Both locals and visitors passing by Binmaley public park are now in awe as they see the blooming Palawan Cherry Blossoms, also known as Balayong. One may instantly think that there is no need to travel to Korea or Japan to see the beautiful bloom of these trees. Binmaley, located between the cities of Lingayen and Dagupan in Pangasinan, could be the next Cherry Blossom destination in the country.
Planted on May 1, 2014, these trees are part of the tourism program Bloom Binmaley initiated by private individuals very close to the tourism consultant, Mrs. Josefina C. Victorio. The effort was planned with the objective of putting Binmaley as a preferred stop-over in Pangasinan showcasing its current tourism inventory such as Binmaley Museum, seafood restaurants, Binmaley beach among others. The program was fully supported by the Local Government of Binmaley under the leadership of Mayor Simplicio L. Rosario.
To support the program, various events in the municipality were organized and implemented. The municipality actively participated in various travel & tourism shows organized by Pangasinan Tourism and attended numerous tourism events to promote the program. The Binmaley Tourism office also attended many press briefings and invited major media groups to visit and experience what Binmaley can offer.
Read previous blog: Binmaley: Blooming at San Sebastian College
Research was also used to identify current tourism inventory of the municipality, cultural mapping and enhancement of the Binmaley museum. And because of the collaborative effort of all the stakeholders, Binmaley received awards and recognitions such as Distinct Recognition Award Best LGU Tourism Practices on Tourism Mapping and Research in 2015, Best Fluvial Float during the 2016 Pistay Dayat, 3rd Place Best OTOP/LGU Exhibit, and many others.
“Bloom Binmaley opened the eyes of the Binmaleyans to appreciate tourism as a driver of social and economic growth. With the concerted efforts of the stakeholders and full support of the LGU, Binmaley became an emerging destination to visit offering unique attractions that supplement what the surrounding cities and municipalities are already offering”, explained Mrs. Josefina C. Victorio.
As she prepares to retire from public service, Mrs. Victorio and her family are leaving a tourism legacy that will put Binmaley in the tourism map of the country. “With the continuous support of Binmaleyans and proactive role of Binmaley tourism office, we hope to continue this momentum of growth. May this inspire the next generation to be participative in the programs of the LGU and contribute their ideas and talents so that we continue show the country and the world – the beauty, rich history and culture of our town Binmaley” said Mayor Simplicio L. Rosario.