Almost 400,000 local and foreign tourists visited the province of Iloilo in 2019, according to the Provincial Tourism Office (PTO).
From January to December last year, the PTO recorded 387, 646 visitors, higher by 11.59 percent compared to 2018’s 347, 375 tourist arrivals.
The latest figure also surpassed last year’s target of 350,000 tourists.
PTO chief Gilbert Marin attributed the increase to the opening of new resorts in the province.
“These resorts attracted more tourists,” he said.
The PTO registered 15 new resorts in 2019, bringing to 234 the total number of resorts in the province.
The Fifth District, according to Marin, remained the top tourist destination in Iloilo.
This part of the province is known for its beautiful islands, white sand beaches, and delicious seafood.
Among the famous islands in the district are Bulubadiangan Island, Cabugao Gamay, Magalumbi Island, Polopina Island, and Nasidman Island.
The Fifth District is comprised of 11 towns, namely Barotac Viejo, Ajuy, Concepcion, Sara, San Dionisio, San Rafael, Lemery, Batad, Estancia, Balasan, and Carles.
Marin is confident that more tourists will visit the province this year.IMT
Photo of Bulubadiangan Island in Concepcion town by Gilbert Marin
