Naujuan :
A Manila-based power firm, specializing in renewable energy projects, is paving the way for a village here to be a high-end spa, aiming to make Oriental Mindoro an international wellness hub.
Constellation Energy Corp. has a 20-megawatt geothermal power plant in Baranagay Montelago which hosts the Pugaro, Pungao, and Boloc-Boloc hot springs.
The sitios are frequented by local residents and visitors as a bathing place or spa for hydrotherapy using the mineral rich hot springs for treatment of their illnesses.
ConstellationEnergy officials led by Chairman Jose P. Leviste Jr. believe that power, tourism and health rejuvenation can mix.
“This is possible with renewable power energy. The relation of nature and people can be mutually beneficial,” he said.
The firm with partner companies, the Emerging Power Resources Holdings Inc. and IF Technology, a Dutch company, has started work on the Mindoro geothermal power project along with its hot spring and wellness center scheduled for commissioning in 2014.
Jolly Ting, head of the Manila-based business and professional group, The Association of Mindorenos, said “wellness tourism is good and appropriate especially for Montelago” and the province’s economic growth.
“Geothermal energy, I believe, is a good and clean energy. I think it’s a good idea, if we can give it a try. Baka yan ang mag-trigger ng tourism industry natin sa lake area. I think the general public of all ages will be benefitted,” said Ting, chairman of Calapan Water Corp.
Dr. Antonie de Wilde, EPRHI chief executive, said the Montelago hot spring and wellness resort will put Naujan in vacationers’ intinerary.
“One could develop a whole line of wellness and health products from the geothermal field and steam,” he said, citing the well-known Blue Lagoon Spa in Reykjavik, Iceland, where geothermal seawater—with its minerals, silica and algae—is tapped.
Other Oriental Mindoro officials commending the medical tourism plan are Puerto Galera Mayor Hubbert Dolor and former first district Rep. Rodolfo Valancia.
source: http://www.manilastandard.com / Manila Standard Today. com / Home / by Robert A. Evora / Manila – July 08th, 2013
