By Nel Andrade JALAJALA, Rizal – This agricultural town is starting to get noticed as a place to visit for local and foreign tourists. That’s because the local government is banking on its agriculture-rich scenery as one of the many attractions that it will develop. Sunflora Farm in Barangay Punta in Jalajala, Rizal
(Nel B. Andrade / MANILA BULLETIN) Councilor Ma. Salvacion Villaran, acting tourism officer of the municipal government, said more and more tourists are visiting the town, especially during weekends. One popular destination is the lakeside area in Barangay Punta and nearby villages where one can spend early morning or late afternoon by the lakeshore to enjoy the cool monsoon breeze and the calming waves of Laguna Lake. The place also offers a spectacular sunset view, according to the municipal tourism officer. For Valentine’s, the local tourism office suggests a visit to the Sun Flora Farm Barangay Punta where couples can enjoy hours of picture taking in the middle of the rows of sunflowers. The sunflower garden is maintained by a private foundation, Tulay Lingap Ni Padre Pio, Incorporated, which helps children with cancer, persons with disability, and scholarship programs for the youth. Villaran said visitors are encouraged to go to the garden in the morning or in the afternoon to enjoy the picturesque view of the sunflowers and the vegetation in the flower farm. There is a small eatery in the farm for those who want to enjoy locally grown vegetables and produce, but visitors can also their food and have a picnic under the trees. There are also other native-themed restaurants along the highway.