The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is prepared to accommodate a higher influx of passengers during the upcoming holiday season as more cruise ships are set to resume operations after a three-year hiatus caused by pandemic-related travel restrictions.
According to PPA spokesperson Eunice Samonte, an estimated 40,000 cruise ship passengers are expected to dock in the country during the final quarter of the year.
Since the resumption of cruise tourism in February, local ports have already served 46,657 passengers as of September.
In total, the PPA projects that over 86,000 cruise ship passengers will visit the Philippines this year, which is less than half of the 213,765 recorded in 2019 before the pandemic.
When asked about the full recovery of the sector, PPA General Manager Jay Santiago expressed uncertainty, stating that it is difficult to predict.
However, Santiago remains optimistic that being recognized as the “Best Cruise Destination in Asia 2023” in the recent World Cruise Awards will generate interest and boost the sector.
PPA-managed ports such as Currimao in Ilocos Norte, Salomague in Ilocos Sur, Manila, Bohol, and El Nido in Palawan cater to cruise vessels.
The port agency is actively seeking to develop additional cruise terminals in Palawan, Siargao, Camiguin, Boracay, and Puerto Galera.
Apart from the picturesque tourist destinations, Santiago highlighted the appeal of the country’s rich culture, delectable local delicacies, and the warm hospitality of the Filipino people as enticing factors for foreign tourists to visit the Philippines.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 19, 2023
