City mulls ‘added attractions’ at Botanical Garden

Plans are afoot for incorporating more ‘added attractions’ at the Summer Capital’s iconic Botanical Garden including music to enhance the experience of visitors to the popular promenade area.      

During the management committee meeting of local officials at City Hall, April 11, Mayor Benjamin Magalong directed City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) head Rhenan Diwas to purchase the needed sound system for the purpose.      

The CEPMO manages the upkeep and overall operations of the Botanical Garden, located along Leonard Wood Road.      

Diwas informed the Chief Executive that purchase of the needed sound equipment is already incorporated in his office’s budget and is undergoing the proper governmental procurement process.      

The Mayor said that putting additional attractions at the Botanical Garden would generate greater revenues for the city’s coffers by enticing more visitors including younger people like students.      

Diwas disclosed that selected musicians or buskers were temporarily allowed to play at the area and entertain promenaders while the sound system was still being purchased.      

The Botanical Garden is home to indigenous plants and flowers of the Cordillera region, among others, and is one of the city’s top tourist draws as shown by the throngs of visitors during the recent Holy Week break. – Gaby B. Keith