City officials are proposing to take over operations of the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village to prevent its closure and protect workers’ jobs.

Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) currently run the park. Reports of its potential shutdown prompted the city’s intervention.

City Councilor Joyleen Mercedes Balaba, who chairs the committee on tourism, said the closure would negatively affect workers, particularly Indigenous people who perform and staff the facility.

“We hope the national agencies can come to an agreement that will preserve Malasag Eco-Tourism Village and protect the livelihoods of its workers,” Balaba said.

She assured the city government possesses both the capacity and interest to revitalize the site, aligning it with broader local tourism plans.

TIEZA reportedly struggles to sustain rental payments for the DENR-owned property. The current memorandum of agreement between the two agencies expires on Dec. 3, 2025.

Established in 1991, the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village has long served as a flagship city attraction, known for its scenic views, cultural exhibits and nature-based amenities. (PNA)