KAUSWAGAN, Lanao del Norte – The P150-million Kauswagan International Organic Convention Center here opened recently after five months of construction by the local government.
THE newly constructed five-hectare, P150-million international convention center in Sitio Tangkig, Barangay Tacub, Kauswagan, Lanao del Norte. (Bonita L. Ermac)
Situated in a five-hectare lot on a white sand beach, this facility offers a scenic view of the fountain and features state-of-the-art clam shell-type venues, an administration building, a cafeteria, accommodation rooms, and two helicopter pads.
Shared rooms can house around 300 delegates and the center's beautiful cafeteria is fully equipped and staffed by professional chefs.
The center will host several significant events such as the Organic Youth Forum, the 9th Asian Local Government for Organic Agriculture Summit, the 4th Global Alliance of Organic Districts, Women in Organic Agriculture in Asia, and the 6th Organic Asia Congress.
These events will be held from June 4 to 9, attracting participants and delegates from 32 various countries and areas around the world, including China, South Korea, Portugal, Maldives, and Mongolia, among others.
Mayor Rommel Arnado here expressed pride in the convention center which he said is an exhibition of good governance. He added the advocacy for organic agriculture led to the establishment of the convention center and aims to inspire other leaders to prioritize the production of organic food.
“We spent almost P150 million, all 95 percent are locally financed and for us, this is all money well spent and which is also an exhibition for good governance and it is because of our advocacy on organic agriculture," he said.
“And that's what triggered us to establish such a convention hub, to awaken other leaders to engage in the production of more food. Not just any food, but healthy food that is organic in nature,” he added.
Arnado also revealed plans to utilize the convention center for various events, attracting both local and foreign tourists, thus benefiting not only Kauswagan but also neighboring cities and municipalities economically.
“It could also serve as a concert venue, capable of accommodating up to 10,000 people for concerts. This facility is not limited to conventions. It is also an economic enterprise and a strategy to generate income for the municipality,” he said.
The mayor also commended the extensive security plan, a joint effort involving the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard, and other agencies for the various events that will be held in the center.