LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — Local officials clarified Friday that a controversial new structure known as the “Glassway Attraction” is a private venture and not an official government tourism site following a wave of online criticism.
Municipal Tourism Officer Valred Olsim said the project is a private business investment and was neither initiated nor developed by the local government. Official records indicate the site is currently unregistered as a tourism attraction.
The clarification comes after photos of the structure shared by a content creator drew backlash from netizens. Some critics questioned the use of foreign design concepts, while others alleged the project was a copy of a tourist attraction in Vietnam.
Olsim defended the developers, noting that adopting international business themes is not prohibited by law. He cited local parks and swimming pools that frequently adapt Western concepts and said the developers do not deserve the public outcry.
“Many local establishments adapt themes from abroad,” Olsim said.
The local government unit cited that it does not operate any tourism sites within the municipality. While the government oversees public lands, private landowners retain control over developments on their property. The popular Strawberry Farm, the area’s most famous landmark, is managed by Benguet State University rather than the municipal government.
Although the Tourism Office was not consulted during the initial planning, a representative for the project met with local officials Wednesday to begin formal coordination.
Olsim urged entrepreneurs to consult with the government during the early stages of any tourism-related development. He emphasized that early communication allows authorities to provide necessary guidance on safety, security, and environmental standards.