ABOUT THE ECO PARK
In
1964, San Nicolas, Pangasinan, launched the Agpay Reforestation Project to
conserve and preserve the forest, focusing on reforestation. This project
transformed the arid wasteland of Sitio Agpay in barangay San Felipe East into a thriving reforestation site, complete
with an office and central nursery for trees and plants. Over time, natural
features like the nearby waterfalls led to the development of a nature resort of a nature resort, including
amenities such as a natural swimming pool and a small pavilion.
By 1967, under the administration of then-Mayor Don Leoncio R.
Saldivar Sr., the Agpay Reforestation Project and Resort had become one of
Pangasinan’s top nature resorts, known for its recreational facilities and
stunning natural landscapes. Key personnel like Forester-in-Charge Jose A.
Cabanayan and others played significant roles in its early success.
The resort, later rebranded as Agpay Mountain Resort, continued to
be a popular tourism spot in the province. However, due to various challenges
over the decades, its popularity waned. Despite efforts to rehabilitate the
area, limited funds hindered comprehensive restoration. Located alongside the
San Roque Dam in barangay San Felipe West, the resort is known for its
mountainous scenery and cool forest breeze, offering a relaxing retreat for
tourists. The local government, in cooperation with the Department of
Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), made the area part of its forest
protection program.
Efforts to revive the resort began in 2006, aiming to restore
its former glory. In 2007, an ordinance was enacted to rename the Agpay Forest
Project as the “Forester Jose ‘Pepe’ A. Cabanayan, Sr. Forest Nursery and
Nature Park” in honor of the dedicated forester who significantly
contributed to its development.
In
2020, under the helm of Mayor Alicia L. Primicias-Enriquez, the park underwent significant
improvements to prepare for a stronger, more sustainable tourism economy,
despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. By 2021, additional
landscaping and the establishment of picnic areas were underway to enhance the
park’s appeal.
Today, Agpay Eco Park offers new amenities and activities,
transforming it into a vibrant eco-tourism destination. Visitors can enjoy the
swimming pool, butterfly garden, nature trail, fish ponds, camping sites,
adventure zones, new green spaces, an information center and café, and water
survival programs, with more amenities in the pipeline.
The vision for Agpay Eco Park is to become a flagship tourism
destination, offering diverse amenities and positively showcasing the
sustainable development in San Nicolas.
