In January 2022, after twenty-one months of collaboration, the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Silang made the decision to end the use of Yen Center hostel rooms as quarantine facilities. The LGU conveys its deep appreciation for the quarantine facility. It is grateful to IIRR for providing a safe and healthy place of refuge for the people of Silang during this pandemic season. IIRR also extends its gratitude to the LGU for giving it the opportunity to work with them during this difficult time and for the way its relationship with them has been strengthened as a result.
As the country begins to loosen travel restrictions and allow tourism-related activities to resume, the Yen Center is also preparing for the reopening of its operations. The Yen Center plans to capitalize on its reputation as the country’s top ecotourism destination. It is a national leader in providing training and experiential learning to communities and promoting sustainable practices. To kick off the recommencing of operations, the Yen Center Eco Park will open to the public this March. Our vision is that the Eco Park will attract families, individuals, and people from all walks of life with a fascination for nature, wellness, learning, and environmental awareness. As well as members of the public, the Yen Center also warmly welcomes any organizations whose philosophy and principles align with IIRR’s community programming on sustainable farming practices.
In the lead-up to reopening, the Yen Center will market itself as an eco-venue for training and conferences and as a social enterprise of IIRR. The hope is that this branding effort will highlight the Yen Center’s position as an outstanding center for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and leisure tourism. We also wish to draw attention to its vast land resources and a verdant environment rich in flora and fauna, which make it an ideal spot for eco and farm tourism.