The construction of the Tourist Rest Area (TRA) at the Provincial Capitol Complex is now 98% complete, with full completion expected by the first week of August 2025. This milestone marks a significant step forward in enhancing Pangasinan’s tourism infrastructure.

A Strategic Addition to the Capitol Complex

Strategically situated near the Reflecting Pool and the Interactive Fountain, the TRA enhances the layout and appeal of the Capitol Complex. Its location creates a welcoming and accessible space for tourists and locals alike, ensuring smooth connectivity with nearby attractions such as the Reflecting Pool and the Lingayen Beach. By decentralizing visitor flow, the TRA also helps prevent congestion in key areas, contributing to a more harmonious and visitor-friendly environment.

Governor Guico Commends the DOT and TIEZA

In his message during the Groundbreaking and MOA Signing Ceremony held at the Sison Auditorium on February 13, 2025, Governor Ramon V. Guico III expressed his deep appreciation to the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) for supporting the TRA initiative.

Governor Guico emphasized that this project aligns with the province’s broader tourism development agenda, which includes several transformative initiatives.

“Tourism projects are on deck, including the ongoing redevelopment of the Capitol Complex, featuring a more than 200-meter reflecting pool and interactive fountain behind the Capitol Building,” he said.

With the on-going construction of the Pangasinan Convention Center which has the capacity to accommodate 1,500 delegate, and with the presence of other Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) facilities such as the Sison Auditorium and the Training Center of the Capitol, the Municipality of Lingayen and the Capitol Complex is envisioned by Gov. Guico as the “Conference Capital of Region 1.”

Projected Impact and Community Benefits

Once operational, the TRA is expected to significantly improve the experience of visitors by providing clean restrooms, a comfortable waiting lounge, accessible tourist information services and pasalubong center. These amenities are designed to accommodate the increasing number of travelers visiting Pangasinan and its capital.

Moreover, the TRA will benefit local businesses, transport operators, and tourism stakeholders by boosting visitor satisfaction and encouraging longer stays. The project reflects a collaborative effort to elevate Pangasinan as a key destination in northern Luzon and sets the tone for future tourism-driven development.

With its completion on the horizon, the Tourist Rest Area stands as a testament to the province’s commitment to creating a more welcoming and world-class environment for every tourist who steps foot in Pangasinan.

/VGSC