Siquijor tourist arrivals hit record high in 2018

CEBU, Philippines — With 48.8 percent increase in tourism arrivals, the province of Siquijor is tagged as the next emerging favorite tourist destination in Central Visayas.

According to the latest report released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), the province of Siquijor recorded its highest tourist arrivals in 2018, with 48.8 percent growth.

Likewise, PSA noted an increase of economic activities and consumption in the province.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-7) regional director Asteria Caberte said with this trend, focus should be directed to Siquijor in terms of complementing the growth with infrastructure.

Known as the mystical island in Central Visayas, PSA record showed that demand for transportation, accommodations, food are rising, which also reflected to the improving its state poverty incident.

“We want to push the speedy completion of Siquijor airport,” added Caberte.

Siquijor and its raw, rustic attraction has become the modern tourists destination of interest as travellers—both foreign and local are now drawn to off-beaten places.

Meanwhile, aside from its scenic, rustic and serene environment, Siquijor is also gaining popularity among foreign medical tourists whose interest are into exploring the mystical side of adventure in exotic destinations like Siquijor, said Cebu Health and Wellness Council (CHWC) officer Clarissa Pe.

Used to be known as Island of Fire or Isla del Fuego, Siquijor is enveloped by mystic traditions, which the growing tourism industry is capitalizing on.