TACLOBAN CITY — A mountain resort in the upland village of this city is gearing up for a major rehabilitation and expansion, as its owners move to strengthen its position as a key inland destination despite ongoing challenges faced by the regional tourism industry.
The La Villa Francisco Mountain Resort, located in Barangay San Roque in the Diit district, is banking on redevelopment efforts to attract more visitors seeking alternative leisure spots away from crowded urban centers. Nestled on 9.5 hectares of a 25-hectare family-owned property and situated about seven kilometers from the city proper, the resort offers a cooler climate and a more secluded environment.
Its planned upgrade comes as tourism stakeholders in Eastern Visayas continue to grapple with the effects of rising fuel prices, which have curtailed travel and reduced tourist arrivals, according to earlier reports from the Department of Tourism (DOT).
Jimmy Clemente, the resort’s president and chief operating officer, said the rehabilitation is part of a long-term vision to enhance the property’s appeal while keeping it affordable for a broad market.
“This is part of our long-term goal. We will introduce improvements that will make the resort more attractive while keeping it accessible to a wide range of guests,” Clemente said.
He added that the family has already invested more than P50 million in the resort’s development, covering both past upgrades and ongoing improvements aimed at elevating the overall guest experience.
Opened in 2015 and named after the family patriarch, the resort was forced to temporarily shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic. It resumed operations in 2023, marking a fresh start for the business as it seeks to regain its footing in a recovering tourism sector.
At present, the resort features 17 rooms catering to couples, families, and small groups, with accommodations ranging from standard units for two persons to larger rooms that can host up to 10 guests. Among its key attractions is an Olympic-size swimming pool with water slides.
To further expand its offerings, management is planning to develop additional villa-type accommodations, including units with private pools, targeting guests seeking more exclusive experiences.
New recreational facilities such as a kart zone and horseback riding attractions are also being considered.
Clemente said the resort is also working toward securing accreditation from the DOT, along with recognition from local business groups, as part of efforts to boost its credibility and widen its market reach.
In a bid to draw more visitors, the resort also plans to host regular events and entertainment activities, including shows featuring well-known disc jockeys and performers.
With these initiatives, La Villa Francisco Mountain Resort aims to reintroduce itself as an emerging inland tourism hub in Tacloban City—offering a mix of leisure, nature, and entertainment for travelers exploring Eastern Visayas.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
