As Calabarzon prepares for its expected declaration as an insurgency-free region, the Quezon provincial government has launched a new agri-tourism and pilgrimage circuit in the Bondoc Peninsula to draw more visitors and investments to the province’s third district.
Dubbed “BonPen Trails: Cultivating Faith, Harvesting Experiences,” the Bondoc Peninsula Agri-tourism and Pilgrimage Tourism Circuit was launched on Wednesday, June 3 to promote the area’s faith-based, cultural and agricultural attractions.
The circuit covers Padre Burgos, Agdangan, Unisan, Macalelon, Pitogo, General Luna, Catanauan and Mulanay.
Gov. Helen Tan said the initiative comes as Quezon continues to build on its gains in peace and development.
“Before, people were afraid to go to Quezon because of the insurgencies. I want to tell you, in 2022, Quezon was already declared insurgency-free. And as a matter of fact, many investors are now coming in,” Tan explained.
Tan said Region 4A or Calabarzon is also set to be declared insurgency-free on June 12 (which she described as a “historical event” and possibly a first in the country.
“On June 12, as the chairperson of the Regional Peace and Order Council, a historical event—I think a first in the Philippines—will happen… Region 4A will be declared insurgency-free,” she said.
With peace and order improving, Tan said Quezon is positioning agriculture and tourism as key drivers of local development.
“Ano ang kayamanan meron ang Quezon? It is agriculture and tourism. Mayamang-mayaman po kami diyan: kapatagan, karagatan, at kabundukan,” she added.
She also pointed out that Bondoc Peninsula remains a destination that travelers must intentionally visit, as it is located away from the usual routes along Maharlika Highway.
“Pupuntahan mo talaga, sasadyain mo siya,” she exclaimed.
Among the pilgrimage sites featured in the circuit are the Luminous Cross of Grace Sanctuary in Agdangan, Conversion of St. Paul Parish Church in Pitogo and Divine Mercy Place of Prayer in General Luna.
The itinerary also includes farm, food and cultural experiences such as soap-making, local food tastings, tuba harvesting, lambanog-making demonstrations, tikoy-making and visits to agri-tourism sites.
Provincial tourism officer Nesler Louies Almagro said the circuit highlights not only destinations, but also the people and communities behind Quezon’s local products and traditions.
“Different from any other tourism circuit, this focuses on the story of the people and the genuine experience of the farm. Here, tourism is rooted in agriculture, culture and everyday life,” Almagro said.
“Behind every delicacy is a farmer, producer, entrepreneur and community whose story deserves to be told,” he added.
Provincial officials said the circuit is expected to open livelihood opportunities for local communities, promote lesser-known destinations and strengthen Quezon’s tourism industry.
“We invite everyone to discover the Bondoc Peninsula, where faith grows and experiences are harvested. Tara na po sa Quezon, the land of a thousand colors,” Almagro said.
Historically, the Bondoc Peninsula was known as a bailiwick of the New People’s Army (NPA), with insurgent activity affecting security and local development. The upcoming declaration of Calabarzon as insurgency-free marks a significant milestone in transforming the region into a safe and accessible destination for tourism and investment.
Photos courtesy of the Provincial Government of Quezon
