02/10/2026
SGLG Incentive Fund Supports Tourism Development in Conner, Apayao
The Department of the Interior and Local Government–Cordillera Administrative Region (DILG-CAR) Assistant Regional Director Ruperto B. Marribay and Provincial Director Marleen M. Guerzon, together with Conner Municipal Mayor Atty. Jorico F. Bayaua, Vice Mayor Alexander M. Aswigue, and members of the Sangguniang Bayan, led the ribbon-cutting and unvailing ceremony during the Inauguration and Turnover Ceremony of the FY 2024 Seal of Good Local Governance Incentive Fund (SGLGIF) project in Barangay Ili, Conner, Apayao.
The project, the Construction of the Tourism Pathway (Footpath) to Purag Falls, was funded through the FY 2024 SGLGIF with a total allocation of ₱1,153,000.00.
Purag Falls is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Conner, known for its breathtaking natural scenery and refreshing waters. However, prior to the construction of the pathway, visitors had to endure a difficult and challenging route to reach the falls.
The area offers several natural attractions, including its picturesque waterfalls, a swimming area, and an underwater cave within the falls. An undeveloped cave in the vicinity also adds to the site's potential as a tourism destination.
In his message, DILG-CAR Assistant Regional Director Ruperto B. Marribay emphasized that the project is more than just a pathway for visitors. “This project is not just a path to walk, but a pathway for this barangay toward a better life in the future. I hope this will bring more development and opportunities to the people, not only in this barangay but also throughout the Municipality of Conner and the Province of Apayao.”
Meanwhile, Mayor Atty. Jorico F. Bayaua highlighted the importance of collaboration in making the project possible. He described the project as a product of the collective efforts of the people of Conner and expressed his hope and prayer that Conner would once again be awarded the Seal of Good Local Governance (SGLG) in 2028 for more project to come. He also challenged the barangay officials and residents to continue developing the tourism site to create more opportunities for the community.
For residents living near the project, the newly constructed pathway has already brought hope for increased economic activity.
Ms. Cathrine Sapaen, a resident near the tourism site and owner of the Hidden Store, expressed her heartfelt gratitude for the project. She shared that the development has brought opportunities for families in the area and noted that an inn is currently being constructed near the tourist destination.
The project is expected to improve accessibility to Purag Falls while providing a safer and more convenient route for visitors. More importantly, it is seen as an investment in the local community, with the potential to generate livelihood opportunities and encourage further tourism-related development in Barangay Ili and the Municipality of Conner.
Following the program, the officials and guests walked along the newly constructed tourism pathway and proceeded to Purag Falls, where they experienced firsthand the natural beauty of one of Conner's emerging tourism destinations.
The completion of the tourism pathway marks another step toward unlocking the tourism potential of Purag Falls and strengthening local efforts to promote sustainable economic development in Conner, Apayao.
