BY: JOSHUA EBALANE AND JONLLOYD YOGYOG (UNIVERSITY OF BAGUIO INTERNS)
A newly opened tourist spot in Taloy Sur, Tuba, Benguet, is capturing the attention of visitors looking for both adventure and relaxation.
Among those who explored the site is Jomarie Malatag, a virtual assistant who took a break from work to experience something new.
Instead of spending time on a computer, he opted to take the wheel of an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) and enjoy the refreshing outdoor scenery.
“I was looking for a relaxing place close to nature, and a friend of mine saw this on Facebook, so we decided to try it since it’s newly opened,” Malatag shared.
Aside from ATV rides, the destination features a unique Hobbit House-inspired structure, which Malatag found particularly impressive.
“The paintings inside are 3D, making it feel like you’re underground. It’s really exciting. I initially thought this place was just for ATV rides,” he added.
The artistic designs inside the Hobbit House were created by visual artist Resty Lopez, who shared that they aimed to enhance the site’s natural beauty.
“We wanted to add something that would truly resemble a Hobbit House while blending with the surrounding environment,” Lopez explained.
In line with their commitment to sustainability, eco-friendly materials were used in the site’s construction.
“We made sure that our finishing materials are not hazardous. We primarily used cement and paint, avoiding sharp objects that could be dangerous for visitors of all ages,” Lopez added.
Maintaining cleanliness and preserving the environment remain a top priority at the site.
“We make sure to manage the waste properly and water the plants regularly to keep the place looking beautiful,” said staff member Nathaniel Walang.
Meanwhile, the owner, Maril Bayating Jr., emphasized their long-term vision for the site.
“Our goal is to slowly grow the trees and plants to transform this place into a forest. Everything here was built by hand, and we want to maintain its simplicity as its most attractive feature.”
For those seeking both adventure and a peaceful retreat in nature, this new tourist destination in Tuba offers a perfect getaway.
