ILOILO City – With more than 5.9 million tourist arrivals logged last year and even more expected this Holy Week, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 6 is sounding the alarm: visitors must not disrespect local culture or damage the region’s fragile environment during this peak religious travel season.
As crowds are anticipated to fill pilgrimage sites, beaches, and heritage landmarks across Western Visayas, DOT-6 regional director Crisanta Marlene Rodriguez issued a tourism advisory, warning travelers to be responsible — or risk spoiling not only the spiritual solemnity of Holy Week, but also the integrity of sacred and natural sites for future generations.
“Western Visayas is rich in heritage and culture. Visit churches, ancestral homes, and pilgrimage sites with respect and mindfulness,” said Rodriguez.
The advisory, issued ahead of the expected tourist influx, emphasized not only basic travel safety protocols but also cultural sensitivity and environmental stewardship.
The tourism department fears that irresponsible tourism behavior — such as littering, overcrowding, and disrespecting sacred spaces — could undermine the spiritual essence of Holy Week and damage sites that draw millions to the region.
DOT-6 urged tourists to leave no trace; help keep beaches, mountains, and heritage areas clean; don’t let vacation pollute local traditions.
Among DOT’s key reminders:
For Safe and Respectful Travel
* Plan Ahead – Book DOT-accredited accommodations and tours in advance.
* Follow Protocols – Wear seatbelts, use life vests during water activities, and follow local safety guidelines.
* Stay Informed – Monitor weather updates and local advisories, especially during outdoor and religious events.
For Cultural and Environmental Awareness
* Respect local customs and traditions.
* Dispose of waste properly and reduce use of single-use plastics.
* Support the local economy by buying native crafts and delicacies — from Aklan’s piña textiles and Iloilo’s hablon to Guimaras mangoes and Capiz seafood.
To Avoid Overcrowding
* Visit popular sites during off-peak hours.
* Observe capacity limits and follow crowd control measures.
* Keep emergency numbers on hand and stay hydrated when exploring under the sun.
DOT Region 6 also reminded tourists that assistance is available through its Tourist Assistance Hotline (151-TOUR), mobile numbers, email, and official Facebook pages.
Rodriguez added, “Experience and enjoy the Holy Week activities in the region while being a responsible and respectful tourist.”
In 2024, Western Visayas recorded a total of 5,909,568 tourist arrivals, a 10.25% increase from 2023. This surge brought in an estimated P74 billion in visitor receipts, with P10.96 billion contributed by foreign and overseas Filipino tourists.
Here’s the 2024 breakdown by province and city:
* Aklan – 2.2 million tourists; P42.9 billion receipts
* Iloilo City – one million; P9.4 billion
* Negros Occidental – 883,000; P7.9 billion
* Bacolod City – 833,000; P7.5 billion
* Iloilo Province – 358,000 | P3.9 billion
* Capiz – 282,000 | P1 billion
* Antique – 210,000; P948 million
* Guimaras – 137,000; P455 million
With tourism as a major economic driver, DOT-6 hopes Holy Week travelers will contribute not just to the economy — but also to the preservation of the region’s sacred traditions and stunning natural beauty./PN
