CABARROGUIS, Quirino (PIA) - - In time for the celebration of the National Tourism Week 2022, the Provincial Tourism Office conducted the Soft Opening of the Quirino Capitol Nature Walk Trail recently.

The said event was joined by Former Representative, now PCSO Chairman Junie Cua, who started the develolment of the area and whom the Quirinians call the architect of the development of Quirino.

Cua, who is an advocate of healthy lifestyles and the importance of regular exercise for a longer health span, has encouraged every Quirinian to do early morning walks on the many hiking trails in the Provincial Capitol.

Some members of the Quirino Zumjoggers and Army Reservists also joined the hike from the Quirino Orchidarium up to Forestry 101.

Economic Enterprise Officer Elmor Villaruel said the hiking trail is just one of the many tourist attractions in the capitol compound being developed by the provincial government.

"The concept is for every Quirinian to be more active and healthier," Villaruel said, citing some studies conducted by experts on the importance of regular physical activity.

Villaruel who is an active hiker and who has climbed almost all mountains in the province and nearby places has urged the Quirinians to visit the hiking trail, saying that Quirino has a very unique capitol, the only one in the Philippines that is endowed with wide forest and creek.

"Our governor's vision is to eventually turn the area into a tourism destination, at the same time promote more physical activities such as hiking, picnicking or having coffee with your friends as you share stories," Villaruel said.

Aside from physical activity, Villaruel also stressed the importance of healthy social life thru the company of a strong circle of friends and family.

Villaruel assured the safety and cleanliness of the hiking trail as some provincial capitol employees have been assigned in the area to plant trees and maintain its cleanliness.

Meanwhile, Loida Acacio of the Tourism Office said the 30-45 minutes hike crossing the creek is worth it.

Acacio further said aside from communing with nature, hikers may want to sit still on the rocks along the creek to meditate and be in touch with their inner self, have time to escape and leave behind the cares and noise of everyday lives and breathe in peace.

"Be refreshed and be amazed, talk to the trees and listen to the chirping of birds. It takes only a little time, but it can add quality to your life and health span," Acacio added. (TCB/PIA Quirino)