CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) – The Department of Tourism (DOT) continues to highlight Northern Mindanao’s increasing prominence as a leading tourism destination in the country.
DOT Regional Director Marie Elaine S. Unchuan emphasized the region’s growing tourism appeal during the “Kapihan sa Bagong Pilipinas” on Tuesday, March 4. Unchuan reported that the region welcomed 2,602,956 tourists in 2024, an increase of 0.27 percent compared to the tourist arrivals in the previous year. Most of the visitors were local travelers (2,564,096), with 38,860 international tourists.
“The top foreign markets included the United States and Spain, with 10,998 tourists arriving from the USA alone,” she said.
Tourism receipts also increased to P8.1 billion from P7.94 billion in 2023, reflecting the sector’s growing economic impact. With over 670,000 Filipinos working in tourism-related jobs, Unchuan underscored the sector’s significant role in employment and economic development across the region.
infrastructure development
Unchuan also provided updates on infrastructure projects that aim to enhance tourism experiences in Northern Mindanao. Through the Tourism Road Infrastructure Project Convergence, DOT-10 completed 170 road projects covering 210.05 kilometers across the region. These initiatives were implemented in partnership with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Congress, and local government units in the region to improve access to the region’s tourist destinations, ensuring a more convenient travel experience.
From 2016 to 2024, P6.16 billion was invested in these infrastructure improvements, expanding access to key tourism areas across the five provinces.
The Tourist Rest Area (TRA) program has also made significant progress. The TRAs provide travelers with clean restrooms, local product shops, and comfortable spaces to rest.
“We were fortunate enough to have the very first Tourist Rest Area in Mindanao, which was built in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon, and inaugurated on August 4, 2024. Secretary Frasco herself, along with Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) COO Mark Lapid and our local officials, led the inauguration,” Unchuan said.
Plans are underway for additional TRAs in Initao, Misamis Oriental; Maigo, Lanao del Norte; Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental; Tangub City, Misamis Occidental; and Camiguin province.
2024 highlights
Unchuan further discussed the major tourism events held in 2024, which showcased the region’s culture, natural attractions, and adventure opportunities.
The 2nd Mindanao Tourism Expo (April 26-28) took center stage as the largest tourism event in Mindanao, drawing more than 100 exhibitors and promoting the theme “Limitless Adventures in Mindanao.” This was followed by the Philippine Experience Program (May 23-25), where 108 delegates explored 12 destinations in Northern Mindanao, learning about its heritage, arts, and culture.
Later in the year, the VIP Tour (July 25-29) brought over 200 international delegates from the USA to visit key tourist spots in the region, strengthening connections with Filipino communities abroad. The 2nd Camiguin Isle Bike Tour (August 10) focused on eco-friendly tourism, with more than 300 participants enjoying the island’s landscapes.
In September, the NorthMin Dive Festival (September 18-22) attracted divers from around the world to explore Camiguin’s marine biodiversity. Northern Mindanao’s reputation as a premier diving destination was further reinforced by the Taiwanese Dive Familiarization Tour (October 15-20), while the Spanish Media Familiarization Tour (November 27-29) aimed to attract Spanish-speaking tourists by showcasing the region’s cultural heritage and adventure offerings.
Industry support
Unchuan said that the DOT continues to invest in human capital, with more than 4,432 individuals trained in the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) and 6,034 tourism professionals benefiting from the Tourism Industry Skills Training (TISP) program.
“Our team works hard to make sure that our tourism establishments are at par with the rest of the world. Last year, our Accreditation Division accredited a total of 474 establishments,” she added.
Moving forward, DOT-10 has several major initiatives planned for 2025, including the launch of the Climb NorthMin Sustainable Mountain Tourism Program, the 5th NorthMin Dive Festival, and the opening of Tourist Rest Areas in Initao, Laguindingan, and Maigo.
The Philippine Experience Program will also be held in Lanao del Norte and Misamis Occidental.
