The provincial government-run Mambukal Resort in Murcia, Negros Occidental is offering a day-tour package dubbed “Kaon ta sa Suba” (Let’s eat by the river) every weekend.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson on Friday led the formal opening of the resort’s newest attraction with manager Ellen Jalandoni.

“I’m inviting the Negrenses to come visit here. This is the latest innovation and improvement in Mambukal Resort to give Negrenses a place to gather as a family or with friends, and enjoy the scenery and good food,” the governor said.

Lacson was joined by Col. Romeo Baleros, director of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, and Brig. Gen. Benedict Arevalo, commander of the Philippine Army’s 303rd Infantry Brigade, during the luncheon.

Initially, a total of 20 tables are available to accommodate between 80 and 120 people.

“This is just phase one. Phase two will be down there. I really think more people will come here,” Lacson said.

The day tour package, available on Saturdays and Sundays, costs PHP499. It includes entrance to the resort, swimming pools, dipping pool, and a hearty Filipino buffet lunch by the river.

Jalandoni said the “Kaon ta sa Suba” is part of the continuing developments in the mountain resort.

“We want to maximize the resort’s potential. Mambukal has been here for a long time so we want to introduce innovation. Visitors always look for something new. That’s how the idea came about,” she added.

Jalandoni said they have put a Negrense twist to the Filipino dishes being served.

“Being a sugar capital, we want to highlight the sugarcane. We have sugarcane juice as our welcome drink. The chicken inasal, which Bacolod is known for, is marinated with sugarcane,” she said.

Jalandoni said that before the formal opening on Friday, they have already accommodated guests from Zamboanga, Iloilo, and Batangas. (PNA)