Army camp in Capiz eyed as tourism site

CAMP PERALTA, Jamindan, Capiz, Philippines – The Army is now in talks with the Department of Tourism (DOT) for the possible development of this military camp as an ecotourism site and an alternative to Boracay Island.

Camp Macario Peralta, which serves as the headquarters of the Army’s 3rd Infantry Division, may soon become a tourist spot for nature lovers and those who are fond of hiking, Army officials said.

“Tourists visiting the world-class island resort of Boracay will now have another option for a place to visit. Visiting the camp will give visitors a chance to understand more of the local society and culture,” said Maj. Gen. Jose Mabanta Jr., 3rd ID chief.

“The opening of the camp to tourists will offer an opportunity to tell the world the rich cultural heritage of people in the area,” he added.

Maj. Enrico Ileto, spokesman of the 3rd ID, said the talks with the DOT seek to provide opportunities for employment while contributing to efforts to boost the country’s image.

Camp Peralta, the third largest military camp, is a nature park and wildlife sanctuary. The 33,310-hectare camp is the only military installation with five waterfalls.

“With the five waterfalls that we have so far discovered here, this is one of the best places to travel to and appreciate what the natural environment can offer,” Mabanta said.

The camp also has a grotto with the image of the Virgin Mary for those who want to pray and those who want to escape the noise of the city.

The shrine of the Virgin Mary is located on a hilltop that offers a view of the province.

The shrine is surrounded by a myriad of animal and plant species. Because of the rich natural resources, the camp has been labeled as a forest conservation and wildlife sanctuary area.

Ileto said the camp can also offer a treat for those who are into nature trekking. A two-hour hike through the forest will treat visitors to a glimpse of the 100-meter waterfall and three basin falls.

“Visitors can also take a dip and swim in the stream,” Ileto said.

The 3rd ID also has a swimming pool and a picnic area called the “Kalikasan Nature Park” complete with amenities and a viewing tower.

Camp Peralta also has an orchidarium, a spa, a mini dam, a physical resistance training gym, and a covered court.

Military and tourism officials have yet to finalize the amount to be charged from visitors who want to explore the camp.

“But there should be at least a fee for the maintenance of the camp,” Mabanta said.

He said the development of Camp Peralta as a tourism site will benefit the residents of the barangays inside the Army facility.

Camp Peralta is just 54 kilometers from Roxas City, Capiz, 88 kms from Kalibo, Aklan, and 122 kms from Iloilo City.

The sprawling camp covers the towns of Jamindan and Tapaz in Capiz and Lambunao in Iloilo. There are 18 barangays in Tapaz and eight villages in Jamindan.