FOLLOWING the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, Subic Bay seized the initiative to revive its previously lucrative cruise tourism. More than a year ago, the Port of Subic was abuzz with outdoor adventure and excitement with the arrival of a cruise ship carrying some 1,000 Chinese tourists from Jinjiang City in Xiamen, China.
It was the first time in three years that a cruise ship from China, or anywhere in the world, dropped anchor at Subic. The Blue Dream Star was the first of more than a dozen luxury vessels that visited Subic since then, with guests buoying up the local economy and creating jobs, however temporary. The Liberia-registered cruise line is the first to offer outbound cruises from China since luxury vessels were banned from making port calls during the pandemic.
We have many clean and fine beaches, the most popular of which is the world-renowned Boracay, although Palawan, Cebu, Bohol, Ilocos, La Union, and Masbate also have their crown jewels. It is best for the tourism industry to leverage the competitive advantage that these places provide.
‘We note that even ordinary rural Filipinos are enthusiastic and hopeful about tourism-oriented livelihood opportunities.’
To further scale up the country’s bid to gain prominence among cruise ship tourists, the Department of Tourism is hosting the Nov. 11 to 13 Seatrade Cruise Asia 2024 at the Shangri-La The Fort in Taguig City.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco highlighted the importance of the event in establishing the Philippines as a premier cruise destination in the region, saying it underscores the Philippines’ readiness and capability to lead in cruise tourism.
“Our archipelago’s vibrant culture, exceptional hospitality, and breathtaking natural attractions make us an ideal destination for international cruise lines and travelers,” Frasco said.
Over 350 participants are attending this convention, among them cruise line executives, itinerary planners, port agents, journalists and tourism officials from all over the world. The conference’s networking sessions, learning forums and strategic talks are geared at promoting long-term growth and regional collaboration in the cruise industry. The “State of the Asian Cruise Industry” will be discussed, along with a ministry dialogue on the future of Asian cruise tourism.
We note that even ordinary rural Filipinos are enthusiastic and hopeful about tourism-oriented livelihood opportunities. In places like Biliran island where first-class accommodations for tourists are scarce, the people have displayed their entrepreneurial spirit and have converted their homes to provide homestay accommodations to visitors. These homestays offer a more affordable lodging option and an authentic experience of local hospitality and culture.
In Biliran, the towns of Higatangan and Maripipi are emerging as popular destinations for cruise ships. Higatangan is particularly famous for its shifting sandbar, while Maripipi is renowned for the scenic Sambawan Island.
The Australian cruise ship MV Coral Geographer recently made a stop at Higatangan Island, allowing its 40 guests to engage in a unique cultural experience. It is noteworthy that the tourism department is giving out homestay kits and other supplies, aside from training programs, to residents in support of their local homestay operation.
By making its presence felt in both international cruise tourism via conferences and at the local level through its support of homestays, the DOT tries hard to wholly cover the field, with the right mix of enthusiasm and resolve.