THE PROVINCE of Palawan in the Philippines has been on the receiving end of heightened international attention ever since once of its main attractions, the Puerto Princesa Underground River, was nominated in the New7Wonders of Nature competition.
Promoted extensively by the Philippine government over the course of the contest, then confirmed in January as one of two winners along with South Korea’s Jeju Island, the campaign provided a welcome boost for the province’s tourism profile.
Extended marketing efforts by the country’s Department of Tourism are also on the cards this year.
Clang Garcia, managing director of Jeepney Tours and Travel Manila said: “Palawan has gained in awareness and popularity since Puerto Princesa’s nomination. It has ignited the curiosity of foreign travellers, who are coming to the province to explore its white sand beaches and pristine islands.”
John Paul Cabalza, managing director of Cencorp Travel and Tours Manila said, “Numerous hotels and resorts in Palawan are gearing for good occupancy. We are looking at substantial increases…and are very bullish about Puerto Princesa.”
Regarded as a backpackers’ haven in the past, Palawan has figured prominently among various companies’ inbound programmes since 2010/2011, and is now promoted as a luxury long-stay destination offering island tours, shipwreck diving, and ‘ultimate getaway’ experiences on exclusive islets.
Various infrastuctural developments will provide the foundations for the expected influx of tourism, such as improvements on the 50-km route between Puerto Princesa and Sabang—where the Underground River is located, thereby cutting down travel time to 1.5 hours.
Puerto Princesa’s airport is also due for expansion into an international gateway. Though this is still in the works, Palawan now receives as many as twelve inbound flights a day, compared to just one previously.
On the inventory front, recent additions include Puerto Princesa’s inaugural four-star property, the 111-room Hotel Centro. Budget accommodation is provided by Microtel Inn & Suites under the Wyndham brand, as well as Robinsons Land Corporation’s soon-to-be-opened Go Hotel.
