Siargao Island - The arrival of the MV Coral Adventurer cruise ship in Siargao marks a significant expansion of the island's tourism portfolio, according to a statement from the Department of Tourism in the Caraga Region (DOT-13). Ivonnie Dumadag, the chief of DOT-13, shared this development in a phone interview on Wednesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, The Coral Adventurer, carrying 78 passengers from Australia, New Zealand, and Great Britain, arrived at Sohoton Cove in Socorro and Daku Island in General Luna town. Dumadag believes the resumption of cruise visits will enhance the Philippines' status as a top regional cruise hub in Asia and bolster Siargao's economic growth, especially with the upcoming international cruise port in Dapa. The construction of the Dapa cruise port is in progress and is expected to be operational by mid-next year. Dumadag emphasized the importance of maintaining environmental sustainability in Siargao, a protected area. The DOT-13 and local government units on the island are working closely with various agencies and stakeholders to promote responsible tourism. The Coral Adventurer departed Siargao for Palau later on the same day.