WV aims to attract 4.5 million tourists this year

Tourist arrivals in Western Visayas (WV) is expected to almost double this year as COVID-19 travel restrictions further loosen up.

The Department of Tourism (DOT-6) aims to attract 4.5 million local and international tourists, higher compared to last year’s target of 2.3 million.

DOT-6 Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez said she is positive that they will reach their 2023 target.

The region’s tourism industry, according to Rodriguez, is on track in achieving full recovery from the impact of the pandemic.

This year, the DOT-6 sets its focus on promoting WV as one of the country’s top beach and dive destinations.

The region is home to Boracay Island, the country’s tourism crown jewel, with its world-famous powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters.

The DOT-6 is also coordinating with the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and airline companies to increase domestic and international flights in the region.

Last month, the tourism department issued a memorandum scrapping the need to wear face masks and present proof of full vaccination in tourism enterprises.IMT