Western Visayas tourist arrivals up 10.25%, generate P74B in 2024
IMPRESSIVE ARRIVALS. Western Visayas recorded a 10.25-percent growth in tourist arrivals in 2024, generating P74 billion in receipts. Tourism Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez, during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas, said Friday that the region had more than 5.9 million tourist arrivals in 2024, higher than the 5.36 million arrivals in 2023. (Screenshot from Kapihan sa Pilipinas live streaming)
ILOILO CITY – Western Visayas recorded a 10.25-percent increase in tourist arrivals in 2024, generating P74 billion in revenue, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT).
Tourism Regional Director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez, during the Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas on Friday, said the region had more than 5.9 million tourist arrivals in 2024, higher than the 5.36 million in 2023.
She said the region had impressive growth rates, with Capiz having the highest increase at 43.73 percent and Iloilo City hitting its 1 million mark in tourist arrivals.
She added that 603,171 accounted for foreign and overseas Filipino tourists, generating a revenue of about P10.96 billion for 2024.
“These achievements stemmed from strategic initiatives championed by the DOT focused on innovation, inclusivity, and sustainability,” Rodriguez said.
Aklan, home to Boracay, led in total arrivals with more than 2.2 million but registered the lowest growth at 0.09 percent.
Despite a slight dip in domestic visitors, the region’s tourist numbers remained 2.13 percent higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Rodriguez added that the island received 17,292 visitors from nine cruise calls in 2024, indicating continued growth and interest on Boracay Island.
“As of February this year, we have already received seven cruises, including two maiden cruises with around 12,654 passengers,” she said.
Meanwhile, discussions are ongoing regarding the review of tourism-related fees in Boracay, following concerns from stakeholders about excessive charges.
READ: W. Visayas sees tourism dip sans Negros Occidental
