(Photo courtesy of Las Piñas City Tourism and Cultural Office)
The City of Las Piñas has joined the list of the country's top domestic holiday destinations based on the booking data made by Airbnb, a popular online marketplace that connects people to locally accessible accommodations, particularly tourists.
Sorsogon City in Bicol was named top domestic destination followed by San Felipe in Zambales and Las Piñas City in the National Capital Region (NCR) followed by Palawan and Boracay.
Las Piñas City Mayor Imelda Aguilar said the city is known as the Parol (lantern) Capital in Metro Manila.
Aguilar said the selling of unique and affordable parols is done all year round in Barangay Elias Aldana, a vibrant industry that started in the early 1970s.
She said the city government promised to continue to support the local parol makers in recognition of their significant contribution to the cultural identity of the city.
The mayor also said the team of Las Piñas City Tourism and Cultural Office under Paul San Miguel made the city known to local and foreign tourist with their dedication and hard work in preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage in the city and placing the city in the top domestic holiday destinations.
The City Tourism Office has also made the Las Piñas Nursery and Botanical Garden in Barangay Pamplona known to local and foreign tourists and not only to “plantitas and plantitos.”
She said a wide variety of plants are grown and displayed in the garden for enthusiasts who want to educate themselves about the diverse characteristics of different plant species and families or those who are simply after relaxation and appreciation of its beauty.
The mayor added the city is also known for its famous Bamboo Organ, the oldest and biggest in the world. Aguilar said its distinctive sound replicates the symphony of nature.
She said people visit the St. Joseph Church now decked with colorful lanterns and Christmas lights during the “Simbang Gabi” where the famous Bamboo Organ can be found.