Balay sa Humay
Balay sa Humay began as an initiative of Batuan Colleges Inc. which opened in October 4, 2008, with the vision of increasing awareness of the importance of humay (rice). It currently serves a dual function, acting as the practicum component of Batuan College’s Tourism course while also operating tourist-related services for guests who visit.
The main purpose of Balay Sa Humay is to increase appreciation of rice and its role in the natural and cultural history of Batuan by showcasing locally made rice products and allowing guests and visitors to experience local rice-culture activities. At the same time, it serves as the marketing end of the organic rice value chain. At present, it is the only locally based rice museum in the Philippines and is confident in its potential to become a self-sufficient, revenue-generating tourist destination.
SERVICES/PRODUCTS
The operations of Balay sa Humay involve seven business units that offer unique products and services:
- Souvenir Shop – sells local handicrafts thus supporting the continued development of Batuananon’s handicraft industry. Among the items that are sold in the Souvenir Shop are bags, belts, necklaces, bracelets, fans, hats, figurines made of wood, wooden utensils, cooking paraphernalia, native wines, frames, native slippers, jewelry boxes, t-shirts, tarsier mascots, native lamp shades, etc.
- Restaurant and Mini-Convenience Store
- Catering Services
- Dormitory
- Herbal Spa – Herbal Spa treatments usher in the belief that combining the healing power of natural herbs with that of the locales ancient massage techniques called hilot render a feeling of rejuvenation and relaxation – a method that purifies both body and soul. Herbal Spa makes use of scents and medicinal herbs as antioxidants to resist stress, slow the aging process and promote healthy skin.
- Rice Museum – collects and cares for objects of scientific, artistic, or historical importance and makes them available for public viewing through exhibits. Balay sa Humay believes in the importance of rice as an integral part of the nation’s cultural heritage and roots.
- Rice Center
About Batuan Colleges
Batuan Colleges, a higher learning and private educational institution established in 1994, has been specializing in education and tourism, and a relevant academic partner of the Local Governance Support Program for Local Economic Development (LGSP-LED).
Balay sa Humay
For reservations and inquiries, contact Tel. No.: (63 38) 533 9016.
It is located along the national highway of barangay Poblacion Sur, Batuan, Bohol. You can easily spot its grass roof and bamboo facade surrounded by the ever-ubiquitous rice field along Batuan\’s highway.
Balay Sa Humay Location Map