

Students, government organizations and other group tours from all over the country also visit the crypt monthly.

Though admitting that it was a loss for the local tourism industry, Mr. Chua said there are still other tourist spots here.

He mentioned the Marcos Museum and Gallery, Ricarte Park, the Aglipay Shrine and the Empanada and Miki area.

The neophyte mayor added that the improvement of the city park will also induce tourists to visit the city. He disclosed that the plaza will soon have a fountain; the incorporation of the Imelda Cultural Center façade connecting the Immaculate Conception Parish Church, old buildings, the Marcos Park, the Aglipay birth place.

He added that there is also Mariano Marcos State University’s botanical and zoo park, and the Billoca fish farm.

Though some of those are still being planned, Mr. Chua is hopeful they would commence construction early next year.

He divulged that those have long been the plan of Ilocos Norte governor Ma. Imelda Josefa “Imee” R. Marcos.

Mr. Chua is also optimistic that the tourism plans would sustain Batac’s tourism industry.

The Marcos Mausoleum had been closed after the former president’s burial.

The Ilocos Times talked to the caretaker, who said there are still tourists visiting the Marcos Mansion and Gallery.

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