Eastern Visayas Tourism Drops as Fuel Prices Rise

• Rising fuel prices in Eastern Visayas are reducing Holy Week tourists, with fewer arrivals and more booking cancellations, tourism officials report.

Rolly Magallanes 4 weeks ago 1.4 K

Posted on Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:36 am

TACLOBAN CITY — The rise in fuel prices is starting to be felt in Eastern Visayas’ tourism sector, just as many were expecting a surge of visitors during Holy Week.

Fewer travelers are coming in, and more bookings are being canceled, according to tourism officials and local stakeholders.

Data from the Department of Tourism (DOT) shows that passenger arrivals at Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport dropped by around 15% during the peak travel period. The airport serves as the main entry point to the region.

DOT Regional Director Karina Rosa Tiopes said the decline may be linked to rising fuel costs, which have pushed up airfares and other travel expenses. Final figures, however, are still being completed.

Tourism operators across the region said they have been dealing with more cancellations in recent weeks. Higher ticket prices and transportation costs are making some travelers rethink or delay their trips.

The slowdown is also being felt in smaller towns that depend on visitors.

In Burauen, local records show a slight dip in tourist arrivals—from 879 in February to 847 in March. While the drop is not steep, officials there are watching the trend closely.

Tourism officer Carmela Corazon Crebillo said the situation may become clearer in April, especially if fuel prices remain high.

Burauen is home to Mahagnao Volcano Natural Park, a popular destination that draws visitors for hiking and nature trips. Many residents rely on tourism-related work, from guiding visitors to running small food stalls and transport services.

If fewer tourists come in, it could mean less income for these small businesses and community groups.

Even so, tourism officials are not ruling out a rebound. Some destinations in other parts of the country have managed to keep visitor numbers steady despite higher costs.

Local Government Units in the region are now monitoring the situation, as the region’s tourism industry adjusts to the effects of rising fuel prices.

Photo courtesy: DOT Eastern Visayas