One of Leyte’s top tourist destinations
TACLOBAN CITY – Kalanggaman Island, one of the prime destinations in Leyte province, is now open for tourists to visit.
The reopening of the famed island resort was based on an executive order issued by Mayor Georgina Arevalo she issued on November 15 but made public on Saturday (Nov. 27).
Kalanggaman is famous for its crystal clear water, and beautiful sandbar that stretches from both ends of the island.
“To prolong the suspension of Kalanggaman Island would cause an adverse effect upon the local economy, not to mention the unrealized income for the local government, necessary for the delivery of services,” Mayor Arevalo said, citing the reason why she decided to open the island to tourists.
Under the new guideline, only the fully vaccinated tourists will be allowed entry to the island, which is about 45 minutes of sea travel from the town proper. They are to present their vaccination cards.
The island will be open from 6 in the morning and all guests must depart before 4 pm.
Allowed to enter the island are tourists from 18 years old to 59 years old as pregnant and those with comorbidities still banned to visit the island.
Each group is only limited to 25 people or 250 individuals per day. This number includes the island crew or LGU staff as joiners or mixing of guests is not allowed.
Overnight stay on the island is still prohibited including beverages and liquors.
Those who wanted to visit the island must e-mail the requirement which includes manifesto, waiver, and guest information to palomponecotourism@gmail.com.
Guests who will visit Kalanggaman should also bring their own sanitizers and must always wear face masks.
Guest must also stay in their respective cottage during their stay on the island and must bring their garbage back to the mainland.
The LGU also added that the island is close to the public every Monday for clean-up and maintenance.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
