Domestic travel in the Philippines saw a major boost over the Christmas holiday, with families and tourists exploring beaches, heritage towns, mountains, and islands across the country.
Boracay Island led the holiday rush, welcoming nearly 119,000 visitors between December 15 and 28, including cruise passengers from vessels such as the Star Navigator and Norwegian Sun. Cebu City followed closely with over 102,000 tourists, while Panglao Island in Bohol drew more than 62,000 travelers despite natural calamities earlier in the year.
In Eastern Visayas, Tacloban City recorded around 25,000 overnight guests, while Malajog Beach in Calbayog, Samar saw 56,500 tourists. Baguio City in the Cordilleras, known for its cool climate and festive displays, hosted 117,000 visitors over the holiday season.
Bicol provinces also experienced strong arrivals, with Camarines Sur seeing 92,000 tourists and Albay welcoming 45,000 travelers, many enjoying scenic drives and views of Mayon Volcano. Northern Luzon destinations like La Union, Ilocos Sur, and Nueva Vizcaya reported steady traffic from both local and foreign visitors.
Island getaways remained popular for a “summer in December” experience. El Nido attracted 40,000 visitors, Coron received nearly 18,000, Puerto Galera had 13,200, while Mindanao destinations such as Sarangani, Siargao, Bukidnon, and Camiguin collectively welcomed tens of thousands.
In Metro Manila, Intramuros drew crowds eager to visit heritage sites, churches, and festive displays. Families attended Christmas masses at the Manila Cathedral, while strolling through the historic streets illuminated for the season.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco highlighted the importance of domestic travel, noting it helps local economies recover, promotes regional development, and fosters national pride. “Filipinos continue to explore and support their own destinations, from cities to rural communities,” she said.
Even during the holiday peak, the Department of Tourism continued preparations for the 45th ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cebu City. The initiative, Project H.A.R.A.N.A., focuses on training guides, volunteers, and frontline workers to showcase Filipino hospitality and readiness for international delegates.