Two (2) eco-tourism projects were recently completed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to make Katunggan Boardwalk and Mangrove Sanctuary in Barangay Caranoche, Sta. Catalina, Negros Oriental more accessible to tourists.
DPWH Secretary Roger G. Mercado, citing a report from DPWH Regional Office 7 Director Edgar B. Tabacon, said that the mangrove forest now has a 6-storey high viewing deck tower, boardwalk, hanging bridge, receiving platform including electrical facilities.
“With more tourists visiting the mangrove sanctuary, it will create more job opportunities for locals in the area,” added Secretary Mercado.
According to Senior Undersecretary Rafael C. Yabut, overall in-charge of DPWH Regional Operations, the project in the total amount of P29.55 Million is included under the DPWH convergence program with the Department of Tourism (DOT).
“We were able to make this mangrove sanctuary a perfect place for tourists to enjoy the beauty of nature, and at the same time recognize its importance in safeguarding people, in this case, the coastal communities”, said Senior Undersecretary Yabut.