General Tinio, Nueva Ecija — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed the upgrading of a 1.3-km local road, aiming to ease access to Minalungao National Park, a major tourist destination in General Tinio, Nueva Ecija.
According to a news release by Philippines News Agency, the PHP19.6 million project is part of a convergence program between the DPWH and the Department of Tourism. The road reconstruction connects the barangays of Las Piñas and Sinasajan in Peñaranda town and leads directly to the national park.
Minalungao National Park spans 2,018 hectares and is situated along the scenic Peñaranda River, bordered by up to 16-meter-high limestone walls. The park is a designated protected area located in the foothills of the Sierra Madre mountain range. It is endorsed by the local government as an ecotourism destination, showcasing a pristine river and unique rock formations.
Trinidad emphasized the broader economic implications of road improvement, noting, "Poor road conditions not only restrict travel but also result in additional costs for local businesses." Although the park is currently closed to the public, an increase in visitor numbers is expected upon its reopening. He further reiterated the DPWH's commitment to prioritizing infrastructure projects that enhance tourism access.