WV tourism remains robust despite travel advisories: DOT
The Department of Tourism 6 said tourism in the region remains robust despite the travel advisories issued against the Philippines.
Tourism Regional Director Edwin Trompeta said Europeans and Americans are still enjoying their visit in the country, especially in Boracay Island, Guimaras and other destinations for the past months.
He said the tourist arrivals from Asian countries remain normal and visitors have not canceled their tours.
Trompeta said these tourists are familiar with travel advisories issued by their home-country but they still opted to proceed with their trips to the Philippines.
He said there were no significant changes in tourist arrival figures and reservations with travel agencies despite various travel advisories in the past.
Trompeta said travel advisories are just a precaution for tourists to be careful in their visits.
Earlier, the DOT said the travel advisories from United Kingdom and Australian are “re-issues.” Other countries that have issued travel advisories lately include Canada, New Zealand and Japan.
Still, Trompeta said Western Visayas is very safe for tourists all-year round.
Security Efforts
Meanwhile, the 6th Regional Maritime Office has stepped up security efforts in preparation for the influx of tourists in Boracay Island and other destinations in Western Visayas.
RMO 6 regional chief, Supt. Edmund Gonzales, said security efforts have been intensified especially at the port of entries and exit areas, especially in Caticlan in Malay, Aklan, which is the jump off point to Boracay Island.
The peak season in Boracay Island, the country’s premier tourist destination, has already kicked off and will end until May next year.
Also, strengthened security measures have been ensured in ports leading to Bacolod City and Escalante City in Negros Occidental, which serves as gateway to Cebu City.
“We have maximized our visibility operations in all major ports,” Gonzales said.
He said they have not monitored nor received information on any possible threat directed toward the region’s tourist destinations.*PNA
