ILOCOS NORTE: Cruise tourism in the Ilocos Region is experiencing a significant upswing, with more than 6,000 international passengers anticipated to visit the area in the first two months of the year. This increase is expected to bolster the local economy and support a variety of small businesses.

According to Philippines News Agency, Araceli Salem, the Senior Tourism Operations Officer for the Department of Tourism in the Ilocos Region, confirmed that 527 passengers from the luxury cruise ship MV Silver Dawn, operated by Silversea Cruises, were welcomed at the Currimao port on Thursday. The passengers are set to explore popular destinations such as Laoag City, Paoay, and Pinili in Ilocos Norte, as well as Vigan City in Ilocos Sur.

The MV Silver Dawn made stops in Singapore and Malaysia before arriving in the Philippines, with its itinerary including Puerto Princesa, Coron, and Manila prior to reaching Ilocos Norte. The cruise ship will continue its journey to China and Japan after departing from the region. Other cruise ships scheduled to visit the Ilocos Region include the Norwegian Sky, set to arrive on January 29 with approximately 2,405 passengers, and the Silver Whisper, which will dock at Salomague Port in Cabugao town, Ilocos Sur on January 30 with 450-500 passengers. The Norwegian Sky will return on February 19 with 2,500 to 3,000 passengers, followed by Star Cruises on February 23.

In 2024, the Ilocos Region welcomed four cruise lines at the Ports of Salomague, Currimao, and Hundred Island National Park, hosting a total of 4,865 passengers, marking an increase from the 3,713 passengers in 2023. The influx of cruise visitors is proving beneficial for local businesses. Agnes Asuncion, a fruit and refreshments vendor in Currimao, reported selling out her products with each cruise ship’s arrival, emphasizing the positive impact on her livelihood.

The provincial government of Ilocos Norte, in collaboration with local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), is facilitating the display of various food and non-food products for international visitors at the Port of Currimao. Transportation services such as vans and buses are also thriving, providing essential logistics for tourists exploring the region.

Angel Lao, owner of Travel Ilocandia Tours and Travel, noted the expansion of her business, including an increase in tour guides since 2015, to accommodate the growing number of tourists. The Tourism Department is actively offering tour guiding seminars to enhance local employment opportunities as the region’s tourism industry continues to expand.