Part of DOT’s cruise tourism campaign
TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Tourism (DOT) in the region has announced that at least three cruise ships are expected to visit Eastern Visayas this year, marking a promising start for cruise tourism in the area.
The first ship, MS Europa 2, arrived on Saturday, February 1, visiting Kalanggaman Island in Leyte. The luxury ship, which carried 490 German guests, was followed by two other cruise ships: the Heritage Adventurer and the Coral Geographer, which will also make stops in the region later this year.
Despite the relatively small number of ships, DOT-8 Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes expressed excitement over the growing number of cruise destinations in Eastern Visayas.
“While the number of cruise ships may not be large, we are thrilled because more places are now on the map. New cruise destinations will be added to our list this year,” Tiopes said in an earlier interview.
Tiopes highlighted that the focus on expedition cruises helps promote lesser-known destinations in the region, attracting both domestic and international tourists.
“Cruise ships visiting less-traveled spots will introduce new areas to the public, encouraging travelers to explore and experience the unique culture and traditions of Eastern Visayas,” she said.
She added that these cruises serve as an important way to showcase the region’s untapped potential. “One reason we’re focusing on expedition cruises is that they help us attract visitors, whether local, domestic, or foreign. This is our chance to show the world the many destinations in Eastern Visayas that are still unfamiliar to many,” Tiopes said. “We invite tourists to explore our region, offering a harmonious blend of nature that you won’t find in more well-known tourist spots.”
Kalanggaman Island, stunning 6.8-hectare island more than 15 kilometers from Palompon, Leyte, was the first stop for MS Europa 2.
The island, named after the Visayan word for bird due to its bird-shaped sandbars, offered guests a chance to swim, sunbathe, and try stand-up paddle boarding. Guests were welcomed by performances from Taberna National High School students and a local band playing bossa nova songs.
For Claudine Sieras, a crew member from Bulacan, it was a special moment.
Although this was her fifth visit to Kalanggaman Island, it was her first time setting foot on its shores. “As a Filipino, I am proud that people from other countries can see our beautiful islands. It’s heartwarming to know that our country is being recognized on the world stage,” Sieras shared.
She also expressed pride in welcoming the ship’s guests and emphasized the importance of showing hospitality to international visitors.
After a day in Kalanggaman, MS Europa 2 continued its journey to Boracay Island, with Bohol as its previous stop.
In addition to Kalanggaman Island, the region now boasts several new destinations for cruise ships.
Among the sites featured in the growing list of cruise destinations are Limasawa Island, Padre Burgos in Southern Leyte; Cuatro Islas, Tacloban City, Palo in Leyte; Sambawan Island, Maripipi, and Higatangan Island in Biliran, as well as Biri Island, Capul Island, and the La Laguna Mangrove Eco-Park in Lavezares, Northern Samar.
The DOT continues to explore additional locations for cruise ship visits, offering guests a variety of experiences ranging from recreational activities to cultural, heritage, and educational tours.
ROEL T. AMAZONA
