With the view of creating a tourist destination within Pagadian City, the Cerilles administration conceptualized a “tourist zone” within the Provincial Government Complex, a 64-hectare estate formerly known as the Philippine-Australian Development Assistance Program (PADAP) Compound located in Dao, Pagadian City.To support the laudable intentions of the incumbent leadership, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, through SP Resolution No. 2K7-049 declared an 18-hectare area within the complex aptly called Adventure and EcoPark where tourists will find a cultural village (Subanen, Muslim and Christian houses), a museum, canopy walk and butterfly garden, among others.
The Adventure and EcoPark is a brainchild of Governor Aurora E. Cerilles, who has long wanted to provide a wholesome destination for students, families and friends where they can relax and enjoy nature at its best, without having to travel far and spend a lot of money.
The Park is now the official Biyahe Na!ZAMBOSUR tourist zone.
Just across the park is the Bio-Organic Fertilizer plant of the provincial government, which is being widely patronized by farmers in the province and neighboring towns thus, making it a very stable source of income for government coffers. One sack of organic fertilizer is sold at P250.
As the province of Zamboanga del Sur celebrates its 55th Anniversary on September 17, it will also play host to the 2007 WOW Philippines-ZamPen Regional Tourism Exposition.
This momentous event will run from September 17-26, also showcasing the Megayon Festival, a meaningful celebration of peace and solidarity which features the age-old traditions and customs of the tri-people of Zamboanga del Sur.
Provincial Tourism Officer Frederick Anthony Padayhag said preparations are now being finalized for the tourism showcase of eight participating local government units: Zamboanga del Norte and the cities of Dipolog and Dapitan; Zamboanga City, Isabela City, Zamboanga Sibugay, Pagadian City and host province of Zamboanga del Sur.