Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session
6355

House Bill No.

Introduced by Representatives Ria Christina G. Farifias
and Rudys Caesar G. Farifias |

EXPLANATORY NOTE

This bill seeks to declare the Maira-ra Cove or “Blue Lagoon” in the
Municipality of Pagudpud, Province of llocos Norte as a tourist destination.

Maira-ira Cove or what is commonly known as the “Blue Lagoon” is one of
the best beaches in Luzon. Just like the adjacent Saud White Sand Beach, this
beach has white and creamy-like sand that can be comparable to that of
Boracay. It is also less commercialized, making it a preferred destination for tourists
who wish to relax and avoid the hustle and bustle of overcrowded beaches.

This majestic beach used to be a secret getaway for the locals, but
because of its rustic beauty, it eventually gained popularity. Unlike other
commercialized beaches, the Blue Lagoon is not always flocked by many tourists.
This place also has a limited number of resorts and restaurants, encouraging
tourists to bring their own tents and food for a unique experience.

Further, the Blue Lagoon is slowly becoming the next surfers haven due to
the strong winds that also powers the Bangui Windmills, giving electricity to the
whole province.

Declaring the Blue Lagoon as a tourist destination will enhance its
development through the support of the national government. Ensuring its
sustainability and preservation by providing a comprehensive development plan
to guarantee its maintenance while promoting it for both local and foreign
tourists. Moreover, it will provide job opportunities for the residents of the
municipality.


Approval of this bill is earnestly recommended.

RIA CHRISTINA G. FARINAS AR G. FARINAS |


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City, Metro Manila

EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS
First Regular Session

House Bill No. 8355

Introduced by Representatives Ria Christina G. Farifias
and Rudys Caesar G. Farifias |

AN ACT
DECLARING MAIRA-IRA COVE OR “BLUE LAGOON” IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF
PAGUDPUD, PROVINCE OF ILOCOS NORTE, AS A TOURIST DESTINATION, PROVIDING
FOR ITS DEVELOPMENT, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS THEREFOR

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in
Congress assembled:

Section 1. The Maira-Ira Cove or “Blue Lagoon" in the Municipality of
Pagudpud, Province of Ilocos Norte, is hereby declared a tourist destination. As
such, its development shall be prioritized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) and
shall be subject to the rules and regulations governing the development of tourist
destinations.

Sec. 2. Within one (1) year from the approval of this Act, the DOT, in
coordination with the concerned local government units and agencies of the
government, shall prepare a tourism development plan involving the
construction, installation, and maintenance of appropriate infrastructures and
facilities that shall encourage tourism in the area: Provided, That said
development plan shall ensure the preservation and conservation of the natural
beauty and resources of the area: Provided, further, That any activities and
developments to be carried out in the area should conform with the concept of


ecotourism as provided in the national ecotourism strategy jointly issued by the
Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the DOT.

Sec. 3. The DOT and its concerned attached agencies shall take immediate
steps to implement the tourism development plan that will suit the natural
characteristics of Blue Lagoon, and shall incorporate the same in its tourism
development program for the ensuing calendar year. It shall also include the Blue
Lagoon in all its national, regional, and local promotion programs.

Sec. 4. The Secretary of Tourism shall include in the Department’s program
the implementation of this Act, the funding of which shall be included in the
annual General Appropriations Act and from internally generated funds of the
DOT.

Sec. 5. Within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act, the Secretary of
Tourism, in consultation with the Municipality of Pagudpud, shall promulgate the

necessary rules and regulations for the proper implementation of this Act.

Sec. 6. All laws, rules, regulations, proclamations, executive orders, or parts
thereof, inconsistent with this Act are hereby amended accordingly.

Sec. 7. This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the
Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,