MANILA, Philippines - The number of visitors to Boracay, one of the country’s premier destinations, posted a 12.6 percent growth during the Lenten season, the Department of Tourism (DOT) reported.
Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano said Boracay recorded a total of 29,000 tourists during the Holy Week, compared with last year’s 21,318 arrivals.
“The department has continually encouraged domestic travel during the long holidays to help boost economic activity in the country. We are pleased with the positive response from Filipinos who spent their time and resources here,” he said.
Durano attributed the growth in the number of foreign and local visitors to Boracay to the accessibility of the island destination at this time.
“The frequency of flights and more options to travel by land and sea have made it a destination of choice for both foreign and local tourists,” he said.
For his part, Tourism Undersecretary Eduardo Jarque Jr. said the ready facilities in Boracay have always attracted a steadily growing tourist base.
“Sustained marketing and promotions of value-for-money packages also account for the increase in visitors this year. With its diverse attractions, Boracay continues to be a top tourist draw,” Jarque added.
Boracay has been a preferred tourist destination for its fine, white sand beaches, exotic wildlife, accessibility, and diverse activities such as water sports and nature-based adventures, and now for its new attractions such as wall climbing, amusement rides, beach parties, fire dancing shows, and special events.
Edwin Trompeta, DOT regional director, cited statistics from the Municipal Tourist Office in Malay, Aklan showing sharp growth rates from January to March.
Tourist arrivals in January registered 54,461 compared with 51,117 in January 2009, while February and March posted a 23 percent and 30 percent increase, respectively.
Other key destinations in the country like Cebu, Cagayan and Bohol also reported growth in the number of tourists during the Holy Week.