SAN NICOLAS, Pangasinan—Boasting breathtaking views of the mountains and a majestic sunset, Malico is poised to become one of the premier tourist destinations in Pangasinan. Located in the town of San Nicolas along the eastern flank of the province and dubbed the “Summer Capital of Pangasinan,” it offers a serene escape perfect for nature and adventure-lovers alike. The Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office (PTCAO) conducted a site visit to this up-and-coming tourist destination giving particular attention in assessing the readiness of the various Tourism Related Enterprises (TREs) to the influx of tourists and to experience firsthand what Malico has to offer.
The site visit also provided an opportunity to check the completion of the Villa Verde Trail road, which has made access to Malico easier. This development is expected to boost tourism in the area and attract more visitors looking for a unique experience in Pangasinan and investors looking for more economic opportunities.
During the visit, PTCAO was also able to observe its vast natural and cultural heritage, such as the abundance of Pine Trees, Tiger Grass/Bush, and the opportunities for “A”-frame house design using indigenous materials. The potential for eco-tourism and sustainable development in Malico is evident, with its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes.
Various camping sites, cafes, and restaurants have been established in and around Malico, allowing tourists to experience the cool breeze at the highest point in Pangasinan while enjoying scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Additionally, the presence of a tourist assistance center offers visitors information on activities, accommodations, and local attractions to enhance their overall experience in Malico. This development demonstrates the local government’s commitment to promoting tourism and asserting Pangasinan’s role in the territorial dispute over Malico. In fact, Governor Ramon V. Guico III has identified this area as one of Pangasinan’s tourism hubs, alongside Alaminos City, Manaoag, Bolinao, and Lingayen.
PTCAO also spoke with various barangay officials inquiring about their current situation, especially concerning the ongoing territorial dispute, but more relevantly to explore potential collaboration and future projects.
On May 23, 2024, the Local Government Unit of San Nicolas, led by Mayor Alicia Primicias-Enriquez, invited PTCAO to a meeting to discuss potential partnerships and initiatives. This meeting also provided an opportunity to exchange observations noted by PTCAO during their visit to Malico, where various establishments had declared themselves part of a neighboring province rather than Pangasinan. The meeting concluded with plans to address this issue and strengthen the connection between PTCAO and LGU San Nicolas.
With its picturesque landscapes, cool climate, and various outdoor activities, Malico is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by tourists seeking a different kind of adventure—a true “strawberry on top” of any travel itinerary.
/MTRC
Photos: LGU San Nicolas
