Baguio: Stakeholders in the tourism industry here have begun offering promotions and discounts to draw in more visitors as summer tourism numbers decline. Andrew Pinero, spokesperson of the Hotel and Restaurant Association in Baguio (HRAB) and client relations manager of the Baguio Country Club, said they are experiencing a dip in reservations, guests, and occupancy, which began after Panagbenga, when fuel prices started to increase.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pinero noted that they have introduced appealing promos for the Holy Week to attract members and guests to stay at the club. This initiative led to an increase in occupancy from roughly 50 percent to about 80 percent, but only during the Holy Week. Other member establishments are also providing discounts on accommodations, along with additional perks, to entice clients. However, sustaining these numbers throughout the summer season remains challenging.

With a limited number of clients, some establishments have started closing certain outlets within their facilities to reduce power consumption and manpower costs, encouraging employees to use leave credits. Pinero expressed concern over the possibility of workers having to render fewer days if the situation persists. At Baguio Country Club, higher-ranking employees have agreed to salary deductions to cut operational costs and sustain operations, with the general manager taking a 25 percent deduction.

Pinero highlighted that the dip in tourism numbers post-Panagbenga is unusual, as the trend in the past was for numbers to increase during the festival and continue to grow during summer. Currently, summer occupancy stands at around 40 percent, significantly lower than the usual 80 to 90 percent on weekends. The challenges faced by the industry have also impacted workers in the accommodation sector, who are feeling the effects of the declining tourism numbers.