“Kalesas” or horse-drawn carriages in decorative lights will soon be available for public transport along the main thoroughfares of this city as the province of Ilocos Norte moves to revive its industrial heritage.
Meant to attract tourists, including locals, who may wish to experience a kalesa ride around the city while providing livelihood to the dwindling number of “kutseros” (carriage driver), the Ilocos Norte Tourism Office reported Monday that at least seven kalesa operators were selected to join in the pilot run of the kalesa lighted evening tour.
Provincial tourism officer Aianree Raquel said selected kalesa operators are all experienced, skilled, and they have expressed interest to join the pilot run of the project which is expected to kick off this February in time for the 204th foundation anniversary of Ilocos Norte as a province.
Backing this move, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) or the Ilocos Norte board on Monday unanimously approved an urgent resolution authorizing Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc to enter into a memorandum of agreement with various kalesa operators in the province.
(Source: Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte)
