Eastern Visayas is fast becoming a magnet for cruise ships seeking exotic but "underrated" destinations.
Now the Department of Tourism (DOT)'s regional office is planning to ensure that the region maximizes its potential as a cruise ship hub in the Philippines.
According to DOT Eastern Visayas Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes, the agency is now crafting a cruise tourism roadmap with the assistance of Prof. John Paolo Rivera, senior research fellow at the Philippine Institute for Development Studies.
“We will develop an Eastern Visayas Cruise Tourism Roadmap, based on survey results, to guide sustainable growth and maximize the region’s cruise tourism potential,” she told local media, adding that the draft is expected to be completed by May.
Tiopes said Eastern Visayas has emerged as a preferred destination for expedition-style cruise itineraries, with recurring calls from luxury and boutique cruise liners to destinations.
Regular calls have been recorded in destinations such as Kalanggaman Island and Cuatro Islas in Leyte.
Emerging cruise stops include Capul Island, Biri Island, and Lavezares in Northern Samar; Maripipi Island, Sambawan Island and Higatangan Island in Biliran; and Limasawa Island in Southern Leyte.
Recent developments indicate growing interest from international cruise operators, according to DOT.
“For the 2027–2028 season, a leading French luxury cruise line conducted site assessments across key Eastern Visayas islands, signaling confidence in the region’s tourism offerings and readiness for higher-end market segments,” Tiopes added.
The proposed roadmap will consider increasing ship calls, strong community participation and environmental stewardship.
(With report from PNA)
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